Or, The Voyages and Adventures of Sir Amyas Leigh, Knight, of Borrough, in the County of Devon,
Westward Ho! Or, The Voyages and Adventures of Sir Amyas Leigh, Knight, of Borrough, in the County of Devon,
Macmillan, 1855.
First edition. Original publisher's blue cloth with gilt titles to the spine and blind ruled borders to the covers. Sixteen pages of terminal adverts to vol III in the earliest state, dated February 1855. With autograph letter from the author tipped in to the half title of vol. I. A near fine copy with bright cloth and gilt. Internally, hinges tender and discretely repaired, but text fresh. Overall, a handsome copy of an uncommon book.
The author's most critically regarded novel, a best seller at the time of publication and the inspiration for the north Devon village of the same name.
Kingsley's letter, tipped onto the half title of vol I., is dated 15 April 1862, to a Mr Parker reads, "Your explanation is quite satisfactory & I am only much vexed that you shd have taken the trouble to write so long a letter in your present state of health."
The first printing was made up of only 1250 copies and has long been sought by collectors. It is said to have been considered scarce when Jane Eyre was considered common, particularly with the first state of adverts and in nice condition. The first issue in nice condition is now of the utmost scarcity. Sadlier notes that his copy is "slightly spotted... a little blurred by damp, but, for this book, a fine copy."
PROVENANCE: Richard Manney (bookplate to front pastedown. Lot 195, his sale, 1991)
Sadlier 1340
Stock ID: 34009
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