# - Lewis, C.S.

i) typed letter from the University of Durham to Oxford University Press enclosing copy of the publishing agreement between Lewis and Durham University (1 page, 4to, 5 April 1943); ii) typed copy of agreement between the University of Durham and C.S. Lewis regarding publication of Lewis' "Riddell Memorial Lecture" (1 page, 4to, [April 1943]); iii) carbon typed letter [from Oxford University Press] to C.S. Lewis suggesting additional print run and payment of royalty (1 page, 4to, 14 April 1943); iv) carbon typed letter [from Oxford University Press] to C.S. Lewis reporting that The Abolition of Man will be out of print (1 page, 8vo, 4 May 1945); v) carbon typed letter [from Oxford University Press] to C.S. Lewis noting that the author is free to offer his lecture to "any publisher you like" (1 page, 8vo, 20 June 1945); vi) carbon typed letter from Geoffrey Cumberlege [Oxford University Press] to C.S. Lewis regarding an Italian translation (1 page, 8vo, 15 March 1946); vii) typed letter signed from C.S. Lewis to [Oxford University Press] stating that his lecture was "made over... to Bles" and that "the Italian translator should write to him" (1 page, oblong 8vo, Magdalen College, Oxford, 16 March 1946); viii) carbon typed letter from Geoffrey Cumberlege [Oxford University Press] to C.S. Lewis agreeing that the matter of an Italian translation should be referred to Geoffrey Bles (1 page, 8vo, 19 March 1946); ix) carbon typed letter from Geoffrey Cumberlege [Oxford University Press] to C.S. Lewis regarding a Swedish translation (1 page, 8vo, 27 June 1946); x) typed letter signed from C.S. Lewis to [Oxford University Press] stating that "no action on my part is now required" and suggesting "it will be as well if you notify Mr Bles of the facts" (oblong 8vo, Magdalen College, Oxford, 5 July 1946); xi) carbon typed letter from Geoffrey Cumberlege [Oxford University Press] to Geoffrey Bles regarding a Swedish translation (1 page, 8vo, 8 July 1946); all mounted, framed and glazed, some creases, occasional punched holes and staple holes (6 frames); xii) The Abolition of Man. Oxford: University Press [for the University of Durham], 1943, first edition, original orange-brown wrappers printed in black, [Brown 27 version 1], some spotting and browning, rebacked with new spine, slight staining to wrappers

Condition is described in the main body of the cataologuing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The collection provides bibliographical detail about the different versions published by Oxford University Press of Lewis' lecture, delivered at the University of Durham in February 1943. It appears that the original publishing agreement only allowed for 800 copies to be printed. Oxford University Press therefore suggested additional copies on which they would pay a royalty. This explains the two versions noted by Edwin W. Brown. The series of letters also mention the transfer of the title to the publishing firm of Geoffrey Bles, and translation requests.