Chapbooks--English.

Comprising examples published in Glasgow (222), Newcastle (59), London (33), Paisley (33), Newton-Stewart (28), Fintray [Aberdeen] (22), Lancaster (5), Nottingham (5), Alnwick (1), Gateshead (1), Bridlington (1), Durham (1), York (1), etc., numerous woodcuts, from the collection of William Harvey, uniform half-morocco, spines gilt in compartments, spotting and browning, occasional loss, bookplates

The Scottish literary editor William Harvey (1874-1936) was the author of Scottish Chapbook Literature (1903) and listed his 'hobby for collecting ballad and chap-book literature of Scotland' in his Who's Who entry. Each volume includes his bookplate.

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, 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."

This fine collection includes 22 examples thought to be printed in Fintray. A clipping from the Aberdeen Weekly Journal dated 26 September 1913 is tipped-into the volume. In this William Harvey notes his collection and challenges the view that 'the only complete collection is that in the Aberdeen Public Library'. Nevertheless, these chapbooks are rare.

Also included in the collection is a copy of J. Fox's Seizure of the Ship Industry... and the consequent Sufferings of Capt. James Fox and his Companions; Their Captivity among the Esquimaux Indians in North America... in the Year 1727, published by Thomas Tegg in London. This copy includes the folded plate called for by Sabin (25368), although it is slightly trimmed.