Hardy, Thomas

8vo (186 x 120mm.), 3 volumes, first edition, half-titles, frontispiece map in volume I, with postcard (of Mistover?) pasted within ruled border on blank recto of frontispiece, publisher's brown diagonal fine-ribbed cloth blocked and lettered in black on front and in blind on back (Purdey’s first binding, Sadleir’s ‘B’ binding), spines lettered and decorated in gilt and black, in modern dark blue chemises and morocco-backed slipcases, spines slightly worn at head and foot, some wear to extremities, slipcases rubbed in places

Joan and Fred Berne, bookplate.

Purdy pp.24-27; Sadleir 1113; Wolff 2989

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."

Published in an edition of 1,000 copies, of which 100 quires and 22 copies were remaindered. The Return of the Native was offered to the Cornhill Magazine but was rejected "on the grounds that the relation between Eustacia, Wildeve, and Tomasin might develop into something 'dangerous' for a family magazine" (Maitland, Life and Letters of Leslie Stephen, London,1906, pp.276-77).