Conrad, Joseph

8vo, first American edition, second printing for issue in Canada, original light grey wove paper wrappers printed in dark blue, slightly skewed, some holes or corner creases to some leaves, upper hinge splitting, ink stamp on upper wrapper

Cagle A3b(3)

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."

An exceptionally scarce printing comprising the second printing of the first American edition, for issue in Canada, and the first American appearance under this title (the first American printing was entitled The Children of the Sea, which remains as the running head on the sheets of this issue).

Also included is a small group of correspondence relating to the American publication of this title. Letters comprise a typed letter signed ("Paul R. Reynolds") stating that Heinemann will accept an offer "of 25 pounds on a 15% royalty" for the book and noting "in regard to the matter of the title, Mr Heinemann says he is writing to me, and doubtless will suggest some title that will be satisfactory..." (headed stationery, New York, 5 October 1897), a typed letter signed ("Sidney S. Pawling" [of Heinemann]) giving authority for Dodd, Mead to publish the title in their 'Phoenix Library' (headed stationery, London, 18 December 1903), a typed letter signed ("Paul R. Reynolds") with reference to the "special cheap edition of Children of the Sea" and royalty due to Heinemann (headed stationery, New York, 7 March 1907), a typed letter signed from the Heinemann firm  about the transfer of American publishing rights (headed stationery, London, 14 February 1914) and a typed memorandum selling the publishing rights to Doubleday, Page and Company for $250 (9 July 1917), numerous creases and tears.