Conrad, Joseph

8vo, second English edition, presentation copy inscribed by the author to Hilaire Belloc ("To | Hillaire [sic] Belloc | An early friend of these | pages in their days of | adversity, gratefully | from Joseph Conrad | Jany 1918") on preliminary blank, title-page in orange and black, contemporary green morocco by Sangorski and Sutcliffe, spine gilt in compartments, gilt dentelles, gilt edges, some browning and spotting, bound without final leaf of publisher's advertisements, repairs to joints, hinges and joints splitting

Hilaire Belloc, authorial inscription; Christie's 24 May 1989, lot 205

Cagle A10c

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."

The binding is interesting in the light of another copy presented to Edmund Gosse in (see next lot). Although both bindings are by Sangorski and Sutcliffe there are minor differences (beyond the colour of morocco). Belloc's copy was inscribed in January 1918 and reveals some minor binding differences: the ribs on the spine do not include a broken gilt rule and the date is not at the foot of spine (as in the Gosse copy). Belloc's copy includes the seventh leaf of the final gathering which is omitted in Belloc's copy. Given that the edition was published on 25 January 1918 it is assumed that Conrad already had some presentation bindings for distribution but approached Sangorski and Sutcliffe for a further bound copy (at least) around June 1918.