- 22
Doyle, Sir Arthur Conan
Description
- Doyle, Sir Arthur Conan
- "The Story of Spedegue's Dropper", the complete autograph draft manuscript
- paper
Condition
"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."
Catalogue Note
"The Story of Spedegue's Dropper" was first published in the Strand Magazine for October 1928 and was published in book form within The Maracot Deep and other stories in July 1929. The manuscript reveals a number of changes, not least the title which is given here as 'The Story of Pedegue's Dropper'. Of the 25 pages, only those from 4 to 20 are numbered.
The manuscript is accompanied by two autograph letters. The first, from Jean Conan Doyle is dated 1984 and presents the manuscript to her solicitor "in appreciation of all the help and understanding and loyalty he has given me, over the years, in my efforts to protect my father's words from those who were only interested in their exploitation..." (8vo, Home Green, Littlestone-on-Sea, 1984). The second, from Roger Lancelyn Green, thanks the recipient for the opportunity to read the manuscript and notes "I enjoyed it. It is curious that Sir Arthur ceased numbering the pages after 20 and spelt Sydney 'Sidney' - last page..." (8vo, 80 Brook Street, London, 4 June 1984).
Today's laws of cricket have changed, and Spedegue's "dropper" would probably be outlawed under law 42.6, which states that "A slow delivery which passes or would have passed on the full above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease is to be deemed dangerous and unfair, whether or not it is likely to inflict physical injury on the striker..."