Marlborough: His Life and Times
Harrap, London, 1933-1938, hardcover. Here is a set of 4 volumes all in the smoother dark purple cloth binding. Many inexperienced collectors and delaers think these smooth purple bindings were for the Ryerson Canadian issues, but this is only part of the story. I have sets purchased from Australia in which all 4 volumes are 1st printings and all have this binding style with Harrap imprint. Perhaps more important than the variant cloth, is the lack of the phrase HIS LIFE AND TIMES from the titling on the spine. Further research is needed on the question of gilt top edges and purple stained tops. This set has uniform bindings, but varies in edition. Vols I and II are Harrap reprints, Vol. III is a Ryerson Candian first, and vol IV is a Harrap first printing. Books are clean and unworn, dustwrappers generally complete, vol. II price clipped, some wear at spine ends. (A40aa). Item #26156
Price: $500.00