Lot 3092: SPRY, WILLIAM.

The Cruise of Her Majesty’s Ship “Challenger.” Voyages over Many Seas, Scenes in Many Lands. London: Sampson, Low, Marston, Searle & Rivington, 1876. xviii, 320 pp. Illustrated. 26-page prospectus bound in at rear in original pictorial blue wrappers. 8vo (190 x 124 mm). Period plain linen. Spotting at ends, glue remnants to gutter of title-page, rebacked, covers discolored.

Author’s proof copy, the body of the text printed on thin, proof paper with various manuscript corrections, “1st proof” written in several places and the inkstamps of printers William Clowes & Sons dated February-May 1878. The prelimary leaves, including the title-page are on regular paper and of the first edition. With rare prospectus of this work, headed “Opinions of the Press” bound in, the fine wrappers have specimens of the illustrations. The Challenger was on a research expedition related to laying telegraphic cable across the Atlantic.
Provenance: Bookplate of W.J.J. Spry, annotated, most likely in his hand, indicating that he presented the volume to W. Carling.
See illustration.