Jock of the Bushveld (1st Edition and 1st Impression)
Author: Percy Fitzpatrick
Published: 1907, Longmans, Green, London
Size: 21.5cm x 16.5cm; 474pp
Rare true first edition, first impression, hardcover, in near fine condition. A beautiful copy of one of the most beloved South African children’s tales about the dog, Jock of the Bushveld. Illustrations throughout, by E. Caldwell, and includes margin illustrations of a confused dung beetle rolling its prize away using its front legs (on pp 65, 337 and 457), which is contrary to the habit of its species. This mistake was corrected in later issues to show the beetle rolling dung with its back legs. "Perhaps one of the best dog stories ever written. The volume has much interest for the 'Little People' for which it was written, and is equally appreciated by children of older growth. The fascinating hunting adventures and escapades are accompanied by graphic sketches in the margins of every page..." Mendelssohn, SOUTH AFRICAN BIBLIOGRAPHY volume 1, page 550. Externally, publisher’s original dark green pictorial cloth with gilt illustrations of Jock and lettering to the front board and a gazelle on the spine. Lower corners are slightly bumped, with some very slight shelf wear to the spine endings. Binding is tight. Internally, pages are clean, bright, unmarked and in excellent condition throughout. On the front endpaper there is a signature and initials from R.M.C in ink. Please see photos provided as these serve to reflect the condition in conjunction with details provided.
