By Percy F. Westerman
"Percy F. Westerman's A Lad of Grit: A Story of Adventure on Land and Sea in Restoration Times is a vigorous historical adventure set during the reign of Charles II. The story follows its young hero through a succession of dangers beginning with murder and intrigue at home before carrying him to sea, where smugglers, treasure, an Algerine corsair and naval warfare await. The adventure culminates amid the great Anglo-Dutch naval struggles of the seventeenth century, including the famous Four Days' Battle, combining Westerman's characteristic maritime action with a colourful Restoration-era setting.
Published by Blackie and Son Limited in 1909, this is an especially attractive example of the Edwardian adventure book. The volume remains in its original richly decorated red cloth bindings, with a striking pictorial design extending across both front board and spine in red, black and gilt. It is illustrated by Edward S. Hodgson and retains its dramatic frontispiece, captioned "Inch by inch they were driven back," together with further illustrated plate work. Westerman became a remarkably prolific and popular British writer of boys' adventure fiction, particularly renowned for stories of naval life, military action and historical adventure.
Adding considerable period character is the original prize plate affixed to the front pastedown. It records the book being awarded to Harold Simson by Holy Trinity Sunday School, Oakleigh, Victoria, for "Second Class - Second Prize," dated 30 November 1913. The plate itself was produced by the Diocesan Book Society, rear of St Paul's Cathedral, Melbourne, providing an appealing piece of early Melbourne provenance. Combining its handsome original pictorial binding, illustrations, 1909 publication date and documented Victorian presentation history, this is a particularly evocative survivor from the golden age of illustrated boys' adventure books."
General wear, fading and rub through to covers and spine as shown. Prize plate present from 1913. All 4 illustrations/plates present as called for with a couple sitting loose. Binding is otherwise ok with secure covers. Pages age toned and a few a bit grubby but well presented overall. A nice copy in good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
