Cyril Ray — Merry England Proof Copy Merry England

London, Vista Books, 1960. First edition. Paperback. A proof copy and first edition of this illustrated work. A collection of illustrated essays by English writer and journalist Cyril Ray, in both the unpublished proof form, and as a first edition.Volume one features a letter from the publisher to the buyer, signed by Edmund Penning-Rowsell.The letter refers to Cyril Ray 'whom you may remember as a feature writer on The Sunday Times, and now assistant editor of the Spectator&apos.The letter also speaks of the second volume in this set, stating 'the book will have a very attractive full-colour wrapper by Edward Ardizzone and the illustrations will be printed in two colours, not one as in the proof&apos.Volume one features a monochrome frontispiece, and many full-page monochrome vignette illustrations throughout.Volume two features a colour frontispiece, and a number of full-page vignette illustrations in colour throughout. In original binding. Vol1 bound in paper covers. Vol2 bound in original blue cloth. Vol2 in original unclipped dust wrapper. Externally, very smart. Moderate age toning and sunning to vol1 covers and spine. Ink inscriptions to vol1 front cover and spine and vol2 front paste down. Scattered damp stains to vol2 boards. Dust wrapper smart. Mild rubbing to dust wrapper covers. Mild shelf wear. Mild scattered spotting to dust wrapper reverse. Internally, firmly bound. Occasional moderate strain to vol2. Pages generally bright and clean. Very Good . Ill.: Edward Ardizzone. Very Good/Very Good.