H.E. Bates — A Moment in Time

London, Michael Joseph, 1964 . First edition. Paperback. The very scarce uncorrected proof copy of this novel by English author H.E. Bates, based at the setting of Shopswyke House. The very scarce uncorrected proof copy. In the original paper wrap binding.A work by H.E. Bates, an English writer of novels and short stories. His best-known works include Love for Lydia, The Darling Buds of May and My Uncle Silas.For this novel, Bates based the setting for most of the story on Shopswyke House, a Georgian mansion in Tangmere, West Sussex to which Bates himself was assigned.The plot takes place in the summer of 1940, following 9-year-old Elizabeth Cartwright who lives a secluded and privileged life in a village in Kent. Her world is turned upside down with the arrival of a group of RAF officers who requisition her family home as a base.  In publisher's original paper wraps. Externally, smart. Sunning and creasing to spine. Shelf wear to extremities, with the odd mark to boards. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright and clean, with light spotting, most significant to the front and rear. Very Good . Ill.: Not Stated. Very Good .