[ Macleod Yearsley and the Thinker's Library. ] Copy of Yearsley's book 'The Folklore of Fairy-Tale' with extensive autograph emendations (two notes initialled 'M. Y.') and two proof specimens for intended republication in the Thinker's Library.

The item provides an interesting insight into the editing process of the Thinker's Library, 140 volumes of which Watts & Co. published for the Rationalist Association between 1929 and 1951. The book is xiii + 240pp., 8vo, in red cloth binding, gilt. In good condition, on lightly-aged paper, with slight wear to one corner. A couple of leaves have been neatly torn out, evidently in the process of revision. Stamp of the Rationalist Press Association Ltd on reverse of title. Extensive emendations (mainly deletions) in black ink to practically every page, with Yearsley's instructions to the printers written in red. Loosely inserted are two 12mo printed bifoliums, each carrying a single page specimen proof of p.15, one dated 26 June 1936 (with date stamp of printers Richard Clay & Sons) and the other 14 July 1936; the former with a couple of pencil annotations. Both proofs in good condition, and each with covering page giving details of title, specimen, size, type and extent. Initialled notes by Yearsley on pp.vii and 237. Yearsley has added the following autograph note to the book's preface: 'Inclusion in the "Thinker's Library" has necessitated a rather drastic cutting down, but I do not think any essential matter has been omitted; indeed, one or two additional items haver been included.' Yearsley republished his 1922 book 'The Story of the Bible' in the Thinker's Library in 1933, but 'The Folklore of Fairy-Tale' did not appear in the series.