SHOES

2pp., 12mo. On bifiolium of ruled paper, with 'HIERATICA' watermark of 'J. S. & Co.' From the Lynd archive, and judging from the handwriting a youthful effort, almost-certainly dating from before Sylvia Dryhurst's marriage to Robert Lynd in 1909. In fair condition, on aged paper. In seven stanzas, the first three giving a taste of an amusing and unusual jeu d'esprit and excellent piece of Edwardian social history: '1) By some devil surely sent | Sandal hunting off I went, | And my footsteps never slowed | Till I reached the Finchley Road. | Chorus: (with fervour) Damn them ! | Damn them !

1. 1910/1911: Manuscript record of stock situation at the various branches. At the other end of this book are stock and production records within the factory.2. Early 1900's: Another manuscript record giving the names of various suppliers of shoes together with cost and selling prices.3. 1915/1917: Weekly records of work done in various factory depts. with costs calculated and weekly loss or gain worked out.4. 1928: Letter to shareholders concerning the raising of a £5,000,000 overdraft in order to acquire Freeman, Hardy & Willis Ltd.5.