The Seven Seas | Rudyard Kipling | 1897 Third Edition | Hugh Wansey Bayly MC Armorial Bookplate | Military Provenance

An early edition of Rudyard Kipling's celebrated collection of poetry, 'The Seven Seas', first published in 1896, this copy distinguished by its provenance from the library of Hugh Wansey Bayly, British physician, military surgeon and recipient of the Military Cross. Published during the height of the British Empire, 'The Seven Seas' brings together Kipling's characteristic verse exploring maritime life, military service, imperial identity, duty and the experiences of those living and working across Britain's overseas territories. The collection includes 'Hymn Before Action', 'The 'Eathen' and 'The Lost Legion', demonstrating Kipling's command of narrative verse, rhythm and the language of ordinary servicemen. The present copy is the third edition, published by Methuen and Co. in London in 1897, retaining its original publisher's brown cloth binding and illustrated title page. Provenance and Association: Hugh Wansey Bayly, MC (1873–1946). Of particular historical interest is the engraved armorial *ex libris* of Hugh Wansey Bayly, affixed to the front pastedown. Bayly was a British physician and military surgeon whose service encompassed both the Second Boer War and the First World War. During the Boer War, he served in South Africa, initially with the Imperial Yeomanry and subsequently as a civilian surgeon. During the First World War, he served as a medical officer with the Royal Army Medical Corps. Bayly was awarded the Military Cross for his actions at Saudemont on 16 September 1918, when he continued attending wounded soldiers under bombardment despite suffering from illness. His award was recorded in *The London Gazette* in February 1919. The personalised bookplate displays Bayly's heraldic arms and crest, providing tangible evidence of the volume's place within his private library. A manuscript ownership signature is also present on the facing endpaper, although its authorship has not been independently authenticated it appears to be his own writing. The association is particularly fitting given Kipling's sustained literary engagement with military life, imperial service and the experiences of British soldiers. The volume offers an interesting connection between the literature of late-Victorian Britain and the personal library of a decorated military medical officer. The book is not signed by Rudyard Kipling. Condition: Good (G) Complete and sound, but with noticeable wear, fading or marks. Collector's Note: A desirable provenance copy of Kipling's *The Seven Seas*, combining an early 1897 edition with the armorial bookplate of Hugh Wansey Bayly, MC, a documented military surgeon and First World War recipient of the Military Cross. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description. Shipping: International shipping costs are estimated. Additional charges may apply due to size or weight. We will confirm any extra postage costs with the buyer before processing the order.…