C Bernard Rutley Appraisal

The Mystery of the Everglades by C. Bernard Rutley

This item is an antique or vintage printed book, specifically the title page and frontispiece of "The Mystery of the Everglades" by C. Bernard Rutley. The visible portion includes the title, author's name (C. Bernard Rutley), a credit for the frontispiece artist (F. Stocks May), and the publisher information: "BLACKIE & SON LIMITED, LONDON AND GLASGOW." The paper appears to be an aged, off-white or cream color, indicating a vintage publication. The text is printed in black ink in a traditional serif typeface. The frontispiece, partially visible on the left page, is a black and white illustration depicting several figures, including what appears to be a man in a plaid shirt and women in a potentially indigenous or rustic setting, illustrating a scene from the book. There are some visible signs of age and wear on the paper, such as slight discoloration, minor foxing or spotting, and potentially some creasing or dog-ears on the edges, though the primary image focuses on the text. A faint, possibly liquid-related, stain or discoloration is visible near the bottom center of the title page. The binding is not clearly visible but the book appears to be a hardback. The overall condition suggests a well-read but generally intact antique or vintage book. The quality of printing is consistent with early 20th-century publications, likely a children's adventure or mystery novel given the author's known works and typical genre for the publisher.