Inside the front cover is a red label saying "As this testament is the gift of friends in England, we are sure, for the sake of the donors, the recipient will take good care of it and use it. Should he receive blessing through reading it, or be seeking more light, a letter expressing the same sent to:
W. Spencer Walton
The Mission House
410a Point Road
Durban
Natal
will receive a prompt reply". This red label is dated January 7th 1900.
This pocket-sized new testament is a "Marked Testament" i.e. notable passages that might be helpful to the soldier receving it have throughout have been marked with red printing (printed on the bible before distribution) to underline them and in some cases a "red hand" motif has been printed pointing to a significant bible reading.
History:
This New Testamant bible was given to my late Great Aunt who was a nurse in S. Africa during the Boer war. She gave it to me at Christmas 1955, when I was 8 years old. On the first blank paper page she has written in her beautiful Victorian handwriting and black ink my name and the words "The verses marked in this Testament will, under the Holy Spirit's teaching, help to make plain God's way of salvation through Christ.
My Great Aunt was an austere and deeply religious woman. She always wore black and very Victorian style clothes, even in the 1950s. Her house was full of Aspidistras. Heavy net curtains ensured that it was always very dimly lit. Aspidistras were the only plants that could survive and thrive in that dim lighting! She was also a matriarch! All the family, even my big hulking Uncle, trembled if anything happened that might occasion her displeasure!
Condition
The bible is in original condition, unrestored, which means that the cloth binding is in delicate condition. It was actually used, so is a bit worn. Slight yellowing of pages is inevitable after 105 years".
Reason for Sale:
This old book has been living neglected in my attic for far too long and needs to get out and about more! A caring new owner is sought!
Hardcover 362 pages 9cm x 13.5 cm
