Seeking Arthur Ransome Novel

[j d worthington]

I'm wondering if anyone might be able to direct me on how to get my hands on a copy of Arthur Ransome's novel, The Elixir of Life. I very much want to purchase a copy of this, but haven't been able to find it (it's the only one of Ransome's books that seems to be really scarce). The only printing I'm aware of is a 1915 Methuen, but there may have been others I've just not been able to find anything out about. I'd greatly appreciate any leads thrown my way. Thanks.

 

[GOLLUM]

Sheesh that's a tough ask.

I only know of the Methuen edition and I've never had my hands on a copy but have always wanted to considering it's cited by Lovecraft.

Kirkland books in the UK deal with a lot of earlier Ransome publications in good condition so you may wish to contact them.

Sorry I can't be of more help.

http://kirklandbooks.biz/home/Contact_us_open.html

 

[j d worthington]

Many thanks; I'll check into and see. I managed to get a copy through Interlibrary Loan yesterday (see below); for anyone who enjoys the supernatural novels of the period, such as The Beetle or Brood of the Witch Queen, or even Dracula, this one, while quieter in its effect, would probably be one they'd enjoy. Personally, I quite like the book, and want more than ever to lay my hands on me own little copy.

As for the ILL -- this is frustrating: there are only 5 libraries in the U.S. with a copy of this book. When I ordered it, they cancelled it because they all charge, telling me that if I wished to go ahead with it, to refile my request. I did so, and now I've ended up with two copies being sent, and I have to pay a rather large fee on each. (Who was it that used the term bureaucrazies?) But, hey, at least I finally got to read the darned thing. What I can't figure out is why, with so much of his work being kept in print, this one hasn't ever been reprinted?