Shang-Hai and the Valley of the Blue River. MADROLLE, Claudius.

First edition, otherwise untraced in recent commerce, complete with the two tearable sheets for readers to send travel tips to the publisher. The maps show the lower and middle reaches of the Yangtse (the "Blue River") and Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hankou. A French explorer, Madrolle (1870-1949) turned his attention in the early 20th century to producing guidebooks, hoping to rival Baedeker and other big players in the tourism market. In 1912, he also published an English-language handbook on northern China, the Yangtse Valley, and Korea. Octavo. With 6 maps (5 folding), tables and advertisements in text. Original red cloth over card, front cover lettered in gilt. Contemporary ownership inscriptions and stamped ink number on inner front cover and first blank. Binding worn, especially at spine, contents toned, couple of stub tears: very good.