Rare Hemingway proof to be auctioned

NEW YORK - A signed proof of Ernest Hemingway's novel, "For Whom the Bell Tolls," will be offered at auction in November.

The proof, which contains Hemingway's handwritten corrections, will be offered at Swann Galleries' auction of 19th and 20th century literature on Nov. 29. The auctioneer says it is the first signed advance proof copy of the novel ever to surface.

It includes a handwritten dedication to Hemingway's fiancee, Martha Gellhorn, and is signed and inscribed to his longtime friend and employee, Toby Otto Bruce.

The proof, which has descended through Bruce's family, has a pre-sale estimate of $75,000 to $125,000.

Bruce served as Hemingway's driver, secretary and handyman in Key West, Fla. He regularly proofread manuscripts for Hemingway, and read "For Whom the Bell Tolls" as each chapter was written. He also helped Hemingway with personal problems. Hemingway dubbed Bruce "The Iron Man," and rewarded him with the commission to design the book's dust jacket, according to Swann.

The auction also will include a previously unknown printing of Hemingway's third book of short stories, "Men Without Women," from 1937.

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On the Net:

http://www.swanngalleries.com.

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