Written Words on a Printed Page

[Les de B]

Just wondering if somebody would be able to decipher the written words on this page, please?

The document itself was found at my late father-in-law's house. There are 12 pages pinned together, however, its more of a scroll as each page is about 1/2 metre in length. I can't find any internet reference to the title "The Conquest of the South Pacific", however, I found a fair bit on the author, Nelson P Whitelocke, b.1861 and d.1927 in Sydney, Australia. He was noted for his sketching and drawings. Each page of the document has a small sketch at the top, the rest is printed in book form. There is no other hand writing.

Les

[ennael]

I think it is Nelson P WHITELOCKS' signature.

I think the last word of the first line is interest.

Leanne

[gracie23]

What I read it so say is:

"Comps of writer & artist Nelson P. Whitelocke"

Perhaps they were first drafts of this author's works before publishing.

Deb

[Les de B]

Thanks "Ladies", it looks as though I have an autographed copy of something 

Now, if only I knew the story as to why my father-in-law had it, though he was born well after Whitelocke had died. Probably handed down through the family over the years. Yes, one should make notes of family history items so the background doesn't get lost down through the generations.

Les

[sugs]

Could it be    crafts of artist and writer?
Sue

[avm228]

What I read it so say is:

"Comps of writer & artist Nelson P. Whitelocke"

I agree with this (Comps likely being short for Compliments).

[gracie23]

"Comps" in this field is short for "compositions" meaning a layout of something before it is approved for printing.

[veeblevort]

I believe the first words is 'compls'.

vv.