A red hardcover book titled "Erling the Bold." The cover has the title embossed at the top, with a rich pattern of lines, roses and vines across the red of the cover. The spine has "Ering the Bold / Ballantyne" in gold writing and some embellishment. The book is by R. M. Ballantyne and it was published by Blackie and Son, London in 1869. There is a handwritten inscription written in blue ink inside the front cover. It reads, "Leslie Hughes from Laurie Appleby Wishing you a very happy Christmas and New year." The book is 302 pages.