British archaeologist McMurray, now based in Devizes, Wiltshire, admits that the house did not much impress him the first time he called. Then the current owner handed him a packet that
contained almost all the deed back to 1696, and he could not resist the lure. He discusses such topics as the setting, foundation before the present house, the house that Joseph Needham bought,
renovation and resurrection by Thomas Dymond, ironmongers and accountants in the Wilkins family 1895-1936, antiques and evacuees 1936-45, and rescue and retirement since 1971. Photographs,
floor plans and drawings, and sketches and painting--all monochrome--are included. There is no index. Distributed in North America by The David Brown Book Co. Annotation 穢2010 Book News, Inc.,
Portland, OR (booknews.com)
