GW
You see anything in the book that particularly looks like the Spey?
In particular no.
IMHO the book is more of a pictorial history of commercial grade skining knives such as were common in the late 19th century.
IIRC the Spey blade is/was used for neutering, and was typically featured on stockman type folders.
One could ask Gene what was his inspiration.
ya!
GWB