MANDARIN - The Diaries of an Ambassador 1969-1982

London: Weidenfeld & Nicholson. Near Fine in Near Fine dust jacket. 1994. First Edition. Hardcover. Autograph; 517 pages; Clean and secure in original binding in very nice dustjacket. SIGNED on titlepage. In Diplomatic Service from 1946 to 1979, Henderson's experienced global politics as an insider and affords us that view, while providing an entertaining account of an Ambassador's life from his experiences in Warsaw, Bonn, Paris, and Washington. "...immensely readable...very difficult to put down."--Peter Jay, The Times. The late Nicholas Henderson, invariably referred to by the American Press as an unconventional diplomat, describes what life was like for a member of the Foreign Service in the modern age in a series of vivid diary sketches. In this book, he opens with a glimpse of the blighted existence behind the Iron. From there to Germany and four-power responsibility for Berlin. In France relations were coloured with Britain's coolness towards Europe and her poor economic performance. Henderson was involved in the Airbus negotiations and in promoting trade, including an evening of Haggis-tasting. Serving in Washington under Presidents Carter and Reagan, he was an eyewitness to the development of Margaret Thatcher's special rapport with Reagan. He was also closely engaged in securing US support for Britain in the Falklands War. He is not defensive about the role and responsibility of a diplomat today, despite the development of communications and of international institutions, the plethora of summit meetings and of ministerial visits. There is no substitute for the man on the spot, even if the nature of his work had greatly changed. Conversations are given as they took place. Many entries are light-hearted. The hazard and gaffes inseparable from the roller-coaster career are recorded without inhibition. The diaries are lit by the glitter of balls and embassies and banquets at Windsor Castle. The diary reflects the alternating currents of service and adventure inherent in membership of the Foreign Service. Illustrated throughout with numerous black and white photographs.; Signed by Author .