Search Results: Authors starting with R from Wool House Autographic

Richard Austen 'Rab' Butler [1902-1982] Conservative politician, twice passed over for the leadership of his party, who later became Master Of Trinity College, Cambridge. 5 page fullscap, autograph manuscript in Butler's hand, a review of the book 'Kruger' by John Fisher published 1972. An autograph note in Butler's hand hoping that his correspondent Philip Dosse, publisher of the magazine, 'Books and Bookmen' as well as a stable of similar Arts related magazines can read his writing. Butler's hand is easy enough to read once one's eye is in. His review is less about Fisher's take on Kruger as Butler's take, not glossing over Kruger's flaws - he remains a controversial figure in South African history. The ms is in good condition.

Octavo, 373 pp. plus 6pp publisher's catalogue. Straight-grained, red Morocco, ruled in gilt with gilt corner decorations. Slight wear to the corners, a few small marks, and some rubbing to the edges. Spine with a slight fade. Black label with title in gilt. All edges gilt. Marbled endpapers. No inscriptions. The front free endpaper is slightly loose, attached to the gutter by abraded paper. A handsome little copy of this first edition of the first war novel to come out of the Peninsular Campaign and based on the author's experiences in the Peninsula. It is not clear how much Gleig 'fictionalised' his experiences but whether it be closer to memoir than fiction or not it is a lively read even today full of arresting observations and interest in the local inhabitants he encounters either as villagers, paisonos or soldiers. He is wise enough to admit that it is impossible to come to any understanding of a foreign nation while on the march with a foreign army. George Robert Gleig [1796-1888] Scottish… Read More