JESTY, Simon [W. W. Vickery]; Lawrence, T. E. (Preface) — River Niger, a Novel. With a Prefatory Letter by T. E. Lawrence

London Boriswood First Edition First Impression of "this deservedly forgotten novel." (O'Brien) With a prefatory letter by T. E. Lawrence. Crown 8vo: (188 x 120): [8],11-287,[1]pp, with three publisher's promotions laid in. Original saffron linen, spine decorated and lettered in scarlet and French blue, top edge stained faded French blue, wanting the dust jacket. A spectacular unread survival of the author's second book, virtually flawless, tight, square, and clean throughout. O’Brien A163. Fine Lawrence was asked to comment on this novel's suitability for publication. His report was less than favorable ("Jesty's world is incredibly small. It holds only about eight named characters who bump together whether they stay put or wander abroad. Wilkie Collins and his generation flourished on coincidences but Jesty out-Victoria's them. He has not one but twenty incredible coincidences"), but the publisher rather curiously decided to publish the book, with Lawrence's report as a preface. N. B. With few exceptions (always identified), we only stock books in exceptional condition, with dust jackets carefully preserved in archival, removable mylar sleeves. All orders are packaged with care and posted promptly. Satisfaction guaranteed. (Fine Editions Ltd is a member of the Independent Online Booksellers Association, and we subscribe to its codes of ethics.)