Rudyard Kipling — The Five Nations

London, Methuen & Co. 1903. First edition. Leather. A lovely first trade edition, first impression of Rudyard Kipling's collection of poems, in a full morocco binding. The first edition, first impression of this collection of poems by Rudyard Kipling, with 'David' to p. 56 line 9, which was later changed to 'Sault,' with publisher's advertisements dated 'July 1903&apos. Published simultaneously as a limited edition of thirty printed on Japanese vellum, and two hundred on hand-made paper. This copy was rebound in an attractive full morocco, with four raised bands and new marbled endpapers. A collection of poems by the popular English author, divided in two sections, the first dealing with a wide range of subjects, and the second entitled 'Service Songs', comprised of poems about British soldiers at the turn of the twentieth century.  Rudyard Kipling is best known for his novel 'The Jungle Book', but he was also a prolific writer of poems, novels, and short stories, becoming one of the most popular authors of his time. In a full rose morocco binding with five raised bands and titles in gilt to the spine as well as new marbled endpapers. Externally very smart with minor shelf wear only and minor soiling to the boards, a hint of sunning to the spine. Previous ownership inscription to the half title, undated. Internally, firmly bound. The pages are bright and clean, with only a faint minimal spotting to the first few leaves. Very Good Indeed . Ill.: None. Very Good Indeed .