James, Henry

INSCRIBED BY CLEMENTINE CHURCHILL TO HER DAUGHTER MARY ("For my darling Mary from Mummie Christmas 1943"), limited to 200 copies, of which this is number XXVIII, 4to, plain plates by Mariette Lydis, original cloth-backed boards binding, binding rather worn

The condition of this lot is as described in the catalogue description
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes 's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

On the printed colophon at the end of the book the printer notes "This edition... [was] finished under stress and difficulty during the warring months of July-September 1940". Mary Churchill spent Christmas 1943 in London, manning an anti-aircraft battery in Hyde Park as an officer in the Auxiliary Territorial Service. She was apart from her family as Winston had been taken ill in North Africa and Clementine had flown out to nurse him.

"...Christmas Day was rowdy, fun and very hard work, as according to hallowed army tradition the officers waited on the other ranks for early morning tea, breakfast and luncheon ... Of course, we were fully manned at all t.mes s (and mostly sober!), the only concession in the command post being a strategically placed sprig of mistletoe..." (A Daughter's Tale, p.377)