From Russia, With Love.
$54,716 · Offered by Biblio
London: Jonathan Cape,, 1956. Rare proof copy Proof copy of the fifth James Bond novel. This copy is from the library of Fleming bibliographer Jon Gilbert, with his bookplate loosely inserted. Gilbert records a print run of 75 copies and states "a tiny number appear to have survived". Gilbert's description notes that there was a change in text on page 94. Apparently "two early trade readers... had raised issues over the lesbian scene which was subsequently toned down a little". The earlier text commences "In all respects. She is very beautiful. Naïve but obedient". This was replaced with "The woman said grudgingly, 'She is very beautiful. She will serve our purpose...'" Additionally, there are two states of the wrappers. Gilbert notes that "the 'Uncorrected Proof' text may be stamped to the front cover, although the copy viewed did not feature this wording". He also states there are 235 pages (a misprint for 253 pages). Gilbert's later unpublished research notes that there is a state comprising 249 pages. The present copy has 253 pages. Octavo. Original green wrappers with publisher's device repeated in white, spine and wrappers lettered in black. Housed in a custom black morocco-backed folding box. Ownership signature of Jon Gilbert to inside front wrapper. Slight lean to spine, minor toning to wrappers, repair to front joint, a few spots of foxing to edges: a very good copy. Gilbert A5a.
- Year: 1956
- Binding: unknown
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