HUNT, John.

Inquire · Offered by Peter Harrington

The Ascent of Everest. First edition, with a typed letter signed from the author, composed following the successful ascent and while Hunt was still at the British embassy in Kathmandu.The recipient was Theodore George Mallinson (1909-2008), a master at the prestigious Highgate School. The letter, which is laid onto the front endpaper, reads, "Dear Mallinson, I write to thank you most warmly for your enthusiastic and generous letter regarding our success in reaching the summit of Mt. Everest. I would like you to know what very genuine pleasure it has given, not only to myself, but to every member of the team to know that it has been a source of inspiration to so many people at home and abroad. Yours sincerely, John Hunt. 19 June 1953." Hunt has added a hand-written postscript: "Very nice to hear from you again."Affixed to the half-title is an original photograph, dated 23 October 1953 by hand, of Hunt walking near a school with another man, likely Mallinson. In autumn 1953, following his return to the UK, Hunt and other members of the expedition embarked on a publicity and speaking tour. Hunt perhaps gave a lecture at Highgate School during this period.

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