ROBERTS, Frederick Sleigh, first Earl Roberts.

Inquire · Offered by Peter Harrington

Forty-One Years in India from Subaltern to Commander-in-Chief. Presentation copy of a later edition, inscribed by Field Marshal Roberts on the half-title, "Major Drury, with the Author's best thanks and kind regards, 1 May 1914." Laid in is an accompanying autograph letter signed from the author, presenting the copy, and two other letters from him and his youngest daughter.The recipient was Major William Price Drury (1861-1949), a Royal Marine officer and the author of novels and plays with a naval theme. Prior to the First World War, Drury toured the country lecturing in support of Roberts's view that Britain was unprepared for war. The field marshal's letter, dated 1 May 1914, states that he is "delighted to possess the complete of your books... As a slight return for your gift I am sending you a copy of my 'Forty-One Years in India.'" A later pre-printed note, completed by Roberts by hand, thanks Drury for birthday wishes. In a final typed letter signed, dated 5 March 1915, Edwina Roberts thanks the Drurys for their congratulations on the birth of her son. The letter, and the facing envelope, are on mourning paper - Roberts had died on 14 November 1914."Roberts was perhaps the ablest field commander since Wellington - quick to grasp a situation, bold and decisive in his solutions, and calm and confident in the face of difficulties" (ODNB). His memoir was a best-seller, going through eight editions or impressions within a month of publication.

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