Churchill, Sir Winston

8vo, 6 volumes, first English edition, volume 1 signed by the author, numerous maps and charts, original cloth bindings, all volumes with dust-jackets, with a letter of 2nd June, 1958 to Hubert Gregg from Doreen Pugh loosely inserted, spines slightly chipped at head and foot, dust-jackets slightly chipped and faded with occasional small tears

Cohen A240.4; Woods A123(b)

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"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 statement made by Sotheby'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."

First English edition of Churchill's monumental history of World War II. Hubert Gregg's copy.

The letter from Doreen Pugh, Churchill's private secretary, invites Gregg to 27 Hyde Park Gate to collect the photograph (see previous lot) and book he had asked Churchill to sign. Gregg later described this meeting with his "idol" and a conversation in which, resolving to steer clear of politics, he asked for Churchill's views on The Mousetrap ("It's a puzzle") and gave him a copy of "I'm Going to Get Lit-Up," the song Churchill was rumoured to have broadcast to signal to the Resistance in Europe that British forces were about to invade (Maybe It's Because, pp.306-307).