Durrell, Lawrence

8vo (185 x 126mm.),  FIRST EDITION OF THE AUTHOR'S FIRST THIRD VOLUME OF POETRY, PRESENTATION COPY INSCRIBED BY DURRELL IN TO ALFRED PERLES ("To Fred with | all the best -- | as one Booster | to another | Larry ") on half-title, original black cloth, white label printed in black on upper cover, collector's black cloth chemise and quarter black morocco slipcase, minor wear to covers

Fraser A4

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when 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."

The undated inscription in purple ink is to Durrell's friend, the Vienna-born writer Alfred Perles, part of the literary circle which featured Durrell, Anais Nin and, most intimately, Henry Miller.  Although the precise number of copies of Transition printed is not known (probably fewer than 100) much of the print run was destroyed, along with copies of the author's Ten Poems, in the same warehouse during the Blitz.