The Devil To Pay
NY: Frederick A. Stokes, (1938).
Rare Advance Review Copy of the First Edition with the equally scarce publisher's slip laid in announcing publication date of February 17, 1938 at a retail price of $2.00. Simply a very good square copy showing dampstained boards, yet happily without any of the foxing usually seen on this elusive title. Better than very good dust jacket is corner-clipped (though not the price), shows only moderate creasing and just three relatively minor chips: two to spine extremities and one to lower rear panel. Book is from library of famed multi-millionaire bibliophile Edward T. (Ned) Guymon, intimate of Hammett, Chandler, Christie, etc., (and the man whom Fred Dannay credits as being his guide & predecessor). On the front pastedown is Guymon's own macabre, weirdly fascinating bookplate. Book is a PRESENTATION COPY from Fred Dannay to Guymon's secretary Gertrude Larson, and bears this inscription penned in the bold cursive hand of Dannay: To / Ned Guymon's / secretary -- / Gertrude Larson -- / with the best wishes / of the author / "Ellery Queen". A truly unique and fascinating association copy.
. Item #10092Price: $4,250.00