1946. First Edition Thus. 640 pages. No dust jacket. Blue cloth with gilt. Pages remain clear with minimal tanning and foxing. End papers are more notably tanned. Previous owner's inscription to front free end-paper. Cracking to hinges, no damage to end papers. Some occasional mild cracking to gutters throughout, binding remains reasonably firm. Boards have moderate edge-wear with bumping to corners and rubbing to surfaces. Mild crushing to spine ends, with fraying cloth and small splits. Gilt lettering is darkened. Cloth has minor damp and dust stains. Book has a slight forward lean.