COMMANDO (1929) - INSCRIBED FIRST EDITION

A scarce true first edition, first impression of Deneys Reitz's classic memoir about his experiences during the Anglo-Boer War.

Publisher's red cloth binding with gilt titles on spine.

331pp. Map endpapers (which in later impressions were replaced with a fold-out map at rear).

Foreword by General Jan Smuts.

Reitz inscribed this copy to Margaret Whiting Spilhaus (1889-1981), author of books on numerous subjects ranging from geography, genealogy, botany to children's literature, but mainly South African history. Apart from writing she was also a book illustrator and cartographer known for a series of 5 large-format pictorial maps published between 1927 - 1943. 

As with most books from Spilhaus's library this copy contains occasional light marginalia in pencil, as the historian was making notes which may later have proven useful as reference for her own writings. (Spilhaus's autobiography Doorstep-Baby listed on this auction and contains a letter from the author to her book reviewer)

'Deneys Reitz (1882-1944) Soldier, statesman, autobiographer. Born and educated in Bloemfontein, at age 17 he joined the Boer forces when the Boer War broke out in 1899. He fought in many of the engagements of the war, and was with Jan Smuts when the latter invaded the Cape Colony towards the end of the war. He chose to go into exile rather than take the oath of allegiance, and spent three years in exile in Madagascar. He served with distinction in the First World War and later became High Commissioner for SA in London. His memoir of his experiences in the Boer War is one of the most vivid and readable accounts of the war. He tells his story in an understated yet engaging manner, always downplaying his remarkable feats.' - A Bosman Companion, Mackenzie & Sandham

Binding sound. Contents generally clean apart from foxing to prelims and fore edge when book is closed.