Carbineer. The history of the Royal Natal Carbineers (ASSOCIATION COPY)

8vo, original blue cloth with silver gilt on leather spine label; no dustwrapper; pp. x + 193, 14 plates; three small maps in text. Number 19 of edition limited to 1000 copies. Moderate foxing. Signed by G.R. de Carle on the front free endpaper. Major (then Corporal) de Carle is given special mention on page 114 of the book: "During the critical period from 28 October to 4 November, the role of the Carbineers was a varied one. Mortar detachments were called upon to keep up a sustained and accurate barrage upon forward enemy positions. In this supremely important work, Corporal G.R. de Carle revealed outstanding skill and courage, that were to be rewarded with the military medal. Entrusted with the task of controlling and co-ordinating the fire-plan of four mortar units, de Carle worked his weapons with almost superhuman energy, until mortars became as red hot as had been the barrels of the riflemen at tragic Isandhlwana. After nightfall, skilful harassing fire maintained pressure on the enemy, and made it possible for the infantry to pass to the offensive. But enemy retaliation was heavy, and the ground won had to be held against persistent German counter-attacks. The optimistic battle communiques concealed some very real anxiety as to the ultimate outcome." A special association copy. Loosely inserted is a typewritten Short History of the Natal Carbineers