NOTES ON LIFE & LETTERS. [1 of 21 or fewer advance copies extant]

1921. [one of 35 (now 21) copies] London & Toronto: J.M. Dent & Sons, 1921. Original olive green cloth.

First Edition, of which this is one of 35 (Wise says 33) privately-printed advance copies that "were sent to friends of the publisher." These pieces primarily come from the limited pamphlets that were privately printed for Thomas J. Wise during the two preceding years; Conrad's friend Richard Curle was instrumental in having them combined into this volume. These advance copies are slightly taller, and somewhat slimmer, than trade copies -- and read "Privately Printed..1921" on the title verso; as with all known advance copies, the contents leaf is in the earliest state, with the "S" and "A" missing from the word "SEA". As Supino gleaned from Conrad's letters, "Sixteen copies were given by Conrad and J.M. Dent to friends, Conrad kept five copies, which he sold through Wise, and the remaining copies were destroyed" -- which, if accurate, means that today a maximum of 21 copies might be extant. This copy is just about fine (minor spotting near the rear cover fore-edge); the spine gilt is bright and there is literally no wear at all. It is believed that no dust jacket was provided for these advance copies. Supino A23.1.0 (this copy); Cagle A51a(1). Provenance: discreet bookplate of the Conrad bibliographer David J. Supino (also, loosely inserted is a prior dealer's description of this copy, on which Supino worked out the volume's collation).