[1947] First trade edition (preceding by a limited edition of 100 signed copies). 78pp, with two pages with coloured decorations by Rex Whistler. In cream paper-covered boards. 8vo. Some spotting on boards and endpapers, boards gently pushed at corners and spine ends, else neat, clean, bright and tight. In its original tissue paper dust wrapper, a little bumped at edges and a tad toned. A lovely copy. Letter from H H Prince Vsevolde of Russia, to whom this book is dedicated, presenting the book to 'Dear Denny[?]', loosely laid in. The Prince's signature on the letter is a photostat, not original.
A short history of the Mayfair wine merchants Saccone & Speed. Prince Vsevolde, then managing director of the firm, commissioned Waugh to write this volume which also includes an analysis of the impact of war on the wine trade and, more generally, Waugh's reflections on wine-drinking.
