Historical biography rare books

First edition, vol I signed on the front prelim: 'From Winston Churchill/ July 24 1924'; 2 vols, 8vo; frontispieces, 16 plates, one folding, occasional spotting to vol. I but in the main, clean and bright; lavish twentieth century full black morocco for Asprey, gilt-panelled and bordered with Churchillian devices to front and rear boards as well as the ribbed spins, silk doublures within twin-panelled dentelles, all edges gilt, a fine set.

First edition; 2 vols, 8vo (225 x 150 mm); illustrated with engraved frontispieces, three further engraved plates (one folding), ink manuscript loosely tipped-in to front of vol. i, headed ' Order of circulation for this book' followed by a dates and names, including that of 'The Duke of Norfolk' and the first date being 'Sept 1st 1845', with note below; 'the Members are requested to have the Books always ready for the Messenger on the above days.' A further sheet opposite bearing a 'List of Books', in the same hand and including this title at the top, short tear to folding plate, not affecting text, some very random, light spotting, otherwise very good; mid-twentieth century half crimson morocco gilt, marbled endpapers, top edge gilt, mild age-toning and dust-soiling, otherwise near-fine.