A UK first edition, first impression - with 1956 stated on the copyright page and 1958 stated on the title page.
Wrapper : The evocative period wrapper on this copy is bright and complete. It is 2mm to short for the book. It is unpriced. The front panel is bright and unfaded, showing tiny nicks to the leading edge corners. The spine is clean and unfaded. It is inconsequentially rubbed at either end. The back panel is sound, showing light overall soiling. Looks sharp in protective plastic.
Book : The book is square and very tight. The boards are clean, fresh and unfaded. The spine ends are slightly bruised. The pages are clean. No foxing. The closed page edges are dusty and lightly toned. There are no loose or dog-eared pages. The binding is solid and without cracked hinges. A nice copy in a protected wrapper.
Publisher: Collins ( Collins Crime Club )
