James Bond First Editions

Sable Basilisk.

FLEMING, Ian Lancaster (1908-1964), and MIRRLEES, Robin De La Lanne (1925-2012).

Privately Printed, n.d. [1960s]. [James Bond reference] FIRST EDITION. Quarto, illustrated with heraldic crests. Pp.51, comprising 41 text pages, plus preliminary letters and appendix. Original buckram boards, titled in gilt to spine. A TLS is laid in from the author "to Jonathan", dated 26 May 1965, presenting the book, and there is a further letter from James Bond historian John Griswold, former owner of this copy. Fine condition. A volume of roneographed typed copy notes and correspondence between Fleming and Mirrlees of the College of Arms in London, who acted as adviser to Fleming in all matters of Heraldry, and who provided Fleming with the original colour drawing of the coat of arms and the motto of Bond of Peckham (reproduced within), which was utilised in Richard Chopping's dust-jacket illustration. Fleming and Mirrlees built up a genuine respect and friendship whilst researching the book, and Mirrlees featured as the character 'Sable Basilisk' in the story, the construction of the name being explained on the preface of this volume. Additionally, Fleming's appreciation was shown when he made Mirrlees (Basilisk) the dedicatee of 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'. A legendary Fleming rarity, singled out by Campbell in his foreword; 'Sable Basilisk must be scarce, as it is limited to about half a dozen copies'. In a letter dated 10th May 1974, Mirrlees confirms that he produced only 6 or so copies. Campbell calls for a slip-case, but this may be erroneous, or a later addition; we know of three copies out of the original half-dozen, and none of these possess a slip-case. Item #64559

Ex Adrian Harrington/Lucius Rare Books, £7000, inventory no.37328 (June 2011); subsequently sold by Christie's (2022, auction slip inserted).

Price: £10,000.00