The Letters and Dispatches of John Churchill, First Duke of Marlborough,

First Edition. “‘There are few successful commanders,’ says Creasy, ‘on whom Fame has shone so unwillingly as upon John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough.’ I believe this is true; and it is an interesting historical study to examine the causes which have made so great a contrast between the glory and importance of his deeds and the small regard of his countrymen for his memory… he never fought a battle that he did not win, nor besieged a fortress he did not take. Amid all the chances and baffling accidents of war he produced victory with almost mechanical certainty… he never rode off any field except as victor. He quitted war invincible” (Winston Churchill on his renowned ancestor). The editor “Murray was after Wellington the most respected soldier of his time in Britain, whose opinion carried immense weight both at home and abroad and not only on military matters” (ODNB).

5 volumes, large 8vo (225 × 141 mm.). Near contemporary plum calf, spines gilt in compartments, red and green labels, a.e.m. Engraved portrait frontispiece to vol. I. Light browning, a little rubbed at the extremities, upper joint of vol. V just starting at the tail, labels chipping, some loss to the numbering piece of vol. III, but overall a very attractive set.