Milligan, Spike

Adolf Hitler – My Part in His Downfall. 1971, the dedication copy (“To | Norma - | keep taking the tablets. | Love from | Spike”) on front free endpaper; “Rommel?” “Gunner Who?” 1974, inscribed (“Love to Norma | from | Spike”) on verso of front free endpaper; Monty – His Part in My Victory. 1976, inscribed (“To | Norma Farnes | who I have never | slept with. | From the smell | on the landing. | Spike”) on half-title; Mussolini – His Part in my Downfall. 1978, inscribed (“To | The | Damager! | Love | Spike”) on title-page; Where Have All the Bullets Gone? 1985, inscribed (“To | Norma | Love | Spike X”) on half-title; Goodbye Soldier. 1986, inscribed (“To | Sunshine Girl! | Love Spike X”) on half-title, together with typed letter of presentation from the publisher noting publication date; Peace Work. 1991, inscribed (“To | Norma | such a friend | Spike | August ’91”) on front free endpaper; all 8vo, 7 vol., first editions, presentation copies inscribed by the author, numerous illustrations, original boards, dust-jackets, some extremities slightly bumped, occasional creases to dust-jackets (7)

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A complete set of Spike Milligan’s War Biographies published over two decades and inscribed to the author’s “manager, mentor and troubleshooter for thirty or more years” (in the words of Eric Sykes) or “my Damager/Saviour” (in the words of Milligan). The multi-volume war memoir is a modern classic of autobiography. The first book, the dedication copy of which is offered here, has been adapted into a film (1972) and a stage play (2009).