A UK first edition, first impression.

WRAPPER : The wrapper on this copy is bright and complete. It is unclipped, showing the price 8s 6d on the inside flap. The front panel is bright and unfaded, showing rubbing, light surface creasing and a closed tear ( 3 cm ) at the top edge. There are tiny nicks out of the leading edge corners. The spine has faded. It is lightly creased and worn at the head and tail. The white back panel is unfaded and bright, showing signs of wear to the top and bottom edges. The wrapper has been reinforced internally.

BOOK : The book is sound and tight. The front and back boards are clean and bright, showing inconsequential bruising to the lower corners. The spine is bright, the spine lettering is bold. The spine is bruised at the ends. The pages are clean and without foxing. The closed page edges are slightly dusty and lightly flecked. The binding is tight - no cracked hinges. There is a neat contemporary ( dated 1946 ) gift inscription on the front endpaper. A decent copy of an uncommon title.

Publisher: Collins ( Collins Crime Club ), 1946

Condition: Very Good +. Wrapper: Very Good