[CARIBBEAN] Naboth's Vineyard by Welles, Sumner - 1928: The Dominican Republic 1844-1924

New York: Payson & Clarke Ltd., 1928. First Edition. Hardcover. Orig. dark green boards, title in gilt. Near fine, in very good dust wrapper. 2 Volumes. 496 & 1058 pages. Signed presentation copy with personal letter. As the title of this important book artfully alludes to, The Dominican Republic's history has much in common with the biblical story of Naboth; let's just say things did not go well for those who covet. "And Naboth said to Ahab, The Lord forbid it me, that i should give the inheritance of my fathers unto thee." Kings 21, v. 3. This copy of Sumner Welles' book is unique - The following inscription from Welles appears on the title page: "To the Hon. Francis White, With the main regard of his friend, Sumner Welles." Laid in as well is a letter and envelope to White in Welles' hand. An excerpt reads: "Dear Francis - I am leaving for you with these lines a copy of my book - but may be that when you have some free time you will look it over, and if so, I hope you will not find yourself in discord with the final conclusions arrived at - My thanks to you once more for the help you have me in its preparation - Yours forever, Sumner Welles - Friday". Sumner Welles and Francis White were fellow professional diplomats. Welles (1892-1961) was born into wealth and the highest level of privileged East Coast American society. A Groton and Harvard graduate, he rose quickly to become one of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's most trusted foreign advisors before being brought down by sexual scandal. Welles, formerly Chief of the Latin-American Division of the Department of State speaks frankly in this book about contemporary US-Dominican policy within the context of Dominican Republic history from the time of the French Revolution until the evacuation of American Occupation Forces in 1924. White (1892-1961) had been Assistant Secretary of State from 1927 to 1933. He later became an envoy to Czechoslovakia (1933), Ambassador to Mexico (1953-57), and Ambassador to Sweden (1957-58). White's bookplate adorns both volumes. Photo illustrated with illustrated endpapers. Covers and interior, near fine, dust wrappers toned at spine with light chipping.