The Secret Families [Inscribed Typescript with Associated Correspondence]

New York, NY: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1989. [Spy Thriller] INSCRIBED ORIGINAL TYPESCRIPT. 437 sheets of type-written A4 paper, with the title leaf INSCRIBED by the author in black ink: 'To Gary, | With all good wishes — | yours | John Gardner.' Also with a separate Compliments leaf on US gauge paper headed with Gardner's US address in Charlottesville, VA, INSCRIBED in black ink: 'Thank you for being so thoughtful. | John G.' Additionally featuring four TLS, all addressed to the first owner of the typescript, Gary L. Heiselberg. One, loose and unfolded from the publishers, confirms his purchase of the typescript, and apologises for its delay in dispatch. The other three are folded with stamped and post-marked envelopes, the first consisting of a copy of a letter sent by Otto Penzler, New York publisher and bookseller, to John Gardner, urging him to dispatch the typescript, purchased by Mr. Heiselberg at an MWA auction which he had presided over as auctioneer. The second is from John Gardner himself, apologising for the delay, partly explained by his recent move to the USA. The third, also from Gardner, expresses relief that the typescript has finally arrived, and regret that it may be some time before he can visit to inscribe it personally. All housed in a cream card photofile box. Typescript generally crisp and clean, except for the first and final leaves, which are a little dog-eared, thumbed and chipped. Very heavily tobacco-scented. Letters carefully opened with a knife. Light wear to box, with a former bookseller's description taped to the lid. Very good. The final book in the 'Railton ' trilogy, preceded by 'Secret Generations' (1985), and 'Secret Houses' (1988). John Gardner was the official James Bond author from 1981-1996.