1949. Methuen. First edition plus letter with Varè's signature.

Two rare things here. The book - of which I can only see two others for sale. And then there is Varè's autograph - of which there is only one other online for sale - at Kotte Autographs.

Daniele Varè was an Italian diplomat who is known for this quote: “Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way.”

He was brought up in Scotland whence this book derives its fictional story. He represented Italy as a diplomat in China, Denmark and Iceland and then was given the sack by Mussolini in 1932.

Known as both the 'Laughing Diplomat' and the 'Romantic Diplomat' his most well-known published work is The Maker of Heavenly Trousers. I should really put an exclamation mark after that.

So, what have we here? The cover is torn and has foxing at the top of the front cover and is now protected by a removeable mylar cover - see photos.

The front endpaper has a compliments slip attached. The rest of the inside pages are free of foxing and have four most charming colour drawings included. There is no foxing or tears or markings on these inside pages.

The letter is addressed to the original owner of the book and hopefully you can read its contents. It's probably the longest thank you note for a nice meal ever. Here goes:

"London 7 April 1949

Dear Phillips,

Do you know the story of Lucollus, meeting some friends in the Forum, and asking them to come to dinner with him, a 'la fortune du pot'?

They accepted, but stipulated that he should not send any orders home concerning the dinner. They wanted to know how he fared when he did not expect guests. He consented but asked: ' At least you might let me send word where to lay the table.'

The friends raised no objection and he sent a slave home with the message: 'Tonight I will dine in the Hall of Apollo'. This was the most sumptuous of his banquets were always served. So the household knew what was expected of them: the best that his Palace could offer.

Diana and I thank you for the dinner last night. To us it seemed like a Lucullian banquet, in the Hall of Apollo.

You have bought some of my books. When it comes out, you must let me send you my next. I mean THE DOGE's RING.

Yours

Daniele Varè"