Published by Chatto & Windus, London; 1980. 360pp. 8vo. First edition, first impression. Condition: Fine/Very Good+
Bound in original blue cloth boards with title in gilt to the spine. The binding is square and tight, in very smart condition, free from marks or damage, with just a hint of bumping at the spine ends. Inside, the pages are clean and bright with no blemishes and just the slightest touch of toning to the extremities.
The book is housed in its original first-issue dust jacket. It is unclipped with a price label affixed to the flap. The jacket is in smart condition, with only slight darkening to the spine and top edge, and some bumping at the spine ends.
In all, this is a lovely example of Bogarde's first novel. Set after the Second World War, the story follows a group of ordinary British soldiers and their families who find themselves stationed as peacekeepers at an outpost in the Java Sea. Whilst trying to return the island to Dutch control, they experience violent attacks from the locals, who desire their freedom.