The Mint. by LAWRENCE, T. E - 1955: A Day-book of the R.A.F. Depot between August and December 1922 with Later Notes by 35207 A/C Ross.

London: Jonathan Cape, , 1955. First UK edition, first impression, trade issue, of Lawrence's insider account of his time in the RAF, publication of which was delayed in Britain for almost three decades. A brutal but honest account, the book likens RAF training to a coin factory. "One of Lawrence's avowed purposes in joining the RAF, though not the only one, was to write of the ranks from the inside. He began immediately making notes when he enlisted in 1922. With his dismissal in January 1923, because of unfavourable publicity, the project was set aside, not to be taken up again until he was posted to India in 1927... While in India he edited the text of his earlier notes and began revisions. In March 1928 he sent a clean copy of the revised text to Edward Garnett. Garnett had copies typed which were circulated to a small circle, among them Air Marshal Trenchard... Trenchard's concerned response led Lawrence to guarantee that it would not be published at least until 1950" (O'Brien). An edition of 50 copies was published in America in 1936 to ensure copyright. Full publication was delayed until 1955, after the death of an officer described unfavourably. Both the British and American editions were published that year, this British edition with a simultaneous trade and limited issue, the former somewhat expurgated. Quarto (243 x 182 mm). Contemporary red half morocco, spine lettered in gilt, red cloth sides, marbled endpapers, top edge gilt. Bookplate of Burnell family to front pastedown. Spine lightly sunned, a few spots to sides: an excellent copy. O'Brien A173.