The World Crisis.

London: Thornton Butterworth,, 1923-29. A stupendous narrative of the war in Europe First editions, mixed impressions, a handsomely bound set of Churchill's mammoth history of the First World War, comprising first impressions of volumes I, III, and IV, a second impression of volume V, and a third impression of volume II. This set is from the collection of Churchill's bibliographer Ronald Cohen. The work deals with Churchill's reorganization of the Royal Navy in the years leading up to the war, defends his Gallipoli policy, and criticizes Haig's strategy. "Although parts of The World Crisis were highly autobiographical, drawing on documents from Churchill's private papers, the book as a whole was a stupendous narrative of the war in Europe featuring masterly set-piece accounts of major battles. Dictated to secretaries as he strode up and down the room, it exhibited his passionate interest in war and his romantic conception of the 'true glory' of the troops who perished on the Somme" (ODNB). This set was presumably bound before the further volume The Eastern Front was published in 1931. Provenance: Ronald Cohen, with his ownership inscription in pencil on the initial binder's blanks. Cohen's Bibliography of the Writings of Sir Winston Churchill, published in three volumes in 2006, is the authoritative source for collectors, librarians, and dealers. Five volumes, octavo (228 x 148 mm). Contemporary blue half calf by Bayntun (Riviere), twin red morocco labels, blue cloth sides, marbled endpapers, top edges gilt. Illustrated throughout with maps and charts (many folding). Ownership stamp (John A. Meade of Victoria, Canada) to initial binder's blanks. Spines a little sunned with bands a little rubbed, some toning to contents. An excellent set. Cohen A69.2(I).c (third state, no priority of issue); A69.2(II).c; A69.2(III-1 & 2).a; A69.2(IV).c.