London: Viking, 2000

8vo, pp. 213. Original blue boards, lettered in gilt to spine. Illustrated dustwrapper. A fine copy in an all but fine dustwrapper with just the lightest of edgewear.

First edition, later impression (incomplete number line), INSCRIBED BY THE AUTHOR TO LEO 'RUMPOLE' McKERN AND HIS WIFE: 'To Leo and Jane with love and best New Year wishes from John'.

Between 1978 and 1992, John Mortimer and Leo McKern collaborated on seven series of the television show Rumpole of the Bailey, adapted by Mortimer from his own books, and starring McKern in the title role. Although the show was a huge success, relations between its star and writer were often strained. McKern was frequently troubled by the growing realisation that he was going to be remembered for playing Rumpole on ITV rather than Iago at the RSC; Mortimer, while grateful to McKern for Rumpole's success, knew his star felt this way, and was understandably displeased. The relationship never became fond, but the two remained in touch after the series came to an end.

A fine copy, with an association to match.

Keywords: John MORTIMER Leo McKERN"