Books

First edition, first impression (Heinemann, 1967). Illustrated by Janet and Anne Grahame-Johnstone. Signed, inscribed and dated by the author in the year of publication on the front blank: 'To Cicely Courtneidge, from Dodie Smith "Dear Octopus", Theatre Royal, Haymarket, 1967'. The inscription refers to Smith's play 'Dear Octopus', which was revived in 1967 for the fiftieth wedding anniversary of the comedy actors Dame Cicely Courtneidge and Jack Hubert. Dodie Smith's married name, 'Mrs Beesley', Dodie Smith's married name is also written in ink in another hand to the front flap of the dust jacket. Additionally a postcard from the author is loosely inserted: 'Dearest Cis, Here is "The Starlight Barking" as a tiny first night present. It's also intended as a get well present to your dear poodle - I trust you'll be able to use Bill's line and say "The dog liked it". Bless you and thank you for your lovable, funny and altogether admirable performance as "Dora". Much love as ever,…