Two Epigrams of Fealty; together with: Galsworthy and Gawsworth

Thomas (Dylan).    Privately Printed for Members of the Court, “Realm of Redonda”,   [c.1953]  Each one of 30 numbered copies  Single leaf folded to eight pages, 16mo  Fine copies. Very rare  These three uncollected verses are testaments to Thomas’s “fealty” to John Gawsworth, King Juan I of Redonda, written in a Soho restaurant where Gawsworth was holding court. Thomas was created “Duke of Gweno” (he is so styled on the title-pages) in 1947, being one of the many celebrated artists and writers who were willing to play a part in the Redonda charade. The leaflets were printed after Thomas’ death by Gawsworth (the numbering is in his hand) as a memorial tribute. Included is a photocopy of a manuscript by Gawsworth about the poems (“[Thomas’] fealty was far from respectful!”). Not in Rolph. 

Price: £750