Not easy to find proof of the first volume of what is known as the Karla Trilogy and a title considered to be among his best, if not his best, spy novels. 

The proof is in very good condition. Spotting to top edge of text block, other sides clean. Reading creases to spine. No tears. First four pages loose, but bound together (half-title, title page, dedication page and page stating 'Part One'); other pages bound; book falls easily open to page 104 where it is separating from the spine, but pages are still holding firm and are not loose. Proof has a slight lean.

The rare proof jacket is not price-clipped, showing the price of £2.95 on the in-flap. Sunned spine. Ragged tear to top of spine, see the photographs. Closed edge tears at foot of spine, small amount of loss at front corners, and rubbed along the edges.