English explorer, translator, writer, soldier, and diplomat (1821-1890). He was known for his travels and explorations within Asia and Africa as well as his extraordinary knowledge of languages and cultures. According to one count, he spoke 29 European, Asian, and African languages. A four-page ALS from Burton, written to Waering Faulder dated April 20, 1884, which is affixed to the third free end page of a first edition of The Book of the Sword. Letter reads, in part: “Accept my best thanks for yours of March 4th; I was prevented from answering it at once by an ugly attack which confined me to bed…In preparing my second volume it will begin with—Cap I Ireland (Celts)...Byzantines; Cap IV Arabs, rise of El Islam…Sword-makers’ marks and whatever else may suggest itself. Do you like the scheme? And have you anything to propose by way of changes?” Burton also adds a short postscript which reads, “Do you recall to mind any of the multitudinous medieval legends of the sword and have you made a study of that branch of weapon lore?” The letterhead is embossed in the upper left corner with Burton’s Arabic name Abdullah al-Hadji. The original mailing envelope is affixed to the same page, under the letter. The book is a rare first edition, first printing. London: Chatto and Windus, 1884. Contemporary gilt decorated Moroccan leather hardcover with original cloth covers and spine bound in. Labels by Sangorski and Sutfliffe with tasteful matching slipcase, 7.5 x 10.5, 299 pages. In fine condition, with a few small partial page separations to fragile binding, and a bit of scattered light wear to covers. RRAuction COA.
