[MILITARY HISTORY]. [COMBE, Major-General Boyce Albert (1841-1920)]. Letters from B. A. C. (Afghanistan - 1878-80). London: Printed for Private Circulation by J. Davy & Sons, 1880. 3 pages of maps inserted. [4, blank], [ii], [1]-212, [1, blank] pp. Bound in contemporary full red straight grain morocco over thin boards, front board lettered in gilt, spine ruled in blind. THE SCARCE FIRST EDITION, ONE OF ONLY 20 COPIES PRINTED, THE PRINTER'S OWN COPY WITH HIS BOOKPLATE ON THE FP., WITH AN AUTOGRAPH LETTER FROM COMBE'S BROTHER TO DAVY AFFIXED TO FIRST BLANK. 

Combe was in command of the 10th Hussars beginning in 1879 during the Second Afghan War (he was Captain and then Brevet-Major during that conflict, eventually being promoted to Major-General during his later duty in India). This book was published for Combe by Davy in a very small number. The letter affixed to the first blank (on mourning stationery) from Combe's brother, Charles (d. 1836) is as follows: "Mr. Charles Combe encloses a cheque for £40- He is much pleased with the attention Mr Davy bestowed on the work and is glad to say his brother Major Combe wishes that he is also greatly pleased with his book - 19. Feb. 81". 

Spine toned, binding worn, soiled, scuffed, joints starting, hinges starting, several gutters a bit overopened, text with occasional thumbsoiling. Still, very good. Housed in modern full burgundy morocco clamshell case.