Waugh's third novel, written whilst staying at Madresfield Court, Worcestershire as the guest of the Lygon sisters; this was the book that established his reputation as a master satirist.

Set on the fictional African island of Azania, the novel chronicles the efforts of Emperor Seth, assisted by the Englishman Basil Seal, to modernise his kingdom, including the issue of home-made currency and the staging of a 'Birth Control Gala'.

First trade edition; 8vo; frontispiece with map illustration, some foxing; publisher's black and red patterned boards, spine gilt, original tan dust jacket printed in red and black, dust jacket with overall browning, dust-soiling and rubbing, small nicks to spine ends and tips; presented in a black cloth slipcase with gilt-lettered black morocco label; overall a very good copy.