The Glass Key

DASHIELL HAMMETT

Publication: Alfred A Knopf, 1931, New York

First U. S. edition, preceded by the U. K. edition. A near fine copy in a bright dust jacket with light professional restoration to the spine ends and corners. Paul Madvig is a crooked political boss. Ned Beaumont, his lieutenant and “fixer,” comes upon the dead body of Taylor Henry, son of a prominent senator with whom Madvig has chosen to join forces. Madvig hopes to marry the senator's daughter, while the senator hopes Madvig's political organization can put him over the top in the next election. To complicate matters, some think that Madvig himself murdered young Henry ... Madvig’s daughter, Opal, who was in love with Henry, among them. And someone has been sending anonymous letters to the DA, to Opal, to Senator Henry, and to the newspapers suggesting Madvig’s involvement and calling for action. The basis for two films: one in 1935, starring Edward Arnold, George Raft, and Claire Dodd, and one in 1942, starring Brian Donlevy, Veronica Lake, and Alan Ladd. Housed in a quarter leather and cloth clamshell case with titles stamped in gilt on the spine.

Inventory Number: 51235