inscribed by the author in orange felt-tip ("For Anthony [Thwaite], not the friend in this case but in all others, with admiration + respect. Horatio Larkin"), one page, 4to (255 x 200), [1970], folds, minor stain not affecting text

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The "friend" in this poem was based at least in part on Kingsley Amis. The poem was written between 1957 and 1959 but Larkin remained dissatisfied with the text and refrained from publication. This typescript was sent to Anthony Thwaite on 19 March 1970 for his opinion on its quality, with Larkin hoping that the inscription was sufficiently fulsome "to enable you to flog it to Texas for the price of a bottle of Old Grandad at least" (Selected Letters, p.429). The poem was first published in Thwaite's edition of the Collected Poems (1988).