8vo (8 1/4 x 5 1/2 in.; 210 x 140 mm). Advertisement leaf, 12 wood-engraved text illustrations (6 full-page). Original pebbled black cloth; hinges cracked. Endorsed check from author laid in.

Adams, Six Guns (1969), 1478; Graff 2750; Howes M-522; Streeter sale 4:2385

Corners lightly rubbed, spine very faintly sunned, head and tail of spine a little rubbed, hinges cracked.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

FIRST EDITION of "one of the rarities of western Americana" (Adams). Mercer was the editor and publisher of a stock journal whose livelihood depended on paid advertisements from the cattlemen. While his sympathies did not lie with cattle rustlers, his publication exposed the criminal activities of the Wyoming cattlemen during the Johnson County War. The Wyoming Stock Growers Association brought a libel suit against Mercer, during the course of which much of the edition was impounded and ordered destroyed. Mercer's printing office was burned, and he was forced to flee Wyoming.