(Ronald Mathews, Jack Kahane, Graham Greene) Sheila Cousins, "To Beg I Am Ashamed," The Vanguard Press, 1938. First edition (US).
Purported to be the "authentic autobiography of a London prostitute," although Cousins was later discovered to be a pseudonym. The authorship of the book has been attributed to numerous people, Ronald Mathews and Jack Kahane (of the Obelisk Press) being two such candidates, and Graham Greene has been credited with the editing and revision process. Overall a peculiar publication in the history of books on sexuality, and an even more peculiar addition to the bibliographic credits of Greene.
Jacket in two piece, separated along front spine hinge, with large pieces missing from spine ends. Heavy chipping along top edges and at corners as well, with staining to rear panel, white chalky markings to front, and light surface soiling throughout. What remains housed in Brodart cover. Book itself is lightly dampstained around top and fore edges of all pages, with corresponding wrinkling. dust soiling at top page edges, and rubbing at spine ends. Pen marking on front endpaper. Binding remains sound, interior clean. G+ in a fair/poor jacket. A scarce edition.
