First Edition. The story of Vilma Steinmetz a woman with a past. Her conflict with life forms the basis of a delightful mystery novel. The story begins with what Vilma herself has recognized as the end of all life for her, all happiness, all kindness, and all comfort. As a result of her experiences she has arrived at the point where when accused by an acquaintance of being a satirist she replies a sense of humor has been forced upon me. There's nothing so bitter as being alive and everyone is entitled to any compensation that's to be had out of this joke. The author is richly endowed with the same verisimilitude he paints the Moroccan scenes and those in Paris and New York. Both setting and people come alive in a fashion that story telling rarely has the art for nowadays. Mr. Rising accomplishes this with the simplicity that seems without effort and that enhances the story's remarkable suspense. Uncommon title. Near Fine in Very Good dustjacket. Item #32321