The points of issue
First printing of the second Mulliner story collection. The UK Herbert Jenkins edition (London, 30 April 1929) precedes the US Doubleday, Doran edition (21 February 1930).
Is this the true first?
UK Herbert Jenkins is the true first (April 1929); the US Doubleday, Doran edition followed in February 1930.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club issue.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Mr. Mulliner Speaking a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First printing of the second Mulliner story collection. The UK Herbert Jenkins edition (London, 30 April 1929) precedes the US Doubleday, Doran edition (21 February 1930).
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. UK Herbert Jenkins is the true first (April 1929); the US Doubleday, Doran edition followed in February 1930.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club issue.
I have a first edition of Mr. Mulliner Speaking — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.