Peter Graham, Mountain Guide: an Autobiography. Edited by H. B. Hewitt. London: Allen Unwin, 1965. xiv + 245 pages, with illustrations. Price 42s.

Peter Graham’s service as Head Guide at the Hermitage, Mount Cook, coincided with the first flowering of New Zealand climbing, 1894-1928. At the time of his death he had brought his memoirs down to 1910, although his active career continued beyond 1924. His narrative consists of 196 pages, supplemented by John Pascoe, who used as source material Graham’s own rough notes, as well as the many accounts of this guide given by those who climbed with him. His first ascents in the Southern Alps earned him a great name, but his work as a professional guide, founding a tradition of care and safe-conduct for the parties he led, is an equal contribution to the sport. He was a deeply respected figure; “Mr. Peter” to his proteges. His modest story is assisted by many interesting illustrations.

J. Monroe Thorington