The Conspiracy Against God and Man by Rev. Clarence Kelly (1974 Hardcover in Dust Jacket) 

·         Author:              Clarence Kelly SSPV (Born 1941)

·         Publisher:          Western Islands Publishing   Belmont MA    U.S.A.    1974

“A great American has said:  ‘In any struggle, it is essential to know two things: what you are fighting for and what you are fighting against.  If knowledge of the former is absent, the will to win will be lacking.  If knowledge of the latter is absent, confusion and uncertainty will result.’” – from jacket cover. 

Clarence Kelly SSPV (Born 1941) is an American sedevacantist traditional Catholic bishop.  He is a co-founder of the Society of Saint Pius V and the founder of the Congregation of Saint Pius V. 

Bishop Kelly served four years in the U.S. Air Force.  Subsequently studied philosophy at the Catholic University of America in Washington D.C., graduating in 1969.  After spending two years studying theology, he went to Switzerland where he completed his studies and was ordained a priest of the Society of St. Pius X in 1973. 

This book was begun in this country and completed while in Europe.  The French historian Bernard Fay (1893-1978, former Administrator General of the National Library of France) aided significantly in clarifying the scope and direction of the book.  The author credits Robert Welch (1899-1985, founder of the John Birch Society) for the inspiration to research and present his findings in this book.  xii + 264pp.

After his ordination, he returned to the United States and undertook some speaking engagements for the John Birch Society. 

Hardcovers have olive cloth boards with black lettering on spine in Fine (As New) DJs.  Books have not been studied, doubtful if completely read.  Aside prior owners’ signature on ffep (adds no value), no other marks found in books.  Interior is tight and clean.  Near Fine Hardcovers in Fine Dust Jackets. 

•    Size:  8to - over 7¾ - 9¾" tall,      276pp.

•    Condition:  Near Fine (As New) Hardcovers, in Fine (As New) Jackets  –  Always privately owned.   Rare and Out of Print.   

Copyright 1974.  Manufactured in U.S.A.  No Edition nor print-run info found.  No ISBN nor LCCN.  MSR = US $8.00.  Rare and Out of Print. 

Notes on Condition/Edition ratings:

Fine – means like new, but any book produced over 10 years ago isn't “brand new” or even “new.”  Booksellers needed some word to describe this, much like coin collectors...

Like New – A new book, no marks no damage (except maybe remainder marks or shelf-wear) except not obtained directly from the publisher or in packaging from the publisher. 

Good – How someone else might take care of a book. Also referred to as “standard.” This is the most likely condition for books of this age & title, shows the book has been read or previously owned.  

 Acceptable – How a young child, student or a librarian might take care of a book. (Either trying to make sure someone doesn't steal it by plastering ownership everywhere, filled it with copious notes or a book that has been damaged.)

Poor – Combination of “acceptable” factors above. Most likely with water damage as well. Might have missing pages (you should ask).

Near – Means “almost” in an optimistic sense. e.g., “Near Fine” means very good, but on the high end.

1st Thus – Unique somehow, maybe 1st paperback, new illustrator, misprint or even the 1st edition. A collector might desire this copy.