Description: First American edition, second state, with first edition issue Franklin Press on the copyright page. Illustrated throughout with 192 illustrations. Set in 1537, this was the first of Twain's historical novels. Green publisher's cloth with black and very bright gilt decorations on the front board and spine, all edges gilt. Missing a page/illustration at the beginning of the volume (see last photo in listing). Condition: Very good. Twain's adventure of 16th-century England, aimed at elevating his literary reputation before HUCKLEBERRY FINN finally secured it. Playing on the theme of living a day of opposites (a tradition centuries old in holidays like Saturnalia), using the plot of switching roles in order to bring to light legal injustices based on inequity and with a characteristically Twain touch of humor and adventure. Twain put up extra money to make it a lavish production, hoping this book would establish his critical reputation, "even if the elegance of it eats up the publisher's profits and mine too." This is technically the first American edition, as Twain issued authorized editions in London and Montreal a few days in advance so as to counteract piracies. The text is corrected (second issue points): page 124 line 1 estate to state, Page 263 9 lines up from bottom do not to do and page 362 3 lines up from bottom reigned to reined. Osgood went bankrupt in 1884 and the book was then published by Webster. Photos are of the actual item being sold and they are to be considered part of the description. We consider all offers in relation to current market values and we try to respond almost immediately. Your purchase will be packed carefully and shipped quickly. We are available 7 days a week. Please see other listings for books and collectibles that might be of interest to you and follow North*Star*Collectibles as we post new items every week. Thank you for looking and come again soon,North*Star*Collectibles
Price: 365 USD
Location: Newton Center, Massachusetts
End Time: 2024-09-19T10:48:55.000Z
Shipping Cost: 8.95 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Binding: Hardcover
Language: English
Special Attributes: 1st Edition
Author: Mark Twain
Publisher: James R. Osgood
Topic: Literature
Subject: Literature & Fiction
Original/Facsimile: Original
