Salinger, J. D.

The Catcher in the Rye.  Boston: Little Brown, 1951



8vo (8 x 5  1/2  in.; 203 x 140 mm).  Some marginal browning.  Full black morocco gilt by Brentano's, spine gilt-lettered, top edges gilt, marbled endpapers; some wear and rubbing, front joint starting, lower right corner of front free endpaper chipped.



 

8vo (8 x 5 1/2 in.; 203 x 140 mm). Some marginal browning in margins. Full black morocco gilt by Brentano's, spine gilt-lettered, top edges gilt, marbled endpapers; some wear and rubbing, front joint starting, lower right corner of front free endpaper chipped.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Presentation copy, inscribed by J. D. Salinger to his fiancée, Mary Bayes, on a front flyleaf, "January 1952.  Mary, I'm past the point where an inscription might say anything.  All I know is that I love you and that I hope you'll keep this copy always.  In articulately, J.  How unfair that I can't say what I really feel."  The book itself is the October 1951 reprint.

Mary Bayes was a student at Sarah Laurence College in Bronxville, NY, when she met and became engaged to J. D.  Salinger.  He had this copy of his celebrated novel bound for her at Brentano's in New York at the time of their engagement. 

This lot also includes the following items: a copy of the first edition of the book (lacking dust jacket), inscribed to Mary Bayes's mother, "Dec. 23, 1951.  To Marian B.— Just that I'm pleased that you thought of asking me to sign your book.  with affection, Jerry Salinger." — 2 notes, one autograph, the other typed, with a drawing, from Salinger to Mary Bayes, both with autograph envelopes (postmarked 14 October and 18 November 1952), and with two telegrams enclosed ("Reminder Uncle and my address Claridge Hotel much love.  Aunt Grolly").