Conrad, Joseph

8vo, first English edition, presentation copy inscribed by Conrad near the time of publication on half-title to the future wife of his friend Edward Sanderson ("To Miss Watson, | from her very faithful friend | and servant | the Author. | 24th December 1897"), p.(ii) with publisher's advertisement, last four pages with publisher's advertisements, 16-page Heinemann catalogue bound in at the end, original slate grey smooth cloth, upper cover stamp in gold with title within life ring device, Cagle's (b) binding with publisher's name at foot of spine of a uniform 3mm. in height, endpapers with some offsetting, some spotting, cloth quite worn and rubbed, hinges starting

Mrs Helen Sanderson (née Watson), wife of Edward Lancelot Sanderson, presentation inscription

Cagle A3c1(b)

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when appropriate.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A fine presentation copy of Conrad's first English novel, celebrating life at sea and the traditions of his adopted homeland. Helen Mary Watson (1875-1967), the daughter of the Sheriff Substitute of Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland, married Conrad's close friend Edward Lancelot Sanderson (the dedicatee of The Outcast of the Islands) in 1898 (see also lot 8). In an affectionate letter to Sanderson on 26 December 1897 sending him "all the wishes suitable to the season and which friendship may dictate" Conrad ends by referring to this copy: "My affectionate regards and duty to Miss Watson. I've sent off a copy of the "N[igger]"  for her. You must wait for yours a little. With love Ever Yours Jph. Conrad" (Collected Letters, I, p.435)

"The Nigger of the 'Narcissus' is in my opinion the very finest & strongest picture of the sea and sea-life that our language possesses--the masterpiece in a whole class" (Henry James, A Portrait in Letters, 36)