Emerson, Ralph Waldo

8vo (7 1/8 x 4 1/2 in.; 181 x 114 mm). Initial blank, half-title, 16-page publisher's advertisement dated December 1860 at rear. Publisher's brown cloth, spine gilt-lettered, covers blindstamped; spine ends and corners chipped. Tan buckram dust-jacket, spine with red morocco gilt lettering-piece; lettering-piece chipped at right edge.

John Haven Emerson, second son of the author's brother William (presentation inscription on half-title) — Francis and William Emerson (with inscription dated 14 January 1917 from Sarah Tompkins Emerson, wife of John Haven Emerson) — C. Waller Barrett (bookplate; donated to) — University of Virginia Library (with duplicate tag) — H. Bradley Martin (bookplate; sold in his sale in our New York rooms, 30 January 1990, lot 2037)

BAL 5231

Condition as described in catalogue entry.
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.

First edition, first printing. Presentation copy, inscribed by Emerson, "J. Haven Emerson. From the Author. Dec. 10, 1860". In most copies, Emerson had a presentation slip inserted. This is one of the very rare inscribed copies and the only known copy inscribed to a relative.