Patmore, Coventry

8vo, first edition, EDMUND GOSSE'S COPY WITH HIS BOOKPLATE, AUTOGRAPH LETTER BY PATMORE TO GOSSE LOOSELY INSERTED, original brown cloth, lacking spine (portion loosely inserted inside book), hinges partially broken

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where 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."

Patmore's letter (3pp. Hastings, 26 October 1890) thanks Gosse for his praise of Bertha's illuminations. It was the poet's daughter Bertha who provided the illuminated page for Henry's Poems, published posthumously with a memoir by his sister Gertrude in 1890. Gosse paid Patmore a series of visits in 1890 as he was preparing an edition of the poet's poems, published later in the year by Kegan Paul. He became a close friend and student of Patmore's work, later writing a biography (London, 1905).