Hooker, Joseph Dalton

4to, FIRST EDITION, half-title, later half green morocco over pebbled cloth, marbled edges, some browning, embossed library stamps, binding slightly worn at extremities

Stafleu and Cowan 2975; Norman 1103

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."

As noted by Norman, this is "the first important botanical work written by a supporter of the doctrine of evolution by natural selection". Hooker concludes his text by noting "I would further observe here, to avoid ambiguity, that my friend Mr. Darwin's just completed work "On the Origin of the Species by Natural Selection," from the perusal of much of which in MS. I have profited so largely, had not appeared during the printing of this Essay, or I should have largely quoted it."

This copy includes the half-title, apparently lacking in Norman's copy.