Conrad, Joseph

8vo, FIRST EDITION, FIRST ISSUE with title-page dated 1897, original light blue pictorial cloth, modern green cloth chemise and morocco-backed cloth slipcase, spine very slightly soiled

Carolyn Wells (1862-1942) American writer, poet and book collector, bookplate

Cagle A3b(1)

the condition of this lot is as described in the catalogue description
"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."

This first American edition of The Nigger of the "Narcissus", with its altered title for the American market, comprised 1,000 copies, and was published on 30 November 1897 (the English edition was published on 2 December). A few textual changes were made by the author between the serialised issue in the New Review and this first book edition. Some of these were made after the proofs had been sent to New York and so do not appear in the first American edition. For instance, Heinemann had objected to the use of the word "bloody", so Conrad eliminated it at a late stage, but it still appears here.