The Seaside and the Fireside [First Edition, Limited Printing]

Boston: Ticknor, Reed, and Fields, 1850. 1850. FIRST EDITION IN THIS DECORATIVE STATE: GILT BINDING AND EDGES IN GILT, WITHOUT PUBLISHER'S CATALOG BOUND-IN. Although there were several variants for this title, only about 5,000 copies of this decorative state were issued: Brown cloth binding, highly decorative gilt designs/gilt lettering and gilt on all edges, 141 pages. Christmas gift inscription on the front free endpaper dated 1894. Writing on rear free endpaper by former owner indicates providence and issue details ("was a copy in the original board papers ["collected"??] with 4 pp. of advertisements dated December 1849"). It's believed this first edition variant is move valuable, since it suggests the book was an early issue in 1849, but dated 1850 by the publisher. Condition: Two tiny bumps to corners of top cover, light wear, scrapes to two extremities, short tear to top/foot of spine. Gilt is crisp and preserved; hinges are tight; pages are clean, clear; text very readable. Overall: Very Good Plus (some will call it Near Fine for an 1850 book). This is a wonderful book of Longfellow's verses/poems, categorized as "By the Seaside" (seven poems); "By the Fireside" (13 poems); "Translations" (two poems); and 'Notes" Longfellow is one of the most popular, most famous poets of the 19th century. He achieved a high level of national and international prominence previously unequaled in the literary history of the United Sates. His poetry/verses are often read and discussed in literature classes. During his career, he presided over Harvard's modern-language program for 18 years. He is one of the few American writers honored in the Poets' Corner of Westminster Abbey in London. Note: We are a well-established, well-respected, ethical book dealer in business since 1991. We describe the condition of our books thoroughly and honestly, so you'll know exactly what you will be receiving when you order. We ship promptly. . First Edition. Hardcover. Very Good Plus.