Item 97 is one of the greatest works of French literature, Notre-Dame de Paris (generally titled Hunchback of Notre Dame in English translations) by Victor Hugo. Its examination of all levels of society in early 19th century Paris was a theme adopted by many others, such as Dickens. This first edition, published in 1831, was printed in 1,100 copies. However, the publisher separated them into four groups, labeling them first, second, third and fourth edition. The idea was to make people think it was selling out quickly. This is a “Quatrieme edition,” a so-called fourth, though in reality another, otherwise identical first edition. £9,500 (US $15,043).
Item 70 is a letter dated July 14, 1856, from Ralph Waldo Emerson, returning a book to Elizabeth Hoar. She had loaned him a copy of John Witt Randall's book of poetry Consolations of Solitude. Hoar was a classmate of Henry David Thoreau, and so likely appreciated this collection of nature themed poems. Emerson writes that he wishes he lived closer to Randall so that he might encounter him on his walks in the woods. Elizabeth Hoar had been engaged to Emerson's brother, Charles, in their youth, but Charles died in 1836 before they could marry. Nonetheless, the Emersons continued to treat her as a part of the family, and Ralph Waldo signs his letter, “Your brother Waldo.” £4,500 ($7,125).
Peter Harrington may be reached at +44 (0)20 7591 0220 or mail@peterharrington.co.uk.
