THE OCTAVE OF CLAUDIUS. London and New York: Harper and Brothers, 1897. Octavo, pp. [1-8] [1] 2-324 [325-328: ads] {note: save for a tiny signature mark on the recto of the first leaf, it is otherwise blank], original black cloth, front and spine panels stamped in gold, top edge stained yellow, other edges untrimmed. First edition. A writer down on his luck repays a doctor who has befriended him by agreeing to submit to a mysterious experiment which will result in his death. The youth receives 8,000 pounds and eight days in exchange for his life and during this period has his first novel accepted by his publisher, is successful in an economic speculation, falls in love, and is reconciled with his estranged father -- but how can he extract himself from his obligation with honor? Praised by George Orwell who called it "a brilliant exercise in the macabre" Basis for A Blind Bargain, a 1922 film starring Lon Chaney. Bleiler (1948), p, 217. Not in Reginald (1979; 1992) or Bleiler (1978). NCBEL IV 698. A hint of tanning to front endpapers, else a bright, fine copy. A elusive book. (#147634).
Price: $1,250.00
No statement of printing. Second printing has "Second Edition" on the verso of the half title leaf.