Published by Arrowsmith, 1889
Seller: THE FINE BOOKS COMPANY / A.B.A.A / 1979, ROCHESTER, MI, U.S.A.
First Edition Signed
First Edition. THREE MEN IN A BOAT (TO SAY NOTHING OF THE DOG), Arrowsmith, 1889, first edition, spine darkened with wear at the extremities, covers at fore edge lightened, a near good copy in the publishers original cloth. Illustrated. Previously Robert Heinlein's copy with his hand-written notation at the base of the first page of ads listing the publishers new authors and titles stating "After 100 years these two are the only authors I recognize -RAH." Of the list of 37 titles and their authors above, he has starred both Wilkie Collins and Brander Mathews. On the half-title page is Heinleins gift inscription to his early biographer, Wells scholar and fellow author, Leon Stover, mentioning the 3 men of the title by name. Heinlein presented this book to Stover cryptically stating that "if you read this, you will then understand me !!!" (See Robert A. Heinlein In Dialogue With His Century: 1948 -1988 The Man Who Learned Better: Vol 2, page 459). Also laid in is a photocopy of a SIGNED 'Birthday Wishes' card to Robert Heinlein congratulating him on his 80th from President Ronald Reagan and his wife. Obviously a unique copy.