First Nights and First Editions

FIRST EDITION (October 1931) hardcover, sewn-bound in black cloth, with gilt lettering on front cover, and blue striped decoration, and gilt lettering on spine, is in G condition, having very light bump and wear to corners; there is some whitish scuffing to front cover (see photo); former bookseller or owner has written in pencil "First Ed." on first free endpaper, and a small number "98" at left bottom; pages are clean, but looks like book was published with some uncut pages (where the owner was expected to open them with a letter-opener), and most are, but there are some towards back of book that are still uncut; some of the cut ones (in index section) show a roughness to the edges where the opening was done. Book is illustrated with many b&w photo plates. Autobiography of Harry B. Smith, a noted librettist of operettas and musicals, who was also an avid book collector. Probably his most famous contribution was as librettist to Reginald De Koven operetta score for "Robin Hood". Autobiography. Memoirs. American. Operetta. Musicals. Late 19th century, early 20th century. Book collecting. DB [1]. …