Charles Brockden Brown, 1801

[BROWN, Charles Brockden (1771-1810).] Jane Talbot. Philadelphia: John Bioren for John Conrad, 1801.

First edition of Brown's last novel, in contemporary calf. This epistolary narrative is less fantastical than his previous works, tracing the practical and moral considerations of a young woman who describes herself in the book's opening line as "far from a wise girl." Quite rare, it is not recorded at auction by RBH since 1925, also an incomplete copy. BAL 1503 (without second title).

12mo (154 x 95mm). Lacking rare second title and 2 plates (a few spots). Contemporary calf (hinges neatly repaired); modern box. Provenance: a number of signatures, including Catherine Withers, Ann C. Withers, and George Withers; an excerpt of Sir William Jones's "Laura" copied in pencil on final leaf.