CLEMENS, Samuel (“Mark Twain,” 1835-1910). The Prince and the Pauper. Boston: James R. Osgood and Company, 1882.

The first American edition, the rare China paper issue printed for the author's use. Rare at auction; the last copy printed on China paper recorded by Rare Book Hub sold in 1994. Accompanied by three autograph notes from American bibliographer and book collector Merle Johnson (1874-1935). Johnson first published his bibliography of Twain in 1910 and it was followed by a revised and enlarged edition in 1935. Johnson notes that "I have an indistinct recollection that somebody who ought to know told me that it was originally bound in white"; BAL states the same, adding that "the precise number of copies so printed is not known." BAL 3402.

Octavo (212 x 160mm). China paper (a touch of spotting). Half morocco over marbled boards (spine sunned, corners rubbed). [Together with:] Three autograph notes signed ("Merle Johnson") to Mr J. K. Ingalls, Long Island and New York City, c.1918-1924. Relating to the present copy of The Prince and the Pauper which Johnson wanted to acquire. Provenance: J.K. Ingalls (correspondence).