DICKENS, Charles (1812–1870). The Mystery of Edwin Drood. London: Chapman & Hall, April–September 1870.

Unsophisticated set of the first edition in original parts of Dickens’ final and unfinished novel, all parts unopened. At the time of Dickens's death in June 1870, he had barely completed the end of part 6 of the 12 projected monthly parts, leaving the mystery of Edwin Drood unsolved. Many theories about possible resolutions and clues contained in the illustrations have been put forth by readers, though according to Davis, the novel can also be read as the culmination of themes and motifs found in Dickens' earlier works. (See Paul Davis's Charles Dickens The Essential Reference to His Life and Work, p. 251).

The pictorial wrapper was drawn by Charles Collins, brother to author Wilkie Collins. With the “Eigteenpence” slip printed over the original “One Shilling” price on part 6. Including the rare “Cork Hats” slip printed on cork in part 2 and with the part 3 remainder 8pp. Chapman & Hall advertisement at the rear of part 4. Hatton and Cleaver pp. 373–[84]; Eckel pp. 96–98; Podeschi/Gimbel A154; Davis 251–56.

Six parts, octavo. Frontispiece portrait, engraved title and 12 wood-engraved plates after Luke Fildes, with tissue guards (except for part 6’s narrative plates, stain in gutter just touching “Sleeping It Off”). All of the "Edwin Drood Advertiser" advertisements and slips except for “Cassell, Petter, and Galpin Publications” in part 1 (few small spots). Original blue-green pictorial wrappers (small tears in parts 1, 2, 4 and 5’s backstrips, light soiling and few faint creases). Custom blue cloth clamshell box with gold-tooled morocco spine label.