Swinburne, Algernon Charles

extensively revised throughout, text on numbered 48 rectos with additions and notes on seven facing versos, with a signed autograph dedication to Theodore Watts ("an inadequate acknowledgment of much personal obligation, & an imperfect expression of fellow-feeling on the subject here imperfectly & inadequately handled") window mounted, altogether 56 pages, blue paper, folio (335 x 210mm, Britannia watermark with countermarks dated 1874 and 1876), c.1876, in green morocco gilt by Riviere and Sons, inside dentelles, gilt lettering on upper cover, spine in six compartments, lacking the final leaf of text, light soiling

Theodore Watts-Dunton; Walter M. Hill, book dealer, of Chicago; John Whipple Frothingham, armorial bookplate

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Swinburne was inspired to write this critical appreciation of Charlotte Bronte by his reading of her letters to Ellen Nussey. He originally intended it for the Athenaeum but is soon grew beyond the confines of a periodical publication and was published as a short monograph by Chatto and Windus in 1877.