"The American Language; An Inquiry into the Development of English in the United States" by H.L. Mencken, published by Alfred A. Knopf, New York, stated 6th printing of the 4th Edition, February, 1937.
[The first edition of 1919 was revised in 1921 and 1923; the fourth "corrected, revised, and enlarged" edition was 1st published in April 1936].

Hard boards, original blue cloth with gold lettering on spine, blind decoration on front board and blind embossed Knopf's 'Borzoi' colophon on the back board, 6.1/2" x 9.3/4"; 769 pages including list of Wards and Phrases + xxix pages of Index + colophon, very good condition.

"This groundbreaking study clarifies the differences between British and American English and defines the distinguishing characteristics of American English. Cigar-chomping newspaperman H. L. Mencken succeeds not only in providing a lucid description of the American language but also in making his readers laugh, wince, and nod in agreement. It's a readable and fascinating study on why you say "tomayto" and I say "tomahto." A must read for anyone who loves words."

US: Priority (c.2-4 days) ------------- $12.50
Canada: Priority (c.1-3 weeks) ---- $32.50
World: Priority (c.2-4 weeks) ----- $45.50