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Author: [Whitman, Walt]
Title: Leaves of Grass
Place Published: Boston
Publisher:Thayer and Eldridge
Date Published: 1860-61 [but c.1880]
Description:
iv, 5-456 pp. Engraved frontispiece portrait of Whitman. (8vo) 18.8x11.5 cm (7½x4½”), original blind-stamped deep purplish red cloth, spine titled in gilt, beveled edges. Third Edition, second or third printing.
The now-presumed third printing (formerly second according to BAL), and first unauthorized printing, of the third edition of Whitman's Leaves of Grass, without the printers' imprints on the copyright-page. The frontispiece in in the third state, signed ”S.A. Schoff” on a plain white background. It seems the plates for the third edition were bought at auction (for $200) by a Mr. Williams in September of 1879, then purchased by Richard Worthington, who then reprinted the edition. Whitman objected, and threatened legal action, but did deign to receive occasional royalties from the sales. Myerson, Walt Whitman, a Descriptive Bibliography, A2.3.c (calling it the third printing); BAL 21397 (calling it the second printing).

Binding rubbed, spine faded and leaning, front and rear free endpapers wanting, manuscript note affixed to front pastedown; light toning, gatherings 19 and 20 nearly loose; still very good.