This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/16/2023
MENCKEN, Henry Louis (1880–1956). The American Language: A Preliminary Inquiry into the Development of English in the United States. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1919.
Royal 8vo. Original dark blue cloth, gilt–lettered spine, blue top edge; original printed dust jacket (spine sunned, some moderate edgewear); folding chemise and morocco–backed slipcase.
FIRST EDITION, LIMITED ISSUE, number 1481 of 1500 copies. PRESENTATION COPY, INSCRIBED BY MENCKEN. Mencken’s most enduring work that attempts to present the “origins, development and present state of the American dialect of English”. IN THE RARE DUST JACKET.
[With:] a one–page TLS from Mencken to “Mrs. George” dated 21 December 1945, concerning language and the condition of Baltimore.