Leaves of Grass (with "Songs Before Parting")
New York: [William E. Chapin], 1867 [but actually 1868].
Fourth edition, presumed second issue with Drum-Taps and "Songs Before Parting" listed on contents with the comment "See Table of Contents prefixed" (Myerson A 2.4.a2). Publisher's half black leather with marbled paper-covered sides; later cloth (sans title label) over spine (which may still be present) and outer hinges; original marbled endpapers. Good only with staining to spine, two small nicks, fraying to edges; rubbing to boards, contemporary former owner's inscription on verso of ffep with a slightly later gift inscription on facing page. First two leaves have multiple tiny pinholes. Occasional marginal pencil bracket and reading smudge. Poem "A Death-Sonnet for Custard" pinned to rear endpaper with a small sharp pin that remains; rear hinge split. An early edition of Whitman's constantly-evolving magnum opus. Item #140942074
Price: $2,200.00