Astronomus Solaris
Winooski, VT: [Self Published], 1910-1914.
First and only collected edition of all three installments, originally issued as pamphlets dated August 1910, June 1912, and February 1914 respectively. 33, [1], 51, [1], 49, [1] pp. with errata page at rear. Bound in publisher's plain wraps. Near Fine with soft creasing to covers; contents overall clean.
In this tripartite science fiction tale, a celestial guide descends upon an amateur astronomer and, introducing himself as the Astronomer-in-Chief of the Solar System, plays Virgil to the narrator's Dante on a quest for enlightenment. This allows the author to use dialogue and verse to expound on his scientific theories, in the style of a Renaissance philosopher. The author was Howard F. Wolcott, a successful Vermont lawyer and astrophile who wrote for his own amusement.
Price: $1,200