THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER

Boston: James R. Osgood and Company, 1882. Very good.. First edition, first state of Twain's allegorical adventure of 16th-century England, aimed at elevating his literary reputation before HUCKLEBERRY FINN finally secured it. Playing on the theme of living a day of opposites (a tradition centuries old in holidays like Saturnalia), THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER uses the plot of switching roles in order to bring to light legal injustices based on inequity - but with a characteristically Twain touch of humor and adventure. Twain put up extra money to make it a lavish production, in part because his wife hoped this book would establish his critical reputation, "even if the elegance of it eats up the publisher's profits and mine too" (Twain to his sister, quoted in Powers). This is technically the first American edition, as Twain issued authorized editions in London and Montreal a few days in advance so as to counteract piracies. According to biographer Ron Powers, the book was so well received that some reviewers were, in fact, startled that Twain had written it. 8.25'' x 6.5''. Original green pictorial cloth elaborately stamped in gilt and black (rosette on spine 1/8 inch below fillet). Illustrated throughout with wood engravings. Franklin Press imprint on copyright page; "do not" on page 263; "reigned" on page 362. 411, [1] pages. Careful repairs to joints and hinges, title lettering on front board partially effaced, boards somewhat rubbed. Evidence of bookplate removal to flyleaf verso; a few marginal paper repairs.