The Green Ray

London: Sampson Low, Marston, Searle, & Rivington, 1883. First U.K. edition. Near Fine. First edition in English, later issue with 32 page publisher's catalogue dated September 1883 at rear (first was November 1882). A Near Fine copy. Octavo (7 x 4 3/4 in; 178 x 121 mm). viii, 312, 32 (publisher's catalog) pp. Frontispiece, title vignette and forty-three black and white plates (included in pagination) by L. Benett, reprinted from the first French edition, one map. Bound in publishers ochre cloth, front cover pictorially decorated in red and black, title lettered in gilt, rear cover decoratively bordered in blind, spine pictorially decorated in red and black and lettered in gilt, blue-gray floral endpapers. The mildest of rubbing to the extremities, internally immaculate.

Inspired by the optical phenomenon-a split second flash of green light at the end of a sunrise or sunset-Jules Vernes' book is a surprising love story. Here the light plays a pivotal role in the narrative: Helena Campbell refuses to marry until she has seen the Grey Ray, which according to Scottish legend, allows you to see into your own heart and read the true feelings of others. The strange and delightful novel was first published in September 1883, a month before George Munro's pirated "Seaside Library" edition.

Taves & Michaluk V023. Myers 31. Near Fine.