Houseman, Alfred Edward.  A Shropshire Lad. London: Kegan Paul, Trubner & Co., 1896.  Octavo, original vellum-backed boards, paper spine label, uncut; cloth folding case.      $4000

First edition, 1/350 copies of Houseman’s first and most accomplished book of poetry.  Houseman published this edition at his own expense, which accounts for the small number of copies printed.  “Houseman’s control of cadence enabled him to sound the note of resigned wisdom with quiet poignancy” (Norton Anthology of English Literature).  Slight soiling to vellum, particularly to spine, slight wear to corners, a semi-circular darkened spot on edge of rear cover.  A very nice example of this rare and influential volume.