Hardy (Thomas) Tess of the d'Urbervilles. A Pure Woman Faithfully Presented..., 3 vol., first edition in book form, first issue with chapter XXXV misnumbered as "XXV" on p.191 of vol.2, [one of 1000 copies], half-titles, vol.2 & 3 with final blank and vol.2 also with initial blank as called for, inscriptions removed from half-titles, half-title to vol.1 with short tear to fore-edge, very occasional foxing or soiling, etched bookplate of Alfred & G.Ivy Clark, original tan cloth, upper covers blocked in gilt with two vertical wavy lines of honeysuckle and gold discs designed by Charles Ricketts, a little rubbed and soiled, slightly cocked and corners bumped, faint traces of labels to upper covers (as often) but still a good copy, preserved in modern cloth drop-back box, [Purdy p.67], 8vo, James R.Osgood, McIlvaine & Co., 1891.

⁂ Hardy's tragic tale of a fallen woman shocked Victorian readers, particularly the subtitle of the novel "A Pure Woman". It was first published in the Graphic from July to December 1891 in weekly instalments, having being rejected by several other periodicals, but with the seduction and mock-baptism scenes removed and some alterations. Both sections were published separately prior to serialisation but reinstated with the original text when issued in book form.