Books

London, George Newnes, 1902. . First edition, first impression, first issue (with 'you' for 'your' on page 13, line 3); 8vo; frontispiece and 15 full-page black and white illustrations by Sidney Paget, bookseller's embossed stamp to front free endpaper, else unmarked internally; publisher's red cloth, decoration and titles to upper board in black and gold and to spine gilt, spine ends slightly bumped, minor spotting to edges;, an unusually sharp copy. The Hound of the Baskervilles is not merely one of the most famous of all Sherlock Holmes novels but also one of the great Edwardian novels. Beloved and well-regarded from its first publication and truly one of the most attractive books ever published, copies that remain in such condition, as in this instance, are very uncommon. A fine copy of a great book. Green & Gibson A26a.

"The Hound of the Baskervilles" is a detective novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, featuring the iconic duo Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson. Set in the eerie and desolate moors of Devonshire, the story revolves around the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the haunting legend of a spectral hound that terrorizes the Baskerville family. Dr. Mortimer, a family friend, seeks Holmes' help to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sir Charles' death. The legend of a curse linked to the Baskerville family history further complicates the case. Holmes sends Watson to Baskerville Hall to protect Sir Henry Baskerville, Sir Charles' heir, who has arrived from Canada to inherit the estate. Upon arriving at the isolated Baskerville Hall, Watson encounters an atmosphere shrouded in superstition and fear. He begins investigating the peculiar events surrounding Sir Charles' demise. Strange occurrences and sightings of a ghostly hound contribute to the atmosphere of dread, seemingly validating the curse's existence. Watson observes the interactions between Sir Henry, the locals, and the household staff, all of whom seem to harbor secrets. His investigations lead him to suspect Stapleton, a neighbor, and his sister, who live nearby and exhibit suspicious behavior. Throughout the narrative, Doyle skillfully builds tension and mystery. Holmes, working behind the scenes, eventually reveals his presence in the area. Employing his astute deductive reasoning, Holmes unravels the truth behind the legend of the hound and the series of events plaguing the Baskervilles. The resolution exposes a tale of greed, jealousy, and revenge, with Stapleton plotting to eliminate the Baskervilles to claim the estate. The supposed spectral hound is revealed to be a trained and vicious dog used to execute Stapleton's nefarious plans. Holmes, with his logical deductions and acute observations, saves Sir Henry from the same fate as his relatives, ultimately thwarting Stapleton's malevolent scheme. "The Hound of the Baskervilles" stands out as a masterful detective story, showcasing Holmes' brilliant intellect and deductive prowess. The novel's atmospheric setting, suspenseful plot, and the interplay between logical deduction and supernatural elements contribute to its status as one of Doyle's most celebrated works in the Sherlock Holmes series.