Books

London: Spencer Blackett, 1890. First edition. Near Fine. First edition in book form, second issue binding, with foot of spine reading “Griffith Farran & Co.s. Standard Library.” Octavo (7 1/2 x 5 inches; 190 x 127 mm.). [4], 283, [1, blank] pp. Frontispiece by Charles Kerr, with tissue guard. With the numeral “138” on the contents page incomplete and reading “13,” as usual, and with “wished” appearing as “w shed” on p. 56, line 16. "The [remaining] sheets of the first edition were reissued by Griffith Farran and Company with the original [Spencer Blackett] title-page. The covers are the same though the imprint at the foot of the spine reads: "Griffith Farran & C.o.s/Standard/Library " Dark brown endpapers. Issued 1891. There are 8 pp. of publisher's advertisements in some copies, though not all. (Green & Gibson, p. 34). All edges uncut. Publisher's dark red fine-ribbed cloth blocked in black with front cover and spine lettered in gilt. Dark brown coated…

The Sign of Four, also called The Sign of the Four, is the second novel featuring Sherlock Holmes written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. In this story, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson investigate a complex case involving treasure, murder, and a secret pact among four convicts. The novel is notable for introducing the character of Mary Morstan, Dr. Watson's future wife.

First editions of 'The Sign of Four' can be determined by their publication details—published by Spencer Blackett, featuring a cover with a street scene and the text 'New Edition' typically indicates a later printing rather than a true first edition.