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First edition, first impression, in the rare first issue jacket, with an autograph letter signed from Grahame laid in, dated the year of the book's publication. The letter, dated 22 July 1908 and written on the author's headed paper from Mayfield, Cookham, was to Captain J. C. Grahame and concerns his genealogical research. The author apologizes for being unable to assist and admits not having a "genealogical head", explaining: "I possess practically nothing, & am not in communication with anyone who could help, having long lost touch with any Scottish connections". The year 1908 was the momentous one in which Grahame retired from his position as secretary of the Bank of England, moved back to Cookham, where he had lived as a child, and started to put down the stories which would be published, still in that same year, as The Wind in the Willows. Grahame briefly evokes his new life at Cookham - "I have rather more leisure" - and does not hide his relief on having given up the city, where "the strain was becoming all too much for me". This copy has a distinguished collector's provenance, with the bookplate of the children's book collector Mildred Greenhill on the front pastedown. It was subsequently in the collection of H. Bradley Martin, lot 2363 in his 30 January 1990 sale at Sothebys New York. Octavo. Original pictorial blue cloth stamped in gilt on front cover and spine, top edge gilt, others untrimmed, partially unopened. With dust jacket. Housed in a green cloth chemise and quarter green morocco slipcase. Black and white frontispiece by Graham Robertson. Spine ends bumped, extremities a little rubbed, faint foxing to edges and endpapers else notably bright; unclipped jacket a little nicked, shallow chips at spine ends and corners, hinges of spine panel and front flap professionally repaired: a fine copy in very good jacket, presenting beautifully. .

"The Wind in the Willows" by Kenneth Grahame is a classic children's novel published in 1908, capturing the adventures of anthropomorphic animals living along the riverbank. The story follows the lives of four main characters: Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger, as they navigate the idyllic English countryside, facing various challenges and learning important life lessons along the way. The narrative begins with Mole, a gentle and timid creature, growing tired of his spring cleaning and venturing outside his burrow for the first time. He meets Rat, a water-loving, wise, and adventurous creature, who introduces him to the joys of the river. Mole is immediately enchanted by Rat's way of life and the beauty of the riverbank. Together, Mole and Rat embark on numerous adventures, exploring the river and surrounding countryside. They encounter various characters, both friendly and hostile, including Otter, Badger, and the eccentric Toad. Throughout their escapades, the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the appreciation of nature are prominent. Toad, the wealthy and impulsive aristocrat, is a central figure whose reckless behavior often leads to trouble for himself and his friends. He becomes obsessed with the latest fads and crazes, including motorcars, which he drives recklessly and eventually gets imprisoned for. Toad's friends, especially Rat and Mole, try to help him overcome his vices and regain control of his life. Badger, the wise and reclusive elder of the group, provides guidance and support to the other characters, especially during times of crisis. His burrow serves as a sanctuary and a place of wisdom where the friends gather for counsel and companionship. As the story progresses, the friends face various challenges, including encounters with menacing weasels and stoats who threaten their peaceful way of life. Through courage, resourcefulness, and teamwork, they overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger as a community. The novel is not just a series of adventures but also a celebration of the English countryside and the simple pleasures of life. Grahame's vivid descriptions of the natural world evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder, inviting readers to appreciate the beauty of the landscapes and the joys of companionship. Ultimately, "The Wind in the Willows" is a timeless tale that emphasizes the importance of friendship, loyalty, and the enduring bond between individuals who share a love for nature and adventure. It continues to captivate readers of all ages with its charming characters, enchanting settings, and timeless themes.