Books

First edition, first impression, one of 500 copies privately printed for the author a year before Warne's trade edition, issued in the same month and in a similar format to the second privately printed edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit. The text of this edition is considerably longer than that of the first trade edition and the cover incorporates an illustration that was never used again. The Tailor of Gloucester was first written and illustrated for Freda Moore as a Christmas present in 1901. Potter had the tale privately printed, as Warne had not yet published The Tale of Peter Rabbit and she did not think her publishers would want a second book from her so soon. The story is unique in the series, with its period setting (Potter drew the costumes from the collection at the V&A, then the South Kensington Museum), and was based on a true story that Potter had heard while staying with her cousin Caroline Hutton in Gloucestershire. In 1916, Potter inscribed a copy of the Warne edition, stating "this is my own favourite amongst my little books". Leslie Linder notes, however, that "the privately printed edition... was the one she liked better". The author inscribed a copy of the privately printed edition in 1918 and noted "this is my favourite amongst the little books and I like this first edition because it contains more of the old rhymes..." Sextodecimo. Original pink boards, front cover lettered and with vignette in black. Colour frontispiece and 15 colour plates by the author. Browning to covers as usual, browning to endpapers and some foxing to edges: a near-fine copy. Linder, p. 420; Quinby 3.

"The Tailor of Gloucester" is a beloved children's book written and illustrated by Beatrix Potter, first published in 1903. Set in the quaint English town of Gloucester, the story follows the adventures of a poor tailor and his industrious army of mice. The tale begins with the elderly and ailing tailor, who is commissioned to create a magnificent coat for the mayor of Gloucester's wedding on Christmas Day. However, the tailor falls ill before he can complete the coat, leaving only the embroidered silk lining unfinished. With the deadline fast approaching, the tailor despairs over his inability to finish the job. Unbeknownst to the tailor, a group of mice inhabits his shop, led by the wise and benevolent Simpkin, his pet cat. Upon hearing of the tailor's plight, the mice take it upon themselves to complete the coat while the tailor sleeps. They work tirelessly throughout the night, using scraps of fabric and their tiny sewing needles to finish the intricate details of the coat. As the tailor awakens on Christmas morning, he is astonished to find the coat completed beyond his wildest dreams. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he realizes that the mice have saved him from ruin and ensured the success of the mayor's wedding. In a heartwarming twist, the tailor discovers a note from the grateful mice, expressing their joy in helping him and wishing him a merry Christmas. Moved by their selflessness, the tailor resolves to care for them and provide them with warmth and comfort in his shop. "The Tailor of Gloucester" is a charming tale that celebrates the spirit of generosity, kindness, and community. Through Beatrix Potter's enchanting illustrations and lyrical prose, readers are transported to a magical world where even the smallest creatures can make a big difference. The story reminds us of the importance of compassion and empathy, and the joy that comes from helping others in times of need. With its timeless themes and endearing characters, "The Tailor of Gloucester" continues to captivate readers of all ages and inspire acts of kindness and goodwill. It remains a beloved classic in children's literature, cherished for its timeless message of hope, love, and the power of friendship.