Books

First UK edition, first impression. With the ownership initials to the front free endpaper of John Hugh Smith, a close friend of Wharton's, and with the author's unsigned presentation inscription to the half title leaf, "John Cambridge July 13 - 1913". John Hugh Smith was a wealthy English banker, friends with Edith Wharton from 1908. "John Hugh Smith's youthful crush on her graduated into a steady, undemanding, lifelong friendship. In later life, he became the most reactionary and old-fashioned member of her regular circle" (Hermione Lee). Octavo. Original textured blue cloth, titles to front board and spine gilt, top edge gilt. Contents very lightly shaken, edges slightly rubbed, tips a little rubbed but an excellent copy. Garrison A14 2 a2.

The Fruit of the Tree is a novel by Edith Wharton, first published in 1907. The story delves into issues such as labor practices, the ethics of modern medicine, and personal and professional conflicts.