The Four Million

New York: McClure, Phillips and Co, 1906. First Edition. Fine. O. Henry’s second book, first printing (though the prefatory misprint “lony” is often cited as an issue point, it is not, since all first editions have the same misprint). Original red cloth. Fine condition. Reference: B. A. L. 16271. Ex–Mrs. J. Insley Blair (the great Natalie Blair) with her small leather “Blairhame” bookplate on the inside cover of the chemise in an old half morocco slipcase, she had made for the book. According to the author’s prefatory note, the title (The Four Million) is in opposition to the widely believed assertion that there were only 400 New Yorkers who were “worth noticing.” The author feels that all “four million” are worthy of notice, and uses these tales to make his point. The Four Million’s 25 very short stories comprise O. Henry’s most sought–after volume, primarily because it includes his best–known tale, The Gift of the Magi – at the end of which the author reflects,

“And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But in a last word to the wise, let it be said that of all who give gifts, these two were the wisest.”. (Inventory #: 1150)