Heart of spring. The Bookfellow. Sydney, 1919

Component identifier:

Item 15-16

Content Summary:

Limited edition of twenty-five copies, numbered and initialled by A.G.S. Bound in soft blue leather, padded covers, all edges gilt. Each copy containing a stanza in the autograph of Shaw Neilson.

Two copies: (a) No. 15. A presentation copy, inscribed on half-title: "For Lala Fisher and Her Heart of Spring, with every good and perfect wish from A.G. Stephens, 22 November 1919". A stanza from Old Nell Dickerson, signed "Shaw Neilson", and dated 26.9.19, on verso of the half-title. (b) No. 22. A stanza from Green Singer, signed "Shaw Neilson", and dated 26.9.19, on verso of half-title.

Inserted in this copy is autograph letter from A.G.S. to Shaw Neilson: "...Have been pushing around 'Winter Snake' - no answers yet - but the average editor finds the humour too subtle for the space. No news from New York or London yet. I see my London agent returned 'Heart of Spring' in 1920 - could not sell. Not quite enough foreign interest - and not bulky enough - despite merit". Further reference to Mrs Dyer. Concludes: "Keep a-going, A.G.S."

Names:

John Shaw Neilson

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