Details
HARRIS, JOEL CHANDLER. Autograph manuscript signed of the story "Balaam and His Master," n.p., n.d. [Atlanta, 1888?]. 94 pages, 4to, in pencil on rectos of sheets of tan pulp paper, a working draft with revisions throughout, signed at end, with original title "Balaam and His Master/Uncle Balaam's Experiment" crossed through, marginal darkening, a marginal chip and a repair on first page, some edges a little brittle; brown morocco gilt extra, t.e.g., spine and other portions faded, some slight wear. Bound in at front: An autograph letter signed and an autograph note signed from Harris to Richard Watson Gilder, editor of the Century magazine, Atlanta, 22 October 1888 and 19 February n.y., together 3 pages, 4to, the first in ink, the second in pencil, regarding contributions and his poor health.
"Balaam and His Master" is a story of the Old South -- much of it in Negro dialect -- and of the devotion of a Georgia slave to his worthless, but fascinating, master. It first appeared in Gilder's Century magazine and was the lead tale in Harris's book, Balaam and His Master and Other Sketches and Stories (Boston: Houghton, Mifflin, 1891). Harris story manuscripts of this length and interest are particularly rare.
Provenance: Frank J. Hogan, bookplate (sale, Parke-Bernet, Part I, 23 January 1945, lot 207).
"Balaam and His Master" is a story of the Old South -- much of it in Negro dialect -- and of the devotion of a Georgia slave to his worthless, but fascinating, master. It first appeared in Gilder's Century magazine and was the lead tale in Harris's book, Balaam and His Master and Other Sketches and Stories (Boston: Houghton, Mifflin, 1891). Harris story manuscripts of this length and interest are particularly rare.
Provenance: Frank J. Hogan, bookplate (sale, Parke-Bernet, Part I, 23 January 1945, lot 207).