The Late Mrs. Null — Stockton, Scribner’s 1886 First Edition

🍷 The Late Mrs. Null (1886) is a sophisticated comedy of manners by Frank R. Stockton, renowned for his sharp wit and imaginative narrative structures. Set in the rural landscapes of Virginia, the novel explores the social frictions and romantic misdirections of the Southern gentry through the eyes of Roberta March.

Quick Facts

• Author: Frank R. Stockton
• Publisher: Charles Scribner’s Sons (First Edition)
• Year: 1886
• Binding: Decorative olive cloth with gold-leaf spine
• Printer: J. J. Little & Co. (printed for Charles Scribner’s Sons)

The Work
This volume exemplifies Stockton’s mastery of social satire. Unlike his more famous short stories, The Late Mrs. Null provides a deeper dive into the domestic tensions and identity crises of the late Victorian era, weaving a tale of love and misunderstanding with the regional charm characteristic of the period.

Binding Detail
This copy is particularly striking for its original publisher’s decorative olive cloth, featuring an intricate, web-like geometric lattice motif. The spine retains its gold-leaf lettering, marking it as a refined example of Gilded Age book design.

FAQ
Is this a first edition?
Yes, this is a verified 1886 first edition, with matching dates on the title and copyright pages.
What is the plot?
The story follows Roberta March as she navigates complex feelings for Lawrence Croft and her former fiancé, Junius Keswick, in the setting of Midbranch, Virginia.
Is it illustrated?
No, this volume is primarily text-focused.

#### Condition Report
* Overall Grade: Very Good (VG)
* Cover & Spine: Original pictorial sage/olive cloth with web patterning; spine with slight wear at head and tail; board corners are bumped, with lower front lightly frayed. A few dents in outer board edges.
* Dust Jacket: None present (as issued).
* Text Block & Pages: Lightly age-toned text block; interior pages remain clean, crisp, and intact with only minor scattered toning spots to prelims.
* Binding: Firm and square; internal hinges tight and sound. Spine mildly cocked; no loose, torn or folded pages.
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See accompanying images for full condition details. Will ship promptly, carefully packaged.

HFB-SEO-v1: 2026-10-23

Shelf: B1-5

1 in stock