Un drame en Livonie

The first edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Half hazelnut calf binding, smooth spine decorated with double gilt fillets, marbled paper boards, original covers mounted on guards and preserved, speckled top edge, modern pastiche binding unsigned by Goy & Vilaine.
Work decorated with original illustrations by L. Benett.
Very rare signed autograph inscription from Jules Verne to [Achille] Tournier, then Prefect of the Somme.
Jules Verne settled in Amiens, his wife's birthplace, in 1871: "At my wife's wish I settled in Amiens, a wise city, polished, of even temper, where society is cordial and learned. One is close to Paris, close enough to have its reflection, without the unbearable noise and sterile agitation. And to say everything, my Saint-Michel remains moored at Le Crotoy." His affection for the region would continue to grow and he would never leave the Picard capital, actively participating in local political life. Appointed director of the Academy of Sciences, Letters and Arts, in 1875 he delivered on this occasion a speech that remained famous: "An Ideal City: Amiens in the Year 2000." In 1888 he was elected to the municipal council of Amiens where he served until 1903. It was the prefect of the Somme who presented him with his decoration when he was promoted to officer of the Legion of Honor in 1892. "People often ask me why I reside in Amiens, I who am so completely Parisian by instinct. Well, because, as I told you, I have Breton blood, and I love tranquility, and I could not be happier than in a cloister. A calm life of study and work brings me joy." (June 1893, in Mac Clure's magazine).
Work decorated with original illustrations by L. Benett.
Fine copy.