Inscribed presentation copy. A major literary presentation copy of the author's first literary publication. Inscribed by Wells on the half title page, 'Grant Allen With the author's kindest regards'. Tipped in at the front of the book is a 3pp autograph letter signed by Wells, written to Allen and presenting 'the little book I have done. It's just fooling about with a piece of paper & a pen'. He then asks if Allen is fond of canals, remarking that there is good one in Woking which he would like to show him were he to visit. Allen was originally from Canada, he moved to the UK in the 1880s and lived not far from Wells in Surrey. A controversialist in his views on sexual politics and the 'new women' he shared many of Wells obsessions. Perhaps more importantly he had begun in the early 1890s to write speculative fiction. His subjects included time travel and the probable influence on the Time Machine of his story The Pallinghurst Barrow is notable.

First edition, first impression, inscribed presentation copy; 8vo; illustrated title page, pages browned as usual, some marks and spots throughout, 3pp ALS from the author tipped in; publisher's grey, watered silk, titles to spine gilt, top edge gilt, edges a little rubbed; 16 pp ads at end. Very good indeed.