THE FOUR MILLION by Henry, O. [pseudonym of William Sydney Porter] - 1906

1906. ["The Gift of the Magi"] New York: McClure, Phillips & Co., 1906. Original red cloth.

First Edition (first printing) of "O. Henry's" second book, following his CABBAGES AND KINGS (1904). According to the author's prefatory note, the title is in opposition to the assertion that there were only 400 New Yorkers who were "worth noticing"; the author feels that all "four million" are worthy of notice, as in these tales. This collection of 25 very short stories is "O. Henry's" most sought-after volume, for the simple fact that it includes his best-known tale, "The Gift of the Magi" -- at the end of which the author reflects, "And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But in a last word to the wise..., let it be said that of all who give gifts, these two were the wisest." Though the prefatory misprint "lony" is often cited as an issue point, it is not, since all first edition copies have it. This copy is in close-to-fine condition (very minor rubbing at some corners, front endpaper corner (one inch) clipped). Blanck 16271.