Signed book: An Old Sweetheart of Mine. Indianapolis: Bobbs-Merrill, 1902. Hardcover, 6.25 x 8.75. Signed and inscribed in ink on a front blank, “To Mrs. Pauline Dessar with Christmas greetings, James Whitcomb Riley, Christmas of 1909.” A slip written in an unknown hand and lightly affixed to the front free end page states that the book is an “Autographed presentation copy to J.W.R.’s (first?) sweetheart.” While we have been unable to confirm this association, we’re not about to stand in the way of such a charmingly romantic yarn! In good to very good condition, with wear and rubbing to covers, text block somewhat loose, scattered faint foxing to first several leaves (including signed page). R&R COA.
