FIRST SHEPARD EDITION. 8vo. ( 7.6 x 5.2 inches). The 38th edition overall, this is the first time the story was published with Shepard`s beautiful line drawings. Two neat previous owner names on the front blank free endpaper and with some very light foxing to the fore edge, otherwise a near fine copy bright and tidy throughout. Publishers original green cloth binding with gilt illustrations of characters to front board. Spine lettered in gilt. A couple of tiny bumps to the top of the rear board and spine but generally a sharp and clean copy, the gilt still bright and vibrant. Decorative map endpapers drawn by Shepard and showing all the Characters homes. Top edge dyed green. A near fine, superior of this lovely book.