M. R. James — The Five Jars

London, Edward Arnold & Co. 1922 . First edition. Cloth. A superior, first edition copy of M. R. James's surreal fantasy novel, illustrated with seven plates by Gilbert James. The first edition. An excellent copy, bound in the publisher's original red cloth. 'The Five Jars' is one of James' lesser known works, originally published as a fantasy novel aimed at children. This mysterious tale surrounds the discovery of a small box, hidden away since Roman times. Held in this box are five small jars which hold the link to a fantastical hidden world. However, the narrator is not the only person wanting these jars, leading to a dangerous struggle between good and evil. Written by English author and medieval scholar, Montague Rhodes James, known for his important work 'Ghost Stories of an Antiquary&apos. James's works were significant in redefining the ghost story for a new century, abandoning established cliches in favour of a more realistic style. Illustrated with seven plates by Gilbert James. Collated, complete. With the ink inscription of Marjorie Forbes, 1924, to the title page. Bound in the publisher's original red cloth. Externally, excellent, with light rubbing to the extremities causing a small amount of fraying to the cloth. The odd mark to cloth and a little bumping to the extremities. Front free endpaper has been excised. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright, with the occasional light spotting. Ink inscription to title page. Very Good Indeed . Ill.: Not Stated. Very Good Indeed .