Signed book: The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin and Handcuff Secrets. First edition. London: George Routledge & Sons, Ltd., 1909. Hardcover, 5.5 x 8, 110 pages plus ads. Signed and inscribed in fountain pen on the front free end page, “To Dr. John H. Finley with compliments of the author who is very proud of the fact that his book is positively the first authentic history of magic and magicians ever published up to date, Harry Houdini, May 31, 1916, 394 East 21st Street, Flatbush, Bklyn., N.Y.” The original recipient, John H. Finley (1863–1924), was a journalist and educator who became a college president at the age of twenty-nine. He later taught at Princeton, at the personal invitation of Woodrow Wilson, and served as president of City College of New York, as well as educational commissioner of that city. New York’s P.S. 129 is named in his honor. In fine, clean condition, with the slightest suggestion of rubbing at extremities, ink notation to signed page, and a hint of very subtle scattered toning to interior. A beautiful and significant copy of this cornerstone of magic literature! LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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