ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND [together with] THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS (2 volumes, both Presentation Copies) by Carroll, Lewis (Charles L. Dodgson) - 1872

London: Macmillan, 1872. Presentation copies of two of the most important books in children's literature. The ALICE is inscribed in Dodgson's hand, "Violet Mary Ann Eliza Molyneux, from the Author. Sep. 18, 1873." LOOKING GLASS is inscribed, "Agnes Elizabeth Sophia Molyneux from the Author. Sep. 18, 1873." These are the A. Edward Newton copies that were sold by Parke-Bernet Galleries in New York, April 16-18, 1941, Lot # 336. The AAIW, inscribed to Violet, is the 37th thousand, in the original Macmillan red cloth and is about very good (hinges are cracking). The TTLG, inscribed to Agnes, is the 29th thousand and is in similar condition. Newton's Oak Knoll bookplates are on the front pastedowns, and those of Roger Hawes West on the front free endpapers. They are housed in a magnificent solander box custom made by Sangorski and Sutcliffe. Edward Wakeling, editor of Lewis Carroll's diaries, has affirmed that the presentations are genuine, and he suggests that the books were probably sent by Carroll from Guildford because the presentations are in black ink (books he signed in London were almost always inscribed in purple ink). In his diary on September 16, 1873, Carroll noted: "Went to hear the 'infant pianistes,' Agnes and Violet Molyneux, and was quite charmed with their performance. Left a note for Mrs. Molyneux offering Alice's Adventures." Wakeling indicates that Carroll visited the family the next day and states that "this appears to be his only contact with them. An extensive search of census records and registers of performing artists has failed to locate them." We have found a reference to the Molyneux sisters in the July 5, 1875 issue of The Musical World, reporting a piano recital they performed at the Beethoven Rooms on May 27, 1875. The September 25, 1875 issue of The Musical World reports another concert by the sisters at the Royal Aquarium in Brighton. Although one of Carroll's maternal great grandmothers was Jane Molyneux, there is no evidence that he was related to the sisters.. INSCRIBED & SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR. Early Printings. Hardcover. Collectible-Very Good. Illus. by John Tenniel. 12mo - over 6¾" - 7¾" tall. Red Cloth Covered Boards.