first edition, later issue without the advertisements at rear, signed by the author on half-title, note from previous owner discussing Wells' signing of this copy tipped onto pastedown, some browning to endpapers, original pictorial cloth blocked in purple, spine slightly faded, otherwise a near-fine copy overall, [Wells 4], 8vo, 1895. A superb inscribed copy of Wells' sci-fi classic. "He declared it to be a first edition, and one of the rarer because it was not only an early book but 'only 2,000 to 3,000 were printed'. He had been signing menu cards in pencil - 'this calls for ink' he said, and I borrowed a pen for him. He examined the book very closely even to the publisher's name on the last page, and remarked upon its excellent condition. "His interest was evident. Amongst other things he told of an old lady who collects his first editions and always brings old ink with her when she asks him to sign, the idea being that modern ink fades." (from the previous owner's note).