KIPLING, Rudyard (1865-1936). Kim. London: Macmillan, 1901.8º. 10 half tone plates.(Offsetting to title from tissue guard.) Original red buckram, top edge gilt (spine a little worn at head and tail). Provenance: autograph letter signed ('Rudyard Kipling') to J.S. Cotterall, The Elms, Rottingdean, Sussex, [1 August 1901], one page, 8º, tipped in. Kipling is 'flattered' by the invitation 'to assist at the unveiling of a tablet to Fielding's memory in Bath' and 'can only express very deep regret' that he cannot accept, 'it is more than probable I shall not be in England' (light spotting) -- Munson Aldrich Havens (bookplate dated 1903).FIRST ENGLISH EDITION WITH A LETTER FROM THE AUTHOR tipped in before title. Stewart 254.