A Tale of Two Cities. [with] Charles Dickens Autograph Note.

First edition, mixed issue of one of Dickens' most enduring works. Octavo, bound in three quarters modern half calf over marbled boards with gilt titles and tooling to the spine in five compartments within raised gilt bands, all edges marbled, marbled endpapers, illustrated with sixteen plates after H.K. Browne including the frontispiece and title vignette. A mixed issue copy with first state "b" signature to the list of plates at the rear and "affectionately" misspelled on page 134 line 12, and second state correctly numbered page 213. In near fine condition with light toning. Accompanied by an autograph note written by Charles Dickens in the third person in blue ink and addressed to Messrs. Head & Co. The letter reads in full, "Mr Charles Dickens sends his compliments to Messrs. Head and Co. and begs to signify his ready compliance with their request concerning the gardener. He would be happy to facilitate any other preparations on Sir Charles Rowley's return. 3 Hanover Terrace Seventh June 1861." Together with the original envelope with Dicken's personal monogram to the verso and addressed by him on the recto, "Messrs. Head and Co. Upper Baker Street." In very good condition with mailing creases and remnants of mounting to verso corners, with the envelope in good condition. The piece measures 5 inches by 8 inches.