Poem is written on the inside front page of the "Anthology of Humorous Verse"
Poem says,
"On Presenting to the Author of "The Trail to Boyland" An Anthology of Humorous Verse.
Be like an hundred bards herein-
With tinkling lutt, and lifted chin,
And song outgusht in fountain - play
Of ballad, catch and roundrlay -
Are chanting, chorusing en masse.
Their dol=ding=dangdest to surpass
One single, simple, singing Chap
Who wipes em all clean off the map.
With the last book that crowns my shelf
Which Nesbit sings all by himself.
Your Old Hoosier Friend,
James Whitcomb Riley. Indianapolis: Nov. 3: 1904."
Neither Riley's or Nesbit's poems appear in this book. Riley appears to be saying that Nesbit's last book, "The Trail to Boyland" puts all of these poets to shame. (Our interpretation).
An interesting side note is that Nesbitt gave Mr. Riley's eulogy at his funeral. These guys were true friends.
The book has a removable protective black cover on it (looks homemade, but does its job). There is also a removable plastic cover (also looks homemade) to protect the outside of the book. The actual cover of the book has some wear on the middle front and middle back as well as on the top and bottom edges. (Look at photos carefully). The inside front and back cover are slightly separated and the red inside cover paper has a few small tears (again look at photos). The pages all appear to be there and are in good shape though a few are slightly frayed on the edge. No foxing or tears.
Please view photos above carefully for condition and feel free to ask any questions.
James Whitcomb Riley (1849-1916), was an American writer, poet, and best-selling author, also known as the "Hoosier Poet" and "Children's Poet."
Wilbur Dick Nesbit (1871-1927), who was a fellow Hoosier, also used the pen name Josh Wink, he was an American poet and humorist, and very well known in his day.
Be sure to check out the other Vintage pieces that we have available.