Bumblebee Bogo’s Budget Presentation Copy from Lewis Carroll

In 1886 Dodgson helped a friend, William Webb Follett Synge in publishing a volume of children’s verse illustrated by another recent acquaintance, the artists Alice Havers. 500 copies of the first edition, in red cloth with a bees and bramble decorative gilt cover design, were published in 1887. Follett Synge ordered 25 to be gilt edged, 20 for his use and 5 for Dodgson’s use for presentation.

In November 2006 I was informed by Ebay that a book entitled “ Bumblebee Bogo’s Budget” was newly listed in an auction. I had several titles on my wants list for notification in this way. The listing described an attractive illustrated book of verse obviously written for children, with gilt edges and a very neat presentation inscription on the half title. No further details of this inscription were given or illustrated. I added it to my watch list and refreshed my knowledge of the book. The red cloth with gilt edges and presentation inscription meant the book was either presented by Follett Synge, or ( I could barely contain myself)  Dodgson. Five days  later I was  ready to put in my last minute bid and was successful – at a hammer price of £4.99. The book duly came on a Saturday morning and I gave it to my son and said, “Open this, it may be signed by Lewis Carroll!” I had a 1 in 5 chance. He opened it and started to say the words “Dorothy Furnifs…” and I jabbered “What colour is the ink? “ and he said “ Purple”. And it was – a wonderful white stone moment for a Lewis Carroll collector.