Lot 424: Britten (Benjamin, 1913-1976). Billy Budd, an

Britten (Benjamin, 1913-1976). Billy Budd, an Opera in Four Acts, Libretto by E.M. Forster and Eric Crozier, Adapted from the Story by Herman Melville, Vocal Score by Erwin Stein, pub. Hawkes & Son, c. 1952, signed presentation inscription from the composer to title, 'For my dear Emmy von Sax with every good wish & much love, Benjamin B., Wien, 16.11.55', and additionally signed and dated by Peter Pears on the same day at head of Characters page, 'To Emmy - with much love from the first Vere -', orig. printed wrappers with upper cover design after John Piper, sl. rubbed and marked, small loss at head of spine and small splits to lower joints, folio The dedicatee was Emma von Sax (1882-1969) of the publishers Manz in Vienna, and sister of Erwin Stein. (1)