POE, Edgar Allan (1809-1849). "The Murders in the Rue Morgue" and Other Pieces. In Graham's Lady's and Gentleman's Magazine. Philadelphia: George R. Graham, 1841. Volumes XVIII and XIX bound in one. Illustrated throughout with steel engravings, some hand-colored, with several lace patterns inserted. [2], [1]-295, [1]; iv, [1]-308 pp. Title-pages present. Bound in black leather over marbled boards, spine stamped gilt in six compartments, five raised bands, with morocco spine labels lettered gilt. FIRST APPEARANCE OF THE FIRST MODERN DETECTIVE STORY, POE'S "MURDERS IN THE RUE MORGUE," WITH FOUR OTHER STORIES. Titles include: XVIII No. 4: "The Murders in the Rue Morgue" p. [166]-179; XVIII No. 5: "A Descent Into the Maelstrom" p. [235]-241; and XVIII No. 6: "The Island of the Fay" p. [253]-255; along with several others. 

The annual volume, complete in 12 issues from January to December 1841, saw Poe serve the magazine as editor. Accordingly, the publication features several of his own contributions, including "The Murders in the Rue Morgue," which introduced the prototypical literary detective, C. Augustin Dupin, and changed "the course of world literature," widely credited as inventing the modern mystery/detective genre. At the time of its writing, the word detective did not even exist. 

Moderate toning, edge wear, and foxing throughout. Light occasional water damage. Some minor repairs. Very good.