There is a name plate in the front cover dated 1890. The introduction is by John Francis Waller, LL.D. Dont know what LL.D stands for. I guess the date would explain why he talks about the book being so popular, as I dont think it is very popular these days.

Another part from the introduction I just have to quote, as Reeba's post below reminded me:
"...The tale flows gracefully, easily along, as some full, clear stream wanders through a varied landscape, now calmly over the daisied meadow, now troublously between rocks and wooded hills, now in light and now in shadow, but always clear and pure, reflecting the heavens over it and the scenes around it."