Henry Irving was one of the most prominent actors of his day, appearing mostly in Shakespearean plays. He was knighted in 1895, the 1st actor so honored. For 22 years he played opposite actress Ellen Terry, who became a very close friend. Her acting skills were rewarded with the title Grand Dame Cross, Order of the British Empire, in 1925. Stoker won greater fame with a book he'd published 8 years earlier with the title of DRACULA. First edition means first edition, first printing, unless otherwise clearly stated.