A Voyage to the South Atlantic and round Cape Horn into the Pacific Ocean, for the Purpose of Extending the Spermaceti Whale Fisheries, and other Objects of Commerce, by Ascertaining the Ports, Bays, Harbours, and Anchoring Births, in Certain Islands and

COLNETT, James (?1755-1806) - [COMBE, William (1741-1823)].

Published by London: Printed for the Author by W. Bennett, 1798.

About this Item

Folio (12 4/8 x 9 4/8 inches). Engraved portrait of the dedicatee Sir Philip Stephens, six engraved folding maps by A. Arrowsmith including ". the track of the Ship Rattler from Rio Janeiro Round Cape Horn, to the Coast of California." with small additional flap, "Chart of the Galapagos.", ".Island Cocos.", 2 coastal profile plates, and plate of a Spermaceti whale (one or two tears near the gutters, some light browning and spotting). Modern half morocco antique, uncut. First edition. The official account, compiled by author of "Tour of Doctor Syntax" William Combe, of Colnett's expedition to open the South Pacific sperm whale fields to British commercial interests. He visited the Galapagos Islands, and the coasts of Chile, Peru, and California. Previously Colnett had sailed as midshipman with Captain Cook on his second voyage, and had been the instigator of the Nootka Sound Controversy, "one of the most famous incidents in the history of the Northwest" (Hill), when he tried to establish a fur-trading outpost there. Not surprisingly he and his crew were seized by the resident Spaniards, and war between the two countries was only narrowly avoided. Hill 338; Howes C604; Sabin 14546. Seller Inventory # 002093

Bibliographic Details

Title: A Voyage to the South Atlantic and round ...

Publisher: London: Printed for the Author by W. Bennett, 1798.

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Good

Edition: 1st Edition