Simpson, Alexander

The Sandwich Islands: Progress of Events since Their Discovery by Captain Cook. Their Occupation by Lord George Paulet. Their Value and Importance. London: Smith, Elder & Co., 1843



8vo (8 1/2 x 5 1/2 in.; 216 x 140 mm). Engraved folding plate of the Hawaiian islands. Modern half brown calf over brown cloth boards.  

Forbes, Hawaiian National Bibliography 2:1445; Sabin 81340

First edition, "a rare and important work" (Forbes). Simpson's ambition, along with many other anti-American residents in the islands, was to make Hawaii a colony of the British Empire. On 15 February 1843, Captain George Paulet orders the Hawaiian flag lowered and the British flag raised over Hawaii. Fueled by Paulet's action, Simpson travels to the Foreign Office in London with dispatches explaining Paulet's conduct. His narrative is effectively a defense of Paulet's forced cession.

In the meantime, Admiral Richard Thomas, commanding H.M.S. flagship Dublin, arrives in Hawaii on 26 July, rescinds the cession under Paulet, restores sovereignty to the Islands. In November 1843, Britain recognizes Hawaiian independence. Simpson, much embittered by the Crown's decision, slips back into private life.