[Lindley, Augustus Frederick]

First edition, 2 volumes, 8vo (258 x 167mm.), 19 chromolithographed views and plates, one folding, 2 folding maps, original pictorial crimson cloth gilt, flat spines gilt, preserved in a modern black morocco-backed watered-silk slipcase, W.H. Smith library blindstamp on preliminary free endpaper in vol.1, a very little light spotting to first and final few leaves, extremities slightly rubbed, spines a little faded

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

An important first-hand account of the Taiping revolution. In 1863, aged only twenty, Lindley resigned from the British merchant navy to fight on the side of the Taiping peasant rebels along with several other foreign volunteers. He engaged in the dramatic capture of one of Britain's best Yangzi gunships, the Firefly, which was handed to the Taiping leaders.