Evans, Lewis

Geographical, Historical, Political, Philsophical and Mechanical Essays. Number II. Containing a Letter. Philadelphia: Printed [by B. Franklin and D. Hall] for the Author; and Sold by Him; New York by G. Noel, 1756



Folio (9 3/8 x 7 in.; 240 x 177 mm). Occasional foxing. Modern half red morocco over marbled boards, spine lettered gilt.

P. A. Jay (inscription on title-page)

Evans 7652; Howes E227; Hildeburn, Pennsylvania 1463; Miller 633; Streeter sale 2:1012

Folio (9 3/8 x 7 in.; 240 x 177 mm). Occasional foxing. Modern half red morocco over marbled boards, spine lettered gilt.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition. The second, and final, number of Evans's Essays furnishes a detailed response to an anonymous attack published in the 5 January 1756 issue of the New-York Mercury. That letter, here reprinted in full as a preface, accuses Evans of endorsing the validity of French claims to the area north of Lake Ontario. Evans's rejoinder incorporates "new materials on the French claims, with proposals for resisting them" (Howes). The final leaf carries an advertisement for his General Map of the Middle British Colonies. Scarce: this is evidently only the fourth copy to appear at auction since the Streeter sale in 1967.