Byron, John--[Clerke, C.]

FIRST EDITION, 8vo (213 x 121mm.), iv, 186pp., [ii pp. adverts], 3 engraved plates, contemporary calf, gilt arms of King Manuel of Portugal on covers, spine gilt, slight abrasion to upper cover, foot of spine slightly chipped

King Manuel of Portugal, armorial bookplate and the royal coat-of-arms in gilt on the covers

Borba de Moraes p.138; Hill (2004) 311; Sabin 9732

A very good copy
"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."

John Byron, grandfather of the poet Lord Byron, left Plymouth on the "Dolphin" in July 1764 and sailed via Rio de Janeiro and the Straits of Magellan to the Pacific to make discoveries in the South Seas. He "returned to England without losing one member of his crew, a rare event in those days. It is interesting to note that this narrative does not indicate the position of the newly discovered lands. These are left blank in the text in order to prevent other nations claiming the territory. This account ... became famous because of its description of the Patagonian giants" (Borba de Moraes). See also lot 32 for Byron's circumnavigation with Anson.