Phipps, Constantine John

FIRST EDITION, 4to (283 x 228mm.), viii, 254pp., [ii pp. binder's directions], half-title, 15 maps and plates, contemporary tree calf, flat gilt spine, red label, marbled endpapers and edges, expert repairs to joints

Lord Walsingham, bookplate; Robert Lionel Foster, bookplate

Hill (2004) 1351; Sabin 62572

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."

PRESENTATION COPY, inscribed on the title "To Ld. Walsingham from The Author".

In the introduction the author provides an historical account of English voyages in search of a north-west passage from the sixteenth century. "This expedition of the Racehorse and Carcass, undertaken for the purpose of discovering a route to India through the northern polar regions, was blocked by pack ice north of Spitsbergen... The voyage is perhaps best remembered for the presence of young Horatio Nelson, as midshipman aboard the Carcass, and his encounter with a polar bear" (Hill).