Richardson, A.J.

FIRST EDITION, 8vo (228 x 155mm.), 22pp., [2pp. adverts], unbound and unsewn, glued at later date, spotted, lower wrapper repaired

Ferguson 14897; Wantrup 186

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."

RARE. Frank and Alexander Jardine’s 1865 journey from Rockhampton to Somerset on the Cape York peninsula, some 1200 miles, was notable for its high rate of attrition: they started out with forty-two horses and 250 cattle, and arrived with twelve horses and fifty cattle. Frank Jardine claimed to have killed forty-seven local inhabitants en route.

“So rare is Richardson’s fragile and ephemeral Private Journal… that few collectors will hear of a copy, much less have the opportunity to acquire it… It was printed on cheap paper stock of very poor quality, which explains the considerable rarity of the volume today – it was simply read out of existence” (Wantrup, p.250). Only the Davidson copy (in poor condition) has appeared at auction in over 40 years.