Beaver, Philip

FIRST EDITION, 4to (260 x 207mm.), large folding engraved map, 2 engraved plates, contemporary calf gilt, some staining and small scattered repairs (also to map), binding lightly rubbed, recornered and rebacked retaining original spine 

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, 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."

Philip Beaver "associated himself with a scheme for colonising the island of Bulama on the coast of Africa, near Sierra Leone. The whole affair seems to have been conducted without forethought or knowledge. The would-be settlers were, for the most part, idle and dissipated. Beaver found himself at sea in command of a vessel of 260 tons, with 65 men, 24 women, and 31 children, mostly sea-sick and all equally useless. When they landed, anything like discipline was unobtainable .. Beaver endeavoured, by unceasing toil, to keep a little order and to promote a little industry; but the men were quite unfitted for the work and manner of life, and the greater number of them died. The miserable remnants of the party evacuated the island and went to Sierra Leone, whence Beaver obtained a passage to England." (ODNB)