FORREST, A VOYAGE TO NEW GUINEA, 1779

FIRST EDITION, 4to (292 x 223mm.), engraved portrait, 32 plates, maps and plans, some folding, contemporary calf, [Hill (2004) 623; Robertson p.129], scattered spotting, worn

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."

"In 1770 Forrest was engaged in forming the new settlement at Balambangan, which had been recommended by Alexander Dalrymple, and in 1774, when the council, in accordance with their instructions and with a view to developing new sources of trade, wanted to send an exploring party in the direction of New Guinea, Forrest offered his services, which were readily accepted. He sailed on 9 December in the Tartar, a native boat of about 10 tons burden, with two English officers and a crew of eighteen Malays. In this, accompanied part of the time by two small boats, he pushed his explorations as far as Geelvink Bay in New Guinea, examining the Sulu archipelago, the south coast of Mindanao, Mandiolo, Batchian, and especially Waygiou, which he was the first tochart with any degree of accuracy, and returned to Achin in March 1776… The tact which Forrest had shown towards the local inhabitants and the amount of work done in a small boat in a poor state of repair deservedly won him credit" (ODNB).