Narrative of a journey to the shores of the polar sea, in the years 1819, 20, 21, and 22 ... with an appendix on various subjects relating to science and natural history
London: John Murray, 1823. First edition, 4to, pp. [iii]-ix, [1], 768; 30 exquisitely engraved plates by Finden (26 after Lieuts. Hood and Back), 10 of which are hand-colored, 4 folding maps; some toning of the text but generally a very good, sound copy in contemporary brown calf, rebacked, with old gilt spine laid down, new red morocco label. Includes narratives by Richardson and Back, appendices on natural history, meteorology and other scientific subjects. "Of the beautiful engravings which accompany this volume, six are illustrative of the features or habits of life of the Aborigines of the arctic regions ... Many details are given in the progress of the work of the Copper, Dog-Rib, Esquimaux, and Chippewyan Indians; but it is in the last chapter, where the author narrates the story of that appalling march on the return journey, that our interest is most deeply excited ... The Chipewyan Chief Akaitcho, while his own tribe was starving, exerted himself to the utmost to procure [for Franklin's party] supplies, and it was owing to the kindness and sympathy of the [natives] that Franklin and his party survived this dreadful expedition." Arctic Bibliography 5194; Field 560; Sabin 25624. Item #61090
Price: $3,500.00
