The History of New Holland, from its first discovery in 1616 to the present time :

with a particular account of its produce and inhabitants and a description of Botany Bay : also, a list of the naval, marine, military, and civil establishment. To which is prefixed, An introductory discourse on banishment, by the Right Honourable William Eden. London : Printed for John Stockdale, 1787. First edition. Octavo, period style half calf, spine in compartments, gilt ornaments, contrasting red morocco title label lettered in gilt; top edge gilt; two folding hand-coloured engraved maps (some offsetting, old tape marks, tape still present on the second map), pp. xxiv; 254; (2 – advertisements), a handsome copy.

‘An extremely interesting work, and an essential inclusion in all comprehensive collections’ – Davidson, p. 81.

An early history of the exploration of New Holland, published in 1787 to capitalise on public interest surrounding the sailing of the First Fleet. It gives accounts of the voyages of Pelsaert, Dampier, and Furneaux, with a large section on Cook’s voyages. The first map shows the intended path of the First Fleet from England to Botany Bay; the second map is a chart of the continent of New Holland with an inset map of Botany Bay.

Beddie, 27; Davidson, pp. 79–81; Ferguson, 24; Holmes, 66.