3 volumes. [12], xxxvi, 139, [3], (363)-676; xvi, 410; [vi], (411)-799, [3] pp. 52 maps, charts and plates, many folding or double-page. (4to) 28.5x22 cm. (11¼x9"), Period calf, gilt lettered on red morocco labels. First Edition.
First edition of the official account of James Cook's first expedition of discovery into the Pacific, detailing his voyage to Tahiti to observe the transit of Venus, and his masterful charting of New Zealand, the east coast of Australia, etc. Presented to the world are some of the earliest descriptions and illustrations of the wonders of the Pacific, including Tahiti, the Society Islands, New Zealand, the east coast of Australia, and more. Written by John Hawkesworth from Cook's notes, but in the first person, i.e. the person of Cook. Cook was not happy with the treatment, and following his second voyage insisted on editing his own account of the expedition. The first volume of the present work contains accounts of the voyages of Byron, Wallis and Carteret, the last two relate wholly to Cook. Hill 782; Sabin 30934 ("The first edition, to be preferred for its plates"). Armorial bookplates of Ferdinand M. McVeagh. Laid in are two first day of issue Captain James Cook postage stamps in envelopes with printed return addresses from Glenbrook in Lake Tahoe.
Condition:
Bindings worn with joints starting, some scuffs; cracked hinges, a few repaired pages, light worming, mild foxing; some ill-creased maps, some with splits at folds, mild foxing, occasional stub tears and rough edges; very good.