An Account of the Pelew Islands, Situated in the Western Part of the Pacific Ocean...
Boston: Manning & Loring, 1796. 8vo. 264 pp. Later edition. Contemporary calf, rebacked, spine label; interior generally browned because of paper stock. Signature of John J. Smith dated October 29, 1803 on the fly-leaf, remnants of a bookplate on the paste-down as well as a bookseller label (Leary of Philadelphia). Item #15240
English poet and writer Keate (1729-1797) chronicled this important and historically significant account of Captain Henry Wilson’s 1783 shipwreck in the Pelew Islands, resulting in it being one of the main sources of early knowledge on the area. Keate pieced together this work utilizing Captain Wilson’s journals and communications, documenting a first-hand narration of Wilson and his crew’s experience. Beginning with their departure, the author describes reaching shore after the accident and their warm welcome from the natives. This work helped reinforce the idea of the “noble savage,” and is regarded and one of the most popular eighteenth century books on the Pacific.
Price: $300.00