2 volumes, 8vo (7 ½ x 5 1/8 in.; 190 x 130 mm, uncut). Folding map in volume 1, engraved frontispiece in volume 2. Publisher’s purple cloth, blind-ruled sides, spine titled with author’s name in gilt, yellow endpapers; some rubbing at extremities, covers lightly abraded.

Penzer, pp. 71-72; Casada 70

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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition of Burton’s account of his first consular posting, and his first book on West Africa. His reporting on gold and the mining thereof in Sierra Leone and Nigeria is credited with drawing both public and corporate attention to the prospects in the region. Burton intended to suppress his name from this book to demonstrate his pique with the Royal Geographical Society for having appointed Speke to lead a second expedition to Central Africa. The publisher’s did however, print Burton’s name on the spines of this edition, though it does not appear on the title.