FIVE YEARS OF A HUNTER'S LIFE IN THE FAR INTERIOR OF SOUTH AFRICA

First American edition of Cumming's wildly successful and vivid narrative of his nomadic exploits in South Africa in search of wild game. Cumming was the first to venture into the interior of the Bamangwato country, paving the way for others to follow suit. In addition to his anecdotes of chasing lions, elephants, hippopotamus, giraffe, rhinoceros, and other large game, Cumming also describes the native landscape and tribes of the region, thus making this work an important contribution to the history of South Africa. Cumming (1820-1866) was a famed Scottish hunter of large stature and great strength who rightly earned the nickname "The Lion Hunter" from his experience described in this work. On his way to join the Madras Calvary for the East India Company, Cumming had his first encounter with the sport in South Africa. Proficient as a youth in salmon fishing and deer stalking, Cumming was not able to return to South Africa until 1843 to hone his skills as a big game hunter.

Scarce 2 volume set of this 1850 1st edition, 1st printing. These were likely rebound at least 100 years ago. Top page edges gilded for aesthetics and to protect against dust and moisture. Five raised bands and six compartments on spine, in addition to 1850, year of publication, stamped to bottom of each volume's spine. Outer hinges cracking/worn. Foxing present internally. Corners worn. Two volumes. 326; 303pp., publishers ads at rear. Pictorial engraved title page plus printed title page in each volume.