[George BUCHAN, of Kelloe, Scotland (1775-1856)].
A Narrative of the Loss of the Winterton East Indiaman, wrecked on the coast of Madagascar in 1792; and of the sufferings connected with that event. To which is subjoined,a short account of the natives of Madagascar, with suggestions as to their civiliization. By a Passenger in the Ship.
Edinburgh: [printed by Balfour and Clarke] for Waugh and Innes [and others], 1820.
Octavo. Pp. [i-]ix[-xii; 1-] 256; + 1p errata (verso blank).1 folding engraved map, 2 engraved plates. Condition of contents: some spotting, and offsetting, but generally clean.
Contemporary half calf. Condition of binding: worn, joints split, strengthening to inner hinges, spine rubbed, chipped and lacking lettering-piece.
Provenance: 19th century armorial bookplate (see images).
An eyewitness account of a shipwreck and the adventurous aftermarth by an accomplished writer: this gives the work an authenticity and vividness that is sometimes lacking in the third party or 'ghost-written' narratives. Buchan's observations of the place and people are particularly illuminating. Despite this rather shaky start (he was 17/18 at the time of the shipwreck), Buchan went on to have quite an illustrious career India, before 'retiring' to his estate in Berwickshire.
- Binding Condition: poor
- Overall Condition: acceptable
- Size: 8 1/8 x 5in; 206 x 127mm
- Sold By: Shadowrock Rare Books
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- Country: United States
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