Books and Manuscripts

London: for John Watts, 1726. First edition. 8vo. (x), 374, (4) pp. Illustrated with an engraved frontispiece by van der Gucht. Contemporary paneled brown calf, stamped in blind and in gilt, red morocco spine label, rebacked; red speckled edges; ownership signature on front free endpaper, old catalogue slip sello taped to same; scattered light foxing to text leaves; book-plate on front paste-down. Sabin 12553; Howes C 355

"Boyle's narrative is probably fictitious, but that of Castelman bears marks of authenticity. The latter's visit to Philadelphia took place in 1710. Boyle's voyages have been often reprinted; but Castelman's relation is only to be found in the early editions. This work has been attributed to Benj. Victor; also to Daniel Defoe." (Sabin)

Although not a certainty, it is now generally accepted that this is most likely the work of Wiliam Rufus Chetwood and also most likely a novel from start to finish.