Small 4to (219 x 155 mm). 3 engraved folding plates. (Minor dampstain to plates, minor worming affecting letters on approximately 140 leaves, some minor spotting.) Contemporary vellum, hand-lettered on spine (a few minor holes, slightly soiled, ties lacking); morocco folding case. Provenance: Pale signature on upper cover. 

 

FIRST EDITION, edited from the original manuscript in the Royal Library Madrid by Bernardo de Yriarte. Sarmiento commanded the Nuestra Senora de Guia and the Almiranta and he sailed with instructions to capture Francis Drake. He pursued Drake to the Straits of Magellan, but ultimately wasn't able to capture him. He began to chart the straits and record his observations, and he developed a plan to prevent further incursions into the Pacific by colonizing the region. His plan was adopted by the King of Spain, and he was made governor of the future colony; the attempt at colonization ended in disaster. Borba de Moraes II:777; Hill 1526; Howgego G21; Palau 302364; Sabin 77094.