Beschreibung:

The History of the Origin, Progress and Termination of the American War. London: Printed for the author; and sold by J. Murray et al, 1794. 2 volumes. xv, [1], 399; xv, [1], 449, [1 blank], [13] pp. Half-titles. With 15 engraved maps, many folding, first map of Bunker Hill with engraved overlay. 4to (274 x 219 mm). Period plain blue boards, rebacked to style. Custom blue quarter morocco slipcases. Scattered minor creasing, conjugate leaves A2 & A3 loose, very few marginal closed tears, 9 maps with mild toning, offsetting or spotting, few map versos browned, vol 2, H3 with 2 small holes to top margin removing one letter of header and some associated staining, still a fresh, attractive copy, partially unopened. FIRST EDITION, WITH 15 BATTLE MAPS. "GENERALLY CONSIDERED THE BEST CONTEMPORARY ACCOUNT OF THE REVOLUTION WRITTEN FROM THE BRITISH SIDE" (Sabin). Stedman, a Philadelphia-born loyalist, was an officer under Lord Percy at Lexington and Concord; under General Howe in the New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania campaigns; and with Cornwallis in the South. Thus many of his descriptions of battles derive from first-hand knowledge. Stedman further oversaw the production of all the maps. Alden American Revolution p 278; Howes S914; Sabin 91057. Provenance: ownership inscriptions of G. Rushout and of Frank N. Spencer dated 1798 and 1955 respectively. Acquisition: Laird Park sale, Sotheby's New York, Nov 29, 2000, lot 340, $6,600.