Travel
PERCIVAL, Capt. Robert.
An account of the Cape of Good Hope; containing an historical view of its original settlement by the Dutch, its capture by the British in 1795, and the different policy pursued there by the Dutch and British governments. Also a sketch of its geography, productions, the manners and customs of the inhabitants, &c. &c. With a view of the political and commercial advantages which might be derived from its possession by Great Britain.
Baldwin, London 1804. First edition. 4to., xii, 339pp., contemporary sprinkled calf rebacked, corners and edges worn, slightly rubbed.
Following the capture of the Dutch fleet, sent to help the Cape Colony, by the British, Percival was the first to enter Cape Town in 1796 and remained there until the following year. Percival's work recounting his stay on the Cape of Good Hope was warmly received at the time. His criticisms of the Dutch settlers were severe. He commended the Cape climate as the finest in the world, and advised the home government, who had just restored the province by the treaty of Amiens, to reoccupy it. Mendelssohn II, 152; Kress B4716.
Price: £ 1250
US Dollar Price: $ 1820
Stock Number: 72049