A Collection of Voyages chiefly in the Southern Atlantick Ocean. Published from Original M.S.S.

London: printed for the author, sold by J. Nourse, P. Elmsly et al, 1775, 4to (270 x 210mm). Half-title, 4 engraved coastal profiles or charts on 3 leaves, 2 folding, Contemporary mottled calf gilt.

First Edition.

Alexander Dalrymple (1737 – 1808) Scottish geographer and the first Hydrographer of the British Admiralty. He was the main proponent of the theory that there existed a vast undiscovered continent in the South Pacific, Terra Australis Incognita. He produced thousands of nautical charts, mapping a remarkable number of seas and oceans for the first time, and contributing significantly to the safety of shipping. His theories prompted a number of expeditions in search of this mythical land, until James Cook’s second voyage (1772–1775) led to the conclusion that, if it did exist, it was further south than the 65° line of latitude South.

The Collection of Voyages begins with a 19-page preface made up of letters written by the author to Lord North in 1772 in an effort to get government approval and backing for a proposed voyage to the southern Atlantic in search of terra australis incognita.

Cook’s return in 1775 and his report of the discoveries made during his second voyage rendered the expedition unnecessary. In support of his plans, Dalrymple here publishes accounts of the voyages of Edmund Halley (in 1698, 1699 and 1700), Ducloz Guyot de St. Malo (in 1753), Loziers Bouvet (in 1738-1739) and John McBride in 1766-1767.