An exceptionally nice copy of this scarce first edition. The binding could well be contemporary. Brown leather spine and corners which have just a little knocking and rubbing. The title block on the spine is still lovely and crisp. Marble effect boards are clean, if a touch faded with age. Tiny label on front paste down page, at the top edge, of J. Bigg & Son Booksellers of 53 Parliament Street, Westminster. On the same page, in the centre, is the charming ex-libris plate of Earl Granville. The maps, charts and illustrations are in wonderful condition although the large gate fold map opposite page 29 has some creases, is a little edge worn where it has protruded the binding and has a short tear from the bottom on one fold. There is furthermore some foxing and browning here and there but, really, this is a truly exceptional copy, a quality binding which was clearly made to last. Here's a little information about the book and the author. 310 pages plus appendices I-IX, complete with 6 maps, including 4 folding, 14 plates. Rear-Admiral Sir William Edward Parry FRS (1790?1855) led an expedition in 1819 in search of the North-West passage, after taking part in a failed attempt under Capt. John Ross. They got as far a Melville Island where they were frozen in for 10 months. They later turned back, having reached further into the Canadian arctic archipelago than any other explorer, reaching England in October 1820. His account includes lunar and magnetic observations, tide data, and information on health and diseases of the crew. He led two more expeditions in1821 and 1824.