Voyages de M. le Marquis de Chastellux dans l'Amérique septentrionale, dans les années 1780, 1781 & 1782

Stated second edition, though in fact the fourth, and the second Parisian printing issued by Prault. According to Michaud's *Biographie Universelle*, the true first edition was printed in only 24 copies in Newport for the author's friends; the second, equally rare, appeared in Cassel in 1785. However, that latter version is believed to be erroneous and pirated, published without the author’s consent and incomplete (only one volume in 12mo format). The appearance of the second volume of this edition in 1791, following the first volume in 1788, suggests it is the most complete version. Includes two folding maps with contemporary hand-coloring and three folding plates at the end.
Contemporary full tree calf bindings. Smooth spines richly gilt with star tools and grotesque compartments. Red morocco labels for titles, green morocco labels for volume numbers. Small losses at head of both volumes, not affecting the caps. A wormhole through the first compartment of volume I, and a 1 cm split at the tail of the lower joint. Signs of rubbing and a surface abrasion to the upper board of volume II.

A good copy with both maps in color.

This work is both a chronicle of the American War of Independence and a travelogue through Philadelphia, Albany, and the eastern seaboard of the United States, with descriptions of numerous cities including Salem and Portsmouth. It is considered the first significant account of life in the United States. As Major General in the expeditionary corps led by Rochambeau, Chastellux served as liaison officer—*maréchal de camp*—between the French general staff and Washington. In his journal, the author recounts his meetings and friendships with Lafayette, Washington, Jefferson... A major and notable work, not only for its detailed account of the war against the British, but also for its vivid depictions of daily life in the young republic and the valuable relationships Chastellux forged with the founding fathers of the United States.
Appendix: *Letter to Mr. Madison on the Progress the Arts and Sciences Must Make in America.*