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[WASHINGTON, John (1800-1863).] Esquimaux and English Vocabulary, for the Use of the Arctic Expeditions. London: John Murray, 1850.
A presentation copy of a very rare Franklin Search vocabulary, intended as a 'pocket guide' in the Arctic. Washington was a founding member and active secretary of the Royal Geographical Society and his compilation of this useful vocabulary is typical of his energy. He states in the preface that it was compiled specifically "for the use of the Arctic Expeditions fitted out at the expense of the British Government to carry relief to Sir John Franklin and his companions." It includes a vocabulary in English and three native languages ("eastern," "central," and "western"), a grammar guide and four sample dialogues, e.g. "On first meeting Natives" and "Enquiries as to Strange Ships." Tourville 4750; Wickersham 2737.
Oblong 12mo (102 x 164mm). Original cloth, upper cover gilt-lettered, lower cover with Admiralty anchor stamped in blind (rebacked, some wear and staining to endpapers), custom morocco-backed case. Provenance: The Royal Institution of Great Britain (presentation inscription, small inkstamp to title) – John Lawson (bookplate, John and Monica Lawson sale, Bonhams, 1 April 2008, lot 873).
A presentation copy of a very rare Franklin Search vocabulary, intended as a 'pocket guide' in the Arctic. Washington was a founding member and active secretary of the Royal Geographical Society and his compilation of this useful vocabulary is typical of his energy. He states in the preface that it was compiled specifically "for the use of the Arctic Expeditions fitted out at the expense of the British Government to carry relief to Sir John Franklin and his companions." It includes a vocabulary in English and three native languages ("eastern," "central," and "western"), a grammar guide and four sample dialogues, e.g. "On first meeting Natives" and "Enquiries as to Strange Ships." Tourville 4750; Wickersham 2737.
Oblong 12mo (102 x 164mm). Original cloth, upper cover gilt-lettered, lower cover with Admiralty anchor stamped in blind (rebacked, some wear and staining to endpapers), custom morocco-backed case. Provenance: The Royal Institution of Great Britain (presentation inscription, small inkstamp to title) – John Lawson (bookplate, John and Monica Lawson sale, Bonhams, 1 April 2008, lot 873).