(London: John Murray, 1850).

FIRST EDITION OF ONE OF THE CORNERSTONE BOOKS ON AFRICAN EXPLORATION AND HUNTING. "...I was the first to penetrate into the interior of the Bamangwato country, and...my axe and spade pioneered the way, which others have since followed" (- from the introduction). This lively and entertaining book was very successful in its time and made the author "the lion of the season." Cumming was a reknown and experienced sportsman whose thirst for adventure could only be somewhat slaked in the unexplored wilds of the African continent. This book is an account of his adventures hunting in the  untrodden wilds of South Africa. Item #29273

2 volumes. Scarce First Edition. With a frontispiece and vignette title page in each volume, and 13 additional plates including a map, a total of 17 illustrations as called for. 8vo, bound in contemporary three quarter dark-rose calf over marbled boards by Bosworth and Harrison. The spines with gilt stippled and ruled raised bands between gilt framed compartments with elegant corner-pieces, additional gilt ruling at the tips, one compartment with morocco labels gilt lined and lettered xvi , 386; x, 370. A handsome, clean and attractive set, the text still quite bright with only occasional minor evidence of foxing, very solid and sturdy, bindings tight and strong. The spines lightly mellowed as to be expected, the gilt is very vivid and bright, the calf with a little rubbing or eveidence of age.