First edition of this important account of La Salle's ill-fated expedition. In 1684 La Salle set forth to establish a French colony in newly named Louisiana, at the mouth of the Mississippi. Unfortunately, his ship went off course and he landed in present-day Texas. A colony was established and the party spent two years making excursions into the surrounding territory. After reinforcements failed to appear the party decided to travel to Canada via the Mississippi River. La Salle was assassinated by his own men at Trinity River. Henri Joutel survived and his account is the best description available of La Salle's last expedition to Louisiana and Texas. Includes the single-page engraved map, "Carte Generale de Canada a Petit Point." Lacking folding map (Carte Nouvelle de la Louisiane, et de la Riviere de Missisipi, decouverte par feu Mr. de la Salle) supplied in high quality facsimile, laid in at back. 12mo, xxxiv, 386 pp. Published by Estienne Robinot. Original full calf with raised bands, marbled end papers.

References: Howes J266; Sabin 36760.

Condition: B

Contents age toned. Covers rubbed and spine starting.