This is the third English edition of this popular work describing the three-year conquest of Mexico by Hernan Cortes. The history was originally written by Antonio de Solis y Ribadeneyra in 1684 and translated here into English by Thomas Townsend and revised by Nathanael Hooke. In the preface, the author is effusive to Cortes stating "Whoever will consider the Difficulties he overcame, and the Battles he fought and won against an incredible Superiority of Numbers, must own him little inferior to the most celebrated Heroes of Antiquity." He continued "the great actions of Cortes, and the elegant Pen of Solis, were the chief Motives that induced me to make him English." The volumes are illustrated by a total of 7 plates (6 called for but one is duplicated) and 2 maps, including a frontispiece of Cortes and an attractive view of Mexico City. The two maps include an untitled map of the whole of Mexico (12.9 x 7.2") and a small The Lake of Mexico and Parts Adjacent (6.4 x 7.8"). This later map depicts Mexico City at the center of a lake. The lake (which has both salt and fresh water) is spanned by several roads interconnecting other cities as well. The map locates Pichquique, Quitlavaca, Culiacau, and several others. It extends to the nearby vicinity to show lakes and mountains and name several other small cities or villages including Talquaj, Cittatepec, Tescatepec, Ottomba, Tepetastac, Curtaleco, and several others.

Hardbound in modern faux leather over marbled boards with title labels on spines. 954 total pages (vol. 1 479 pages, vol 2. 475 pages).

References: Sabin #46489.

Condition: A

Contents, including plates and maps, are near fine with a hint of pleasant light toning and a couple of tiny binding tears. The title page to volume one has a small stain along the bottom edge and the frontispiece of Cortes has an archivally repaired 3" binding tear. Modern bindings have minimal wear. Ex-libris with the bookplate of Lord Walsingham preserved on the front pastedowns.