Published by Garrett & Massie, [Richmond, VA, 1932
Seller: Lorne Bair Rare Books, ABAA, Winchester, VA, U.S.A.
First Edition
First Edition. Quarto (27.5cm.); original pictorial paper-covered boards printed in blue, black, and gilt; vi,42pp.; double-page map frontispiece, text illus. throughout including border vignettes printed in grey. Top edge of upper cover a bit foxed, spine lightly sunned, else Very Good and sound.
Half-Leather. Condition: Good. First Edition. v, 117 p. + 4 p. of ads. Colour illustration on title page, chart of the voyage and 24 lithographs by Robert Dudley. Attractively rebound in half green leather with marbled boards. Binding signed by Bayntun. Top edge gilt. Dampstains. In July 1865 the Irish reporter William H. Russell sailed on the Great Eastern to document the laying of the first Atlantic cable. In this volume he discusses submarine telegraphy in general as well as the trans-Atlantic telegraph he witnessed being laid. Illustrator Robert Dudley, best known at the time for his English continental views and seascapes, also went along for the trip. The result was this handsome book about the journey that reduced trans-Atlantic communication to seconds.