4to, [x], 424pp., [4] Containing 9 lithographs and 9 “Topographical sketches”. Lacking one of two maps [Mer de Glace of Chamouni and the Adjoining Mountains]. 4 pages publishers’ advertisements at rear. Publisher’s red cloth boards with blindstamped pattern. Rubbed edges. 2cm tear to cloth at top of spine. 1cm tear to cloth at bottom of spine. Cloth frayed at bottom of spine. Cracked hinge at front and rear endpapers. Sunning to boards and spine. All in all a scarce first edition in good condition. Forbes was John Tyndall’s chief rival concerning the various theories of glaciers and was also the first Briton to climb the Jungfrau. Amongst the first English accounts of systematic Alpine exploration.
