Quarto. [4], 65pp, [3]. With terminal blank. Uncut in original publisher's drab paper wrappers. Wrappers rubbed, marked and creased, with some loss and tearing. Light marking and spotting to endpapers. Presentation copy, inscribed 'The Author to Mr Chinnery. In memory of many many most delightful hours enjoyed at Gillwell. Lower Grosvenor St. 13. May 2d 1818' to blank fly-leaf opposite title.

The scarce first edition of impressions of Italy made by William Sotheby (1757–1833), romantic poet and translator, during a lengthy continental tour made in the wake of his son's death in 1815.

This copy was presented by the author of William Bassett Chinnery (fl.1787-1812), patron of the arts, owner of Gillwell Hall (where he hosted artistic types, including Sotheby and Giovanni Votti), sometime Chief Clerk of the Treasury and renowned swindler, after the recipient's malfeasance was discovered, his name disgraced and whilst he was residing in Continental exile. Provided with the warrant for the establishment of the intended settlement of New South Wales in 1787, Chinnery served as agent to the new Australian colony until 1812. His lavish lifestyle, which included the commissioning of extensive works to his country house and gardens in Epping Forest in 1809, had already begun to raise questions, and following a complaint of missing salaries from a Superintendent in New South Wales his appropriation of government funds, and the forging of accounts of ships carrying funds being attacked by pirates, was uncovered.