2 volumes, 8vo (220 x 139 mm). Half-titles, 2 chromolithographic folding maps, 4 engraved plates, numerous engraved illustrations. (Some occasional spotting and staining, some worming in upper margin in vol. II from p. 329 to the “Lower Congo” map affecting the upper border, “Lower Congo” map with some chipping and toning to outer edge.) Publisher’s green cloth decorated in black and pictorial gilt, beveled edges, bottom edges trimmed, others uncut (a touch of wear to extremities, a few minor stains, spine cracked in vol. II).

FIRST EDITION. Two Trips to Gorilla Land describes Burton's second expedition from his consular posting at Fernando Po, made in 1862-1863. "Gorillas had fascinated [Burton] ever since his friend Paul de Chaillu reported his amazing discovery of these simians to incredulous audiences in London in July 1861" (McLynn). In the end, Burton only managed to see a captive gorilla, added to which he nearly drowned and was struck by lightning. Frank McLynn, Snow Upon the Desert, p.191; Penzer, p. 94; Spink 56 (“Rare”).