8vo (194 x 120 mm). Engraved folding map of Texas hand-colored in outline (a few separations to folds); 2 full-page wood-engraved illustrations; 1p. publisher's advertisements at end. (Some offsetting of map to title, some spotting.) Contemporary sprinkled sheep, smooth spine gilt, black morocco lettering-piece gilt (upper joint starting, some overall wear).

FIRST EDITION, WITH THE RARE MAP of Stiff's popular work on Texas. At least 7 subsequent editions were issued, none of which included the map. “By an independent thinker, and not always favorable to Texas and the United States. In fact, somewhat of a Tory in politics. Notwithstanding, one of the best books on Texas issued during the Republic. Very scarce" (Raines pp.195-196).  The two woodcuts show early views of Galveston City and Bay and the Battle of San Jacinto. Graff 3989; Howes S-998; Streeter Texas 1367 (“Here conventional accounts of the physical features of Texas and of its cities and towns are interspersed with gossipy comments on various named individuals and on life in Texas in general, making it quite an entertaining book").