Books in the Narrative of the Voyage of HMS Samarang, during the Years 1843-46 2 Volume Set series

Published in 1848, Sir Edward Belcher's account of the Eastern Archipelago appealed to Victorian readers' enthusiasm for exploration and adventure. Describing exotic locations including Borneo, Manila and Singapore, Volume 1 blends topographical and strategic observations with vivid descriptions of Asian villages and temples, and of encounters with rulers and pirates.