Trade in Spanish America and the West Indies

A Choice Narrative of Count Gondamour's Transactions during his Embassy in England by that Renowned Antiquary Sir Robert Cotton…By a Person of Honour.

London: Printed for John Garfield, 1659.

Price: $350.00


About the item

First published in 1620 as “Vox populi” when it was suppressed by Royal Command. LACKS the portrait, pp. [6], 31. 1 vols. Sm. 4to. Trade in Spanish America and the West Indies. Later calf gilt. Spine and extremities rubbed, title and final leaf backed and soiled, some staining, especially of “E” gathering , repairs in text made with tissue, a few losses of letters, generally not affecting comprehension, else very good. Wing S2083; Sabin 78362.

Item #35148

Acting as Spain's ambassador to England Count Gondomar was to negociate with King James in an effort to reduce the British attacks upon the Spanish possessions in America and in the West Indies and to discourage them from trading there. He was also to keep the British from financing Spain's enemies. He created ill feeling between the King and the Lower House, put an end to the attempt for a match between the Prince of Wales and a Spanish Infanta, and according to this report by Scott kept the British from “furnishing their Navie,” in order to reduce their interference in West Indian trade. He drew a great deal of criticism in England for his active part in the destruction of Sir Walter Raleigh. Gondomar was an avid collector of printed books and manuscripts and his library became the Royal Library at Madrid.

Dedication signed John Rowland.