First edition, 12mo, [38], 284, [36] pp., extra engraved title-page, (*8, a8, b4, A-V8), bound in modern vellum, text with moderate darkening and rippling, short tear to leaf Q5 affecting no text, preliminary leaves *7 and *8 are transposed, else a very good copy. An extremely scarce primary account of the earliest period of American discovery, and particularly of the discovery of the West Indies. First written in 1524 and not published until 1631 it is one of the earliest written descriptions of the discovery and condition of the West Indies. The author was an intimate friend of Columbus and whose support of Columbus’ argument for a spherical globe enabled Columbus to be heard by the official council charged with evaluating the proposed voyage. Geraldini was born at Amerini about 1455, and as a young man found his way to Spain. He first served as asoldier in the wars against Portugal, and was next employed at court in the service of Isabella. Soon after, as confidential agent or legate, he was sent to Pope Alexander VI, and to the various princes of Europe with whom he concluded many bargains and treaties. His editor claims also that he visited Africa and its many rulers, the islands of the Atlantic and even India. Geraldini was made the first Bishop of Santo Domingo where he died after a residence of five years in 1525. The present text includes an account of his voyage and a description of the island. He states that the native race had nearly been extinguished and that he is sending back to Europe two turkeys. European Americana 631/43; Sabin 27116; Medina 890; JCB II:236-37