This is an RARE original first print of Ship Captain's Medical Guide by Harry Leach, published by Spottiswoode and Co in 1864. The book comes in hardcover format and is bound in leather, making it a true antique piece that is perfect for collectors of antiques.

The book contains 85 pages, 5+ unnumbered pages and features topics such as medicine, ships, transportation, health, treatments, medicine, war, combat, pharmacology, physiology, history, psychiatry, and military.

It is an excellent addition to any collection and a must-have for anyone interested in the medical history of the 1800s. There are only 2 known copies in existence, both of which are in the Royal College of Surgeons to date.

To add some extra history and mystery the book has an inscription on one of the pages.

The inscription appears to be signed by a "General Caulfield" to (Petty Officer) P.O Gibbs.

What makes the inscription interesting after some research is that a "Major Caulfield" is noted in history for having a major role in the Jacobite uprising in the 1700s. After the uprising Major Caulfield had a large influence in road and bridge buildings projects, so much so that his name was used.

Unfortunately Major Caulfield died in the early 1800s which means the book could not be signed by him. However in those days high up military roles were not given to just anyone.

Most high in command army and navy roles were given to those with money, power and influence! Was this book signed by a General Caulfield a relative (such as a son) of the deceased Major Caulfield?

I think this book is already interesting enough seeing is so rare. I wonder what it has seen!