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.

Belcher's account, published in 1848, includes vivid descriptions of pirates, princes, fascinating cultures, exotic flora and spectacular fauna.