Being an extract from the Scientific its Proceedings and Philosophical Transactions 1783 Volume 73'. A paper presented by Sir Joseph Banks on February 13, 1783. To the Royal Society, London. An interesting thesis wherein the author - with the able assistance of Dr Schwediawer - ably explains the origins of ambergris. (He deduced, correctly that this waxy, grayish substance formed in the intestines of sperm whales and found floating at sea or washed ashore. It is added to perfumes to slow down the rate of evaporation. A very rare document. (The Royal Society, organization established in 1660 in London by a group of learned men to promote scientific discussion. It stimulates scientific research and published its findings in its publication Proceedings and Philosophical Transactions. The Society was granted a royal charter in 1662, the Royal Society advises the British government (from which it receives subsidies) on scientific matters. Name stamp of Francis C. Fraser on facing end paper. Rebound in green cloth covered end boards. Very good condition. Foxed end pages. 225-242pp. 18pp plus 28pp blanks