Publication was written by C. A. Johns. Cf. British Library Public Catalogue.

Date based on printer's dates and British Library Public Catalogue.

"Published under the direction of the Committee of General Literature and Education, appointed by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge."--T.p.

T.p. printed within thin black rule border.

Preliminary wood-engraved plate included in pagination.

Plates are colour wood engravings produced using the "Baxter Process", with areas that are printed with an intaglio metal plate.

All colour plates are with imprint: "W. Dickes, London."

Most wood-engraved illustrations within the text are unsigned. One is signed: "Whymper", and another: "JW Whymper".

Includes "Index.": p. [v]-vii.

Publisher's advertisements on p. [1-4] at end.

All except one of the wood-engraved illustrations within the text are the same as those used in an 1854 edition of this work entitled "Birds' nests". See McLean D 0608.

MASS copy: Bound in green fine diagonal rib-grain cloth blocked in gold and blind. Upper cover blocked in gold with an illustration replicated from the text. With undated presentation inscription to "John Smith".