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BELL, John (1691–1780). Travels from St. Petersburg in Russia to Diverse Parts of Asia. Glasgow: Robert and Andrew Foulis for the author, 1763. 2 volumes, small 4to (241 x 179 mm). Publisher’s 2pp. advertisement at rear in Volume I, list of subscribers in Volume I, errata at rear in Volume II. Engraved folding map showing the route from Moscow to Peking with inset view of the Capital (laid down with some marginal repair). Contemporary full calf rebacked with modern spines, preserving original endpapers (boards a bit worn at edges). Provenance: Royal Society of Literature (bookplate dated 1825). FIRST EDITION, of Bell’s account of his remarkable journey from St. Petersburg through Siberia and into China on behalf of the Russian tsar. Bell's narrative includes detailed descriptions of the manners, customs, geography and scenery in the countries visited. Bell departed St Petersburg on July 15, 1715 and proceeded to Moscow, and from there to Kazan and south along the Volga to Astrakhan. The mission then sailed down the Caspian Sea to Derbent and traveled on to Esfahan in Persia, where they arrived on March 14, 1717. They left Esfahan on September 1 and returned to St Petersburg via Saratov on December 30, 1718. Bell's account of the journey to Kazan and through Siberia to China is possibly the most complete and interesting part of his travels. Of particular note are his descriptions of the Dalai Lama and the Chinese wall, and his residence in Peking. Blackmer 111; Cox I:256; Howgego I:B62.