HUMBOLDT (Alexander, Baron von, 1769-1859, Naturalist and Traveller)

Fine Autograph Letter Signed in French with translation, to an unnamed correspondent saying that he comes "to disturb you again, Sir, with a very indiscreet request. Would you be so kind as to allow a young compatriot who has been sent by the King of Saxony to study here at the École des Mines, Mr. Alex, to take advantage of the Institute's library from time to time ...", 2 sides sm. 8vo., no place (probably Paris), no date, together with an engraving "From the latest portrait from life", published by Johnson Wilson & Co., New York, and a small circular original photo, 2¼" x 1¾", very slight damage to top right hand corner without affecting the text

Humboldt was one of the greatest scientists of the first half of the 19th century, and a pioneer in many fields, including the climate and ecology. From 1830 he was employed by Friedrich Wilhelm III as a special envoy to France, frequently travelling between Paris and Berlin.
Translation
I come to disturb you again, Sir, with a very indiscreet request. Would you be so kind as to allow a young compatriot who has been sent by the King of Saxony to study here at the École des Mines, Mr. Alex, to take advantage of the Institute's library from time to time. Your Devoted, Humboldt.
Transcription
Je viens vous importuner à nouveau, Monsieur, d'une prière bien indiscrète. Auriez-vous l'extrême bonté de permettre à un jeune compatriote qui a été envoyé par le Roi de Saxe pour étudier ici à l'École des Mines, Mr Alex, de profiter de temps en temps de la bibliothèque de l'Institut. Votre tout Dévoué, Humboldt.

Item Date:  0

Stock No:  40758      £1275

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