David Schulson Autographs Catalog

SCIENCE & PHILOSOPHY
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Including Medicine, Exploration, Aviation

ADLER, ALFRED (1870-1937). Austrian psychiatrist, student and associate of Freud. Advanced theory of the inferiority complex.

A war date Autograph Letter Signed in German, oblong small 8vo, Vienna, December 28, 1914.

To Dr. Karl Gross, "Best Christmas greetings. Your truly modest request for my latest writings---which hardly made it in peace times---has already been filled. I ask you and Dr. Pappenheim whom I send my regards, to demand more. We feel quite 'minor', looking at your achievements...We often talk of you. We received a sign of life from poor Frischauf." Signed, “Adler.”

After serving in World War I, he returned to his work and became a world-renowned lecturer, writer and teacher on psychopathology and in 1912, he published The Neurotic Constitution. Adler's name appears again in the autograph return address

$875.00

AMUNDSEN, ROALD (1872-1928). Norwegian Explorer who navigated the Northwest Passage and flew over the North Pole.

Typed Letter Signed, on “The American-Scandinavian Society” stationery, 4to, New York, June 20, 1913.

To “The Geographic Society of Chicago.” “Before leaving this country, I feel it necessary to send you if only a few lines, to express to you my sincere appreciation of the constant interest you have shown in me and my work. My coming association with you is a source of great pride and gratification to me.” Signed, “Roald Amundsen.”

A friendly, letter penned soon after his book,The South Pole was published.

$625.00

BARTON, CLARA (1821-1912). American humanitarian and founder of the American Red Cross.

Typed Letter Signed, 2 separate 4to pages, Washington, D. C., December 28, 1891.

Barton writes a long letter to Mrs. J. Sewall Reed, widow of the Civil War captain, asking for advice in organizing an “Encampment.” “My dearly beloved…You know that, besides taking clerical orders in the W. R. C., I have been brought into the more secular work of the chairmanship for the reception of the war women at the next Encampment to be held in this City…My committee is not yet made up, and then all the other committees are to be made, and how is all this thing done? It would do me a little good if…I could …come to Boston and speak with you, Mrs. Turner, Mrs. Barker and your dear self. I would do it this next week, but that the twenty millions starving Russians are lying at my door…I feel as though somebody ought to come to me. I never felt so helpless…Serving the suffering Russia is my own business. How can I resign from that…If you can give me any advice, do so…knowledge and help and counsel….” She signs, “Clara Barton.” Two post scripts follow written by J. B. Hubbell. Hubbell was a physician involved in the Red Cross.

The Russian famine of 1891-92 affected an area of around 900,000 square miles in the Volga and central agricultural areas. Ironically, these were once the most fertile and productive parts of Russia. This fine letter offers a window into the constant demands on Barton who did not stop working until into her 70’s. Her legacy of service and aid is as important as her organizational competence.

$975.00

BARTON, CLARA (1821–1912). American teacher and humanitarian best known for organizing the the American Red Cross.

Autograph Letter Signed, 4 pp 8vo,Glen Echo , May 5, 1906.

Barton writes to Miss Kensel on various matters of Red Cross business. “Like yourself, I am too hurried to do more than make a visible sign of life…. Mrs. G[itterman] is a Smith College girl—her husband a Harvard. They have taken up their work with all the earnestness of ‘Settlement’ girls—have various branches and affiliations—one of which has been first aid…They have done earnest work…They seem delighted with your work, especially the textbook and the little book…Mrs. Gitterman … says ‘Please tell the Boston officers that I am a Smith College girl and that isn’t far from them.’ I think they will open the Washington door…I am so anxious to see that Report I can hear the true ring of it already….” Signed, “Clara Barton”.

A late letter penned when her career was coming to a close.

$825.00

BERZELIUS, JONS JAKOB (1779-1848). Swedish chemist. Determiend atomic and molecular weights of thousands of substances, using oxygen as a standard; introudced present system of writing chemical symbols and formulas.

Autograph Letter Signed, in French, 4to, Stockholm October 11, 1845.

To Dr. J. Muspratt in Liverpool, England. "even though it is not my privilege to know you personally, your name is nevertheless well known to me for the new data your work has brought to the science we both serve. It is therefore a great pleasure for me to give you the words of recommendation …." Signed, "Jas. Berzelius."

James Muspratt (1793-1886) was a British chemical manufacturer who has governmental problems at the time of the letter because of the damage done by the hydrochloric acid emitted from the factory. It is possible that the words of recommendation refer to his needed support against litigation. Mounted on brown paper, with front of envelope mounted at the head of the letter.

$550.00

BESSEMER, HENRY (1813-98). English engineer and inventor. Created a new method for making steel in 1855. Use this steel for new forms of gun manufacturing.

Autograph Letter Signed, on "Denmark Hill, Surrey" stationery, 4 pages 8vo, Surrey, England, August 30, 1883.

To his granddaughter, Daisy, with much respectful gossipy content. "You will remember that when I last saw you, I told you that I had to remove one of my large Pictures from the gallery at my house, and that I should send it to you …. Now as you know all dining room pictures ought to be hung upon rods, so I have had some brass rods made for this purpose …. I will with pleasure undertake to hang them for you …. Now My Dear Daisy, I know it is a very difficult thing to choose pictures for other people, even when you buy at the highest prices (which I have not done) however such as they are …." A nice, friendly letter signed, "With our united best love to you I remain your affectionate Grandpapa, Henry Bessemer."

In 1855, Bessemer patented the manufacture of steel by a new process from melted pig-iron through which air under pressure was blown. In 1859 he established steel works at Sheffield, where he specialized in gunmaking and then manufacture of steel rails.

$650.00

BOHR, NIELS (1885-1962). Danish physicist who received the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1922. He is the main contributor to the understanding of the structure of the atom as well as to the development of quantum mechanics.

Four original handwritten signatures on one leaf, 1 page, 8vo on “Gl. Carlsberg / København” letterhead stationery, n.p., n.d.

Bohr has written his signature four times on the stationery of his residence, each signature below the other, in black ink. He did this in order to test a new fountain pen, and together the signatures form an ideal piece for presentation.

$1800.00

BOHR, NEILS. (1885-1962). Danish Nobel Prize winner in Physics in 1922. He is the main contributor to the understanding of the structure of the atom as well as to the development of quantum mechanics.

Autograph Letter Signed, in Danish, on “Gl. Carlsberg/Kobenhavn” addressed stationery [his honorary residence], 4to, Copenhagen, June, 22, 1955.

To Henry Hansen. “I thank you for your letter in which yon inform me of your interest in scientific manuscripts and am sorry that I cannot send you any such thing since I for many years have been using secretarial help for the drafting of lectures and treatises....” Signed, “Kind Regards, Neils Bohr.”

After receiving his master’s degree in Copenhagen in 1911, Bohr left for England to study with Rutherford. During World War II, he left for America, where he worked in connection with the Manhattan project, -the project that worked on developing weapons. By 1955, he became an eager advocate of the peaceful exploitation of atomic energy and the full openness about the progress in and knowledge about atomic energy. Holograph letters of Bohr are quite scarce.

$2650.00

BONAPARTE, MARIE (1882-1962). French psychoanalyst. Granddaughter of Pierre Napoleon. Was a disciple of Sigmund Freud. She helped Freud escape from Vienna after the German invasion in 1938.

Autograph Letter Signed, in French, on her "Queen of Greece, M" stationery, four 8vo pages, "St Cloud," Paris, Jan. 15, 1922.

To Taponier, asking for assistance. "Kindly give me a piece of information I need for a modest literary work I am currently engaged in. It would be to tell me if there is a species of ants, tropical or European, that meet all of the five following conditions." Bonaparte then lists the conditions, including "live in forest, … have soldier-ants in addition to worker-ants of Switzerland, none of the species seems to meet all five conditions and I think they are likelier to be found among tropical species." Nicely signed "Marie."

A wonderful, comprehensive letter by Bonaparte seeking much information on a book she was working on.
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$425.00

BRANLY, ÉDOUARD (1844-1940). French physicist, inventor of the **coherer** (1894), a primitive form of radio-wave detector that made wireless telegraphy possible.

Autograph Letter Signed, in French, on handsome "Electrothérapie" name headed 8vo stationery, Paris, Oct. 24, 1903.

To a friend, asking a favor. "I am forwarding to you a letter addressed to me by Mr. Joseph Planche, doctor of law, very distinguished former student of the Catholic Institute, of a very religious and high ranking family in Verdun. See what you can do for his protégé." Nicely signed, "E. Branly." A warm, friendly letter on wonderful stationery. Quite appealing for display.

$325.00

BRANLY, ÉDOUARD (1844-1940). French physicist who invented the radio-wave detector, a significant invention before the age of electronic tubes.

Autograph Letter Signed, in French, on a small carte-lettre opens to 12mo, Paris, 1912.

He writes to André Hoffman. "At the laboratory there are a number of old accumulators that might still be of some use and that you could have for your experiments. They would be simply given to you. I will be at the laboratory every day this week ....” Signed, "E. Branly.” A good letter with scientific reference.
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$300.00

'Applications of science to warfare and materialistic enjoyment
will be the downfall of mankind.'

BRANLY, EDOUARD (1844-1940). French physicist, inventor of the coherer (1894), a primitive form of radio-wave detector that made wireless telegraphy possible.

Excellent Autograph Quotation Signed, in French, 8vo, n.p., n.d.

"Applications of science to warfare and materialistic enjoyment will be the downfall of mankind." A truly poignant quote by the father of telegraphy. Signed "Edouard Branly."

This remarkable quote embodies the frustration that many scientists have with how their respective discipline is used.
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$625.00

BROCA, PAUL (1824-80). French surgeon and anthropologist.

Autograph Letter Signed., in French, three pages on one 8vo sheet, Paris, December 2, 1865.

He writes to Azam about wine and medicine. "There is no rush on the wine question…thank you for the trouble you went through to fill up my wine cellar…the one bottle I drank a few days ago seemed to be superior to the one I had had a taste of in Bordeaux…congratulation…on the foundation of your new medical association…I will do the research on Lanelangue's memoir on esophagus surgery…you talk like someone who has yet to receive Volume I of my treatise on tumors…." He then complains about the bookstore's inefficiency in sending the books. He signs, "P. Broca."

Broca, known for his medical research, is best remembered for the discovery of the speech center in the human brain named after him. He is also noted for research in aphasia. In the era of this letter, he founded the Anthropological Society of Paris in 1859, and the Revue d'Anthropologie in 1872. This letter contains fine association to medical research.
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$625.00

BROCA, PAUL (1824-80). French surgeon and anthropologist.

Autograph Letter Signed in French on mourning stationery, small 8vo, March 22, 1879.

To a friend. " I only found today in the directory of teaching surgeons the place under Pathological surgery section...doctors section Broca, Larrey, Richet....." He signs, "P. Broca.."

Broca was noted for his medical research, particularly for the discovery of the speech center (now known as Broca's area) in the human brain, and for research in aphasia. Also a pioneer in the study of physical anthropology, Broca founded the Anthropological Society of Paris in 1859, the Revue d'Anthropologie in 1872, and the School of Anthropology in Paris in 1876. Near the end of his career, when he penned this letter, Broca was elected a lifetime member of the French Senate. Unusual content.
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$550.00

BROGLIE, LOUIS VICTOR PRINCE DE (1892-1987). French physicist.

Autograph Letter Signed, in French, 8vo, Neuilly sur Seine, December 17, 1938.

He mentions one of his books. "I did receive…the 40 copies of my book, 'Wave Mechanics of Corpuscle Systems' that you sent me. I see no need to add anyone else to the press list…I will let you know of any personality to whom I may have forgotten to send a copy of the book…." He signs this early letter, "Louis de Broglie."

De Broglie is known for his theory that matter has the properties of both particles and waves. He received the 1929 Nobel Prize for physics. A stamp indicating receipt of the letter appears at the top edge of the text. A fine letter suggesting the publication of his Wave Mechanics of Corpuscle Systems.

$525.00

BURROUGHS, JOHN (1837-1921). American naturalist.

Autograph Letter Signed, one and a half pages 8vo, West Park, N.Y., June 11, 1914.

To Madeline Edison, daughter of the inventor, Thomas Edison. “I wish I were to attend your wedding and see that lucky young man carry off such a prize. But I shall have to deny myself. If you go on a motoring tour please come this way and let me congratulate the fortunate youth. I hope your father and mother are well and the boys also, and that there is a world of happiness in store for you. My two weeks at Seminole Lodge made me acquainted with your rare qualities of mind and heart. Signed, “Your friend and well wishes John Burroughs”

A nice tribute from the great naturalist to the daughter of the great inventor.

$375.00

BURTON, RICHARD FRANCIS (1821-90). British explorer, translator, writer, soldier, orientalist, ethnologist, linguist, poet, hypnotist, fencer and diplomat. He was known for his travels and explorations in Asia and Africa as well as his extraordinary knowledge of languages and cultures. According to one count, he spoke twenty-nine European, Asian, and African languages.

Autograph Letter Signed, on his Arabic letterhead, 2 pp, small 8vo, Vaud, Switzerland, 11 July 1888. With the original envelope,

To Thomas E. Sterry explaining that Sterry's letter had followed him about, and acknowledging an authorial mistake. “The note went to Trieste and followed me round about Switzerland. How ‘Shakespeare’ stood for Keats in ‘much have I traveled’ etc. puzzles me. It is the merest blunder and if the author blundered the reader might have corrected him.” Nicely signed, “yours faithfully R.F. Burton”.

Burton was always a threat to British Society either because of his outspoken views or his possible homosexuality. A good literary letter related to Shakespeare.

$2500.00

“pretending to be making coffee while preparing oriental senna”

CALDANI , LEOPOLDDO MARCO ANTONIO (1725–1813). Italian anatomist and physiologist. He is noted for his experimental studies on the function of the spinal cord and for the introduction of electricity in the physiology of the nerves. His most celebrated work is his anatomical atlas made in collaboration with his nephew.

Excellent Autograph Letter Signed, in Italian, 4to, Padua, April 12, 1789.

He writes a lengthy letter. “Idiocy that, if in the story used here it is literally not equivocal, is only a few months old and was produced for no obvious reason, should be surmountable in some way by [medical] skill. I say should be because if the young man has never given any sign of mental weakness whatsoever in his childhood, you have to worry that the illness is congenital and that it developed little by little to the current condition and that perhaps it increases even more when, with the beginning of puberty and of the preparation of [?] in the designated organs, no beneficial change occurs. In similar cases [medical] skill has no more effective treatments than those of elimination and bloodletting; and those are administered by surgery or medication. Surgery suggests first of all the opening of the hemorrhoidal veins by way of leeches. Submerged in a cold bath or shower with constant dripping on the crown of the head. And finally cauterizing in the nape of the neck. If it turns out that those treatments have to be used over a long time, a skilled person should perform them. As far as pharmaceutical remedies are concerned, it is probably difficult to make the young patient swallow medication. You may be able to trick him pretending to be making coffee while preparing oriental senna, or with another method. Or finally, by having a solution of hellebor prepared to be taken a few times in the discussed quantity, with which the common can be swallowed. If the practice of these remedies shows improvement from June to autumn, the writer suggests bone grafting. This result would probably have to be a long time and be maintained until healing, with the warning not to reverse it with reactions.” A beautifully penned and signed letter, “Leopoldo M.A. Caldani”.

Letters penned by Caldani are quite scarce and this letter discussing care and treatment of a young patient is most desirable,

$3450.00

CARVER, GEORGE WASHINGTON (1864-1943). American botanist. Promoted crop diversification, emphasizing the use of peanuts and soybeans.

Typed Letter Signed , 2 separate pages 4to, n.p. [Tuskegee, Alabama], March 30, 1931.

This letter is marked "Copy for Mr. Porter." It is a letter to a Bob Barry of the Tom Huston Peanut Company. Porter worked at the same peanut farm. "With the vast amount of work we have already done, and what we have outlined for this year's work, together with the challenges you have thrown out, the corporation interest you have awakened, I believe we're going to make monumental strides along the line of peanut diseases and their control …." Carver then proceeds by suggesting how Porter and Barry have "recognition of peanuts diseases," therefore, "we will group them by great family into smaller groups …. You will find it exceedingly interesting to get acquainted with host plants in the same way …. Now is the time to look for Peronospores, the downy fungus found on the underside of the leaves of several plants. It is usually white in color, but a few species are smoke brown. The Accidiums are known as cluster cups, because they resemble little tubes somewhat …. The cedar Apple fungus is also ready. Some of the limbs and stems are diseased also …. I have some inoculation experiments going on now. I am not sure it is the cause of sour heart, we will have to work it out this summer. The only thing we would be safe in saying is that Trichothecium roseum has been found in the "sour hearted" peanuts …." Signed, "G.W. Carver" Director, Agricultural Research & Experiment Station. With holograph envelope.

A remarkable, scientific letter spreading his research about different diseases in peanuts to two different peanut growers in Georgia.

$1,200.00

CARVER, GEORGE WASHINGTON (1864-1943). American agricultural chemist and botanist.

Autograph Letter Signed, on printed Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute stationery 4to, Alabama, Jan. 4, 1931.

Carver discusses the merit of a smoky quartz sample sent him by a Mr. Porter. "You have almost found the real thing, it is not clear enough, to be of value. It is however very pretty, I imagine the real thing in there somewhere. I hope to put the polish on the little piece from Fla. tomorrow. Its beauty is going to deceive you … I want to try out a piece from the large block tomorrow also. […] This last batch of stone is really worthwhile." Signed, "G.W. Carver." With holograph envelope.
Carver had learned to love nature as a child too sickly to work in the fields. He had a keen appreciation for beauty, was a gifted pianist, and supported himself by taking in laundry. He showed significant talent, but his art teacher encouraged him to pursue his talent with plants and transfer to Iowa State College of Agriculture. Carver found his true calling as head of the Tuskegee Experiment Station, from 1910 on working on research projects designed to help Southern agriculture in general and the poor black farmer, ``the man farthest down,'' in particular. A gracious and encouraging letter to another admirer of natural history.

$825.00

"We have given her some grains of morphine"

CAVELL, EDITH (1865-1915). British nurse.

Autograph Letter Signed, in French, on rubber stamped address stationery, three pages on one folded 8vo sheet, Brussels, November 7, 1910.

She writes as Director of Berkendeal Institute for Nurses informing her correspondent about a patient. "Madame Deleus continues in almost the same condition, but she has suffered a little more these last few days...we have given her some grains of morphine which have relieved her appetite…she eats well enough but her appetite is capricious. She signs, "E. Cavell, Directress."

Cavell became matron of a large training center for nurses in Brussels, in 1907. At the outbreak of World War I, this school became a Red Cross hospital where she attended many wounded soldiers from both German and Allied sides. On August 5, 1915, she was arrested by the Germans for having sheltered 200 British, French, and Belgian soldiers in her house and for having helped them to escape from Belgium. For this treason, the German government, having ignored the pleas from Allied nations to spare her, executed her by a firing squad on October 12, 1915. The execution aroused great indignation and she continues to be recognized as a heroine of the First World War. A commemorative statue was erected in Trafalgar Square, London. Letters showing her functioning as a nurse are rare.

$2750.00

CAVELL, EDITH (1865-1915). British nurse.

Printed and holograph Document Signed, in French, small 8vo, Brussels, May 20, 1911.

This document is a receipt number 414 from the "Institut Médical de Berkendael" in Brussels indicating that the sum of two hundred seventeen francs was received by Madame Claesseur for "the services of a nurse." Signed under her title as Director, "E. Cavell."

In 1907, Cavell became the director of a large training center for nurses in Brussels. In 1914, at the outbreak of World War I, the center served as a Red Cross hospital treating both German and Allied soldiers. In August 1915, she was arrested by the Germans for having sheltered British, French, and Belgian soldiers in her house and for having helped them to escape from Belgium. An international outcry failed to prevent her execution by a firing squad on October 12, 1915. She is remembered for her humanitarian service during World War I. This document signed as Director of the training school for nurses before World War I is superb for presentation.

$1500.00

CARVER, GEORGE WASHINGTON (1864-1943). American agricultural chemist. Born into slavery. After being freed, he earned a college degree and dedicated his life to improving the economy of the South and the position of African Americans. Developed 325 peanut-based products, 500 plant-derived dyes, and discovered products ranging from axle grease to Worcestershire sauce.

Autograph Letter Signed. on “Tuskegee Institute” letterhead, 2p 4to, Tuskegee, AL, Dec. 23-30, 1930.

To: “My esteemed friend Mr. Porter:- No Christmas greetings have come to me that I appreciate more than yours, knowing how very sincere you are, and how thoroughly genuine you are.” In this lengthy letter, he discusses his most recent experimentation and expresses delighted enthusiasm for what is still to come. “I have cut and dressed two small pieces from the large stalactite. They are pretty but too porous … It may get better as I go into it further, … Mr. Porter, I am looking forward to next year with them most pleasant anticipation, … to complete what we have begun … discover new things and work out plans whereby the farmer can be helped … I believe you and Mr. Burrey with what little assistance I could give you, have made and are yet making a very distinct contribution to one of science’s foremost industries, the peanut …. It benefits more people than just the peanut grower. Very gratefully yours, G.W. Carver.”
Carver was hired to head the agricultural research department at Tuskegee in 1896, and stayed there until his death from anemia. Written shortly before Stalin requested Carver’s assistance with Soviet cotton plantations, in 1931. Carver declined, but sent staff members, feeling his work was too precious to put on hold. A remarkable letter from a humble man. With holograph envelope.

$1,100.00

COSMONAUTS

A handsome designed multicolored Document Signed, 12mo, commemorating May Day, n.p., 1967.

This attractive card in red, turquoise and grey depicts numerous flag-like symbols overlooking a bridge. It is signed by the above four cosmonauts in both blue and green.

This is a most attractive card, and desirable reunion of space travelers.

$800.00

CZERNY, VINCENZ (1842-1916). German researcher of medicine. Best known for his work on tumors at Heidelberg, including his work in cancer research.

Important Autograph Letter Signed, in German, 2 full pages 8vo, Heidelberg, May 26, 1915.

To a friend and patron. "I am very disappointed to hear that the hemorrhage has become worse after the radium treatment. It is the disadvantage of this method that the dose needs to be adjusted individually from case to case. Even though the capsule is very potent (37 milligrams) the one hour treatment obviously did not go beyond the stage of a simple irritation. The dose has to be tripled the next time. It would be even better to let the capsule sit for 6 hours. The capsule is in my safe and at your personal disposal. But first of all, we need to stop the hemorrhage. As ointments give the best results, I will write a prescription …. It is necessary to introduce the ointment in to the anus with your little finger or with a syringe …." A remarkable letter, with treatment options. Signed "V. Czerny."

Czerny had already been quite involved in cancer and tumor research, and here late in life continues with his work on a patron/friend. A superb letter.

$1,250.00

DeBAKEY, MICHAEL American surgeon, famed for his work with heart transplantation.

Original Drawing Signed, oblong 8vo, n.p., n.d. #(5111)

DeBakey has drawn a clear representation of the human heart in pencil, showing the interlacing of the major arteries. Signed in blue ink at the bottom, "Michael E. DeBakey."

$250.00

EDISON, THOMAS ALVA (1847-1931). American inventor. Among his many inventions, of which he patented over a thousand, were an automatic telegraph repeater, printing telegraph, electric pen, the photograph and the incandescent lamp.

Typed Document Signed, folio, New York, January 1, 1894.

This is the original "Annual Report" of "The Edison Electric Light Company of Europe Limited." “We, the undersigned a majority of the directors of the Edison Electric Light Company of Europe Limited a corporation organized under the laws of the State of New York do hereby make the following report." The report then lists four provisions as follows: “The Capital Stock …. is Two Million Dollars, the proportion of its capital stock, the existing debts of the Company and the assets of the company….” The document is signed by the majority of Directors. "Thos. A. Edison," "Alfred O. Tates" and "W. Perry."

This is a beautiful and significant document of The Edison Electric Light Company of Europe Limited which was incorporated in New York December 23, 1880. It controlled Edison's electric light patents in Europe, excluding the United Kingdom. The Company at this time had capital stock of two million dollars. In pristine condition.

$2,400.00

EDISON, THOMAS ALVA (1847-1931). American inventor. Among his many inventions, of which he patented over a thousand, were an automatic telegraph repeater, printing telegraph, electric pen, the photograph and the incandescent lamp. Produced talking mo

Typed Document Signed, folio, New York, January 1, 1894.

This is the original "Annual Report" of "The Edison Electric Light Company of Europe Limited." We the undersigned a majority of the directors of the Edison Electric Light Company of Europe Limited a corporation organized under the laws of the State of New York do hereby make the following report." The report then lists four provisions as follows: The Capital Stock …. is Two Million Dollars, the proportion of its capital stock, the existing debts of the Company and the assets of the company. It is signed by the majority of Directors. "Thos. A. Edison," "Alfred O. Tates" and "W. Perry."

This is a beautiful and significant document of The Edison Electric Light Company of Europe Limited was incorporated in New York December 23, 1880. It controlled Edison's electric light patents in Europe, excluding the United Kingdom. The Company at this time had capital stock of two million dollars. In pristine condition.

$2,650.00

EDISON, THOMAS ALVA (1847-1931). American inventor who developed the electric light bulb, an electric generating system, a sound-recording device, and a motion picture projector

Autograph Letter Signed., in pencil, 2 separate 4to pages, n.p., Wednesday, n.d.

To his wife, he writes about his lab. "We are having a big snow storm … we are progressing fairly well. I am trying … so we can move the draughtsman down to laboratory … & finish …. With every snow flake loaded down with love for Extra Billy and her two little pinks of perfection …." Signed, "TAE Thomas is OK."
Uncommon double signature and good reference to his lab.

$2,350.00

EDISON, THOMAS ALVA (1847-1931). American inventor and businessman, known for his practical applications of science.

Autograph Note Signed, in bold pencil, 8vo, n.p., n.d,

He writes to Fagan, “Why not provide a …Cutter and have your flocke sheet men trim edges up to the limit…They trim in a crude way with small shears & waste a lot it. ‘Zulu’s’….” He signs, “Edison.” In pencil. An attractive, hands on letter.

$1350.00

ERICSSON, JOHN (1803-89). Swedish born, American engineer, who made numerous changes to the steam engine. He also worked on the war ship, The Monitor, inaugurating a new era in warfare by creating vessels capable of launching torpedoes.

Autograph Letter Signed, 4to, n.p, March 22, 1859.

To a gentleman. “The anticipated breaking of frank’s main leer, through the runner, has come and came, as unfortunately must, in every engine doing any thing like maximum work. I am induced to ask what action Ms. Clute have taken in the matter. You remember my letter of the 13th March, which I sent to you and in which I urged it as an imperative necessity for Msrs. Clute to put wrought levers on the cast rack shafts in every engine cast in the manner complained of? I hope Msrs. Clute, in the face of my letter, has not sent down a new batch of engines without doing what they expressed themselves willing to do. Should the matter have been neglected, then order them at once to send your wrought iron main levers as fast as they can make them and let Banks turn the rack and put the levers online.” Nicely signed, “Your truly, J. Ericsson.” In a lengthy postscript, he continues. “Frank’s engine is being pushed at Delmatins (?) with all possible speed but quadruple work has been done to which was expected. The engine appears to have been kept at white heat for hours as the vessel in the supply picture was completely burnt out.”

By 1859, Ericsson was working on war ships, and by 1862 he designed and built his famous ship, The Monitor. A superb, scientific letter.

$925.00

FLEMING , ALEXANDER (1881-1955). Scottish bacteriologist who shared the 1945 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for the discovery and development of penicillin with British scientists Howard Florey and Ernst Chain.

Autograph Letter Signed, 3 pages 8vo, on "Royal York Hotel" deckle edge stationery, Toronto, Canada, July 7, 1945.

He writes to Ethel, thanking her for her hospitality and relating the several events and expectations on his whirlwind tour of the US and Canada after winning the Nobel Prize. "I want to thank you for giving John Cameron and myself such a fine time. After running about hotels for a while it was just heavenly being with you on the lake...We had a good journey to Washington...I had to go to dinner at the Mayflower with the D.C. medical society. After dinner I had to talk to the Society - about 600 of them - for an hour..." Dealing with letters and messages between his scheduled speaking engagements, he next goes to Toronto where he "was taken possession of by the University people and kept busy till 5 o’clock when I escaped to a cocktail party and a quiet supper.…" Fleming describes further details of his rather heavy schedule, including going to Montreal and Yale, closing with further expression of appreciation for her and other friends' kindnesses, "and I look forward to seeing you all again on one side or other of the Atlantic..." Boldly signed, "Yours very Sincerely, Alex Fleming."

In 1921, Fleming discovered a natural protein with bacteria-killing properties that he named lysozome. In his lab in 1928, Fleming discovered mold in an uncovered culture of staphylococci that repelled bacteria. He identified the mold as Penicillium notatum and published his findings in 1929, naming the substance penicillin. Fleming lacked sufficient chemistry skills to exploit his findings, but years later penicillin was developed by Howard Florey and Ernest Chain into the first significant antibiotic. Fleming was knighted in 1944, and in 1945 he shared the Nobel prize in medicine and physiology with Florey and Chain. A wonderful; letter showing Fleming as the celebrity he became soon after winning the Nobel Prize.

$2850.00

FLEMING, J. AMBROSE (1848-1945). English electrical engineer. He was the first Professor of Electrical Engineering at University College, London. (1884), a position he would occupy for over forty years, and also the first scientific advisor to the Marconi Co.

Autograph Letter Signed, on his name-imprinted stationery, Devon, England, May 12, 1939. #(5120)

"I cannot sign the enclosed picture because if I did it would amount to agreeing that the picture is a portrait of me. … My wife and the relatives staying here agree it is not in the least like a portrait of me hence I return it." Boldly signed, "Ambrose Fleming."

$375.00

FRAZER, JAMES GEORGE (1854-1941). British social anthropologist, best known for his study, The Golden Bough.

Autograph Letter Signed, 2 pages on one large 8vo sheet, St. James Park, London, June 19, 1927.

He writes to (Edward?) Lyttelton headmaster of Eton], summarizing his life's work and his attitude to religion, “I deeply sympathize with and respect it [the religious view of life], though I do not share it. My childhood was passed in a religious atmosphere, for my dear and honoured parents were devout Christians...Our religious differences (which we never discussed), far from being a barrier, have rather been a link between us...for I have a tenderness for the old faith and for those who hold it, and I never forget how little we know and can ever hope to know about the ultimate problems. Hardly anything offends me so much as the confident dogmatism of some rationalists. My work has lain chiefly among the crude elementary religions of the lower races; I have not seriously studied the great historical religions of the civilised peoples and have therefore little or no claim to speak about them. Such as my conclusions, tentative and provisional, are on the early history of religion and society...” He signs in full, “James G. Frazer.

The perspective Frazer expresses here are representative of his views.

$1650.00

FREUD, ANNA. (1895-1982). Austrian born English child psychologist. Daughter of Sigmund Freud.

Autograph Letter Signed, in German, 4to, Tresco, Sept. 23, 1963.

To Paula [Fichtl], both Sigmund and Anna’s housekeeper. “I am afraid won’t leave because of the storm… so I’ll ring only once we are back on the mainland… Last year, in America, I still got a cable from the princess, her last one… Maybe I’ll go soon to Golders Green…” Signed, “Anna Freud”.

A warm letter to her loyal friend and housekeeper, Paula Fichtl.

$300.00

FREUD, ANNA (1895-1982). Austrian-born English child psychologist. Daughter of Sigmund Freud.

Autograph Letter Signed, in German, 4to, County Cork, Ireland, Sept. 13, 1973.

To Paula [Fichtl], Sigmund and Anna's housekeeper. "I am now firmly determined to try to find a real working woman for the fall. It must be possible if one pays enough; a decent, settled woman without small children …. We hear all about the bombs on the radio. It's terrible…." Signed, "Anna Freud."

A warm letter to her loyal friend and housekeeper, Paula Fichtl. Especially interesting is the mention of bombs on the radio in 1973. Possibly a reference to the IRA.

$325.00

“You should have voiced your reservations about Dr. Reich”

FREUD, SIGMUND (1865-1939). Austrian neurologist, recognized as the founder of fundamental concepts of psychoanalysis.

Extraordinary Typed Letter Signed, in German, 2pp on one 8vo sheet of printed, “Prof. Dr. Freud,” stationery printed with his famous “Bergasse 19” address, Vienna, Dec. 15, 1924

Freud writes to long time colleague Dr. Paul Federn (1872-1950), Austrian physician and psychoanalyst, whose long relationship with Freud lasted for over 35 years. Federn favored opening the study and practice of psychoanalysis beyond the medical profession and using psychoanalysis for social and political transformation. Freud writes, “I am very sorry, but I cannot get you out of the awkward difficulty you have brought on yourself. You should have voiced your reservations about Dr. Reich during the board meeting, rather than afterwards. It would be improper for me to gather signatures from the various board members right before the meeting and thereby create the impression that something motivated me to take a stand against Dr. Reich. What would you do if somebody, say, Frau Dr. Deutsch, were to refuse to sign? The only thing to be done is to support the decision that was reached by the board with your support. As far as Dr. H. is concerned, we had agreed that nothing was to become known as long as it could be construed as gossip or exaggeration of an impression. It will be easier for you to reassure Jekels and Hitschmann than, conversely, every single board member….” He signs in a large hand, “Freud.”

This remarkable letter reveals the inside workings of the psychoanalytic circle Freud began and which Federn joined. Freud makes reference to his colleagues notably “Frau Deutsch,” Helena Deutsch (1884-1982) the fist psychoanalyst to study women, Wilhelm Reich, (1897-1957), who had joined the Vienna Psychoanalytic Institute in 1924, the year of this letter. Eduard Hitschmann, Austrian physician and psychoanalyst (1871-1957), an early and loyal disciple of Freud. In additions to its outstanding content, the letter is quite attractive for display.

$6500.00

FREUD, SIGMUND. (1856-1939) Austrian neurologist and founder of psychoanalysis. Left Vienna in 1938 because of the Nazi regime.

Typed Letter Signed, on his “Prof. Dr. Freud, Bergstrasse 19” stationery, 8vo, Vienna, Nov. 26, 1925.

To Edward [Bernays] his brother-in-law, a leading public relations expert, who did pioneering work into the psychology of advertising. “I received with thanks the check for $150, from Boni and Liveright and once more admire your skill. In the other case of the reprinting of a few pages from The Psychopathology of Everyday Life I chose not to bother about indemnification…” Signed “Uncle Sigm”.

In 1924, Boni and Liveright published his book, Beyond the Pleasure Principle. The $150 Bernays collected was most probably royalties for this book. A nice, personal letter thanking his brother-in-law for collecting money for him.

$3250.00

It is quite right that the analyzed must bare all his flaws to the analyst

FREUD, SIGMUND (1856-1939). Austrian neurologist, writer and founder of psychoanalysis.

Extraordinary Typed Letter Signed, in German, 2 pages on one folio sheet of his printed, “Prof. Dr. Freud” stationery, Bergasse 19, Vienna, November, 10, 1924.

He writes to colleague and friend Dr. Paul Federn, about one of Federn’s patients and the difficult situation in which Federn found himself as a result of psychoanalyzing this patient. “I am sorry that you have taken the affair U. so seriously….” “U” refers to Rudolf con Urbantschitsch (1879-1964) who was Federn’s patient between 1922 and 1923. “If you consider submitting your demission in the Society on these grounds, you will certainly receive a vote of confidence. My confidence is not shaken…it will probably be best if you do not undertake anything like that…you are in danger of going too far when you are helping someone to get out of a bad situation. This is just one of your traits which we have already gotten used to…you mustn’t have been so confident that my admitted sympathy for U. was going to be strong enough to force him upon the Society against its will…. You…know that when it comes to emotions, it depends on the quantities. Qualitative analysis alone does nothing…the growing realization of his untruthfulness made it impossible for me to undertake further steps in his favor…after all, I had just recently received a new proof of his unreliability in the matter of the examined letter, and you yourself had made a new contribution to this topic in the society with the story of the uncured patient…I still don’t share your opinion about Bernfeld’s conduct….” He refers to Siegfried Bernfield (1892-1953), one of the first lay psychoanalysts to practice in Vienna starting in 1922. Bernfeld was also secretary to the Librarian of the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society, referred to in Freud’s letter. Freud continues, “It is quite right that the analyzed must bare all his flaws to the analyst, in turn he may be assured of his confidentiality…if there is among these flaws an incurable one which makes his acceptance in the Society appear unadvisable, then this duty of confidentiality becomes second to the duty of not bringing harm to the cause…I am of the opinion that minor differences must not interfere with cooperation, since a complete agreement among different people can never be achieved and would not even be desirable…In the hope that these frank words will help you over the slight shock, I am with cordial regards….” He signs, “Freud,” in a large hand in black ink.

Freud writes to a colleague and member of the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society, which Freud founded, Dr. Paul Federn (1871-1950). Federn is credited with developing the concept of authoritarianism. He taught at Yale after getting out of Austria during World War II. There, he became an influential teacher to a second generation of psychoanalysts. This unusually long and detailed letter by Freud referring to the relationship between analyst and patient as well as to the workings of the Vienna Society make this letter particularly important.

$14,500.00

GALL, FRANZ (1758-1828). German physician and founder of phrenology. Pioneer in ascribing cerebral functions to various areas of the brain.

Superb Autograph Letter Signed, in German, 3 pages 8vo., Hamburg, Sept. 16, 1805.

Gall writes from his first lecture series to a friend in Vienna whom he asks for news about “the Contessa” possibly a patient. “Please promise me that you will report at once if she should have the slightest misadventure, so that I can continue my work with peace of mind. Everything, everything has gone well; I have much to read in Hamburg. But all the people are still in the countryside, I have to gomuch further north, to where I have been earnestly invited. The War keeps me in uncertainty as to what I shall do next. The day after tomorrow I will travel to Kiel because tomorrow I still expect letters. Is it not impossible that I shall get to Copenhagen. I have been sent very flattering invitations. In 4-5 weeks I shall be back in Hamburg. Please communicate my address to the Contessa.” Signed, as usual, “Gall” with a handsome copy of an engraving.

The address leaf contains his address in Hamburg, “At Louis Fallati” the Hamburg merchant. In 1805, Gall had to leave Vienna where his “materialistic” lectures had been prohibited.

$1450.00

“I have….invented a pneumatic gun for discharging high explosives”

GATLING, DR. RICHARD JORDAN (1818 -1903). American inventor best known for his invention of the Gatling gun, the first successful machine gun.

Typed Letter Signed, on “Office of the Gatling Gun Company” stationery, 4to, Hartford, CT., April 26, 1890. Also included is the autograph corrected printed biography published by George Routledge.

To Messrs. George Routledge & Sons in New York discussing a “Proof” of a biographical sketch sent to Gatling for his review and the corrections. “Gentlemen: The enclosed sketch of my life is correct as far as it goes. I have, since the sketch was written, invented an improved method of casting large cannon of steel, and also a Torpedo and Gun-Boat, and a Pneumatic Gun for discharging high explosives. I have been in Europe a number of times. I was in France and exhibited my guns at the Paris Exposition in1867.” Boldly and ornately signed, “Very truly yours, R. J. Gatling”.

Gatling’s letters are scarce, and those talking about his inventions are even more so. A superb and important letter and corrected proof from the man who invented the “machine” gun.

$2650.00

GORGAS, W.C. (1854-1920). American Army officer and physician. In charge of yellow fever camp in Havana (1898) IS THIS THE SPANISH AMERICAN WAR I>E> TEDDY ROOSEVELT ASSAULT?. Chief Sanitary Officer, Panama Canal Commission.

Autograph Note Signed, 8vo, Grayequite, Ecuador, April 8, 1919.

An intriguing note to possible Admiral Robert E. Perry's wife, "Mrs. Perry." "Commenced April 8th 1919 on board the steamship Geajutta between Panama and Grayequite, W.C. Gorgas. Major-General U.S. Army (Ret) finished at Grayequite, Ecuador April 26. Given me by Mrs. Perry."

An uncommon note from the noted physician who helped eradicate yellow fever and malaria while digging and creating the Panama Canal.

$250.00

“HAHN, OTTO (1879 -1968). German chemist who received the 1944 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. He is considered a pioneer of radioactivity and radiochemistry, and regarded as "the father of nuclear chemistry". Hahn was also called the "founder of the atomic age" by his contemporaries and, officially, by the senate and the scientists of the Max Planck Society.

Autograph Letter Signed, in German, on magnificent hotel multicolored stationery, 4 full 4to pages, Partenkirchen, Thursday, September 3, 1931.

An extremely long gossipy letter to his wife Edith,[Hahn]. “I do want to write you a real letter…And today I got the one you sent…I thank you for all of them. But I never got the card you sent to the Karwendel hut, nor the card Baeyer sent here; he had not put his return address on it, so the stupid hotel desk clerk probably threw it out instead of keeping it until Professor Hahn would arrive. Here, too…Two days ago I drove to Lake Eib with Baeyer…. Baeyer, Bodenstein and I spent the evening in one of the local pubs. Today, Baeyer and I took the funicular up to the ‘Wank,’ another 3,000 ft higher. Baeyer was able to walk those 3,000 ft back down, which he paid for with a lot of sweat. But during the day, he only drinks seltzer, lemonade, and coffee. And only in the evening it’s beer, but then several glasses. But it’s easier here than in Berlin and it does as little harm as in Munich…Of course it all costs more than in the Pinzgau, where everything is more primitive and where there are fewer opportunities to spend money. Now a little more regarding your letters. The pneumothorax may not be all that bad. Our acquaintance, Dr. Riehl (used to be in the laboratory, now is with Auer) has one done almost every month; meanwhile, he’s been back with Bauer and hopes to be fully recovered soon. - I am happy that Hartmut is biking and swimming again and hope the limping will improve as well…Well, I won’t say anything about the Punch and Judy show and will wait to be surprised…How is Lise [Meitner]? I wrote her a while back to think about coming here for a few days, but two days ago I wrote her that it wouldn’t be worth it now for such a short time. I may well make a detour from Frankfurt if she is somewhere in Germany before her physics conference. It wouldn’t hurt if we were able to talk about the program of the Bunsengesellschaft before it takes place. She must be quite exhausted coming straight from the lab. Why don’t you call and invite her….” Signed, “Your Otto”. With holograph envelope.

Lise Meitner worked together with Hahn for 30 years, each of them leading a section in Berlin's Kaiser Wilhelm Institute for Chemistry. Hahn and Meitner collaborated closely, studying radioactivity, with her knowledge of physics and his knowledge of chemistry. In 1918, they discovered the element protactinium. This is a highly attractive letter, both lengthy, gossipy and with great association.

$1750.00

HAHN, OTTO (1879-1968). German chemist who received the 1944 Nobel Prize for chemistry.

Autograph Letter Signed, in German, two sides on a government postcard, postmarked Berchtesgaden, with holograph date, August 2, 1932.

He writes to his wife, Edith telling her about the people he has been meeting while away and the trips he has planned. "I know nothing about a small violinist. Something must have been lost in the mail ...." He signs, "Otto." This is an early letter written before his work on nuclear fission. His research in collaboration with Fritz Strassman led directly to the development of the atomic bomb.

$225.00

HERSCHEL, JOHN FREDERICK WILLIAM (1792-1871). British astronomer and chemist..

Autograph Letter Signed., 8vo, Kent, March 13, 1867.
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He responds to a proposal that he become an honorary member of the "Society of Engineers ... I cannot but feel honoured ... I fear in the present state of my health I can hardly hope for the gratification of attending its meetings ...." He signs, "J.F.W. Herschel."
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Herschel continued the work of his father William Herschel and studied the stars of the southern hemisphere. He became president of the Royal Astronomical Society in 1848.
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$200.00

HINKLE, Beatrice American psychiatrist. Opened first psychotherapeutic clinic in America in 1908.

Typed Letter Signed, on her name-imprinted professional stationery 4to, New York, April 7, 1933. #(5133)

"I have been so rushed that not a moment has been free for anything having to do with myself or personal matters. … Meanwhile I shall try to read the little brochure that Mrs. Lazel has included with her letter." Signed "Beatrice M. Hinkle."

$200.00

HOFFMANN, FRIEDRICH. (1669-1742) German physician; experimented with various remedies. An influential theorist and who systematized medicine.

Manuscript Letter Signed, in Latin, 4 pages, Halle, March 15, 1694.

Hoffmann, one of the most famous doctors of his time, writes this letter to Philipp Mueller, a provost in Magdeburg, who had just consulted with him. Hoffmann answers by summing up for Mueller in a few lines his essential ideas on the art of medicine. “Because moral philosophy is not foreign to me, I consider work in the natural sciences (medicine) as very connected to it. With humans everything that concerns the mind and the body may be reduced to what the doctor knows, and I do not think that any one else may know better the very essence and the functions of the mind than the person who has been immersed in the knowledge of natural things. The mind (head, thinking) is intimately linked to the strength of the body. So weather conditions and the nervous system may influence the mind differently and derange it. For this reason, a doctor must treat at the same time head and body functions, etc.” Hoffmann then talks in detail about some medicinal plants (veronica, rosemary, sage) as well as about a therapy that he recommends to strengthen one’s hand fingers by using a combination of “balm” (Peruvian balsam) and oil. He finally brings up his writing against the affirmations made by Bontekoe and the School of Chemists, on the subject of certain acid deficiencies in the body, thought to be the origin of all diseases. A superb early letter signed in Latin, “Excellentiss. Nominis Tui Cultor perpetuus Fr. Hoffmann.”

Letters of Hoffmann, the seventeenth century physician are rare.

$3650.00

HOFMANN, ALBERT (b. 1915). Swiss chemist and accidental discoverer of LSD.
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Original drawing signed, 8vo, n.p., n.d.
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An 8vo card is a copy of a photograph of the noted chemist. Below this faint, almost surreal, image is a wonderful rendering of the LSD compound, so noted and signed “Albert Hofmann.”
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A wonderful relic of the last 40 years.
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$700.00

HOFMANN, ALBERT (b. 1915). Swiss chemist and accidental discoverer of LSD.

Original Signed Drawing, 8vo, n.p., n.d.

Dr. Hoffman has drawn the chemical compound for LSD, identifying its components, and has signed in full in the lower right corner of this card, “Albert Hofmann.” He has also inscribed the drawing in the upper left.

Ideal for display.

$775.00

HOFMANN, ALBERT (b. 1906). Swiss chemist, best known for having discovered the hallucinogen, LSD.

Original signed drawing of the chemical compound, LSD, 4to, n.p., n.d.

He has drawn the molecular structure of LSD and named its components within the structure. The illustration is drawn in the middle of a page with his 12mo printed image at the top showing him chest length in a lab. At the bottom of the page, he has signed in a bold hand, “Albert Hofmann.”

Ideal for display.

$950.00

JENNER, EDWARD (1749-1823). English physician who discovered a vaccination for smallpox by using a material from cowpox that was found on dairymaids. He announced this discovery in 1798. Jenner's practice in Berkeley left him much leisure time to make observations in natural history, playing the flute, and writing poetry. His best known poem was "The Signs of Rain" which he rewrote countless times.

Autograph Manuscript Signed, 8vo, n.p., ca. 1822.
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Original fair copy of his poem, "40 Signs of Rain," that he has written in full holograph. Above the title he writes, "Original Poem by Dr. Jenner." Apparently each time he wrote out this poem it was slightly different.
We have included two published copies that appear to have numerous changes and deletions from the original that is being offered. This fair copy is penned in a beautiful hand. In another version of this poem, Jenner explains as part of the title, "Forty reasons for not accepting an invitation of a friend to make an excursion with him." This rare manuscript, most probably unpublished in this form, is a wonderful curiosity by the discoverer of the smallpox vaccination.
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$10,000.00

KASTLER, ALFRED (1902-1984). French physicist who won the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1966.

Holograph manuscript signed, in French, four separate 4to pages, Paris, holograph envelope postmarked August 3, 1978.
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The manuscript is a hand written copy of a speech Kastler gave to a "Reun