Autograph Letters Signed
FOUR AUTOGRAPH LETTERS with good content by Humphry Davy to his close friend and patron Davies Gilbert.
In one letter, written on the recto of one sheet with Gilbert’s address on verso, Davy mentions a recent visit to William Herschel (“... I have been very much delighted to see the activity & zeal with which Mr Herschell pursues Astronomy & the perfect state of his instruments..."); in another letter (one sheet, both sides), Davy writes emotionally to Gilbert about his health and the Presidency of the Royal Society: "...I am very anxious to learn the state of your feelings with respect to the Presidency, if what I fear must be the case the state of my health obliges me to resign...". Gilbert would indeed succeed Davy as President of the Royal Society in 1827 after Davy resigned due to illness.
In the third letter (one sheet, both sides), Davy writes to Davy while convalescing with Coleridge’s friend Tom Poole (“...Mr Poole my kind Host desires to be respectfully remembered to the Pres. RS...."). In the final letter (half sheet, one side) Davy addresses a simple business matter. Each letter is signed “H. Davy”.
1805-27. Folds and a few spots of early tape reinforcement. Remnants of wax seal on letter mentioning Herschel. Generally very good.
Note: A custom cloth box is available for $250..
Price: $5,000 .