750. ALEXANDER D. BACHE (1806 - 1867) First president of the National Academy of Sciences and a founder of the Smithsonian Institute. A nice group of four A.L.S.'s "A.D. Bache'' while Superintendent of the U.S. Coastal Survey, each 1p., 4to and smaller, various locations, Oct. 7, 1851 - Nov. 15, 1853, all to Eben Merian, the American meteorologist and founder/editor of the early scientific newspaper The Municipal Gazette. From Bath, Maine, he writes on October 7, 1851: "...I have received a letter from ...[the] Charge d'Affairs of Denmark inquiring in regard to the possibility of making a contract for the removal of a rock (corral) in the harbour of St. Thomas'. I have...taken the liberty to give him a letter to you & to refer to you for information in regard to Mr. M's previous work...". From New York, he writes on November 13, 1852: "...Would it not be in order for you to come on here that we may confer about this Gate-water & can you & will you do so? I cannot leave just now with out considerable disturbment to the public service...". From Mt. Blue near Philips, Maine, he writes on October 18, 1853: "...I fully sympathize with you in all you say in relation to the 'Salt of earth'. Of that excellent quality of judgment, common sense, which enabled him to do every thing in its right shape & dimensions unaffected by the haze of prejudice. Of that goodness of hearts which interested him in whatever concerned humanity. Such a man is invaluable to the community around him, & his good influences extend beyond to remote places where he is in person unknown. Surrounded by so amiable & excellent a family & in such agreeable circumstances in life how strong must have been his religious feeling which enabled him to say 'Thy will be done'! His place must be long vacant in our list of friends & councilors ready, with zeal according to judgment, for every movement of true philanthropy. New York may well mourn this loss of such a citizen". From Mt. Blue, Maine, he writes on November 15, 1853: "Lt. Bartlett is no longer officially connected with the Coast Survey, but as an act of courtesy to you, I send him the letter received through Washington, in compliance with the request contained in yours received this day...". Minor age toning, otherwise in generally good to fine condition. Four pieces. $300 - 400