VLÈS (Fred Manuel Raoul). - Lot 311

Lot 311
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VLÈS (Fred Manuel Raoul). - Lot 311
VLÈS (Fred Manuel Raoul). Born in Le Havre, 1885—died in Dachau, 1944. French zoologist, biologist, and physiologist; pioneer in biological physical chemistry. Autograph letter signed “Fred Vlès” addressed to Madame de Rougemont. Paris, April 4, 1917. 2½ pages, small quarto. Printed letterhead: Val-de-Grâce Military Training Hospital - Army Typhoid Vaccination Laboratory. With envelope. An interesting letter written in the midst of World War I, revealing the precautions taken by the scientist in a context marked by fear of espionage and the constraints of military service. Acknowledging receipt of a letter, Vlès explains why he has not yet sent certain corrections: on the one hand, the uncertainty associated with experimental conditions (“the rain made oil paint the only option in the forest”); on the other hand, the constant changes required in the ongoing calculations, making any communication premature. He also emphasizes his refusal to “risk sending original measurement records via the mail, even if it were military mail,” highlighting the value and sensitivity of scientific documents. The letter offers a vivid glimpse into his work and his methods, and contains an explicit recommendation not to alter the names of the products listed on his sheets. Finally, it mentions personnel changes among the scientific staff and concludes on a more personal note, tinged with humor, regarding the weather conditions and health risks faced by his correspondent. A significant testament to scientific activity during wartime, at the intersection of biological research and military imperatives. It is worth noting that Fred Vlès, who served during World War I, was twice mentioned in dispatches. During World War II, after escaping a roundup, he turned himself in voluntarily to avoid reprisals and was deported to Dachau, where he died in the so-called “death convoy.” Good condition.
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