MURCHISON RODERICK: (1792-1871) Scottish Geologist. A.L.S., Rodk. Murchison, one page, 8vo, Buxton, 3rd August 1852 ...

MURCHISON RODERICK: (1792-1871) Scottish Geologist. A.L.S., Rodk. Murchison, one page, 8vo, Buxton, 3rd August 1852, to a gentleman. Murchison explains that his correspondent's letter was forwarded to him and in reply encloses a cheque (no longer present) for £5.0.0. 'for the purpose of supporting the Ipswich Museum'. Together with Austen Henry Layard (1817-1894) English Archaeologist, Traveller, Politician & Diplomat. A.L.S., A. H. Layard, three pages, 8vo, Little Ryder Street, 22nd March 1857, to 'My dear Taylor'. Layard states that it will be impossible for him to attend to a report, which he has not seen, until after the elections, commenting 'God knows whether I shall be a Member of Parliament or not. If I still have that honour I will not fail to make the enquiries you suggest' and further remarking 'I have a hard fight at Aylesbury & unfortunately have a colleague to do battle with and not as an opponent. Bethell has treated me scandalously & may unseat me'. Layard also makes reference to 'the China question' and suggests that the course Viscount Palmerston is taking 'is most mischievous'. Some light traces of former mounting to both letters, otherwise VG, 2 Richard Bethell (1800-1873) 1st Baron Westbury. British Politician, Judge & Lawyer, Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain 1861-65. Bethell served as Member of Parliament for Aylesbury with Layard from 1852-57 before continuing to serve with Thomas Tyringham Bernard until 1859. Viscount Palmerston (1784-1865) British Prime Minister 1855-58, 1859-65.