Australian-born British physicist and X-ray crystallographer (1890–1971) and discoverer of the Bragg law of X-ray diffraction, which is basic for the determination of crystal structure. TLS signed “W. L. Bragg,” one page, 5.5 x 8.5, Cavendish Laboratory, Cambridge letterhead, December 5, 1946. Bragg writes Professor Frank Smith at the University of Leeds. In full: “Of course I know Abbotsholme well by reputation, although I have never visited it. We had some correspondence once when we thought of sending one of our boys there, but we moved to London about that time. It is very kind of you to invite me to attend your speech day. I wish I could accept, but I am not taking on any functions of this kind this year, until I can get our Laboratory straightened out after the war. I find myself so snowed under by administrative jobs that I have not yet got time to think of research, or look after my research men, and I must rectify this as soon as possible. I hope you will understand this; these are rather exceptional times.” In very good condition, with intersecting horizontal and vertical folds, uniform toning, and small pieces of old tape at each corner. RRAuction COA.
