Superb ALS in French, signed “L. Pasteur,” one page both sides, 5 x 8, June 25, 1863. Letter to Monsieur Terrel des Chines, in full (translated): “I have read with great interest your letter and the printed article which you were kind enough to send me. It would give me much satisfaction to be able to raise the difficulties which you have submitted to me but I only have study projects on these subjects. For a long time now I have wished to involve myself in all the questions appertaining to the manufacture and improvement of wines and I have no doubt that one day, perhaps soon, I shall give myself up to it entirely. I have already done some isolated research.
The only thing I regard as well established and which results from the body of my published and some of my unpublished works is that the majority of diseases from wines originate from the development of special fermenting agents of which sugar is a favorite constituent. From this certain scientific premise you can deduce henceforth many consequences. For my own part I cannot conveniently do so without undertaking new experiments. You will understand, sir, that I have to be more circumspect than anyone else in these matters. I can scarcely talk about it even in a personal letter, without having anything to offer other than preconceived ideas.” In fine condition, with small repairs to fold splits.
Pasteur engaged in the study of fermentation as the director of scientific studies at Ecole Normale, leading to the 1865 patent and invention of 'pasteurization'—an important heating treatment which eliminates unwanted and potentially harmful microorganisms in beverages like beer, milk, and wine.
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