Von Buch, the eminent geologist.

The following is a letter from Humboldt to Sir R. I. Murchison, announcing his death, (Athenœum, No. 1924.)—“That I should be destined—I, an old man of eighty-three—to announce to you, dear Sir Roderick, the saddest news that I could have to convey—to you for whom M. De Buch professed a friendship so tender, and to the many admirers of his genius, his vast labours, and his noble character!

Leopold De Buch was taken from us this morning by typhoid fever, so violent in its attack that two days only of danger warned us.

He was at my house so lately as the 26th [ult.] despite the snow and the distance between us, talking geology with the most lively interest.

That evening he went into society; and on Sunday and Monday (the 27th and 28th) he complained of a feverish attack, which he believed to be caused by a large chilblain swelling from which he had suffered for years.

The inflammation required the application of leeches, but the pain and the fever increased.

He was speechless for thirty-eight hours. ** He died surrounded by his friends,—most of whom knew nothing of his danger till Wednesday evening, the 2nd of March.”