464 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 
and variety of good work accomplished, for an intuitive sense 
of method, for lucidity and accuracy, and for insight, George 
Bentham may fairly be compared with Linnzus, De Candolle, 
and Robert Brown. 
His long life was a perfect and precious example, much 
needed in this age, of persevering and thorough devotion to 
science while unconstrained as well as untrammeled by pro- 
fessional duty or necessity. For those endowed with leisure, 
to “live laborious days ” in her service, it is not a common 
achievement. 
The tribute which the American Academy of Sciences pays 
to the memory of a deceased foreign honorary member 
might here fittingly conclude. But one who knew him long 
and well may be allowed to add a word upon the personal 
characteristics of the subject of this memorial; the more so 
that he is himself greatly indebted for generous help. For, 
long ago, when in special need of botanical assistance, Mr. 
Bentham invited him and his companion to his house at Pon- 
trilas, and devoted the greater part of his time for two months 
to this service. Mr. Bentham’s great reserve and dryness in 
general intercourse, and his avoidance of publicity, might 
give the impression of an unsympathetic nature; but he was 
indeed most amiable, warm-hearted, and even genial, “ the 
kindest of helpmates,” the most disinterested of friends. 
