EXPEDITION TO THE ORINOCO. 289 



of Friedrichstrasse, enjoying the happiness of our mutual 

 affection, the picture assumes so startling a reality that I feel 

 almost tempted to hasten the conclusion of my journey, and to 

 forget that in great undertakings the force of reason, and not 

 that of inclination, should be allowed to rule. I cannot help 

 entertaining a strong conviction that we shall see each other 

 again. 



4 1 have not yet received any communication either from 

 Jacquin or Van der Schott, in whom I feel so strong an interest. 

 When will this fearful war cease, by which so many bonds are 

 severed ? Pray remember me affectionately to your dear wife 

 and to your mother-in-law, and kiss the children for me, and 

 please give a special greeting to Hermes. Remember me also 

 to our circle of valued friends, Klaproth, Karsten, Zollner, 

 Hermbstedt, Bode, Herz, &c. Best remembrances to Herr 

 Kunth, whom you will doubtless seek out on the receipt of this 

 letter. Tell my dear old friend that, consistently with my 

 determination never to entrust more than one letter to each 

 vessel sailing for Europe, I have written to him to-day by 

 another opportunity. With a brother's affection, 



6 Your devoted old pupil, 



'ALEXANDER HuMBOLDT.' 



YOL. I. 



