58 ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT. 



'Notwithstanding the distance from the Observatory,' relates- 

 Quetelet further, ' Humboldt often went there to enjoy the 

 society of his friend Arago, with whom he discussed various 

 scientific subjects. Their intercourse, however, was not always 

 of the smoothest character, occasionally it was so energetic that 

 one or other of these illustrious philosophers would take him- 

 self off, sulking like a child.' . . . 'It was related to me 

 by Arago that on one occasion Humboldt took his departure 

 in such a state of anger and impatience, that in his haste 

 he forgot to take up his hat. Arago followed him, begging him 

 at least not to go uncovered. Humboldt's refusal led to 

 Arago's further entreaties, until at length the discussion ended 

 in a burst of laughter, and in Humboldt putting on his hat.' 



In evening society his conversation was lively, often conducted 

 in a loud key, and frequently sarcastic. 1 When the large tele- 

 scope by Lerebours and Cauchoix was first erected at the Ob- 

 servatory of Paris, Humboldt made repeated trials of the instru- 

 ment, frequently continuing his observations till past midnight, 

 when Quetelet was occasionally privileged to accompany him 

 home. ' It was under circumstances of this agreeable character 

 that I formed the acquaintance of this eminent man of science, 

 of whom I shall ever retain a grateful remembrance. Availing 

 myself of his generous offers, I have frequently solicited for 

 other youthful students in science the same kind assistance 

 which he rendered to me, and never have my hopes been 

 disappointed, but rather in many instances have they been more 

 than fulfilled, by a care and delicacy of attention I could 

 never have expected.' The testimony thus borne by the director 



1 Quetelet relates: 'At a reception one evening, where he Lad been 

 entertaining the company by his witticisms not only upon social incidents,, 

 but upon the guests who had recently left the room, it was noticed that a 

 young lady of elegant appearance, who had risen to take leave, paused in 

 her intention, and at length resumed her seat with some manifestations 

 of impatience. To the hostess, who advanced to enquire the cause of 

 her uneasiness, she replied : " Oh ! I will never leave as long as that gen- 

 tleman remains ; I should not like to be the object of his remarks." This 

 incident was related to me by Arago, who laughed as he added that he 

 had often teazedhis friend by reminding him of the circumstance. {( Besides,'^ 

 he remarked, " when once in this humour, he is no more sparing of himself 

 than he is of others." It is unnecessary to add that his jokes were always- 

 free from any tinge of malevolence.' 



