FROM REVOLUTION OF JULY TO DEATH OF THE KING. 193 



effect, were the selection made of a lively character and em- 

 bracing subjects of general interest, such as had reference to 

 social habits and civilisation. If only we could find anyone 

 who has the power to make himself heard, of whom we have 

 but few in our Academy.' 



The voice of posterity has found no reason to abstract aught 

 from the high estimate here expressed of the significance of 

 William von Humboldt nor has it added thereto anything of 

 importance. The letter was evidently intended to serve as a 

 guide to Bockh, who fulfilled the task entrusted to him with 

 his wonted ability. It was on this occasion that in following 

 out the line of thought suggested by Alexander as to the classic 

 nature of his brother's mind, he signalised him as being dis- 

 tinguished as a statesman by the elevation of mind of a Pericles. 

 The work alluded to as being in the press was that on the Kawi 

 language : Alexander himself selected for reading before a 

 seance of the Academy suitable passages from this world-famous 

 introduction the greatest masterpiece of his brother's writings. 

 An undertaking of greater importance was the superintendence 

 of the publication of this work in the ' Annals ' of the Academy. 

 This was left practically in the hands of Eduard Buschmann, 

 of whom, on account of his connection with the Humboldts, 

 it will not be inappropriate to insert a brief notice. In recom- 

 mending him to Lichtenstein, as qualified to undertake the 

 supervision of the printing, Alexander describes him as c accurate, 

 intelligent, and keenly interested in my brother's reputation.' 

 On the completion of the work on the Kawi language, Buschmann 

 remained in Alexander's service and rendered him valuable 

 assistance in correcting the press for ' Cosmos.' The elegance 

 as well as accuracy always aimed at by Alexander in the print- 

 ing of his works was only attainable through the indefatigable 

 exertions of Buschmann, whose character for unimpeachable 

 accuracy is well attested by his index to ; Cosmos.' Those who 

 are familiar with Humboldt's handwriting in his latter years, 

 and are aware of the confusion reigning among his papers 

 and the peculiar arrangement of his manuscripts, will not fail 

 to have a vivid idea of the magnitude of the labour imposed 

 upon his indefatigable secretary in the publication of this 

 work. Alexander testified his gratitude for so many years of 



YOL. II. 



