LITTLE 

 JOURNEYS 



who bestows most benefits here and now. The clergy 

 of Christendom have long stood as the leaders of 

 thought, but to hold this proud position they must 

 abandon the intangible and devote themselves to this 

 world and the people who are alive." 



;OST of Humboldt's time during his mid- 

 dle life was spent at Paris where he was 

 engaged in the herculean task of issuing 

 his splendid books. However, he varied 

 his work, so several hours daily were de- 

 voted to study and scientific research ; 

 and from time to time he made journeys over Europe 

 and Asia. 



In 1827 a personal request came from the King of 

 Prussia that Humboldt should thereafter make Berlin 

 his home. He was too big a man for Germany to lose. 

 QHe acceded to the King's request, moved to Berlin 

 and was spoken of as " The First Citizen," although he 

 would not consent to holding office, nor -would he ac- 

 cept a title. In vexed questions of diplomacy he was 

 often consulted by the King and his Cabinet, and in 

 many ways he furthered the interests of education and 

 civilization by his judicial and timely advice. 

 He was always a student, always an investigator, al- 

 ways a tireless worker. He lived simply and quietly 

 keeping out of society and away from crowds, except- 

 ing on the rare occasions when necessity seemed to 

 demand it. 

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