OF BAEON HUMBOLDT. 13 



position ; lie testified that a true disciple of 

 science ought not to consider himself to belong 

 to an exclusive class ; that the representative 

 of science should ignore all the prerogatives of 

 his social position, if in the higher service of 

 science. Baron Humboldt fulfilled at the same 

 time the noble obligation which the higher 

 gifted owes to the people, because from the 

 treasures of his knowledge he instructs them, 

 brings them nearer to himself, to truth, and to 

 reality. 



These lectures spoken of were commenced 

 on the 3rd of November, 1827, and concluded 

 on the 26th of April, 1828 ; delivered extem- 

 pore and without notes. 



The memory of Humboldt was really won- 

 derful. Even Macaulay, who could repeat the 

 whole of " Paradise Lost" from beginning 

 to end correctly, would have to yield to him 

 in that respect. His memory, even to the last, 

 seemed as keen, as vigorous, and as active as 

 ever. He never hesitated for a name or a date, 

 and never confounded the order of events. A 

 friend once called upon him to discuss some 

 points relative to the topography of Jerusalem; 

 and, astonished at what he considered his 

 marvellous memory of the streets and the 

 houses of the Holy City, asked how long it had 



