Humboldt's Letters. 173 



which I am very desirous to obtain copies. They are 

 for the most part in the Royal Library of Berlin, and 

 some few in that of Gotha. I have written to our 

 Minister, Mr. Wheaton, to request him to make some 

 arrangements, if he can, for my effecting this. The 

 liberal principles on which literary institutions are con- 

 ducted in Prussia, and the facilities given to men of let- 

 ters, together with the known courtesy of the German 

 character, lead me to anticipate no obstacles to the exe- 

 cution of my desires. Should there be any, however, 

 you will confer great favor on me by giving your coun- 

 tenance to my applications. 



I trust this will not appear too presumptuous a request 

 on my part. Although I have not the honor of being 

 personally known to you, yet the kind messages I have 

 received from you, and lately through Professor Tell- 

 kampf, convince me that my former publication was not 

 unwelcome to you, and that you may feel an interest in 

 my future historical labours. 



I pray you, my dear Sir, to accept the assurance of 

 the very high respect with which I have the honor 

 to be 



Your very obedient servant, 



WM. H. PRESCOTT. 



