297 



Elisavon Ahlefeldt loved, inAdolphusvonLiitzow,* 

 merely the energetic representative of a noble political 

 opinion. The motive for dissolving the matrimonial 

 tie, indelicate on his part, has something depressing 

 in it. Immermann is willing to be loved, but, like 

 Elisa, shudders at the marriage bond and marries * 

 after all ! ! 



The character that interests me most is Friesen, J" 

 who in 1807 was of such assistance to me in the 

 matter of the " Mexican Atlas," and whom I valued so 

 highly, and by whom I was beloved. I have men- 

 tioned him with tenderness in the " Essai Politique 

 sur la Nouvelle Espagne." Had I known on what 

 a beautiful work Miss Ludmilla was engaged, I 

 should have wished to have presented her with 

 some few lines. However, the book will see many 

 editions. As unhappily I have to go to Tegel for a 

 night, I beg to know, dear friend, whether I may 

 call on you on Friday at 3 o'clock, and if I may 

 nourish the hope of finding Miss Ludmilla with 

 you ? So much talent for Art, joined with literary 

 ability, in one person, is a rare luxury. The like of 

 this may lead to harm. The course of affairs in this 

 world with its avenging balance will never allow 

 any excess of joy and woe. Yours, 



A. v. HUMBOLDT. 



Tuesday. 



In haste and incorrect. 



Enclosure. A letter from Eriesen, dated 1807, with the follow- 

 ing remark in Humboldt's handwriting : 



* The well-known leader of that free corps, serving with which Theodor 

 Korner was killed. TR. 



t A volunteer in that corps, killed in the Ardennes by a French shot from 

 an ambuscade. TR. 



