And then, as for knighthood, that ancient honour has been lately so abused that vanity itself could scarcely desire it, and even modesty now might hesitate in its acceptance.
Albeit I have thus spoken only incidentally and with seeming carelessness about my Prussian medal, I am reminded that it will interest readers if I here extract the Chevalier Buensen's letter to me on the occasion.

It runs thus in its integrity:-- "4 Carlton Terrace, _26th September 1844_.
"My Dear Sir,--I owe you many apologies for not having answered earlier your letter of the 2d of August.

The fact is that since that time I have been travelling all over England with the Prince of Prussia.

As to your work, I laid it myself before the King, who perused it with great pleasure, when I was at Berlin.

I am now charged by His Majesty not only to express to you his thanks for having thought of him in sending him a book replete with so much Christian wisdom and experience, but also to present to you, in his Royal name, the _gold medal_ for science and literature, as a particular sign of regard.