ABSTRACT
The observatory at Poelkowo was from the start one of the best establishments in the world, because the Russian government had expended on it an amount unheard of at that time. When the Tsar came to see the completed institute he was conducted around by F G W Struve, the first director. At the end of the tour, the Tsar asked 'Well, Struve, are you satisfied?' This very careful astronomer, who did not want to deprive himself of further money, answered, Tor the time being, your Majesty.'
