Prussia, about the same time, presented to him the Prussian golden medal for scientific merit.
After passing through many places of interest in Europe, in all of which he was received with distinguished honor, Professor Morse returned to London the latter part of September, 1856.
The public at that time were much interested in the subject of the proposed submarine telegraph connection with America.
A plateau extending across the bed of the ocean between the two continents had been discovered under a survey conducted by Lieutenant Maury for the United States Government, and which was regarded as extremely favorable for the projected enterprise.
Professor Morse, in concert with Mr. Whitehouse and Mr. Bright, the English electricians, conducted a series of experiments and sent signals through 2,000 miles of insulated wire.
These experiments removed any apprehension respecting the retardation of the electric current over this long length of wire.
It now became a question of capital and nautical engineering. The first was quickly pledged, the latter was not doubted.
While in London thus occupied, Professor Morse was tendered a banquet, which he promptly accepted.
The dinner was given Oct. 9, 1856. The Chairman was Mr. Fothergill Cooke, who, in presenting the guest of the evening, used the following language:—
“Gentlemen, I was consulted only a few months ago on the subject of a telegraph for a country in which no telegraph at present exists.