JohnRob:
This is absolutely true.I apologize, I was remis in omitting my reasoning.
The OP seems to be new working with high voltage. When building the divider, if the resistors are wired close together or some get contamination on the surface, things could (not will) go bad. Contamination could be finger grease solder rosin etc. But in the end it is my opinion and how I would do it.
When dealing with HV, you are always your own last arbiter. Cause a mistake could be fatal, or at least hurt a lot. That's why I am such a fan of the Vandegraaff and Tesla devices. As HV goes, they are both pretty benign.
ps, a full on shock from either IS painful, but usually NOT fatal. OP: What are you using as a power supply? Is it a transformer? Be real careful with those!