ally to protect the interests
of the Fatherland against any one who would injure a German. Let every
European over them, every German merchant, and, above all, every
foreigner in the land to which we are going, or with whom we may have
to do, understand that the German Michael has firmly planted on this
soil his shield bearing the Imperial Eagle, so as to be able, once and
for all, to give his protection to all those who may require it of him.
May our fellow-countrymen out yonder be firmly convinced that, no
matter what their situation, be they priests or merchants, the
protection of the German Empire will be extended to them with all
possible energy by means of the warships of the Imperial fleet. And
should any one ever infringe our just rights strike him with your
mailed fist! If God so will He shall bind about your young brow
laurels of which none, throughout all Germany, shall be jealous!

"Firmly convinced that, following the example of good models (and
models are not lacking to our house, Heaven be praised!), you will
fulfil my wishes and my vows, I drink to your health and wish a good
journey, all success, and, a safe return! Hurrah for Prince Henry!"

Prince Henry's incredible reply was as follows--

"As children we grew up together. Later, when we grew to manhood, it
was given to us to look into each other's eyes and to remain faithfully
united to each other. For your Majesty the Imperial Crown has been
girt with thorns. Within my narrower sphere and with my feeble
strength strengthened by my vows, I have endeavoured to help your
Majesty as a soldier and a citizen. . . .

"I am very sincerely grateful to your Majesty for the trust which you
place in my feeble person. And I can assure your Majesty that it is
not laurels that tempt me, nor glory. One thing and one only leads me
on, it is to go and proclaim in a foreign land the gospel of the sacred
person of your Majesty and to preach it as well to those who will hear
it as to those who will not. It is this that I intend to blazon upon
my flag and wherever I may go. Our comrades share these sentiments!
Eternal life to our well-beloved Emperor!"

Such gems must be left intact. One should read them again and again,
line by line. Ponderous eloquence, fustian bombast, and mouldy pathos
combine with the display of pomp, to excite world-wide admiration.
This play of well-rehearsed parts is given before an audience of
generals, high officials and