rman prince, that Austria increase her power in an
illegitimate manner, but I will cast my good sword in the scales, that
the balance is heavier on the side upon which depends the existence
of Germany, that she may not be tossed in the air by Austria's weight.
These are my views and reasons for the war upon which I now enter with
reluctance. When the greatness and equilibrium of Germany are at stake,
no German prince should dare hesitate. Austria has already cost Germany
much blood, and will cause her to shed still more. Believe it, my
nephew, and guard yourself against Austria's ambition for territorial
aggrandizement. You see, I am like all old people, always teaching
youth, while we have much to learn ourselves. We are all pupils, and our
deeds are ever imperfect."

"Your majesty cannot believe that of himself. The sage of Sans-Souci is
the type, the master, and teacher of all Europe."

"My son," replied the king, "the great men of antiquity recognized it as
the acme of wisdom, that they must be mindful that 'in the midst of life
we are in death.' At the gay festivities and the luxurious feasts
they were interrupted in the merry song and voluptuous dance, with the
warning: 'Remember, O man, that thou must die!' Let us profit by their
wisdom! I have startled you from the banquet of life, and I doubt not
that many singers and dancers will be enraged that I should put an end
to the feasts of roses and the merry dance in such an abominable manner.
It would be an evil omen in our warlike undertaking, if the rosy lips of
the beauties should breathe curses to follow us; therefore, we must
try to conciliate them, and leave a good souvenir in their hearts. You
smile, my prince, and you think it vain trouble for an old fellow; that
I cannot win the favor of the ladies under any pretension; so you must
undertake for me the reconciliation and the hush-money."

"I am prepared for any thing which your majesty imposes upon me; only
I would defend myself against the interpretation which you give my
smile--and--"

"Which was very near the truth," interrupted the king. "I have called
you from the banquet of life, and I have interrupted the dancers,
crowned with roses in the midst of their dance, which they would finish
before you. I pray you, then, indemnify the enraged beauties, and let us
go forth with a quiet conscience, that we in no respect are indebted to
any one."

"Oh, sire, it will be impossible for me to go to the field