nd I repeat it--never will my hand sign a humiliating peace. I
have made some observations upon the military talents of Charles
XII.,[18] but I have never considered whether he ought to have killed
himself or not. I think that, after the taking of Stralsund, he would
have done wiser to annihilate himself; but, whatever he did or left
undone, his example is no rule for me. There are people who learn from
prosperity. I do not belong to that class. I have lived for others; I
will die for myself I am very indifferent as to what others may say
concerning it, and assure you I shall never hear it. Henry IV. was a
younger son of a good house who achieved his good fortune; it did not
signify much to him. Why should he have hung himself in misfortune?
Louis XIV. was a greater king, had greater resources; he got himself
out of difficulties well or ill. As regards me I have not the resources
of this man, but I value honour more than he did; and, as I have told
you, I guide myself after no one. We calculate, if I am right, 5000
years since the creation of the world; I believe that this reckoning is
far too low for the age of the universe. The country of Brandenburg has
existed this whole time, before I did, and will continue after my
death. States are preserved by the propagation of races, and as long as
this continues, the masses will be governed by ministers or Sovereigns.
It is much the same whether they be rather more simple or rather more
clever; the difference is so little that the mass of the people
scarcely discover it. Do not, therefore, repeat to me the old answers
of courtiers; self-love and vanity cannot entirely alter my feelings.
It is not so much an act of weakness to end such unhappy days, as it is
cautious policy. I have lost all my friends and dearest relations. I am
to the last extent unfortunate. I have nothing to hope; my enemies
treat me with contempt and derision, and in their pride are prepared to
trample me under foot."

"1760, _Nov_.--My labours are terrible, the war has continued during
five campaigns. We neglect nothing that can give us means of
resistance, and I stretch the bow with my whole strength; but an army
should be composed of arms and heads. Arms do not fail us, but heads
are no longer to be found; if you would only give yourself the trouble
to order me some of the sculptor, Adam, they would serve me as well as
those I have. My duty and honour keep me steadfast; but, in spite of
stoicism and end