n, if it can only be
obtained at the price of this frightful, useless war. You stand alone!
Without allies, it is impossible to conquer. Why, then, brave certain
ruin and destruction?"

The king's countenance was frightful to look at; his eyes were
flashing with rage, and his voice was like thunder, it was so loud and
threatening.

"Enough of this!" said he; "you were called here, not to advise, but
to receive my commands. The brother has heard you patiently, but now
the King of Prussia stands before you, and demands of you obedience and
submission. We are going to battle; this is settled; and your complaints
and fears will not alter my determination But all those who fear to
follow me on the battle-field, have my permission to remain at home, and
pass their time in love idyls. Who, amongst you all, prefers this? Let
him speak, and he shall follow his own inclinations."

"None of us could do that," said Prince Henry, passionately "If the
King of Prussia calls his soldiers, they will all come and follow their
chieftain joyfully, though they are marching to certain death. I have
already given you my personal opinion; it now rests with me to obey
you, as a soldier, as a subject. This I will do joyfully, without
complaining."

"I also," said Prince Augustus William, earnestly. "Like my brother,
I will know how to subdue my own opinions and fears, and to follow in
silent obedience my king and my chieftain."

The king threw a glance of hatred upon the pale, disturbed countenance
of the prince.

"You will go where I command you," said he, sharply; and not giving the
prince time to answer, he turned abruptly to Marshal Schwerin.

"Well, marshal, do you wish for a furlough, during this war? You heard
me say I would refuse it to no one."

"I demand nothing of your majesty, but to take part in the first
battle against your enemies. I do not ask who they are. The hour for
consultation is past: it is now time to act. Let us to work, and that
right quickly."

"Yes, to battle, sire," cried Retzow, earnestly. "As soon as your
majesty has said that this war is irrevocable, your soldiers must have
no further doubts, and they will follow you joyfully, to conquer or to
die."

"And you, Winterfeldt," said the king, taking his favorite's hand
tenderly; "have you nothing to say? Or have the Prince of Prussia's
fears infected you, and made of you a coward?"

"Ah, no! sire," said Winterfeldt, pressing the king's hand to his
brea