be reproached by me."

The king ceased speaking, and looked inquiringly at his listeners. Upon
every countenance he read determination, courage, and inspiration, but
here and there were some whose brows became clouded at the king's last
suggestion, and tears were sparkling in old General Rohr's eyes. The
king pressed the general's hand almost tenderly.

"Ah, my dear friend," said he, "I did not suspect you. But I again say,
that if any amongst you wishes leave of absence, he shall have it."

Profound quiet followed these words. No one approached the king--no
sound disturbed the solemn stillness. At a distance, the loud shouts
and hurrahs of the soldiers, preparing for battle, could be heard. The
king's countenance became clear, and he continued with enthusiasm:

"I knew beforehand that none of you would leave me. I counted upon
your assistance; with it, I shall be victorious. Should I fall in this
battle, you must look to your country for reward; and now, away to
the camp, and repeat to your men what I have said to you. Farewell,
gentlemen, before long we will either have defeated the enemy, or we
will see one another no more."

And now there arose from the generals and officers loud, joyous shouts.

"We will conquer or die!" cried Seidlitz, whose daring, youthful
countenance sparkled with delight. "We will conquer or die!" was
repeated by all.

At last the brave words reached the camp, and were re-echoed by thirty
thousand lusty throats. There was universal joy. Old gray-headed
warriors, who had followed the king into many battles, who had conquered
repeatedly with him, shook hands with and encouraged each other, and
warned the younger soldiers to be brave and fearless.

Resting upon his horse, the king had been a joyful witness to all this
enthusiasm. At this moment, a troop of soldiers, numbering about fifty,
approached him. The commanding officer was greeted with a kindly smile.

"You are Lieutenant von Frankenberg?" said the king. And as the
lieutenant bowed in answer, he continued: "General Kleist has spoken of
you as being a brave and trustworthy officer. I have therefore a strange
commission for you. Listen well! do not lose a word of what I say. Come
nearer. And now," said the king, in a low voice, "be attentive. In the
approaching battle, I will have to expose myself more than usual;
you and your fifty men shall guard me. You must watch over me, and be
careful that I fall not into the hands of the en