"'My dear and faithful Tyrolese! Since the sacrifices which the unfortunate year 1805 compelled me to make, when I was obliged to separate from you, my heart has been constantly with you, my honest, affectionate children!'"—
"That's warm from the heart, anyhow!" muttered Anna.
"'As a last proof of my affection, I stipulated for the preservation of your Constitution; and it gave me the greatest pain to see this—this'"—
"Institution," suggested Theresa.
"No, nonsense—'This stipulation disregarded, which I had made for your advantage; but, alas! at that time I was unable to assist you, and could only lament your fate in private.'"—
"Poor dear man! doubtless it cost him many a secret tear," interjected Anna.
"'When a new cause again obliged me to draw my sword, my first thought was to become again your father. An army was put in motion to effect your deliverance; but before it could meet our common enemy, you had by your gallantry struck a decisive blow, and proved to the whole world, as well as myself, what you are ready to do to become again a part of that kingdom under which for centuries past you have lived contented and happy—'"
"Beautiful, beautiful!" ejaculated Anna. "What golden words!"
"There's some more, mother," said Theresa.
"'Your efforts have touched my heart—I know your courage; I am ready to meet all your wishes, and to count you amongst the best and most faithful subjects in the Austrian dominions. It will be my earnest endeavour to prevent our being again separated: millions, who were long your brothers, will be eager to draw their swords in the cause! I trust, therefore, in you; and you may rely on me. So, by God's assistance, Austria and the Tyrol will be again united as they were in former years.