"I understand that your son has become a man of great ability and force of character, and that he distinguished himself in the war with the slave States?" said the Prince.
I was surprised to find how well he was informed.
And then the Prince added, in an animated voice: "You are an enthusiastic friend of Prussia?"
"I am; for in Prussia I recognize the backbone of our national existence; she is not prepossessing, but steadfast and reliable.
"I lived at the time of the war of liberation; many who were of my age took part in the war that saved us. Our section stood with Napoleon, but Prussia saved Germany. She has dallied a great while before claiming her reward for that service; but at last she receives it."
The Prince arose, and, resting both hands on his writing-table, said, "That is the very reason I sent for you. Both they and we--both high and low--must extinguish the memories of 1866. We have all much to forgive, and much to learn."
And then the Prince asked me whether I believed that the majority of the House of Delegates agreed with us?
I was obliged to express my doubts on that head.
"I have made up my mind, however," exclaimed the Prince, "whether the delegates agree with me, or otherwise. You are an old, tried soldier. Are you ready to ally yourself with me--no, not with me--with the Fatherland?"
"How?"