I spoke with "Cato," when no others were by, and he frankly confessed that he feared that this war would strengthen monarchism, and that, therefore, he still was, and ever would be, a republican.
"We have, thus far, been forced to act against our wishes, and have complained in secret," he said, "but if we conquer in this war, we shall have voluntarily become subjects, and be happy in the favor of their high mightinesses. I am not a subject, and do not wish to become one."
He gave me a fierce look, and I felt obliged to tell him that he could not be at his ease while receiving honors from people whom he despised.
He did not feel that war was inevitable, but was inclined to favor it, if the German princes would promise that the constitution of the German Empire, as proposed in the Frankfort Parliament, would be adopted in the event of our success.
"Cato" assured me that even if we were to bring about a union, it would be such only in name. Organic life cannot become a harmonious whole unless there is freedom of action; and therefore, we must, first of all, insist on guarantees for freedom.
"Why do you," said he in conclusion, "who aided and abetted the Frankfort Parliament, never mention it?"
When I told him that this was political orthodoxy, he paid no regard to what I said.
Funk once furtively looked towards me, and then turned to his neighbor, with whom he conversed in a low voice.
Various members who, it was evident, desired to take the lead, were walking up and down absorbed in thought.
I heard that telegrams had been received to the effect that France would not consent to further delay, and insisted that all must be absolutely neutral or else avowedly take sides.