The kaiser fidgeted impatiently until his chief general had concluded. Then he burst out:
"We shall accept no such terms."
General Ludendorff bowed.
"As I supposed you would answer, your majesty. Nevertheless, it again becomes my duty to acquaint you with other unpleasant facts."
The German emperor appeared surprised.
"Explain, sir," he said briefly.
Again General Ludendorff bowed.
"Well, your majesty," he said, "it must be plain to you that the war is lost to German arms."
"Not at all," said the kaiser. "I still have millions of men in the field, and there are others who yet may take up arms."
"Very true," said General Ludendorff, "they may be able to take up arms if they will. The trouble is, your majesty, that they probably will decline longer to wage a losing fight."