“As much as it was in my power I contributed to build up the German Empire. Therefore I dare expect of Germany that she will not allow a German Prince to be wrongfully displaced.
“If I am not granted time to address myself directly to the German Emperor, I am confident that no objection will be raised to my delivering up the traitors to the law of my country.
“My good Bavarians will certainly not fail me!
“In the event that I may be prevented by force from protecting my rights, I call upon every faithful Bavarian to gather round my adherents, and to help them to defeat the projected treason against King and country.
“Given at Hohenschwangau, the 9th of June 1886,
“Ludwig the Second.
“(King of Bavaria, Count Palatine, etc.).”
Meanwhile the events in the capital went their way. On the 10th of June the Government published the proclamation which signified that the King’s uncle had become Regent, and that the Chamber was to be summoned to declare Ludwig II. insane. In the course of the night Count Dürckheim was twice summoned by the Minister of War to Munich. The first telegram he laid quietly aside. The second he placed before the King, adding that unhappily he was obliged to obey it, as in the contrary case he would be charged with insubordination. Ludwig was in great distress at losing him. “You know how greatly I wish you to remain with me,” he said. “Telegraph to my uncle and ask him if he will not consent to my keeping you.” The Count did this, but the answer to his request was short and decided: “The Ministry of War adheres to its orders.” Deeply moved, the Count took leave, never to see his King again. In the ante-room Mayr was awaiting him. The valet, who wished the new Government success and prosperity, was alarmed at the precautions Dürckheim had taken. “Do you think his Majesty will decide to go to the capital?” he asked. It was with a heavy heart that the Count answered: “No, Mayr; I do not think so.”[3]