Frederick erected all the scales of his crocodile armor, to avoid being moved by this reply, the most coquettish he had ever obtained from Porporina. He at once changed his intention: a great art it is to do so, and far more difficult than people usually think.
"Why did you faint yesterday at the theatre?"
"Sire, it is of the least possible interest to your majesty. It is my own secret."
"What had you at breakfast this morning, which makes you so unconcerned in your language?"
"I had recourse to a certain flacon, which filled me with confidence in the kindness and justice of him who brought it."
"Ah! you considered that a declaration," said the king in the most icy manner and with a smile of cynical disdain.
"Thank God! I did not," said the young girl, with an expression of sincere sorrow.
"Why thank God?"
"Because I know your majesty makes none but declarations of war even to women."
"You are neither the Czarina, nor Maria Theresa: what war can I wage on you?"