"I should resign," continued the king, "authority over, and the command of, my army in time of war--the army of Minden, of the Peninsula, of Garcia, Fernandez, of Waterloo--and this army would then be compelled to march against the united German forces who have taken the side of Austria. I ask you, my ministers, before God and your consciences, and upon the oath you have taken to me and to your country. Can I accept this proposition? Can I as the defender of the royal rights of my family? Can I as the defender of my country? Can I according to the constitution of the kingdom? Answer first, Count Platen, as minister of foreign affairs."
Count Platen rubbed his hands gently together, rocked himself slightly to and fro, and replied: "No, your majesty. It would perhaps----"
"And you, Herr von Malortie, as minister of my household?"
The chamberlain, who sat huddled up more than usual in his black neckcloth and frock-coat, said in a low voice, "No, your majesty."
"And you, my minister of equity?"
Leonhardt answered shortly, in a clear, firm voice, "No!"
"The minister of the interior?"
"No, never!" replied Bacmeister.
The ministers of war, of education, and of finance gave the same answer.
The king rose, the assembled ministers with him.