"Well, then, the union would not be difficult. But would it not be well to let the Bavarian head-quarters know where we are, and our line of march, that they may direct their operations accordingly?"
"Doubtless, your majesty," said Count Platen, "as soon as the new commander and the general staff have completely decided on our march."
"It seems to me," said the king, "that in our present circumstances we should follow the simple plan of taking the easiest and shortest line of march."
"I do not know," replied Count Platen; "to me it appears there are many different views and opinions to be considered, which may be difficult to reconcile."
"Difficult to reconcile! I do not understand why," exclaimed the king; "but," he continued, half to himself, in a melancholy voice, "I must leave that to my generals. Pray take care, Count Platen, that trustworthy and intelligent persons are sent on by the roads leading to the south, with instructions to discover if the enemy's troops are there, and in what numbers."
"At your command, your majesty."
"Are there any news from Hesse?" asked the king.
"Yes, your majesty, up to yesterday," said Count Ingelheim. "The prince had determined to remain in Cassel. The army is under the command of General Lothberg, and is concentrated at Fulda."
"We must join it there," cried the king. "United to the army of Hesse, we should form a force capable of serious resistance, and we should not easily be brought to a halt."
The groom of the chambers announced the minister of war.