"Forget and forgive," said Count Mensdorff, "and restore to Hungary her independence beneath the crown of St. Stephen."
The emperor was silent.
"And the Italian army?" he then asked.
"Must be recalled as quickly as possible, to cover Vienna, and to march against the enemy!"
"And what will become of Italy?" asked the emperor.
"Italy must be given up," said Count Mensdorff, sighing.
The emperor gave him a penetrating look.
"Give up Italy?" he asked, hesitatingly, and cast down his eyes.
"Italy or Germany," said Count Mensdorff, "and in my opinion the choice cannot be difficult."
"It is hard enough to have to make the choice," whispered the emperor.