"Or," said the emperor, "try his powers in a wider sphere than that whose narrow boundaries have denied him success."
He rose.
Beust stood up, and seized his hat.
"I hope," said the emperor, "that your views on the regeneration of Austria may some day be brought to life. In any case, I beg you will remember that you have a friend here, and that the interests of France and Austria are one in encouraging the free development of the German nation, and guaranteeing its national life. Greet your king from me, and ask him to trust to my word."
With great emotion, Herr von Beust seized the emperor's proffered hand.
"Thanks, sire, my warmest thanks," he cried. "Whatever the future may bring forth, I shall never forget this hour."
And bowing deeply, he left the cabinet.
The emperor called Piétri.
"Is Klindworth there?" he asked.
"At your command, sire."