"Herr von Beust here in Austria?" exclaimed the king in great surprise.
"Yes," said the King of Saxony thoughtfully, "he would meet with difficulties; the Archduke Albert and the Archduchess Sophia feel a great repugnance to the plan; it is, of course, a matter of profound secrecy during the present uncertain state of affairs."
"Certainly," said King George. "What does Beust think he can do with Austria? he is taking a difficult position, the more difficult from the many inimical elements he would have to encounter at home."
"One important element he thinks he can overcome, and reconcile to the House of Hapsburg: Hungary, who has so long been discontented, will find it impossible to continue her displeasure, as he will at once restore to her the self-government she demands."
"Remove the centre of gravity to Pesth," said King George with some bitterness, "as Bismarck advised."
"A second centre of gravity will remain in Vienna," returned the King of Saxony, "and the balance of power between the two will create the future strength of Austria."
"But the Church," asked the King of Hanover, "will she regard Beust favourably?"
"I avoid speaking upon Church questions," said King John gravely, "happily, from the constitution of Saxony, I have never been placed in the painful position of deciding between political necessity and my religions convictions. Have you good news of the queen?" he said, changing the subject.
"I thank you," replied King George, "she is as well as painful circumstances permit."
"I admire her heroic courage and her dignified bearing," said the King of Saxony; after a short pause he added--