That was the last toast to George V. in the old castle of Blechow. Klentzin looked down thoughtfully.
"We have won a fair country," he said to himself; "God grant that we may win these hearts to true brotherhood."
CHAPTER XXIX.
["GOD AND THE FATHERLAND!"]
King William had returned to Berlin. The nation received him with the wildest joy, scarcely knowing how to express its delight and enthusiasm at this unparalleled seven days' campaign, the wonderful success of which had placed Prussia so high amongst the first-class powers of Europe, and had so completely consolidated the unity of Germany. The first wild burst of delight was over in Berlin. Everything began to return to its accustomed course, at least outwardly, for every heart still swelled high with the proud feeling of victory.
Early one morning King William entered his cabinet. He was dressed, as always, in uniform, with the iron cross and the Order of Merit.
"Is Schneider here?" he enquired of the attendant on duty.
"At your majesty's command. He waits in the anteroom."
At a sign from the king, Louis Schneider entered, with a large portfolio under his arm.
"Good morning, Schneider," cried the king. "Everything has returned to its accustomed order, and we can begin regular work. What is there in the way of literature? What have you got in that great portfolio?"