“I sent for you, my child,” said Frederick, in a soft and tender tone, “because I wished to see you once more before I set out on my journey.”
“Your majesty is then about to travel,” said the prince naïvely.
“Yes, I am about to travel,” replied Frederick, bowing his head gently.
“But, your majesty, I thought the grand manœuvres were to be held at Potsdam this time.”
“Yes, the grand manœuvres will be held in Potsdam; and, at the grand review, I will have to report to Him who is the King of kings. Why do you look so awe-struck, my son? Perhaps it has never occurred to you that men are compelled to leave this paradise to die!”
“Your majesty, I had never thought seriously of death!”
“And you were perfectly right in not doing so, my child,” said Frederick, and his voice had now regained its firmness. “Your attention must be firmly and immovably directed to life, for a great deal will be required of you on earth, and with your whole mind and strength you must endeavor to respond to these demands. You must study very diligently and make yourself familiar with the sciences. Which is your favorite study?”
“History, sire.”
“That is well, Fritz. Impress upon your mind the great events of history, and learn, by studying the heroic deeds of kings, to be a hero yourself. Above all, your aims must be great, and you must struggle to attain them throughout your entire life. Who is your favorite hero in history?”
“Sire,” replied the prince, after a little reflection, “my favorite hero is Cosmo de Medici.”