While Potemkin spoke thus, he clinched his fist, and his herculean arm was raised as if to fell his invisible enemies.
"Whosoever be the foe, Austria will be at your side," said Cobenzl.
"I believe you," replied Potemkin, with returning calmness, "for it is your interest to be there. I know what you desire. First you supplant Prussia with Russia, and that entails a coolness with France, Prussia's dearest friend. Then you also dissolve with France, and we both court the alliance of England, so as to isolate France and Prussia from European politics. The plan is good, and will succeed if you are discreet."
"How discreet?"
"You must weigh well your behavior toward the czarina. I dare not advise the emperor, but let me advise you. You have often occasion to see the empress. Before you see her consult with me as to the topics of your discourse with her, and so we shall always be enabled to act in concert. Avoid ail dissimulation; let her perceive that you leave craft to the lovers of Prussia. Flatter as often as you see fit; flatter Catharine, however, not for what she is, but what she ought to be. [Footnote: Ibid.] Convince her that Austria is willing to further her ambition, not to restrain it, as Prussia has always done. Do this, and in a few months Austria will have changed roles with Prussia, and your enemies and mine shall be overthrown together."
A knock was heard at the, door, and an officer entered.
"How dare you interrupt me?" cried Potemkin, stamping his foot.
"Pardon, your highness. The private secretary of the Emperor of Austria has orders from his sovereign to hand a note to Count Cobenzl in your highness's presence."
"A very singular order. But we will gratify the emperor. Admit his majesty's messenger."
Gunther was introduced, who bowed low to Potemkin, passed on, and delivered his note.