"The surgeon is here," said that individual, coming forward. "But what do I see? Your highness has risen?"
"Yes, doctor, for I am too ill to remain in camp any longer, and we must start to-day for Innspruck, where you will find me an altered man, and the most submissive of patients."
"Thank Heaven!" replied the surgeon, "for your highness needs rest."
"I will take as much as is needful," said the duke. "And now," added he to Eugene, "will you do me a last favor?"
"What can I do for your highness?"
"Seat yourself at my escritoire, and write what I shall dictate."
Eugene took up his pen and wrote:
"INSTRUCTIONS FOR MY OFFICERS:"
"My health being too weak to allow of my remaining any longer in active service, I am compelled to resign the command of the imperial armies to another. My successor, his highness the Elector of Bavaria, is at Essek, and will he with the army in a few hours. Until his arrival, I appoint Field-Marshal Count Caprara my representative. God protect the emperor and his brave army!"
"Thank you, prince," added the duke. "Now be so good as to reach me your pen, that I may sign my name."