The conversation became forced and general; the Elector invited Karl to dine with him and the offer was accepted.
Augustus and Count Fleming sat down to table with Karl and his general, and some sort of conversation, embarrassed on the part of the Saxons, and indifferent on the part of the Swedes, took place.
The Conqueror ate bread and drank water, and Augustus drank heavily of every wine that was offered to him, to give himself courage for the coming interview with Karl, in which he would ask the life of Patkul.
The meal being over the Elector conducted the Swedes round the fortifications, and while the King was a little ahead took occasion to ask General Hord, one of the Swedish officers, if he thought his master would grant him a favor.
“I think,” added Augustus, “that he will not refuse a small request to a man from whom he has taken a crown.”
“What is this small request of your Highness?” asked General Hord dryly.
Augustus flushed; his whole position was one of cruel humiliation, and he liked the Swedish officers little better than he liked their master.
“I want the life of General Patkul,” he replied, with an air as easy as he could manage. “I hardly think,” he added, with a forced smile, “that your master will refuse me.”
“You do not know him,” replied the Swede dryly. “He will certainly refuse you.”
“Why?” demanded the unfortunate Elector, with some sharpness.