formed a treaty with England--this matter is settled! I have been an
ally of Louis XV.; I have nothing to complain of in him. I love him;
well, am I now his enemy? I hope that there may be a time when I may
again approach the King of France. Pray tell him how anxiously I
look forward to this time. Tell him I am much attached to him."

"Ah, sire," said the duke, sighing, "it is a great misfortune. I
dare not go to my monarch with this sad, unexpected news; my monarch
who loves you so tenderly, whose most earnest wish it is for France
to be allied to Prussia."

"Ah, duke, "said Frederick, laughing, "France wishes for ships as
allies. I have none to offer--England has. With her help I shall
keep the Russians from Prussia, and with the aid she will keep the
French from Hanover."

"We are to be enemies, then?" said the duke, sadly.

"It is a necessary evil, for which there is no remedy. But Louis XV.
can form other alliances," said Frederick, ironically. "It may be
for his interest to unite with the house of Austria!"

The duke was much embarrassed.

"Your majesty is not in earnest," said he, anxiously.

"Why not, duke?" said Frederick; "an alliance between France and
Austria--it sounds very natural. If I were in your place, I would
propose this to my court."