and Saxony come upon us all at once, we can confront them."

"We can do that, I hope, even without the assistance of France,"
said the king, impetuously. "We must renounce all idea of help from
France; she is allied to Austria. What Kaunitz commenced with his
wisdom, Maria Theresa carried out with her flattery. All my enemies
have determined to attack me at once. But I am ready for them,
weapons in hand. I have been hard at work; all is arranged, every
preparation for the march of our army is finished. And now I have
called you together to counsel me as to where we can commence our
attack advantageously."

Frederick stopped speaking, and gazed earnestly at his generals,
endeavoring to divine their thoughts. Marshal Schwerin was looking
silently before him; a dark cloud rested upon General Retzow's brow;
but the young, handsome face of Winterfeldt was sparkling with
delight at the thought of war.

"Well, marshal," said the king, impatiently, "what is your advice?"

"My advice, sire," said the old marshal, sighing; "I see my king
surrounded by threatening and powerful foes; I see him alone in the
midst of all these allied enemies. For England may, perchance, send
us money, but she has no soldiers for us, and moreover, we must
assist her to defend Hanover. I cannot counsel this war, for mighty
enemies are around us, and Prussia stands alone."

"No," said Frederick, solemnly, "Prussia stands not alone!--a good
cause and a good sword are her allies, and with them she will
conquer. And now, General Retzow, let us have your opinion,"