silent queen, "speak."

Bowing profoundly, Count Mattzahn drew a dispatch from his pocket,
and read in a loud, earnest voice.

It was a manifesto from the King of Prussia, written by himself and
addressed to all the European courts. In it, Frederick denied being
actuated by any desire of conquest or gain, but declared that he was
compelled to commence this war to which Austria had provoked him by
her many and prolonged insults. There was a pause when the count
finished reading. Upon the gentle, amiable countenance of the king
there was now an angry look. The queen was indifferent, cold, and
haughty; she seemed to have paid no attention whatever to Count
Mattzahn, but, turning to the princess at her side, she asked a
perfectly irrelevant question, which was answered in a whisper.

Countess Bruhl dared not raise her eyes; she did not wish her
faithless lover, Count Mattzahn, whose cunning political intrigues
she now perfectly understood, to see her pain and confusion. The
prince-elector, well aware of the importance of this hour, stood at
the king's side; behind him was Count Bruhl, whose handsome,
sparkling countenance was now deadly pale.

Opposite to this agitated group, stood the Prussian ambassador,
whose haughty, quiet appearance presented a marked contrast. His
clear, piercing glance rested upon each one of them, and seemed to
fathom every thought of their souls. His tall, imposing form was
raised proudly, and there was an expression of the noblest
satisfaction upon his countenance. After waiting some time in vain
for an answer, he placed the manifesto before the king.