He appeared
content with the laurels which the two Silesian wars had placed upon
his heroic brow, and he only indulged the wish that Europe,
exhausted by her long and varied wars, would allow him that rest and
peace which the world at large seemed to enjoy. Those who were
honored with invitations to Sans-Souci, and had opportunities to see
the king, could only speak of that earthly paradise; of the peaceful
stillness which reigned there, and which was reflected in every
countenance; of Frederick's calm cheerfulness and innocent
enjoyment.
"The king thinks no more of politics," said the frolicsome
Berliners; "he is absorbed in the arts and sciences, and, above all
other things, he lives to promote the peaceful prosperity of his
people." The balance of power and foreign relations troubled him no
longer; he wished for no conquests, and thought not of war. In the
morning he was occupied with scientific works, wrote in his
"Histoire de mon Temps," or to his friends, and took part in the
daily-recurring duties of the government. The remainder of the day
was passed in the garden of Sans-Souci, in pleasant walks and
animated conversation, closing always with music.
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