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,"
"I agree entirely with Marshal Schwerin," said Retzow. "Like him, I
think Prussia should not venture into this strife, because she is
too weak to withstand such powerful adversaries."
"You speak prudently," said Frederick, scornfully. "And now,
Winterfeldt, are you also against this war?"
"No, sire," cried Winterfeldt, "I am for the attack, and never were
circumstances more favorable than at present. Austria has as yet
made no preparations for war; her armies are scattered, and her
finances are in disorder; and now it will be an easy task to attack
her and subdue her surprised army."
The king looked at him pleasantly, and turning to the other
generals, said quietly.
"We must not be carried away by the brave daring of this youth; he
is the youngest among us, and is, perhaps, misled by enthusiasm.
Pages:
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301