In spite of my unhappiness, my
daily prayer is, and shall be, that every undertaking of your
majesty shall be crowned with glory."
"Your unhappy brother, AUGUSTUS WILLIAM."
The king read this letter several times; then taking up his pen, he
wrote hastily: "MY DEAR BROTHER: Your improper conduct has greatly
disturbed my equanimity. Not my enemies, but your want of principle,
has caused all these disasters. My generals are not to be excused.
They have either given you bad advice, or have agreed too readily to
your foolish plans. The one is as bad as the other. Your ears are
accustomed to flattery, my brother. Daun did not flatter you, and
you now see the consequences. But little hope remains. I shall
commence the attack--if we do not conquer, we shall die together. I
do not bewail the loss of your heart, but rather your utter
incapacity and want of judgment. I tell you this plainly, for with
one who has perhaps but a few days to live, there is no use of
deception. I wish you more happiness than has fallen to my lot, and
hope that your misfortunes and disappointments may teach you to act
with more wisdom and judgment where matters of importance are
concerned.
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