It is unquestionable that
neither you nor I can feel certain of a happy issue to the
circumstances which now surround us. But when we have done all which
lies in our power, our consciences and public opinion will do us
justice. We contend for our fatherland and for honor. We must make
the impossible possible, in order to succeed. The number of our
enemies does not terrify me. The greater their number, the more
glorious will be our fame when we have conquered them." [Footnote:
Preuss, "History of Frederick the Great," vol. ii., p. 246.]
Prince Henry, ashamed of his despondency, gave to this letter of his
brother the answer of a hero. He marched against the Russians, drove
them from Silesia, and raised the siege of Breslau, around which the
Austrians under Loudon were encamped. Tauentzein, with fearless
energy and with but three thousand Prussians, had fortified himself
in Breslau against this powerful enemy. So in the very beginning of
the winter the capital of Silesia had been retaken By Torgau the
king had fought and won his twelfth battle for the possession of
Silesia--yes, fought and won from his powerful and irreconcilable
enemies.
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