Napoleon feels that he will in time be asked to intervene, and for his help he will take a slice of the Rhineland. Bismarck did not undeceive France--mark that well! Later in life, the Man of Blood and Iron, taunted with the charge of attempting to give away German territory, made a strong "diplomatic" defense. He fearlessly produced the draft of a proposed treaty showing that France was conniving to acquire Belgium, through the under-play of politics, aided by Bismarck. The amusing part was Bismarck's solemn reply, "The treaty was drawn up by Napoleon himself, and was offered to me for signature!" Also, to show that he is disinterested, Napoleon now proposes that the "differences" between Prussia and Austria be settled by a European congress. Austria hangs back, although England and Russia join to ask for the Congress of Settlement. 46 1864-1866--Prussian domination essential in all Bismarck's plans--Consistent in his inconsistencies. ¶ The difficulties of Bismarck's position are not to be ascribed to the fact that, first and foremost, he desired to re-establish confidence in the Feudal theory of Divine-right of kings. His life-long plans had to do with increasing the power of Prussia and he preached the legitimacy of his loyal master's house as an American politician is wont to eulogize the services of the "grand old Republican party," or "the great principles of Jefferson," or boasts that he is "progressive and independent," whatever that may mean. In each case, the appeal is to a given audience, with the hope of adding to the following. ¶ The logic of hereditary influences placed Bismarck squarely in line as King's Man; and to his credit be it said that he consistently preached one gospel throughout his long political life. But his alignment with kings was more than mere opportunism, as too often is the case in America, among the "people's" leaders. Bismarck honestly believed that the logic of events precluded any change in rulership over the Prussian people; and in his larger view Prussian domination must eventually spread over the German states, uniting them in one country--as they were already united by blood and by languages. ¶ That he battled with Austria, the rival for the good will of the German states, is easily explained. It is not human nature for any man to yield what to him promises to turn out an advantage. That the sovereigns of Prussia held their crown upon the principle of Divine-right, was construed also to impose obligations; and it was part of the theory that the King and his advisers must see to it that the land is used for the common good. The King of Prussia swore to "Divine-right to the soil; swore to defend it; swore to improve it, for the benefit of all."