"I hope," said the emperor, "that your views on the regeneration of Austria may some day be brought to life. In any case, I beg you will remember that you have a friend here, and that the interests of France and Austria are one in encouraging the free development of the German nation, and guaranteeing its national life. Greet your king from me, and ask him to trust to my word." With great emotion, Herr von Beust seized the emperor's proffered hand. "Thanks, sire, my warmest thanks," he cried. "Whatever the future may bring forth, I shall never forget this hour." And bowing deeply, he left the cabinet. The emperor called Piétri. "Is Klindworth there?" he asked. "At your command, sire." "I beg him to come to me." The states-chancellor appeared. The emperor advanced towards him with a smile. "You are right," he said; "the physician is found who can heal the sickness of Austria." Klindworth bowed. "I knew," he said, "that your majesty would agree with me." "Try to have the treatment of the case confided to him. You may rely upon my entire support." He thought deeply. "And tell the emperor," he then said, "that I will do all in my power to assist him, as energetically as circumstances permit. Material help, however, Austria must gain from herself and from the regeneration of her resources." "I understand perfectly, sire," said Klindworth. "Keep me _au fait_ as to Herr von Beust." Klindworth bowed. "May I return?" he asked. "You must set to work at once," said the emperor, "for your task is not an easy one. _Au revoir:_" and he made a friendly movement with his hand. Klindworth vanished behind the portière. "The cards are shuffled more and more," said the emperor, as he sank back comfortably into his arm-chair; "and it is only needful to hold them with a strong hand, and to look firmly at them, to rule the game. It will do," he added, supporting his head on his hand, "and at the same time a wide perspective is opened for the future. If Austria can truly arise in renewed life--Italy enclosed on both sides--the alliance is given--Hungary--Poland holds Russia in check----" His eyes shone. "Well," he said, with a slight smile, "we will wait, in waiting lies my strength. But a little help prepared beforehand may be useful. Above all things, I must not forget Saxony." He stood up, and called Piétri. "Drive to Drouyn de Lhuys," he said, "and desire him, in the instructions to Benedetti, to give him distinct orders to forbid the annexation of Saxony in the most decided manner--in the most decided manner," he repeated with emphasis. "At your command, sire." "And," asked the emperor, "do you know where General Türr is at this moment?" "With the army in Italy," replied Piétri; "but I can ascertain precisely immediately." "Write to him," said the emperor. "No," interrupting himself, "send a confidential person. I want to beg him to come here at once." Piétri bowed.