“How is it possible, my lord, to believe things so contradictory? It is mighty fine, all this that you now tell me, on the part of the King of England. But how does it correspond with his last speech in Parliament, and with the doings of his ministers at Petersburg and at the Hague, to stir up allies against me? I have reason to doubt the sincerity of the King of England. Perhaps he means to amuse me. But” (with an oath[55]) “he is mistaken. I will risk every thing rather than abate the least of my pretensions.” Lord Hyndford, evidently embarrassed, for the facts were strongly against him, endeavored, in some additional remarks, to assume ignorance of any unfriendly action on the part of the British government. The king again, in a loud and angry tone, replied, “My lord, there seems to be a contradiction in all this. The King of England, in his letter, tells me you are instructed as to every thing, and yet you pretend ignorance. But I am perfectly informed of all. And I should not be surprised if, after all these fine words, you should receive some strong letter or resolution for me.” Then, turning to his secretary, he added, sarcastically, “Write down that my lord would be surprised to receive such instruction.” Lord Hyndford, who says that by this rude assailment he was put extremely upon his guard, rejoined: “Europe is under the necessity of taking some speedy resolution, things are in such a state of crisis. Like a fever in a human body, got to such a height that quinquina becomes necessary. Shall we apply to Vienna, your majesty?” A transient smile flitted across the king’s countenance. Then, looking cold again, he added, “Follow your own will in that.” “Would your majesty,” Lord Hyndford replied, “engage to stand by his excellency Gotter’s original offer at Vienna on your part? That is, would you agree, in consideration of the surrender to you of Lower Silesia and Breslau, to assist the Queen of Austria, with all your troops, for the maintenance of the Pragmatic Sanction, and to vote for the Grand-duke Francis as emperor?” “Yes,” was the monosyllabic reply. “What was the sum of money your majesty then offered the Queen of Austria?” Lord Hyndford inquired. The king hesitated, as though he had forgotten. But his secretary answered, “Three million florins ($1,500,000).” “I should not value the money,” the king added. “If money would content her I would give more.” After a long pause Lord Hyndford inquired, “Would your majesty consent to an armistice?” “Yes,” Frederick replied; “but for not less than six months” (counting on his fingers from May to December)--“till December 1. The season then would be so far gone that they could do nothing.” As the secretary, Podewils, had been taking notes, Lord Hyndford requested permission to look at them, that he might see that no mistake had been made. The king assented, and then Lord Hyndford bowed himself out. Thus ended the audience.