History of Friedrich II of Prussia — Volume 14Carlyle, Thomas
History
History of Friedrich II of Prussia — Volume 14
Carlyle, Thomas
Frederick II, King of Prussia, 1712-1786; Prussia (Germany) -- History -- Frederick II, 1740-1786; Social problems
Sister Amelia, whom some thought disappointed, as perhaps, in her
foolish thought, she might a little be, was made Abbess of Quedlinburg,
which opulent benefice had fallen vacant; and, there or at Berlin, lived
a respectable Spinster-life, doubtless on easier terms than Ulrique's.
Always much loved by her Brother, and loving him (and "taking care of
his shirts," in the final times); noted in society, for her sharp tongue
and ways. Concerning whom Thiebault and his Trenck romances are worth
no notice,--if it be not with horsewhips on opportunity. SCANDALUM
MAGNATUM, where your Magnates are NOT fallen quite counterfeit, was and
is always (though few now reflect on it) a most punishable crime.
GLANCE AT THE BELLIGERENT POWERS; BRITANNIC MAJESTY NARROWLY MISSES AN
INVASION THAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN DANGEROUS
Princess Ulrique was hardly yet home in Sweden, when her Brother had
actually gone forth upon the Wars again! So different is outside from
interior, now and then. "While the dancing and the marriage-festivities
went on at Court, we, in private, were busily completing the
preparations for a Campaign," dreamed of by no mortal, "which was on the
point of being opened." [_OEuvres de Frederic,_ iii. 41.] July 2d, three
weeks before Princess Ulrique left, a certain Adventure of Prince
Karl's in the Rhine Countries had accomplished itself (of which in the
following Book); and Friedrich could discern clearly that the moment
drew rapidly nigh.
On the French side of the War, there has been visible--since those high
attempts of Britannic George and the Hungarian Majesty, contumeliously
spurning the Peace offered them, and grasping evidently at one's
Lorraines, Alsaces, and Three Bishoprics--a marked change; comfortable
to look at from Friedrich's side. Most Christian Majesty, from the
sad bent attitude of insulted repentance, has started up into the
perpendicular one of indignation: "Come on, then!"--and really makes
efforts, this Year, quite beyond expectation. "Oriflamme enterprises,
private intentions of cutting Germany in Four; well, have not I smarted
for them; as good as owned they were rather mad? But to have my apology
spit upon; but to be myself publicly cut in pieces for them?"
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