How could I suppose that he who has been raised from the rank of a simple gentleman to that of a duke and prince, and who, save the fortunes which he obtained with his wives, owes everything to the bounty of the emperor, could be preparing to turn his arms against him ?" "It is true that he has done great things for Ferdinand, but his ambition is even greater than his military talent.

Any other man would have been content with the enormous possessions and splendid dignity which he has attained, and which in fact render him far richer than his Imperial master; but to be a prince does not suffice for him.

He has been promised a kingdom, but even that is insufficient for his ambition.
It is clear that he aims to dethrone the emperor and to set himself up in his place; however, his ingratitude does not concern me, it suffices now that at any rate he is sincere, and that a happy issue out of the struggle opens before us henceforth.
"I can trust him thoroughly; but though he has the will to join us has he the power?
Wallenstein, with his generals and his army fighting for the emperor, is a mighty personage, but Wallenstein a rebel is another altogether.

By what you tell me it seems more than doubtful whether his officers will follow him; and although his army is attached to him, and might follow him could he put himself at its head, it is scattered in its cantonments, and each section will obey the orders which the general in its command may give.
"Probably some of those who signed the document, pledging their fidelity to Wallenstein, have already sent news to the emperor of what is being done.

It is a strange situation and needs great care; the elements are all uncertain.