'It is, therefore, with a single eye to these disorders that our present external policy has been shaped.

Something was required to divert public attention, to employ the idle, to popularise your Highness's rule, and, if it were possible, to enable him to reduce the taxes at a blow and to a notable amount.

The proposed expedition--for it cannot without hyperbole be called a war--seemed to the council to combine the various characters required; a marked improvement in the public sentiment has followed even upon our preparations; and I cannot doubt that when success shall follow, the effect will surpass even our boldest hopes.' 'You are very adroit, Herr von Gondremark,' said Otto.

'You fill me with admiration.

I had not heretofore done justice to your qualities.' Seraphina looked up with joy, supposing Otto conquered; but Gondremark still waited, armed at every point; he knew how very stubborn is the revolt of a weak character.
'And the territorial army scheme, to which I was persuaded to consent--was it secretly directed to the same end ?' the Prince asked.
'I still believe the effect to have been good,' replied the Baron; 'discipline and mounting guard are excellent sedatives.