It was no longer a conflict between the Ministry and the Parliament, but between the King and the country.
Suddenly the country learned that the Crown Prince himself, the Heir Apparent to the throne, was on their side.

He had always disliked Bismarck; he was offended by the brusqueness of his manner.

He disliked the genial and careless _bonhommie_ with which Bismarck, who hated affectation, discussed the most serious subjects; he had opposed his appointment, and he now held a position towards his father's Government similar to that which ten years before his father had held towards his own brother.

He was much influenced by his English relations, and the opinion of the English Court was strongly unfavourable to Bismarck.
Hitherto the Crown Prince had refrained from any public active opposition; he had, however, not been asked his opinion concerning the Press ordinances, nor had he even received an invitation to the council at which they were passed.

Bitterly offended at this slight upon himself, seriously alarmed lest the action of the Government might even endanger the dynasty, on his entry into Danzig he took occasion to dissociate himself from the action of the Government.