He also had gone to Baden-Baden; the King consulted him before sending the answer.

After a long and exhausting struggle, Bismarck gained his point and a refusal was sent.

He had threatened to resign if his advice were not taken.

As soon as the letter was sealed and despatched, Bismarck turned to a tray with glasses which stood on the table and smashed them in pieces.

"Are you ill ?" asked a friend who was in the room.