"A man that does not care for merit," says the adage, "cannot himself have any." But a King that does not care for merit, what shall we say of such a King!-- BEHAVIOR TO HIS MOTHER; TO HIS WIFE.
One other fine feature, significant of many, let us notice: his affection for his Mother.

When his Mother addressed him as "Your Majesty," he answered, as the Books are careful to tell us: "Call me Son; that is the Title of all others most agreeable to me!" Words which, there can be no doubt, came from the heart.

Fain would he shoot forth to greatness in filial piety, as otherwise; fain solace himself in doing something kind to his Mother.

Generously, lovingly; though again with clear view of the limits.

He decrees for her a Title higher than had been customary, as well as more accordant with his feelings; not "Queen Dowager," but "Her Majesty the Queen Mother." He decides to build her a new Palace; "under the Lindens" it is to be, and of due magnificence: in a month or two, he had even got bits of the foundation dug, and the Houses to be pulled down bought or bargained for; [Rodenbeck, p.
15 (30th June-23d Aug.