Furthermore, I shall open the Rhine, by
sending along its banks the ultimatum you propose, not supported by my
army, but supported by the name of the Archbishop of Mayence, and I
shall be interested to know what Baron on the Rhine dare flout that
title. Will you accept my aid, Prince Roland?"
"I accept it, my Lord, with deep gratitude, knowing that it will prove
effective."
His Lordship rose in his place.
"I said this was not an Electoral Court. I rise to announce my mistake.
We Electors here gathered together form a majority. I propose to you the
name of Prince Roland, son of our late Emperor."
"My Lord, my Lord!" cried Roland, raising his hand, "you do not know
all."
"Patient Heaven!" cried the irritated Archbishop, "you make too much of
us as father confessors. Do not tell us now you have been guilty of
assassination!"
"No, my Lord, but you should know that I have married the Lady
Hildegunde, Countess von Sayn, whom you have already rejected as
Empress."
"Well, if you have accepted the dame, the balance is redressed.
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