"My journeys to the Scandinavian States have been fruitful. In
Denmark, O Tzar! your own father-in-law has become almost associated
with my destiny.

"I have linked with my fortunes a king of French stock in Sweden, and I
will prove it at Alsen Island, where I shall compel him to take part in
the manoeuvres of my fleet.

"As to Norway, a few words from my Imperial lips have overcome the old
republicanism of these brother Teutons.

"So as to keep closer watch over the submission of my new allies, I
have wrested Heligoland from England; and there I shall build an
eagle's nest from which I shall be able to swoop down upon them, should
they attempt to escape me. Those who had any doubts as to the
importance of this surrender, have learned it from the speeches that I
made when taking possession.

"By this means I have closed the German Ocean _for ever_, and that
which is closed gives access to something.

"What need I say of Turkey that you do not know already? All her
thoughts, movements and actions are regulated by one man, and he a
vassal of German policy. Turkey's army, trade and finances, the
direction of her ruling minds, are either in my hands or in those of
England. And England, say what you will, is hypnotised by me.

"I can afford at my pleasure to challenge her policy indefinitely.