Carlyle's "History of Friedrich II of Prussia"




BOOK VII.

FEARFUL SHIPWRECK OF THE
DOUBLE-MARRIAGE PROJECT.

February-November, 1730.

Chapter I.

ENGLAND SENDS THE EXCELLENCY HOTHAM TO BERLIN.

Things, therefore, are got to a dead-lock at Berlin: rebellious
Womankind peremptorily refuse Weissenfels, and take to a bed of
sickness; inexpugnable there, for the moment. Baireuth is but a
weak middle term; and there are disagreements on it. Answer from
England, affirmative or even negative, we have yet none.
Promptly affirmative, that might still avail, and be an honorable
outcome. Perhaps better pause till that arrive, and declare
itself?--Friedrich Wilhelm knows nothing of the Villa mission, of
the urgencies that have been used in England: but, in present
circumstances, he can pause for their answer.


MAJESTY AND CROWN-PRINCE WITH HIM MAKE A RUN TO DRESDEN