And for that matter, I have a question to address to you.
Why, being so great a body of men - for you are a great body -
fifteen thousand, I have heard, but that will be understated; am I
right?'
The man gurgled in his throat.
'Why, then, being so considerable a party,' resumed Otto, 'do you
not come before me boldly with your wants? - what do I say? with
your commands? Have I the name of being passionately devoted to my
throne? I can scarce suppose it. Come, then; show me your
majority, and I will instantly resign. Tell this to your friends;
assure them from me of my docility; assure them that, however they
conceive of my deficiencies, they cannot suppose me more unfit to be
a ruler than I do myself. I am one of the worst princes in Europe;
will they improve on that?'
'Far be it from me . . .' the man began.
'See, now, if you will not defend my government!' cried Otto. 'If I
were you, I would leave conspiracies. You are as little fit to be a
conspirator as I to be a king.'
'One thing I will say out,' said the man. 'It is not so much you
that we complain of, it's your lady.'
'Not a word, sir' said the Prince; and then after a moment's pause,
and in tones of some anger and contempt: 'I once more advise you to
have done with politics,' he added; 'and when next I see you, let me
see you sober. A morning drunkard is the last man to sit in
judgment even upon the worst of princes.
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