Oldal 229 [229]
KING BIZARRE AND PRINCE CHARMING
mutinied, headed by Wieduwillst. The rebels had pro¬
claimed the downfall of the king, whom they accused of
abominable crimes, especially of the murder of the queen.
Numerous and well commanded, they were approaching
the city, which was defended only by a few doubtful and
disaffected regiments. Bayonet entreated the king to
come instantly and take command; an hour later, and all
would be lost.
Hurried on by Tonto and Rachimburg, the king secretly
quitted the palace, followed by a few officers. A proclama¬
tion, placarded on all the walls of the city and at every
corner of the streets, declared that there was no truth in
the rumors spread by a few malicious persons, and that
the army had never been more devoted or faithful. Upon
this there was a universal panic; stocks fell 50 per cent.
in half an hour, and did not rise again till unofficial news
arrived that the king had been well received at head¬
quarters.
IX
HEROIC REMEDIES FOR GREAT EVILS
The news was false; the prince had been received with
great coldness. It was his own fault. Sad, despondent,
and abstracted, Charming had neither found a jest for the
soldiers nor a word of trust for the officers. He entered
187