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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a234647 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #62527 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/62527) diff --git a/old/62527-0.txt b/old/62527-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c44127b..0000000 --- a/old/62527-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3172 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Maria Therese (Life Stories for Young -People), by W. D. Von Horn - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Maria Therese (Life Stories for Young People) - -Author: W. D. Von Horn - -Translator: George P. Upton - -Release Date: June 30, 2020 [EBook #62527] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MARIA THERESE (LIFE STORIES *** - - - - -Produced by D A Alexander, Stephen Hutcheson, and the -Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net -(This file was produced from images generously made -available by The Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - - - [Illustration: _Portrait of Maria Theresa_] - - _Life Stories for Young People_ - - - - - MARIA THERESA - - - _Translated from the German of - W. D. Von Horn_ - - BY - GEORGE P. UPTON -_Translator of “Memories,” author of “Upton Handbooks on Music,” editor - “Autobiography of Theodore Thomas,” etc., etc._ - - WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS - - [Illustration: A. C. McCLURG & CO.] - - CHICAGO - A. C. McCLURG & CO. - 1905 - - Copyright - A. C. McClurg & Co. - 1905 - Published September 16, 1905 - - THE UNIVERSITY PRESS, CAMBRIDGE, U.S.A. - - - - - Translator’s Preface - - -Among the famous queens of the world—Catharine II of Russia, Elizabeth, -Anne Boleyn, and Victoria of England, Mary Queen of Scots, Isabella of -Spain, Louise of Prussia, Marie Antoinette, Marie and Catharine di -Medici of France, and others, Maria Theresa of Austria holds a -conspicuous place. In statesmanship and patriotism she ranks with -Elizabeth and Catharine. As Catharine greatly improved the -administration of her Empire, introduced new laws and extended its -frontiers, and as Elizabeth’s reign was characterized by great -commercial enterprises and extraordinary intellectual activity, so the -reign of Maria Theresa, though she was engaged for years in two great -wars,—that of the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years’ -War with Frederick for the recovery of Silesia, which he had taken from -her,—proved to be of the highest benefit to Austria in the strengthening -of law and the introduction of needed reforms and wise measures for the -welfare of the Empire. - -For years she was engaged in war for the preservation of Silesia with -the most potent sovereign in Europe—Frederick the Great. Doubtless he -had some antique claim upon Silesia, but when Maria Theresa succeeded to -the throne under the terms of the Pragmatic Sanction, all the European -powers, Prussia among them, whose rights might be affected, renounced -their claims. She relied upon their good faith, but on the slightest of -pretexts Frederick broke it and determined to rob her of Silesia, even -at the cost of plunging all Europe into a long and devastating war. He -set aside a new treaty to enforce an old claim. He plainly condemned -himself by his own words in his Memoirs: “Ambition, interest, the desire -of making people talk about me carried the day and I decided for war.” -When peace was finally made, Maria Theresa retained her old inheritance, -though she lost Silesia; but Frederick was more than willing to make -peace, for all Germany had been a terrible sufferer by the war and -Prussia was in dire straits. - -The story of the life of the great queen is briefly told in these pages. -It is the story of the life of a proud, ambitious queen; a wise, -judicious ruler, who had the best interests of her subjects at heart, -and for whom they were always ready to die; a woman of spotless personal -character and true to all her domestic duties at a time when immorality -and corruption were rife in high places. The story covers some of the -same episodes of history which occur in the narrative of Frederick, in -this series, but is none the less interesting, as the reader will find -both sides presented. - - G. P. U. - -Chicago, 1905 - - - - - Contents - - - I The Young Queen 13 - II Campaigns against Prussia, France, and Bohemia 33 - III The Second Silesian War 56 - IV Plots and Counterplots 72 - V Battles of the Seven Years’ War 85 - VI Close of the Long Struggle 104 - VII The Last Days of Maria Theresa 122 - Appendix 141 - - - - - List of Illustrations - - - Page - Portrait of Maria Theresa _Frontispiece_ - Maria Theresa in the Council Chamber 18 - “We are ready to die for our Empress” 40 - “Be comforted, my good woman, for I have come to see you” 132 - - - - - Maria Theresa - - - - - Chapter I - The Young Queen - - -It would almost seem that the Emperor Charles VI, the father of Maria -Theresa, had a presentiment of what was to come, when, directly after -his marriage, he obtained from the various states united under his -dominion an order of succession called “The Pragmatic Sanction,”[1] -which decreed that in case his house should become extinct in the male -line, succession to the throne should pass to his female descendants. To -make this law binding and legal was such an important matter to him that -it may be said to have been the chief aim of his life. - -In the year 1716, to the great joy of the Emperor, a son was born to -him. Vienna and the whole country shared in the rejoicings of the royal -parents; but unfortunately their happiness was of short duration, for, -before the Autumn of that year had strewn the earth with withered -leaves, the heir to the throne had drooped and died. The Emperor’s grief -was intense, and was made harder to bear by reason of the many other -cares and troubles which beset him on all sides at that time. - -The second child was a daughter, Maria Theresa, who was born May 13, -1717,[2] and upon whose head, according to the right of primogeniture -established by the Pragmatic Sanction, the crowns of the united Austrian -states were one day to rest. Who could have imagined that this child, -while inheriting all the beauty of her mother, would be endowed at the -same time with a masculinity of intellect, together with a strength and -wisdom, a firmness yet kindliness of disposition, which but few men have -manifested? - -St. Ambrose’s “Hymn of Praise” was at once sung in the most solemn -manner in St. Stephen’s Cathedral, in the presence of all the highest -dignitaries of the Empire, and the baptism of the heiress to the throne -took place on the evening of the day of her birth with great pomp and -splendor. After the loss of their first-born, the imperial couple were -overjoyed at the advent of this child, and, amid all the cares and -responsibilities forced upon him by his numerous wars, the devoted -father never lost sight of his fixed purpose or relaxed his efforts to -obtain universal recognition of his law of succession among the European -powers, as well as the various states of his own empire. He felt the -importance of securing his beloved daughter’s undisputed title to the -throne, while the Empress’ motherly heart rejoiced at each hardly won -acknowledgment of the rights of her child, who already showed signs of -such splendid promise. - -But it was not alone in such well-grounded and well-directed efforts -that the parents’ care showed itself: no pains were spared to develop to -the fullest extent Maria Theresa’s abundant mental gifts and talents, so -as to fit her for her future position as ruler of an empire; nor did the -noble mother fail to sow the seed and nourish the growth in her -daughter’s tender nature of those womanly virtues which were to bear -such rich harvest. - -With loving eyes the wise and careful Empress watched over the early -training of the Princess’ mind,—a mind which warranted the brightest -hopes of all those to whose hands her education was intrusted. As may be -readily understood, these instructors were selected from among the most -distinguished ladies of the Court; the Countesses von Thurn and -Valsassina, von Stubenberg and von Fuchs. They worked in perfect accord -with the august mother upon whose breast God had placed the precious -jewel, and to whose care He had intrusted the treasure. Later, as it -became necessary for her to occupy herself with more serious and -important subjects, learned and capable men were assigned the task of -guiding the clear and active mind of the Princess through the -departments of religion, history, and other branches of learning, the -comprehension of which was deemed necessary. The study of languages, -too, was begun at an early age and covered a wide range, as it was -important that the future ruler of Austria should be familiar with the -various tongues spoken within her dominions, and thus be able to -dispense with interpreters who might, and indeed must inevitably, stand -between her and her people to a certain extent. Above all, it was -requisite that she should not only understand Latin but speak it -fluently, since that was the language spoken in Hungary; and almost -equally important was a knowledge of French, Italian, and Spanish. The -most accomplished masters were chosen by the imperial parents, and equal -care was bestowed on the choice of teachers for music, drawing, and -painting. - -My young readers will perceive from this that the Archduchess had no -easy tasks to perform. - -Though, as compared with the requirements of our times, such an -education may seem defective in many respects, still it bore surprising -fruit, due largely to the remarkable endowments of her who received it; -she made such good use of it that it was possible for her not only to -assume the high position that devolved upon her at an early age, but to -maintain it with strength and dignity through all the troubled period of -her minority. - -The following incident confirms the truth of this statement. Maria -Theresa was sixteen years of age when the important and complicated -question of the election of a king of Poland was to be decided by the -King’s councillors. The imperial maiden entered the council chamber at -her father’s side, to take part in the deliberations of the foremost -statesmen of the empire, and bore herself with a grace and dignity that -excited universal admiration. She listened with grave attention to the -wise words of the councillors, but when it came her turn to express her -opinions, at her father’s desire, the astonishment of the ministers was -unbounded, as was the Emperor’s delight also, at the clearness and -accuracy of her judgment, and the acuteness and keenness of her -perceptions. - -This is given as a proof of her clear understanding and early maturity -of mind, but it must not be supposed that these qualities detracted in -any way from her feminine charms. Indeed, her kindness of heart, -delicacy of thought, and above all her moral purity and lofty strength -of purpose, combined to form a personality which seemed born to rule by -divine right over the hearts of men, as well as to sway the sceptre of a -mighty Empire; nor was her power lessened by a physical beauty and grace -that made her the envy of all the princesses of Europe. - - [Illustration: _Maria Theresa in the Council Chamber_] - -As she approached the age when the question who should one day share the -throne with her had to be seriously considered, its political bearing -began to assert itself; personal views were taken less into account than -careful calculations as to what would benefit the crown and state and -serve to increase the national importance and influence. The Emperor and -his consort had already discussed the question privately, before any of -the foreign princes had turned their glances toward the throne and the -heiress herself. - -An old tradition, to the effect that the crown of Spain would one day be -joined again to that which was to adorn the beautiful head of Maria -Theresa, was much talked of in Vienna, and with even more seriousness in -Madrid. It came to nothing, however, and this laid the foundations of a -deep and lasting enmity in Spain toward Austria. Other alliances, too, -were discussed and rejected. Whether the affections of the Princess were -involved in any of them is doubtful, especially as there happened to be -a certain prince staying at the imperial court in Vienna who lacked none -of the attractions of mind or person that particularly fitted him for -success in his wooing. This was Francis Stephen, son of Duke Leopold and -Hereditary Prince of Lorraine, who was somewhat older indeed than the -youthful Archduchess, but worthy of her in every way. He had succeeded -to the dukedom of Lorraine on his father’s death, and there seemed no -obstacles to the alliance, either personal or political, when an -approaching war-cloud relegated all thoughts of marriage into the -background. - -The centre of disturbance in those days was Poland, a part it has -repeatedly played since, under other circumstances and conditions. The -throne of this unhappy land was vacant, and the number of claimants, -with the variety of their pretensions, made it a veritable apple of -discord. Charles VI supported the claim of the Elector of Saxony, but -France, cherishing an old grudge, had other plans, and took up arms -against Austria. The war did not last long, for Charles was anxious for -peace; but many important changes resulted, which reduced Austria’s -possessions in Italy, and Maria Theresa’s betrothed, instead of -remaining Duke of Lorraine, was made Grand Duke of Tuscany. After peace -had been declared, preparations were resumed for the marriage of the -affianced pair. The nuptials were celebrated with the greatest splendor; -but unfortunately the joy and satisfaction which the occasion brought -the Emperor were embittered by the disastrous results of a war with -Turkey, which made the death of Prince Eugene,[3] “der edler Ritter,” -even more keenly felt, since all that his sword had won for Austria was -lost again through the incompetency of other commanders. Not long after -this, the happy young couple began their triumphal journey to Tuscany, -the sovereignty of which had devolved upon the consort of the -Archduchess. - -The Emperor Charles’ most ardent desire, to see a male heir born of this -happy union, was not to be fulfilled; he was forced to close his eyes -full of anxiety as to the continuation of his line and crushed by the -fatal peace of Belgrade, which had been such a blow to him. His death -occurred on October 20, 1740. The inheritance which he bequeathed to -Maria Theresa, as his heiress and successor, consisted of little -territory beyond what Prince Eugene’s sword had won and secured. -Austria’s possessions had become greatly diminished by the results of -unfortunate wars. The great leaders and nobles of the Empire, instead of -working together to insure the stability of the much-talked-of Pragmatic -Sanction, or, what was even more important, to fill the treasury and -establish and maintain an army that should command respect, had ceased -to be of any help or support to the Emperor; while an exceedingly lavish -and brilliant Court swallowed up more than the country’s resources -warranted. So when Maria Theresa came to the throne, the state treasury -was almost empty, the army large only on paper; in short, everything was -lacking, and no order or system existed anywhere. - -The Emperor was a kind-hearted, cultivated, and high-minded man, but not -the kind of a ruler demanded by the condition of affairs and the -importance of his position. He had a natural taste for art and learning, -and sympathized with all that was lofty and noble. He was also devoted -to the welfare of his people and indefatigable in all that pertained to -their good; but in matters that concerned the political position of -Austria, he lacked the necessary firmness and energy. Thus, while in -some ways Maria Theresa had only to maintain what her noble father had -planned and begun, in others she was obliged to act on her own -responsibility and strive to remedy evils that needed a stronger and -more masculine hand than is often possessed by a woman. But to her had -been granted the clear, judicious mind and resolute spirit of a born -ruler; she was singularly fitted for the difficult task, and what a man -might not have been able to accomplish even under the most favorable -circumstances, the woman and youthful Empress effected with the happiest -results. It was no easy task for her, however, and the eyes of Europe -were fixed expectantly, if somewhat doubtfully, on the fair young -Princess who had grasped the reins of government under such difficult -conditions. - -One plan had been suggested to her which, viewed in the light of -subsequent events, must have made a strong impression on her mind. When -the question of choosing a consort for the Emperor’s beautiful and -promising daughter had been uppermost, Prince Eugene of Savoy proposed a -union with the Crown Prince Frederick of Prussia, he who afterward -deservedly won for himself the title of “the Great”; and with his -wonderful foresight and sagacity—indeed, it would almost seem with a -prophetic vision of the future—strongly urged the execution of his plan. -He did not succeed in uniting these two great hearts and minds, yet it -shows how free from prejudice the great hero was. How different might -the history of Europe have been had this dream of the knightly hero been -realized! How far-reaching the consequences, extending even to our own -times! How much, alas! that must be lamented, might Germany perhaps have -been spared! But it was otherwise decreed in that high tribunal which -rules all human affairs and speaks the irrevocable words,—“Thus Shall It -Be!” - -Maria Theresa was not yet twenty-four years old when she ascended the -throne. She, whose insight was so clear and judgment so unerring, could -not disguise from herself that her task was a hard one. The gravity of -it was ever present before her, but she never allowed herself to be cast -down or discouraged. She was ill, too, when the Emperor closed his eyes -upon the troubles of this world, and sorrow for her honored father, -together with the magnitude of her undertaking, lay heavily upon her -heart; but with a devout glance to heaven, a fervent prayer for help to -the source of all strength and courage, her lofty spirit rose again with -the consciousness of divine aid and a firm resolve to fulfil the duties -that had been imposed upon her. The leaders who should have been a -support to her were more overcome by the Emperor’s death than the -devoted daughter who was able to conquer her grief so heroically, and -she was compelled to take the lead, and revive their faltering spirits -by her powerful will and lofty courage. - -She had chosen for her motto one that she lived up to in thought and -deed from the first to the last day of her reign, and of which all her -acts and ideas bore the impress, namely, _Justitia et Clementia_, or, in -English, “Justice and Clemency.” There was very soon a brilliant -illustration of the latter quality. It was a time of want and distress -for the poor, and one of the first acts of her reign was to throw open -the well-filled imperial granaries and induce the great lords in her -dominions to do the same. Is it any wonder that the people loved her -with an enthusiastic devotion, and revered her as an angel sent to them -from God? A second act, which quickly followed, completed this -impression and strengthened its effect. Large herds of deer had been -allowed to overrun the country and become a scourge to the industrious -peasants, who were compelled to look on quietly while the animals, -protected by law, grazed without hindrance over their cultivated fields, -or suffer the heaviest penalties if they resisted. During the preceding -year it had been the cause of an uprising in Styria, and the leaders of -the rebellion had been condemned to death. Here were two great wrongs to -be redressed, and the Empress did not hesitate to use the proper means. -She caused the deer to be shot and their flesh publicly sold at the -lowest prices, and pardoned those under sentence of death in Styria, but -at the same time did not allow the insurgents to escape without any -punishment. Her motto, “Justice and Clemency,” had become the rule of -her life, and it was thus she entered upon her lofty and difficult -sphere of action, with the God of justice and clemency ever before her -eyes and in her heart. - -That many reforms were necessary was everywhere made clear by the -pressure of obsolete customs and ideas; but that they could be effected -so promptly and thoroughly was more than any one had dared to hope. How -could it have been expected that a woman, however wise, talented, and -full of lofty aims, should understand the condition of the country well -enough to decide at once upon the changes that were necessary, and be -able to lay her hand upon the proper means for bringing them about? - -The surprising fact, however, was brought to light that the young ruler -was fully acquainted with the state of affairs in her realm and with the -causes of the principal evils, which astonished the people as much as it -did her ministers, to whom she had already revealed this unsuspected -sagacity and penetration at their first conference, thereby causing some -uneasiness to agitate the old gentlemen’s powdered wigs and make them -anxious to assist her in her reforms. - -Maria Theresa already had realized the force of the advice Prince Eugene -had so strongly urged upon her father. The army was utterly demoralized; -the officers had unlimited leave of absence, and frequently lived in -Vienna or anywhere they chose, except with their regiments and in their -quarters. So it was like a thunderbolt to them when the young Empress -issued orders for the immediate return of all officers to their -regiments, and for the army to be increased and placed upon such a -footing that a sudden outbreak of war should not find it unprepared; but -at the same time she won the devotion of the entire army by thus -infusing fresh life and vigor into the almost paralyzed service, and -also by another act of clemency. The leading officers, colonels and -generals, who had been held responsible for the results of the last -disastrous Turkish war, and been made to pay heavily for their mistakes -by dismissal and imprisonment, were not only liberated but restored to -all their former honors and dignities. The effect of this upon the army -was magical, and the shout of Hungary in later days, “We will die for -our Empress!” swept through the army in an enthusiastic expression of -devotion and reverence, which was also shared by the officers’ families. - -Charles VI had been harshly blamed for the enormous sums swallowed up by -the imperial household. The retinue of well-paid officials and retainers -was so numerous that they only hindered the business at Court instead of -promoting it, and the salaries were out of all proportion to the -services rendered. Fraud and peculation, too, were not wanting, and -Maria Theresa found herself burdened with a household which cost the -state more than the important affairs of government. With her clear -insight and resolute will, it was but a short step from perception to -action. She determined that as far as was consistent with the dignity of -the Court, it should be regulated according to the system that prevailed -in lower ranks of life; the spirit of display and show should be curbed, -and a judicious economy introduced. Dismissals accordingly took place at -once, salaries were decreased, many unnecessary expenses done away with, -and a strict inspection of household accounts and expenditures -instituted; and, as Maria Theresa’s consort also brought his influence -to bear in the control and regulation of this as of other departments of -state finances, matters began to assume a very different appearance, and -the ever-pressing need for money disappeared. The people, too, were -delighted to see that their beloved young ruler understood the -management of her vast household as well as any thrifty German -housewife. As in her administration of the affairs of the Empire she -showed a masculine clearness and certainty in deciding between what was -proper or improper, right or wrong, so here also her feminine instincts -for order and the practical management of domestic affairs were -conspicuous. - -How much Maria Theresa loved and respected her husband is shown very -plainly in the fact that she could not bear to have him occupy an -inferior position to her, and that she spared no pains to make a way for -him toward imperial honors. Scarcely a month after their accession, she -made him co-regent and bestowed upon him the electoral dignities which -belonged to the crown of Bohemia, thereby displaying not only her -affection for him but also her womanly tact and diplomacy. She realized -the strained relations with foreign courts that existed in Austria, and -well knew that only the slightest provocation was needed to involve her -in terrible wars. Thus it was a question not only of gratifying the -dictates of her own heart, but also of guarding against any errors or -false steps which her foes might seize upon and make an excuse for -active enmity; and she succeeded in this in a masterly manner, though -more depended upon the observance of forms and ceremonies than their -real significance warranted. It was of the highest importance not to -give offence anywhere; for although the so-called Pragmatic Sanction had -been recognized in many quarters,—a recognition too often purchased by -her father at a heavy sacrifice,—it was by no means certain that -objections might not yet be raised against the step, as well as against -her elevation of her husband to imperial honors, and that would mean -war. It was therefore a relief and satisfaction to her that the States -of her Empire did not delay in pronouncing their hearty concurrence in -both measures. When some who opposed them showed their disapproval by an -absurd attempt to assert their authority, the kindly sovereign -maintained a discreet silence and ignored it. Bavaria, indeed, asserted -claims to the crown of Bohemia; but when Maria Theresa, in reply, sent -troops to the disputed kingdom, a wholesome fear weakened the ambition -of Bavaria, and the hint was sufficient to prevent any further trouble. - -So Maria Theresa’s throne seemed firmly established both at home and -abroad. She had a loyal, devoted people on one side and an enthusiastic -army on the other, to support her, and looked cheerfully and hopefully -into the future, where no gathering storm, no lowering clouds, appeared -to threaten her peace and security. - - - - - Chapter II - Campaigns against Prussia, France, and Bohemia - - -And yet—! Where the Spree winds along between its sandy banks, a young -eagle was beginning his flight toward the sun. Prince Eugene, “the -gallant knight,” had seen more clearly than he whose eyes were fixed -only on the Pragmatic Sanction. His good counsel had shared the fate of -all well-meant advice which earns no thanks and is rarely followed, and -there was no one now at the imperial court who had Eugene of Savoy’s -far-seeing vision in matters of statecraft. But the eagle had already -spread his pinions, and though he had but one head, to be sure, yet what -a head it was! This eagle was the young King of Prussia, Frederick, -second of the name. - -The year 1740 had witnessed new rulers upon two thrones: upon the -smaller, and, one might say, still embryonic one, a man; upon the -greater, already established, a woman; both young, energetic, and richly -endowed by nature, both the foremost figures of their time. - -The proverb, “Two hard stones seldom grind well,” has much truth in it, -and none the less if the word “hard” be taken in a figurative sense. -Thousands of heads and hearts were agitated by the question, how these -two European monarchs of equal birth and capabilities would get on -together. Would not all their power be exerted to obtain the supremacy? -And in this struggle, to use a popular but expressive phrase, would not -“the fur fly”? - -It was only in Vienna that people were deceived as to Frederick’s -strength. Those immediately about the gifted young King were little -concerned as to the outcome of any warlike complications, for from the -very earliest days of his reign he had been strengthening and equipping -his army. A well-filled treasury also favored his secretly cherished -plan of claiming the Duchy of Silesia, and winning back with the sword -what he considered his own inheritance, according to some old agreement -concerning the succession.[4] His army advanced suddenly against -Silesia, and he followed it immediately after a court ball in Berlin, -where no one had the least suspicion of his intention. He despatched -Count Cotter to Vienna, it is true, to state the terms by which war -could be averted;[5] but Austria would not consent to them, and while -these brief negotiations were being conducted, Frederick’s army had -already set foot upon the frontier of Silesia. - -This news fell upon the Austrian sovereign like a thunderbolt out of a -clear sky; but the die was cast, the torch of war alight. To resign -Silesia voluntarily never entered her mind for a moment, but alas! her -father’s indifference to Prince Eugene’s wise counsel was now bearing -fruit. Although not willing to accept Frederick’s terms for a peaceful -settlement of the question, Maria Theresa realized fully the -difficulties of her situation, and hastily called upon those who had -recognized the Pragmatic Sanction to redeem their promises and lend her -some substantial support now that so powerful an assault had been made -upon this measure. But she only had to face the bitter experience -expressed in the old saying: - - “Friends in prosperity— - Each will weigh a pound; - But to the ounce, in time of need, - A thousand may be found!” - -Those whom she summoned to her aid shrugged their shoulders, and -sympathized, but made no move to array themselves on her side. It is the -way of the world, and in this dark hour Maria Theresa was forced to -learn, in bitterness of spirit, that there is a vast difference between -words and deeds. - -There was not much time for choice. The situation must be met at once; -but the Austrian force in Silesia was too small to build any hopes upon. -Browne[6] collected an army in Moravia; but to cross the mountains by -bad roads and at an unfavorable time of year was a task not easily or -quickly accomplished, so that, thanks to his own energy and his -well-equipped and disciplined army, Frederick made a rapid advance, and -had gained possession of the most important places before Browne’s -troops could get near enough to attempt any effective movements. When -the cannon finally thundered at Mollwitz, Schwerin[7] gained a brilliant -victory over the Austrians, little in his favor as the conflict promised -to be at first. - -The loss of this battle was a great disaster, and the saying that -troubles never come singly proved true likewise. Thus encouraged, all -the enemies of Austria, who until now had prudently hidden their real -animosity under the mask of friendship, threw off their disguise and -openly arrayed themselves on the side of the young King of Prussia. The -aggrandizing spirit of France, ever casting covetous glances toward the -Rhine, made itself most actively felt, but intrigues were rife -everywhere, and already there was talk of a division of the Austrian -Empire among its enemies. - -Whether all these castles were to prove only castles in the air depended -now on Maria Theresa. Old Austrian statesmen might doubtfully shake -their bewigged heads, but their youthful ruler never wavered. Not a -finger’s breadth of Silesia would she surrender; at no price would she -voluntarily part with any of her inheritance. She well knew what her -duty required, and the birth of a son (afterward the great Emperor -Joseph II) vindicated this noble woman’s firmness and masculine strength -of purpose. Her heart was full of faith and courage, and the joy her -maternity brought her was shared by the people, who showed a touching -devotion to her. This was the foundation upon which she built her hopes; -and it was strong enough to warrant confidence in Austria’s future, -though the present looked dark enough. - -England made an effort to mediate between Maria Theresa and her -adversary, but Frederick rejected any compromise and demanded the -cession of Silesia, with the threat that if it were not yielded to him -he would seize not only it, but four other duchies beside. He could -always be depended on to keep his word, especially when he made emphatic -statements, and Maria Theresa’s cause seemed lost before it really was -so. But she stood firm as a rock, in spite of her increasing danger; in -spite of the faintheartedness of her ministers; in spite of the plots of -her enemies; in spite of Frederick II’s confidence. At any cost the war -must be carried on; she must not allow herself to be humbled. The time -for negotiation was past; action must take its place; words were -useless, deeds must decide. - -Maria Theresa’s prospects were dubious. The French had crossed the Rhine -with a large force and joined Bavaria. Passau was taken by surprise; -Linz had fallen; even Vienna was threatened, and would have been obliged -to surrender had the enemy pressed its advantage that far. - -Maria Theresa had been active in her preparations in the meantime. The -love of the people for their distressed ruler showed itself everywhere. -Men flocked to the recruiting stations, and all who were able hastened -to take up arms. In Vienna there was the greatest enthusiasm; all work -in the shops ceased, and thousands of strong arms toiled at the -neglected fortifications of the imperial city. Neither were there only -men’s hands at work, for women and young girls were to be seen in the -ranks of the toilers, laboring indefatigably, just as it had been when -Kara Mustapha had approached Vienna, and Kolonitzsch and the old hero -Stahremberg led the defence.[8] Everywhere the greatest interest was -felt in the fate of the beautiful, unfortunate Princess, and the women -especially, both of her own and foreign countries, showed the warmest -sympathy, while in England they vied with one another in contributing -money for her treasury, knowing that she greatly needed such assistance. -But her foes were too many and too strong for her, and all these efforts -would have been in vain had not Hungary, with chivalrous self-sacrifice, -lent its aid to the Princess who wore its sacred crown also. - -Maria Theresa had won the love of the Hungarians, and this conquest now -bore her golden fruit, for the love of a people is the only lasting -bulwark of a throne. Certain States, however, to assert their own -importance, seemed determined to break down this bulwark. But when she -appeared in the midst of the assembly of the Hungarian States, her -deeply troubled look and the appeal that sprang from her overladen heart -fired the nobles with wild enthusiasm. “We are ready to die for our -Queen, Maria Theresa!” rang from every throat and welled out from every -heart as an oath of fidelity, and the unanimous resolution was at once -taken to aid her with all their forces. - - [Illustration: “_We are ready to die for our Empress_”] - -Maria Theresa was deeply affected; she burst into tears, and who does -not know the effect that tears in a woman’s eyes have upon the hearts of -men? When Maria Theresa’s consort had been acknowledged as co-regent by -the Hungarians, the oath taken, and she held up her little son Joseph -before the Diet at that solemn moment, such a burst of enthusiasm -followed that they swore afresh their willingness to die for their -Queen, and declared firmly that if money were needed for the war they -would cast all their gold and silver ornaments and vessels into the -smelting-pot,—indeed, were this not enough, even the treasures of the -Church should be added. - -If anything could have comforted Maria Theresa’s mind and raised her -spirits, it would have been this experience. There is not much danger of -a tottering throne where the people are so ready to prove their devotion -by any sacrifice; and what Hungary promised it faithfully performed. At -this time the mixture of peoples along the Danube, where it approaches -the Turkish possessions, with the tribes that Russia in Asia had -contributed, could hardly have been equalled for wildness and barbarity. -They were good light horsemen, and always ready when it was a question -of destruction and pillage; but in open warfare against the well-drilled -Prussians they stood but a doubtful chance. Nevertheless, they had -Cossacks among them that had not done badly in harassing the French. The -Hungarians, though headed by a nobility of their own, had only these -people to depend on, but they were better than nothing, and the fifteen -thousand nobles with their followers made a heavy balance in the scales. -Every heart was full of enthusiasm for the noble woman who was so hard -pressed, and while their forces were being organized—for an army is not -raised by the stroke of a magic wand—this sentiment deepened -continually. - -While the hostile army had already advanced as far as Linz, the Queen -hoped for assistance from England in the shape of gold from London and -troops from Hanover, but it seemed in truth as though all help would be -cut off. Even when George II of England had raised an army in Hanover, -the French, under Maillebois, marched up through Westphalia, and the -English began to find Hanover uncomfortable. With an Englishman charity -begins at home, and George’s “skin was nearer to him than his shirt,” as -the saying goes, so he made the best terms he could with the French, and -abandoned Maria Theresa in spite of all his chivalrous protestations. - -With France, Bavaria, and Saxony threatening her on one side, Prussia on -the other, and as yet no army to oppose them with any hope of success, -what could be more welcome than a settlement with Frederick II, arranged -by England’s mediation, and to which Frederick gladly agreed, since it -secured him the possession of Silesia and averted the danger that seemed -impending from the attitude of the Elector of Bavaria? The treaty was -signed at Oberschnellendorf, but absolute secrecy was to be maintained -concerning it. Thus Maria Theresa acquired, in this direction, at least, -a free hand; and it was very necessary, for Bavaria and France were -seriously threatening the capital of Bohemia, whence the Elector of -Bavaria might have taken Vienna at a single blow, but, allured by the -prospect of a crown, the attraction in Bohemia was too strong.[9] - -Such was the state of affairs when Maria Theresa’s army of sixty -thousand men entered Bohemia and rapidly advanced toward Prague, hoping -to be able to relieve the city, which had a garrison of only three -thousand and was in no condition to hold out against an army like that -of united France, Bavaria, and Saxony, which was pressing it hard. There -could be no question of a long resistance; therefore haste was necessary -for the Austrians if they were to be of any service. But they came too -late. Prague had fallen, and the Elector of Bavaria was crowned King of -Bohemia. This, however, to him, was but a step toward the Imperial -Crown, which he already saw upon his head. Therefore, no sooner were the -coronation ceremonies ended than he established a regency in Prague, -hastened to Munich, and from thence by way of Mannheim to -Frankfort-on-the-Main. One thought, one hope, sustained Maria Theresa -after this bitter blow,—namely, that her husband would be chosen Emperor -at the electoral assembly then being held at Frankfort; but here, too, a -fresh disappointment awaited her. The Elector of Bavaria’s successes in -Bohemia added powerfully to his influence, and he was elected Emperor -January 30, 1742, his coronation following, February 12 of the same -year. That Maria Theresa should refuse to acknowledge him was but -natural, and, as she denied the validity of the election, that she -should refuse to deliver the imperial archives was also natural. - -The Elector of Bavaria at last had reached the summit of his ambitions, -but it was also the turning point; thenceforward his path led downward, -and victory turned toward Maria Theresa’s colors. Scarcely was the crown -placed on his head, when his own capital, Munich, fell into the hands of -Maria Theresa. Her husband had succeeded in Bohemia, with the gallant -Khevenhüller’s assistance, in winning the Hungarians to him and cutting -off the enemy’s forces there from those which remained in Austria, and -thus began a campaign that meant destruction to the audacious foe. In -Bavaria the Austrians carried all before them, and Maria Theresa’s -victorious banner was soon waving over all that province. - -This state of things naturally attracted the attention of Frederick II, -and drew him again into the field of action. As the agreement to keep -the treaty of Oberschnellendorf had been broken, he no longer felt bound -by his own promise. He again joined forces with the hard-pressed -Elector, the new Emperor, and a fresh war-torch was set ablaze, which -alarmed Maria Theresa more than the old one. Frederick’s arms were -victorious, his activity in making alliances against Austria unceasing, -and when the Zieten[10] hussars made inroads as far as Stockerau, -destruction seemed hanging once more over Maria Theresa’s head. The -storm did not break, however, for Frederick found himself checked by -Saxony, and the French were little inclined to play into the hands of -Prussia. Frederick would gladly have consented to an adjustment of his -relations with Austria, had it been possible; but the battles of -Chotusitz and Czaslau changed the aspect of things, for they gave him -the victory, though at a terrible sacrifice. Nevertheless, his view of -the situation was not altered to such an extent that he did not still -wish to end the war. With the same desire on both sides there could be -but one result, and peace was signed at Breslau in the Summer of 1742. - -By this treaty Frederick received the duchy of Upper and Lower Silesia -and Glatz, and renounced all further claims on Maria Theresa. The -boundaries were firmly fixed, and she won a free hand in this quarter, -but with a loss that cut her to the heart. The finest jewel had been -torn from her crown, and with a bleeding heart she had been forced to -give it up in order to save the rest of her inheritance. On one side the -flames of war were now extinguished, but on the other they still blazed -fiercely. Her hopes were nearing fulfilment. The troops which she had -been obliged to employ against Frederick could now be sent to oppose her -other foes, and this was a great gain, for this division of her strength -had been a constant source of anxiety to her, and with good reason. -Bohemia next claimed her attention, and thither she sent the forces thus -released. Nor was this the only reward so dearly bought by the peace of -Breslau; for her friends were now encouraged to show their sympathy and -offer her assistance. To win back Bohemia and its capital was her next -important task. - -In Italy the situation had improved for her—not without some sacrifice, -it is true—and from there she could also send troops to Bohemia, to -enable the Austrian army to invest Prague. In the besieged city were a -body of French, and this caused as much anxiety in Paris as it did to -Marshal Belle-Isle himself in Prague. He tried to make terms, but his -schemes were frustrated, as well as the proposed negotiations for peace -from Paris, by the resolute courage and firmness of the Empress. She -would listen to none of Francis’ proposals, none of Belle-Isle’s plans -for capitulation. She rejected both with noble pride and indignation, -deeply as her refusal might be resented by France. - -In Prague the distress of the French increased rapidly. The lack of -provisions had become alarming. Belle-Isle had only one hope—the French -auxiliary corps under Harcourt which Khevenhüller was holding back on -the Danube. But could he count on it? The army on the lower Rhine was in -the same predicament. Here, as there, a decided “Halt!” had been called -to France, which she was compelled to obey. It seemed impossible that -their comrades in Prague could expect any help from either of these -quarters; yet nevertheless it came, at the express command of the King -of France. - -The commander-in-chief of the French on the lower Rhine, where an -English force was opposing them, suddenly departed, leaving one division -engaged with the English, and hastened unobstructed to Bavaria, where he -was joined by a Bavarian army corps. At the same time Count Maurice of -Saxony replaced Harcourt in the army on the Danube. He also contrived to -elude Khevenhüller, and made all speed with the main body of his troops -toward Maillebois’ division. The bold stroke was successful, and while -the besieging army, apprised of this new danger, was hastening to meet -it, the beleaguered French tried to escape from Prague and join -Maillebois. The attempt failed, however, as did that general’s efforts -to relieve the city. Closely invested as it now was by Lobkowitz, Prague -could no longer hold out; for, in addition to the scarcity of food, they -had to endure the bitter cold of Winter, and there was a lack of fuel -also. He conducted the siege so carelessly, however, that Belle-Isle -finally managed to escape with the French garrison and all the artillery -and stores. Not till they were gone did the Austrians discover it and -pursue them; but they succeeded in reaching Eger, though with great -suffering and loss. Those who were left behind in Prague would have been -taken prisoners had not their leader made known to the Austrian -commander that they must be allowed to retire with military honors, or -he would set fire to the city and bury himself and all his troops under -its ashes. Lobkowitz consented to their retreat in order to save Prague, -and thus ingloriously took possession of the shattered city. Had Maria -Theresa not had a kind and merciful heart, the inhabitants would have -suffered even more than they had been called upon to endure; for many of -those who had been so ready to help crown the Elector of Bavaria well -deserved the punishment they thus escaped. Now that Bohemia as far as -the city of Eger was once more her own, Maria Theresa was crowned with -great pomp as Queen of Bohemia. - -An anecdote in this connection will be of interest. A courier arrived -from Charles VII, bringing a protest from him, as crowned King of -Bohemia, against Maria Theresa’s coronation. Smiling, she ordered the -courier to be given a number of her gold coronation coins, with -instructions to carry them back to his master without delay. This was -done, and doubtless the sight of the coins caused little pleasure in -Munich. - -Fortune now seemed to favor Maria Theresa everywhere. In Italy, too, -events had shaped themselves to her advantage, and at the close of the -year 1742 she could look cheerfully into the future, although the sky -was not entirely cloudless; for in Italy there were many knots to be -untied that only the sword could loosen. - -The Spring saw banners waving and heard the roll of the drums in -Bavaria. The Bavarian Field Marshal von Seckendorff, who had been -ordered back to Munich by his lord and emperor, fell back across the -Iser before Prince Charles of Lorraine and old Khevenhüller, who were -pressing him hotly. The French general, Broglio, meanwhile inactive in -Osterhof, watching these proceedings, made no response to Seckendorff’s -appeals. Nor was this retreat all; for, more important still, the whole -division under General Minuzzi was completely crushed by the Austrians -in a bloody battle, where Minuzzi himself was taken prisoner. This was a -Spring greeting most joyfully received in Vienna, and which seemed but a -forerunner of still further victories. - -No sooner was this accomplished than Khevenhüller turned his attention -to the French, whom he would gladly have shown the way across the Rhine. -Broglio may have suspected this, and was so obliging as to relieve the -old hero of this agreeable task, for at Khevenhüller’s approach he -turned his troops toward Ingolstadt (which was not forward) and kept his -movements secret until he was across the Rhine, where twelve thousand -men would reënforce him. Then, and then only, did he feel himself safe. -Bavaria now realized what she was to expect from her light-footed -allies, and sent them no thanks. Charles VII, too, knew at last upon -what he had been relying and that he must once more bid farewell to his -good city of Munich, if, indeed, he might not be obliged to occupy an -unsought lodging in Vienna. Had he looked at this time at the coronation -coins brought him by the courier from Vienna, it must have seemed that a -mocking smile hovered about Maria Theresa’s lips, and that she whispered -softly but significantly, “_Auf wiedersehen!_” There was no choice left -him but to enter into negotiations with Austria to protect his ancestral -domains. - -Maria Theresa, in the midst of her victorious career, offered the hand -of peace. Charles VII renounced his claims to the Austrian succession -and, fortunately for the public tranquillity, left all the conquered -territory in the possession of Austria. To guard against any future -trouble Maria Theresa had all these States take the oath of allegiance -to her, even though they might be only temporarily in her possession. -This was a triumph for her which offset the homage received by Charles -in Bohemia,—a return which he had well deserved and which he well -understood without any further explanation. - -Thus fortune still smiled upon Maria Theresa, here as elsewhere. The -English army in the Netherlands had crossed the Rhine, and, advancing by -way of Frankfort, received a large reënforcement and tried to effect a -union with Khevenhüller and Prince Charles of Lorraine, who had pushed -forward from the Upper Rhine. Marshal de Noailles was opposing them with -a considerable force, but when he perceived their design he crossed the -Rhine to attack the English. George II himself joined the army just -then, fortunately, and a battle was fought at Dettingen, on the Main, -which resulted in Noailles’ retreat across the Rhine again. The King of -England then held a council of war with Khevenhüller and the Prince at -Hainault to decide what course to pursue. It was agreed that King George -should lead the way while the Austrian generals crossed the river at -Basel and try to reach Lorraine, in order to take up Winter quarters in -Champagne. This plan miscarried, however, and the Austrian army returned -to Bavaria for the Winter, while King George, after destroying the -French works on the Rhine, especially at Landau, withdrew again across -the river and also went into Winter quarters, for Winter campaigns were -not generally undertaken at that time. - -Though the results of the wars Maria Theresa was waging against her -enemies were most gratifying, the troubles in Italy still weighed like -an Alp upon her heart. The Spanish general in command there had drawn -upon himself, and not without cause, the reproach of negligence. A -substitute had replaced him with urgent orders to retrieve the errors of -his predecessor, and he might have been able to do so had he not had an -adversary so brave, crafty, and well versed in the arts of war as the -old field-marshal, Count Traun. - -Already there had been a bloody battle, February 8, 1743, in which he -had been the victor, but at this time negotiations were begun which put -an end to the bloodshed. They took place at Worms, between England, -Sardinia, and Austria, and again was Maria Theresa obliged to resign -some of her territory, this time in Sardinia, in order to effect the -alliance. Scarcely were the terms completed, when Lobkowitz, who had -succeeded old Traun in the command, advanced against the Spaniards and -drove them back: whereupon the King of Sardinia struck the -French-Spanish army such a blow that it was forced to retreat to the -south of France for the Winter. - -Though Maria Theresa had been unfortunate in having to relinquish more -of her territory in this campaign, still, the armies were victorious, -and all these circumstances had served to unite her more closely to her -friends, and had given her a new ally in the person of the Elector -Frederick Augustus IV of Saxony, with twenty thousand troops to assist -her. Thus far the outlook was very bright; but by the close of the year -1743 new clouds foretold a gathering storm. The lion on the Spree had -begun to stir and toss his mane. Frederick’s army, which had once in -jest been called the “Potsdam Night-watch Parade,” was as little a -subject for derision as he who commanded and was the soul of it. - - - - - Chapter III - The Second Silesian War - - -Although she had prepared for it carefully, Maria Theresa could not look -forward with much confidence to this new struggle, which began in the -Spring. Khevenhüller was dead, and she had shed tears of sorrow and -gratitude for him, which the brave old soldier had well deserved from -his sovereign. She felt the loss of his strong support in this war, upon -which France, who heretofore had merely been an ally of the enemies of -Austria, had now entered on her own account, in league with Spain. - -The campaign began in the Netherlands, where a well-organized French -army under capable leadership was arrayed against the combined forces of -Austria, Holland, and England, the latter being under various commands -and far inferior in numbers. The advantage, therefore, was decidedly -with the French. To offset this, an Austrian force was sent to invade -Alsace, which was occupied by French and Bavarian troops. It was led by -Prince Charles of Lorraine and brave old “Father Traun,” as the soldiers -called the old Count, who was universally beloved by them. In the -Netherlands fortune favored the French; in Alsace, the Austrians. Prince -Charles of Lorraine marched triumphantly into Lorraine, and his light -cavalry made inroads as far as the environs of Lüneville, where he was -checked by fresh forces under able generals sent from France to oppose -his victorious advance. - -Such was the state of affairs beyond the Rhine when the second Silesian -war involved Maria Theresa in fresh troubles. Frederick II, who was -anxious about the safety of his newly acquired possessions, had taken -advantage of the peace further to strengthen his army and make all his -preparations for a campaign. Moreover, he understood how to fill the -public treasury without seeming to impair the resources or prosperity of -the people—certainly a great and rare art. - -At this important juncture, when Maria Theresa’s attention was fully -occupied in the Netherlands and in Alsace, he had a well-equipped army -of one hundred and twenty thousand men, an abundance of stores and -ammunition, and, above all, plenty of money at his command, which -Montecuculi[11] rightly called the first, second, and third requirements -for conducting a war, and of which Austria had never possessed a -surplus, least of all now. Frederick’s apprehensions concerning Silesia -were strengthened by the fact that, since the peace of Breslau, Maria -Theresa’s power had increased to such an extent that with the assistance -of her allies she might easily plan to reconquer the province whose loss -she had never forgotten; indeed, he felt sure this would be the case. He -followed one of his own precepts when he took up the sword again, “that -it is always the greatest folly not to anticipate a disaster, if one -hopes to avert it.” Nevertheless, he clearly realized the advantages of -an alliance with the neutral German princes, and tried hard to bring it -about; and when this plan failed, he joined forces with France, the -Emperor Charles VII, and others, thus insuring the success of his plans. - -Maria Theresa’s heart sank when she heard of this, but trust in God and -the justice of her cause sustained her, as these words of hers prove: -“God knows my right; He will protect me as He has hitherto done!” Many -letters were exchanged between Frederick and herself, each charging the -other with breaking their treaty; but it was of no avail. War was -finally declared, ostensibly in behalf of the Emperor Charles VII, and -Frederick’s army, one hundred thousand strong, invaded Bohemia, while a -part of it was sent to guard Kurmark[12] and Silesia. Saxony was stunned -when Frederick without further ceremony crossed its frontiers, and made -some fruitless attempts at resistance, but Zieten cleared the way with -his huzzars, and in an incredibly short time Frederick was before -Prague. - -Maria Theresa called out the militia of the country to meet the danger; -but of what avail was the militia against the invincible Prussians? -Where should she turn for aid in her extremity but to her loyal Hungary? -She hastened to Presburg, where once more her words and her beauty -kindled a blaze of enthusiasm and devotion, and almost as if sprung from -the earth forty thousand Hungarians stood ready to fight for her; thirty -thousand more formed the reserve, and ten thousand were hurriedly -despatched to Bohemia to oppose Frederick. This was the work of the old -Palatine Palffy, who was no longer able to do any fighting himself. -Maria Theresa wrote him that charming letter which will ever remain a -model in the art of saying much in few words, and with it sent her -finest horse, a costly jewelled sword, and a valuable diamond ring. She -wrote: - - “My Father Palffy,—I send you this horse, which is worthy of being - mounted only by the noblest of my subjects; accept also this sword to - defend me against my enemies, and keep this ring as a token of my - lasting affection. - - Theresa.” - -The sending of the letter and the gifts was soon known all over Hungary, -and its effect upon a people so easily roused to enthusiasm, and at the -same time ready to devote themselves to her cause with the last drop of -their blood, may well be imagined. Before help could arrive, however, -Frederick had taken Prague, and several other important cities also fell -into his hands. The friends of Maria Theresa began to lose courage, but -not she! When the Hungarians arrived, she forced Saxony into some -decisive course and recalled Prince Charles of Lorraine to Bohemia. - -Notwithstanding the difficulty of such an undertaking against so -powerful an adversary, Prince Charles met with brilliant success, and -the troops from Alsace were aided by auxiliary forces from Saxony. Old -Count Traun found the plan of cutting Frederick off from Prague and -conquering him by starvation an excellent one, and proceeded to carry it -out in a masterly manner. Frederick sought to force his adversary into a -battle, but the latter continually evaded him. Traun’s light horsemen -harassed his troops on every side and captured his provision train, -while the Bohemians, with their Queen’s soldiers, buried the stores in -the ground and then made their escape in the forests. Frederick was -beside himself with rage. His soldiers, suffering from hunger and every -discomfort, quarrelled among themselves and deserted in large numbers, -and at last, though much against his will, he was obliged to begin a -retreat. - -Thus the Austrians again came into possession of Bohemia, with but -trifling losses; and old “Father Traun,” thinking it wise to follow the -Prussians, even entered Glatz and Upper Silesia. Already it began to -seem as though Maria Theresa might regain her beloved Silesia, when all -at once the tables were turned. - -The army imprudently had been allowed to scatter. The troops from Saxony -had withdrawn and other divisions had been despatched elsewhere, when -the Prussians suddenly turned and assumed the offensive, and Traun was -obliged to retreat to Moravia. The Austrians struck a few more vigorous -blows, and the campaign ended in both armies going into Winter quarters. -Although she had been obliged to yield some advantages to Frederick, the -campaign on the whole had resulted decidedly in Maria Theresa’s favor. -Frederick was disposed therefore to make peace, and signified his -willingness to do so, but Maria Theresa rejected his overtures, since -she had formed a new alliance with England, Holland, and Saxony, and now -had a prospect of retrieving her losses and winning back Silesia, the -lost jewel that had been torn from her crown. - -With this bright outlook for the future, the Spring campaign was just -beginning, when the Emperor Charles VII died, January 20, 1745. This -event completely changed the aspect of affairs, and the imperial crown, -once possessed by her own house, seemed to Maria Theresa a prize worth -any effort could she but see it placed upon the head of her consort. - -Little heed was paid to the unfortunate Emperor’s advice to his son, -Maximilian Joseph, to make peace with Austria and banish all hopes of -the imperial crown from his heart. The young Elector was only too ready -to listen to ambitious schemers, but before the earth was fully decked -with living green, all his hopes had perished. The victories of the -Austrians compelled him, as they once had done his father, to fly from -Munich. Then for the first time he realized the wisdom of his father’s -counsel, and refused to listen any longer to those who advised him to -continue the struggle. He sued for peace, which was concluded on April -22, 1745, at Füssen. Austria restored all his conquered territory to -him, while he renounced his claims to the succession, acknowledged Maria -Theresa’s rights under the Pragmatic Sanction, and promised her husband -his vote at the imperial election. The Empress’ heart beat high with -joy, for this broke the alliance known as the “Frankfort Union,” and -Frederick II now stood alone. His situation became even more threatening -when Russia announced that she would permit no attack on Saxony, which -amounted to an unequivocal if tacit declaration that in such a case she -would join the league that had been formed in Warsaw between Austria, -England, Holland, and Saxony, called the “Quadruple Alliance.” - -Frederick now concluded it was better to seek peace than to enter the -lists against such odds; but all his attempts at negotiation were -frustrated, notwithstanding the advantageous character of the conditions -he offered. Maria Theresa was determined to have Silesia back again, but -he would not agree to that. She then tried to win over Saxony, and in -that she succeeded brilliantly. The prospect looked dark for Frederick -II, for he also was in need of money. The royal plate had already found -its way secretly to the mint, to reappear in silver coins, but that was -insufficient. The King did not attempt to conceal the fact from himself -that he stood on the edge of a precipice, but a spirit like his was not -to be daunted by fear of threatening spectres. - -The campaign finally reopened under these altered conditions. Maria -Theresa sent eighty thousand of her troops, with thirty thousand Saxons, -to take possession of Silesia. This army was in high spirits, for it was -rumored all over the country that Frederick was completely discouraged -and disheartened by the misfortunes of the last campaign. No one -suspected that he himself had caused this report to be circulated. He -wanted to entice the Austrians across the mountains, and they walked -into the trap. Frederick had taken up a position that would enable him -to fall upon the enemy as it emerged from the mountains, and he awaited -Prince Charles with perfect calmness and confidence. His concealed -position completely deceived the Austrians; they supposed the small band -of Prussians, which they had discovered from a mountain top, to be part -of the rear-guard of the army retreating to Breslau. - -When Frederick crossed the stream at Striegau on the morning of the -fourth of June, his troops encountered two battalions of Saxons, who -were not a little startled to meet with Prussians there. They halted to -wait for the rest of the army to come up with them, but it had scarcely -made its appearance when Frederick opened a murderous artillery fire. -The Austrian cavalry hurled itself upon the Prussians, but was soon -thrown into wildest confusion and totally routed. The two Saxon -battalions that had led the way were almost entirely cut to pieces, and -the Austrians who followed shared the same fate. The Prince of Lorraine -was thoroughly deceived, for he supposed the cannonading and fire of -musketry came from the Saxons who were capturing Striegau. It did not -occur to him, therefore, to send relief, for he still imagined the -Prussians in full retreat toward Breslau. When at last he discovered the -Saxons in disorderly flight and realized what had happened, he hastened -to place his troops in order of battle, but before this could be -accomplished the Prussians had attacked and routed them. Nothing was -left for him, after five hours’ hard fighting, but to turn about and -escape by way of Hohenfriedberg. They were not pursued, for Frederick’s -army was too exhausted after the struggle. It was a terribly disastrous -battle for Austria and Saxony, and for Frederick a victory which did not -produce the results it seemed to promise. - -Prince Charles withdrew to Bohemia, and took up a strong position there -with the Saxons. Frederick followed, but did not dare to attack him -while he was so strongly intrenched, and remained there inactive for -three months, while the Austrians had as little desire to assume the -offensive before the arrival of reënforcements. - -All this time the war in Flanders had been blazing fiercely, and the -French had gained several victories over the allies. The King of -England, George II, who had been placed in a very trying position by -France, was anxious for Maria Theresa and Frederick to make terms with -each other, and tried his best to bring it about. An agreement was -actually drawn up, but when Maria Theresa found that the King of England -had guaranteed the possession of Silesia to Frederick, she firmly -refused to have anything more to do with it. Rather would she—and these -were her own words—“part with the gown from her back than Silesia.” She -attached but little importance to the lost battle of Hohenfriedberg, and -had perfect confidence in the judgment and bravery of Prince Charles of -Lorraine and the loyalty of her Hungarians. Moreover, the prospects were -good that the imperial crown would fall to her husband’s lot. How then -could she resign herself to the thought of sacrificing her beloved -Silesia? - -Her consort, Francis Stephen, was indeed elected Emperor and crowned -under the name of Francis I, and thus Maria Theresa’s dearest wish was -fulfilled. She had fresh hope and courage, and a vigorous prosecution of -the war was ordered. - -The plans of George II of England came to naught, and Frederick resumed -hostilities, for the Empress would never consent to give up Silesia; but -he knew his task was a hard one. In Silesia the Hungarians had taken -Kosel. A part of his army was sent to recapture it and drive them out, -in which it was successful. Another detachment went to join old Dessauer -at Halle, to oppose the Saxons who were threatening Brandenburg. -Frederick had but twenty-two thousand men to oppose a superior force of -Austrians, and delay had placed them at a disadvantage; for it had -enabled the enemy to approach so near that an attack could not be -avoided. He determined therefore to change his position and move farther -away; but just as he was about to put this plan into execution, Charles -of Lorraine began his assault. It was on the morning of September 30, -1745, near Sohr. Frederick still had time to dispose his troops; then he -hurled his cavalry against the Austrians. This was the beginning of a -battle that resulted in a brilliant victory for the Prussians, for the -infantry with magnificent bravery followed the example of the cavalry. -For five days Frederick’s army camped undisturbed on the battlefield, -and then moved toward Silesia to go into Winter quarters. - -Once more there were hopes of peace, but it was not yet to be. In Vienna -a Winter campaign had been determined on. The army was to advance -directly to Berlin under the Prince of Lorraine. One division on the -Rhine was to unite with Saxony in driving the Prussians from Halle, and -then join the main army before Berlin. Maria Theresa’s secret plans were -betrayed, however, to the King of Prussia, and that enabled him to set -every lever in motion to thwart her projects, in accordance with his -favorite method, “anticipate the disaster.” It was dangerous work for -him, for Russia had promised to support Saxony in case of attack from -Prussia, and the warning was repeated when Frederick announced his -purpose; but strong measures were necessary, and he departed to join the -main body of his army in Silesia. Here he learned that Prince Charles -and the Saxons had invaded Upper Lusatia. After seeing that the Silesian -frontier was well protected, therefore, he hastened with all possible -secrecy to Lusatia and met the enemy at Kunersdorf. His sudden attack -was successful, and put an end to all hopes of taking Berlin by -surprise. The unexpected appearance of the Prussians and their victory -disheartened the Austrian army, and Prince Charles retreated to Bohemia. - -Nor was this defeat all. Frederick summoned old Dessauer to Saxony, -advanced against Dresden, and made an offer of peace to Saxony, but it -was rejected. The sword had to settle the question, which it speedily -did. The battle of Kesselsdorf was decisive; a bad blunder of the Saxons -gave the victory to Prussia, and obliged Prince Charles to seek safety -with his army. The defeated Saxons abandoned their capital, and -Frederick entered Dresden, December 18, 1745. This opened the way for -peace, and terms were made soon afterward by which Frederick definitely -acknowledged Maria Theresa’s right to the electoral vote of Bohemia and -the validity of her husband’s election as Emperor, but retained -possession of Silesia. - -Thus Austria, great as her losses had been in this war, had at least -gained what the Empress so earnestly desired; but at the same time had -been again obliged to leave Silesia in the hands of Prussia and put a -good face on the matter. Saxony, on the other hand, had felt the full -weight of the conqueror’s hand, and was glad to come out of it so -cheaply after all. The treaty of Dresden also securely settled various -other affairs of Maria Theresa’s at home, which had been disturbed by -the long and ruinous conflict. - - - - - Chapter IV - Plots and Counterplots - - -In Italy, affairs proved even more disastrous. Genoa, which up to this -time had remained neutral, now sided with Spain, Naples, and France, so -that there was an addition of ten thousand men to the enemy’s forces to -be reckoned with when the campaign opened in May. This gave them an army -of seventy thousand capable of crushing Austria and its ally Sardinia. - -The outlook was dark for Maria Theresa when the Dresden Treaty was -signed. While on the one hand it brought respite, on the other redoubled -vigilance and energy were needed. The overburdened Empress breathed a -little more freely, and calmly faced the situation in Italy, where she -had sent reënforcements to the army and placed Prince Wenzel -Lichtenstein in command. Thirty thousand fresh troops, with a _man_ at -their head, count for a great deal; the latter even more than the -former, since any number of troops without a competent leader can -accomplish little. - -The new campaign, in the Spring of 1746, began hopefully, and its -promise was realized largely by an unforeseen event which occurred on -the ninth of July and made an important change in the situation. This -was the death of King Philip V of Spain,[13] and the succession to the -throne of Ferdinand VI,[14] who was anxious for peace. - -A change in the leadership of the Spanish forces in Italy had already -weakened them, and the recall of six thousand men to Spain greatly -increased Lichtenstein’s advantage, as results were not slow in proving. -The battle of the tenth of August disposed of the Spaniards as far as -Maria Theresa’s army was concerned, and left it free to chastise Genoa. -That Republic, already alarmed at the turn of events, became -panicstricken when the Austrians captured Bocchetta, and the Senate -bowed its once proud neck beneath the foot of the victor. The punishment -it had so well merited was not lacking when the day of reckoning came. -Maria Theresa magnanimously, indeed, sought to save Genoa from the -depths of humiliation to which Botta relentlessly subjected it, for the -crippled Republic had suffered enough,—and too much, as the sequel -showed. - -At this juncture, when the army was victorious and both ready and able -to continue the work, Maria Theresa’s plans were frustrated by the -jealousy of England and Sardinia. The two allies felt obliged to turn -their arms against Naples, which lay so near, and the result was -obvious: the Empress was forced to abandon them and follow the French -and Spaniards to Nice. The advance into Provence, however, was suddenly -brought to a standstill, because of the harsh treatment Genoa had -received. The bow had been bent too far, and it broke. A popular -insurrection was the fruit of Botta’s revenge. Austria’s disregard of -the fact that a people driven to desperation will risk everything—a fact -unfortunately too often forgotten, in spite of the terrible examples in -history,—cost it dearly; for, aside from its material losses in men and -supplies, Botta’s flight and the forced retreat of Browne from Provence -were bitter fruit. Nor was it made any less so by the loss of Genoa -itself, and the fact that Austria had only itself to blame; for the -brutal severity of the conqueror and his overbearing arrogance were -alone responsible. Genoa retained its freedom after this, and the war -was continued with varying results until the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle -put an end to the bloodshed; but Austria had no cause to rejoice over -this peace, and Maria Theresa felt it deeply. - -The Queen, however, now turned her vigorous mind and generous sympathies -into other channels than those which ran red with human blood, and -devoted herself to the welfare of her people. War, even in its grandest -aspect, is and must always be degrading to humanity and a source of -untold misery. The old German saying that “Peace nourishes; strife -consumes,” is a true one. In spite of manifold disasters, Maria Theresa -had emerged from the long struggle with success; she had defeated the -efforts of her enemies to break her power, and had strengthened her -empire. It had taken eight years of war; but the great Empress had not -been through this hard school of experience without profiting much by -it, even if her gains were not those of territory. - -The eight years of peace that now ensued gave her time and opportunity -to effect the reforms she had in mind, a work that appealed strongly to -her and was worthy of her best endeavors. She had a wide field before -her, for the weakness of the antiquated system of government bequeathed -from the Middle Ages was felt on all sides. A great advance in -civilization had been made during that period, and many cumbersome -formalities had to be abandoned in order that the administration of -affairs should be in sympathy with this development. - -Maria Theresa grasped the situation clearly; she understood all this, as -well as her own position and power and the country’s needs. It was a -woman in this case that proved the old saying, “One’s self is the man”; -for it was she herself who was the motive power in these salutary -reforms; it was her own hand that guided the affairs of state and -directed the reforms in the condition of her people. - -Experience had taught her the value of Prince Eugene’s advice to her -father, which unfortunately for himself the latter had so little heeded; -hence her first thought was for the reorganization of the army. Well as -she knew its deficiencies, she showed no haste or precipitation in -making the necessary changes, but proceeded slowly though surely to the -end she had in view. The wonderful personal influence and power of this -remarkable woman were not the only evidences of her greatness; they were -apparent also in her successful discovery of the right men, and -assignment of them to positions where they would be most effective and -accomplish the most good. The change brought about in the army was an -illustration of this; not only was the discipline wonderfully improved, -but so much spirit and enthusiasm were infused into it that at the -beginning of the Seven Years’ War Frederick the Great himself was forced -to declare, “These are no longer the old Austrians!” But there was the -same love and devotion for the Empress which had been manifested in the -days of the first Silesian war, and the army submitted willingly and -cheerfully to all her measures of reform. - -In this work Maria Theresa had two faithful assistants, Count Daun, -whose ancestral home was a stronghold in the volcanic mountains of Eifel -and even in its ruined state a worthy cradle of a great race, and Prince -Wenzel Lichtenstein. As Daun, one might say, created the infantry, so -old Lichtenstein was the founder of the new artillery—two branches of -the service in which Frederick II was an adept. The cavalry, just as it -stood, had served as a model for Frederick, but even in that branch of -the service there was room for improvement. Maria Theresa devoted -especial attention to the breeding of good horses for the cavalry, and -took great interest in hospital work. It would take too long to go into -all the details of this important work, but one of her remarkable -achievements must not be overlooked. This was the construction of a line -of defences, or “military frontier,” along the Turkish border, which -interposed an effective barrier against those invasions and unexpected -attacks which had been so common in previous wars with that country. - -If Maria Theresa’s determined efforts to strengthen her army really -meant that she had Silesia in her mind, who can blame her, especially -when the affection with which she clung to that lost province and her -inward conviction that two natures like hers and Frederick II’s could -never remain long at peace with one another, as was indeed the case, are -considered? - -With this problem of perfecting the army and fitting it for future -service—possibly the re-conquest of Silesia—was closely linked another, -suggested by that saying of Montecuculi’s already quoted; namely, that -the requisites of war were, firstly, money; secondly, more money; and -thirdly, more money again, and plenty of it. The second task that -confronted Maria Theresa’s dauntless spirit was the question of taxes, -or, in a word, what we call finances. Austria was rich in resources, but -there had been a lack of good management in their application. Judicious -economy was much needed in this branch of the administration, and, -remembering the extravagance and wastefulness that had prevailed in her -father’s time, the Empress began the reduction of expenses. This action -and her realization that the proper remedy was to be obtained not by the -imposition of crushing taxes on her subjects, but by developing the rich -resources of the country, merely furnish further proofs of her political -wisdom and statesmanship. - -During the last war, the lack of funds in the treasury had made it -necessary to impose heavy taxes to meet the deficiency, but the system -was wrong, and failed to effect the desired object; it only made the -taxes extremely burdensome, and its injustice increased the irritation -and discontent of the people. This was an evil that needed a remedy, as -her unerring glance had long since discovered, and she lost no time in -devoting all her energies to the establishment of a system, wherein -juster methods should be employed; there were so many who for various -reasons were exempt from taxation, that it became absolutely necessary -to limit the number. These reforms were received with great enthusiasm -all over the land, and endeared her still more to the people. - -Part of Maria Theresa’s success was due to her judgment and sagacity in -choosing for her advisers men of the highest talents and abilities, as -well as to that unerring tact which is one of nature’s best gifts to -mankind, and which helped her here as it had with the army. Among her -statesmen, she possessed in Kaunitz[15] not only an able and clever -diplomatist, who filled the highest posts of honor with credit to -himself and his country, but also a faithful and devoted servant, and an -invaluable aid to her in all her far-reaching plans. The one with which -she was closely concerned at this time had been suggested by England. It -was a proposal to retain the imperial crown of the Holy Roman Empire of -the German nation in her family, and make her son, the Archduke Joseph, -King of Rome; thus giving him the right, on the death of her husband, to -succeed him as Emperor, and prevent any more such destructive wars as -those from which the country had already suffered. England had devised -this scheme, and was willing to do its share toward bringing it about; -but there were many obstacles in the way, not the least of them, -Prussia. France was another; but Germany itself, for that matter, -furnished difficulties enough to relegate its accomplishment to the -far-distant future. - -The Empress, strongly as the plan appealed to her, was cautious and said -little, but England continued to urge the matter with a persistence that -excited some doubt as to the sincerity of its attitude toward Austria. -At last its motives became apparent, and Maria Theresa abandoned any -further consideration of the plan. This caused somewhat strained -relations between the two countries. During the negotiations, moreover, -England’s behavior was such that Kaunitz, in defence of the dignity of -his sovereign, was forced to protest against it as inadmissible in -diplomatic intercourse. His remonstrances were unheeded, however; and -when it came to the question of affairs in the Netherlands, England’s -communications and Austria’s replies became even more pointed. A -complete rupture was inevitable, but Kaunitz would not permit matters to -proceed as far as that until he had seen his way clear to a union with -France. - -His one idea, since he had been in power, was the recovery of Silesia, -and as a means to that end he endeavored to come to an agreement with -France and turn it to his advantage. He was shrewd enough to keep this -plan a secret, as well as that other which went hand in hand with it, -the humiliation of Prussia. That Maria Theresa, who had never ceased to -grieve over the loss of Silesia, fully sympathized with these schemes -cannot be doubted. The only hope of their realization, however, lay in -separating Prussia from all her allies; and an alliance with France -would be a long step in this direction. England and France at that time -were on the verge of hostilities over the boundaries of Canada, and -England had been endeavoring to involve France in a war with some of the -European powers, so as to have a free hand in America. This, however, -could not be accomplished without assistance; and, beside, there was -Hanover to protect. The number of troops there had been increased, to be -sure, but they were not sufficient to insure its safety. At this point -England demanded to know how large a force Austria could raise in case -France and Prussia should invade the Netherlands and Hanover. - -Maria Theresa’s eyes were opened now, and she replied that she could not -spare any troops from Bohemia without exposing it to danger from -Prussia. She would furnish the twenty-five thousand men agreed upon, in -the Netherlands, leaving England to take Reuss in payment and seek -assistance from the sovereign princes of Germany. These terms of Maria -Theresa’s were definite and final, but England further demanded that -Austria should not only send thirty thousand men immediately to the -Netherlands, but also an extra force to defend Hanover. This Maria -Theresa refused to do, whereupon England threatened to break its -alliance with Austria unless it complied with these demands. Maria -Theresa then declared plainly what she should demand of England in -return for the protection of her territory against Prussia and Italy. -Before her answer had been sent, still more peremptory demands arrived -from England; but Kaunitz made no reply to them. Matters had gone too -far to avoid a breach any longer. England broke off negotiations with -Austria and went over at once to the King of Prussia. - -Frederick II had learned through a traitor at Dresden that a secret -alliance existed against him between Austria and Saxony, to which Russia -was a party. He therefore gladly accepted the overtures of England, -since his union with France had come to an end, with little prospect of -its renewal. The treaty between Maria Theresa and France was signed on -the first of May, 1756. - -Thus there had been a remarkable change in the relations of the European -powers when the storm-clouds gathered once more and broke in the Seven -Years’ War. - - - - - Chapter V - Battles of the Seven Years’ War - - -True to his practice of boldly meeting an impending danger, Frederick -preferred to open hostilities himself, rather than leave it to his -enemies. Why should he hesitate to kindle the flames of war in the land -of so bitter an enemy as the Elector of Saxony (also King of Poland) had -shown himself to be? Without any formal declaration having been made, -therefore, he proceeded to invade Saxony with an army of sixty thousand -men in three divisions. His advance, as usual, was rapid; all places of -importance were seized, and on September 10, 1756, he entered Dresden. -The Elector fled to the fortress of Königstein, which was considered -impregnable, and at the foot of which the Saxon army of seventeen -thousand men, all told, was in position. - -The Queen alone remained in Dresden. She had the key to the secret -archives, and when Frederick ordered them to be seized she placed -herself before the door of the room in which they were kept, declaring -they should never be taken except by force. She was pushed aside, -however, the chests were broken open, and Frederick found the documents, -copies of which had been sent him by the traitor already mentioned, and -which furnished proof of the secret alliance against him. With the -exception of this violence, which, in truth, the august lady had brought -upon herself, she was treated with the greatest respect. The poor -country fared worse. Although pillage was strictly forbidden, Saxony had -to bear all the oppression of a conquered country and meet levies of all -kinds. Frederick emptied the arsenals, confiscated all the state -revenues, and treated Saxony as if it were part of his own dominions; -but he spared the people wherever it was possible. Ignoring the protests -of the Emperor and also of France, he pursued his own course, and worked -for his own ends firmly and resolutely. - -The position which the Saxon troops held at the foot of Königstein was -unassailable. The only way to vanquish them was by starvation, so the -King left them well surrounded and marched with his army into Bohemia to -prevent any assistance reaching the Saxons from that quarter. There were -two Austrian armies in Bohemia—one under the command of Marshal Browne, -at Kollin; the other under General Piccolomini at Olmütz, and later at -Königgrätz. Browne was Saxony’s nearest hope of rescue; but Frederick’s -sudden and unexpected appearance in Bohemia took him by surprise and -found him unprepared for action. Several weeks elapsed, in fact, before -he was ready to move, and Frederick made good use of the time. Moreover, -the Minister of War, regarded as the most conservative of the Austrian -field-marshals, wished to spare the army as much as possible, and to -threaten Frederick for the advantage of Saxony without exposing it to -long marches and changes of position. - -Browne sent a force of eight thousand to Losowitz under Count Wied, -while he himself left Kollin and took up a position near Budin. Wied’s -vanguard met the Prussians at Peterswalde, September tenth, and Browne -was forced into an engagement. The battle was fought near Losowitz, -October, 1756, but was not decisive, both generals claiming the victory. -Meanwhile, the famished Saxons at Königstein were in terrible straits. -They had made an ineffectual effort to escape, and a second attempt was -scarcely more successful, for their new position was no better than the -one they had abandoned. The Prussians again surrounded them, and Browne, -who had hurried forward hoping to rescue the beleaguered army, was -compelled to retreat, leaving the unfortunate Saxons with no choice but -to lay down their arms and surrender themselves with all their artillery -to Frederick. - -This blow crushed Saxony’s hopes of further resistance, but the King of -Prussia, more magnanimous than might have been expected considering his -many reasons for irritation against that country, granted neutrality to -Königstein and its occupants. The Elector wisely preferred, however, to -retire to Warsaw, and Frederick, for reasons of his own, took good care -that he should meet with no interference from Prussian troops on the way -thither. - -These events closed the campaign. Browne remained in Bohemia and the -King went into Winter quarters in Saxony, leaving part of his troops in -Silesia. Maria Theresa took the loss of Saxony very much to heart, for -she was thereby deprived of a faithful ally. Her army had suffered -little and accomplished less, but at least it had escaped great dangers -and was safe, and this was some cause for congratulation in Vienna; for, -considering the unprepared condition in which the opening of the -campaign had found Browne, the outcome might easily have been different -and his troops have shared the fate of Saxony’s. - -At all events, Maria Theresa had received a fresh warning to be on her -guard against such an adversary, who appeared with the swiftness of an -arrow where he was least expected, and was rarely to be found when he -was looked for. With her usual energy she urged on the preparation of -the army, and bestowed upon the task all the care and devotion of a -mother for her children. But, busied as she was with affairs at home, -she was none the less mindful of the value of neighborly help in time of -need,—an emergency always to be considered where Frederick the Great was -concerned. As a fact, he himself had unconsciously done more for her -than her best friend could have accomplished; for the summary methods he -had resorted to in Saxony, in defiance of the customary rights of -nations, was unprecedented and greatly incensed other rulers, especially -the Elector, shut up in his fortress of Königstein like a bird in a -cage, with no hope of escape save by the favor of Frederick and his -assurance of safety from attack by Prussian troops, who, to put it -mildly, would scarcely have treated him with courtly politeness. - -Many of these sovereigns were, no doubt, thinking “What has befallen -Saxony might also happen in our own lands any day”; and if it came to -the actual question whether such a fate were merited or no, their -consciences might not have altogether acquitted them. Be this as it may, -there was a general feeling of resentment among them, and the tendency -of popular report to magnify matters did its part toward helping Maria -Theresa by intensifying the feeling against Frederick. Even the Holy -Roman Empire of the German nation condemned his conduct and joined the -ranks of his enemies. Frederick, however, understood the nondescript -character of the Imperial army too well to be disturbed by this, and his -able and active adversary was also sufficiently aware of it to urge on -her own preparations the more actively. If the Imperial army had been -her only dependence, there would have been little hope for her; but the -French alliance had proved most satisfactory, and promised to be of the -greatest service to her in the event of the dissolution of the German -union. Indeed, its assurance of help was now all the more certain -because Frederick’s actions were calculated to increase the hatred of -France for him. - -Sweden also allied itself to France, and Russia had promised to support -Austria with an army of one hundred thousand men. With three additional -armies, even though Sweden’s strength did not count for much, and a -total force of four hundred thousand, Maria Theresa’s prospects looked -very bright, and it was not to be wondered at that her eyes were fixed -confidently and expectantly on her beloved Silesia. Prince Charles of -Lorraine was put in command of the Austrian army, and under him was -Marshal Browne, the former commander-in-chief in Bohemia. This -completely altered the plan of campaign that Browne had laid out, and -the rapid movements of the active enemy had to be met with the -slow-moving and cumbersome army of the allies. After careful and -judicious consideration, it was agreed that the best way of utilizing -the coöperation of the allied armies was to close in on Frederick from -every side, and thus destroy his forces and completely crush him. Was -the King aware of this plan? It seems probable from the plans which he -adopted. Prince Charles and Browne occupied strong positions and calmly -waited for the Prussian attack, while Daun was stationed some distance -to the rear—a fact that caused Frederick some uneasiness. - -The first battle of the campaign took place in the neighborhood of -Prague on May 6, 1757. The Austrians seemed to have the advantage at -first, for their artillery caused deadly havoc among the Prussians. The -gallant Schwerin, seeing the danger, seized the colors of his regiment -and rode at full speed against the enemy, urging his men on with shouts -of encouragement. A shot found its way to his heart almost instantly, -but his words still rang in every ear, his brave example was before -every eye, and his death filled every heart with a thirst for revenge. -The battle was fierce and bloody, and resulted in a victory for the -Prussians; but it was not a decisive one, and Schwerin’s fall was a -serious blow to them. Frederick said when informed of his death, “He was -worth ten thousand men to me!” The King was greatly depressed by this -loss, and also by the fact that the greater part of Maria Theresa’s army -was safe within the walls of Prague, which looked like a speedy close to -the campaign. Moreover, Daun’s division was still fresh, and free now to -join the rest of the army, another advantage in their favor. - -There was nothing left for Frederick but to lay siege to Prague; but as -it promised to be a long and tedious affair for him, he ruthlessly -bombarded the city and invoked the aid of two terrible allies—fire and -famine. Every day increased the horrors of the situation in Prague. -Prince Charles made every effort to encourage and cheer the soldiers and -the citizens and persuade them to hold out by promises of speedy relief, -but their own sufferings were more powerful arguments than any of his -representations. The citizens lost heart, and the troops were -continually committing acts of violence and becoming mutinous, so that -Prince Charles was finally compelled to have a gallows erected in the -public square to warn the marauders. Matters were desperate, when Daun -approached with orders from Maria Theresa to relieve the distressed city -at any cost. - -The case was urgent, for the army and city might soon fall into -Frederick’s hands, a result he was confidently reckoning upon. Daun must -be driven from the neighborhood in order to accomplish it, and how to do -that without weakening his besieging army was the problem that -confronted him. With his usual skill, however, he solved it by hastening -forward with a small detachment to join the Prince of Bevern’s division, -and with him advancing to meet Daun. The battle of Kollin was the result -of their meeting. It was a desperate struggle, and a disastrous defeat -for the hitherto victorious King of Prussia. Daun was the victor and -Prague was saved. - -Maria Theresa received the news with a jubilant heart, and hastened at -once with the Emperor to inform the Countess Daun of her husband’s -victory in person. Nor was this enough. To celebrate the day she -established the “Order of Maria Theresa,” which was to be won only by -deeds of bravery in battle, and which by the infrequency of its bestowal -was held as the highest possible honor in the Austrian army. The first -cross of the order glistened upon the breast of Daun. As a still further -expression of her joy and exultation, the Empress had a jubilee medal -coined in commemoration of her victory. - -The results of the battle of Kollin were far reaching. The popular -belief in Frederick’s invincibility received a severe blow, and the -courage of his soldiers sank in proportion as that of the Austrians -rose. Maria Theresa’s forces were continually receiving additions, while -the Prussian army began to dwindle. Matters looked somewhat brighter -along the Rhine, but the Imperial army with a French auxiliary force was -advancing to the rescue of Saxony, and Frederick was forced to march -hurriedly into Thuringia to meet them, leaving his army in Saxony and -Lusatia under competent generals. - -Soubise, so famous for his agility in retreat, fell back at Frederick’s -approach, and Erfurt opened its gates to him. A few days later Seydlitz -surprised the French at Gotha, and drove them away in what might be -called headlong flight; for in the ducal palace Seydlitz found the -dishes still smoking on the table as they had been left, and he and his -officers sat down with a good appetite to enjoy the meal the hungry -Frenchmen had been so easily frightened away from. This little exploit -of the cavalry afforded unbounded delight to the King and his soldiers, -and served as a prelude to what was to follow at Rossbach. - -Nothing could equal the scorn with which the French in their -overwhelming conceit regarded Prussia’s little army; indeed, some of the -officers went so far as to question whether it were not derogatory to -their honor to engage in serious conflict with such a paltry force. But -when the battle really began they took to their heels in a manner that -scarcely has its equal in history. Of the noble Imperial army it can -only be said that the greater part of it left the field without firing a -shot. It was a rabbit-hunt, not a battle of men, in which the Prussians -played the parts of hunters and drivers at the same time, with Seydlitz -for a leader. That doughty baron’s only regret was that he had not been -able to catch the gallant Soubise himself; but the swiftest horse could -scarcely have done that! - -To prove that even flight may lead to glory Prince Soubise, whom even -the French themselves had nicknamed “Prince Sottise,”[16] received a -Field-Marshal’s staff after this. The riddle is easily solved, -however,—Pompadour![17] The French continued their flight as far as the -Rhine, until they were sure Frederick had been left far behind. - -The Austrians had been victorious since the battle of Kollin. Bevern’s -and Winterfeld’s forces had been defeated. Silesia was almost within -their grasp, a result they hoped to see accomplished before the end of -the campaign. But Frederick had other plans. The battle of Rossbach had -restored Saxony to him, but matters had come to the point when he must -regain his hold on Silesia or lose all the advantage he had won. - -In twelve days he crossed the whole breadth of his dominions, and -effected a union with Bevern’s force in Silesia. This gave him about -thirty-three thousand men, and with these troops, many of them exhausted -by their long march, he faced an Austrian army of double their strength -near the village of Leuthen. Here the Austrians met a crushing defeat; -they lost twenty-six thousand five hundred men, killed or taken -prisoners, one hundred and sixteen cannon, fifty-one standards, and four -thousand commissary, baggage, and ammunition wagons, beside forfeiting -the results of all their former victories. Whole regiments were -annihilated or taken prisoners. The contemptuous designation of the -Prussian army as the “Potsdam Night-watch Parade” was terribly avenged, -and the precept was brought home to the Austrians, as it had been to the -French at Rossbach, that “pride goeth before a fall”! - -And Maria Theresa? - -It was a bitter disappointment she was called upon to bear. She had -looked upon Silesia as her own once more; she had seen her army triumph -over the enemy; her heart had been full of joy and gratitude,—and now! - -Nevertheless, in spite of these misfortunes, her brave spirit did not -quail; her faith in the justice of her cause was unshaken. She redoubled -her exertions to strengthen the army and make up the terrible losses it -had suffered. But were there not quiet hours when with clasped hands she -raised her tearful eyes to Heaven in prayer, as a relief to her -oppressed heart? Being but a woman, and a devout and pious woman, it -must have been so. - -The third year of the war began in the early Spring: what terrible -sacrifices it was to cost! What bloodshed and suffering, what distress -and misery to thousands! Yet there was no thought of peace. Still must -the sword reap its deadly harvest, like the scythe in the ripe -grain-field, and Maria Theresa was powerless to prevent it. Her funds -were low, their replenishment very difficult; and what vast sums were -required to fill the gaps that Leuthen alone had caused! Bohemia was -exhausted, little dependence could be placed upon the other states for -help, and the treasury was slow in filling. She saw nothing but -difficulties ahead, and, worst of all, the people were disheartened. The -feeling against Prince Charles of Lorraine became so strong that he was -forced to resign; but for once the ministry of war, which usually bore -the blame of all mistakes and disasters, escaped the unsparing censure -that was universally expressed against the commander-in-chief. Count -Daun was appointed in his place, and hastened to Vienna to consult upon -plans for the new campaign. - -A few preliminary skirmishes resulted in favor of the Austrians, but the -first important event was the loss of Schweidnitz, their last hold in -Silesia. The garrison, reduced by want and distress, were taken -prisoners by Frederick, who then advanced against Olmütz. From thence to -Vienna was but a step, and one that was seriously considered by many of -the Prussians. But Maria Theresa had again put the right man in the -right place—two men, indeed, who proved themselves worthy of her -confidence, Daun and Laudon. Daun’s great skill lay in his choice of -positions, and he possessed a caution and deliberation that often put -Frederick’s patience to the test and defeated his plans. He made no move -until he was satisfied as to the fitness of his army, which consisted -largely of new troops; but when his preparations were complete he -marched to the assistance of Olmütz, which Frederick had besieged. He -cut off the supplies of the Prussians by attacking and destroying a -heavy train of provisions and ammunition which Frederick was anxiously -expecting and depending upon. This loss, together with a sudden attack -by Daun, forced the Prussians to raise the siege and retreat. Olmütz was -saved. - -Maria Theresa was greatly relieved, for she realized the importance of -Olmütz, and was correspondingly grateful to her commander-in-chief, -whose services she had already had good cause to value. She built fresh -hopes, too, on the invasion of Brandenburg by the Russians, which -obliged Frederick to divide his forces to meet this new danger. Leaving -part of his army to oppose Daun, he marched rapidly against the -Russians, who were ravaging Prussia. He defeated them with great -slaughter at Zorndorf, wreaked a terrible vengeance upon them, and then -returned to Saxony, where he was much needed, for his brother Henry was -there and was hard pressed by Daun and the Imperial army. Daun employed -his usual tactics in making his own position secure, while his light -cavalry continually harassed the King’s troops, and in avoiding the -decisive action into which Frederick was anxious to force him. - -Frederick pitched his camp at Hochkirchen, on a plain directly opposite -Daun, a position protested against by all his generals and of which -Keith said, “If the Austrians leave us here in peace, they all ought to -be hanged!” The King paid no attention, however, to this good advice. -Daun’s eagle glance was not one to overlook an opportunity that lay -within his grasp, but his deliberation seemed to imply that he did not -intend to accept the bold challenge, and Frederick had already decided -to break up his camp, when Daun suddenly fell upon it in the early -morning (October 14, 1758) while the Prussians were still asleep. A -desperate struggle followed, at first in total darkness. Then the -daylight struggling through a heavy mist, with flames from the burning -village, lit up the scene of slaughter where the Austrians had the foe -at their mercy. Had not Frederick’s army maintained its discipline so -well, but a small part of it would have escaped. - -It was a brilliant victory for Daun, but he committed a grave error in -not following it up, as his adversary would not have failed to do. Too -late he realized the folly of allowing his irrepressible foe to escape, -only to rally his forces and drive the Austrians from Silesia. Daun -hoped to retrieve this blunder by achievements in Saxony. He had the -advantage there and advanced to attack Dresden, but the Prussian General -Schmettau set fire to the suburbs and showed signs of such vigorous -resistance that, rather than see the city destroyed, Daun abandoned the -attack and withdrew into Bohemia. - -The results achieved by the allied armies in other quarters were not -remarkable. Daun by his victory at Hochkirchen bore off the honors of -this campaign, nor did he lack laurels in recognition of his services. -He had a mistress who rewarded right royally. - -Maria Theresa needed the Winter’s rest to strengthen her position both -at home and abroad. Some new alliances and a renewal of the old ones -seemed to promise well for the future. Russia made fresh preparations on -land and sea; an agreement was made with Sweden and Denmark by which -they were to close the passage of the strait against the English, and -the Imperial army bestirred itself to repair damages. - -Nor did Frederick neglect this opportunity to replenish his treasury, -which was much in need of it, and to increase and improve his army. - - - - - Chapter VI - Close of the Long Struggle - - -The campaign of 1759 began with inroads by the Prussians, who committed -terrible ravages. Prince Henry of Prussia was ordered to destroy the -warehouses and magazines in Bohemia as well as in Franconia, both of -which were suffering from depredations he had made with the object of -replenishing Prussia’s war coffers. - -Daun did not take the field until later. He cautiously waited for the -appearance of the allies, and besides, it was important to effect the -union of Laudon with the Russians. Although Frederick exerted himself to -prevent this, Daun carried out his plans successfully, and confronted -the King with an army of sixty thousand men. As the latter’s total force -amounted to only forty thousand, he retired, and the allies took up a -strong position near Kunersdorf. There they were boldly attacked by the -Prussians, and a battle ensued which at first seemed to promise -Frederick a brilliant victory; but Laudon changed the fortunes of the -day and drove the Prussians from the field. When Frederick wrote to his -minister, Von Finkenstein, that it was a misfortune he still lived, he -expressed his desperate situation after the battle of Kunersdorf, for -had the Russians followed up their advantage he must inevitably have -been overwhelmed. A disagreement between Laudon and the Russian General -Soltikoff was the cause of this failure, or, as was afterwards -maintained and perhaps with some reason, the Russians’ crafty policy did -not include Frederick’s complete destruction. Although Soltikoff, with -an eye to possible changes in the Russian government and its attitude -toward the King of Prussia, may have determined not to follow up the -victory, still it is difficult to explain why Daun should have remained -inactive when the enemy’s complete defeat would have inevitably produced -such important results for Austria. At last he moved to another position -at Triebel, which commanded the Prussian situation; but Prince Henry -contrived to annoy and harass his troops constantly without risking a -decisive engagement. - -One misfortune after another befell Frederick. General Finck’s corps of -twelve thousand men were defeated and taken prisoners by Daun, a heavy -blow to the King’s pride as well as to his army; and a few days later -fifteen thousand of Diereck’s force shared the same fate. Such a -succession of disasters seriously crippled Frederick’s resources, and -even the reënforcements brought him by the Hereditary Prince of -Brunswick could do nothing to help matters. - -Notwithstanding the severity of the weather, it was not until the -beginning of January, 1760, that the armies went into Winter quarters. -Frederick remained in Freiberg, and his troops camped in the villages -about Dresden, some of them even in tents. It was bitterly cold and they -could keep warm only by huddling together. Sickness broke out among -them, and the mortality was great; but Daun did not fare much better. -Both armies suffered terribly, and their losses were heavy. - -The year had been a disastrous one for Frederick, and fortune had smiled -on the Empress; but her goal, Silesia, was still far distant, although -Frederick’s lack of resources for the continuance of the war seemed to -bring it a little nearer. Her affairs, indeed, were in better condition -than the King’s. He was in great need of money to recruit his army, and -obliged to resort to any expedient to obtain it. He could not afford to -be particular about his methods, as poor Saxony discovered to its cost. -The willingness of its subjects to make sacrifices for her made it -easier for Maria Theresa to obtain the means that she also needed for -the prosecution of the war. Frederick tried in various ways to bring -about a peace, but the Empress would not yield now that her hopes seemed -about to be realized. She resolutely determined to continue the struggle -for the sake of Silesia, that precious jewel she hoped soon to place -once more in her imperial crown. - -The next campaign opened in Silesia, and propitiously for Maria Theresa; -for, at Landshut, Laudon destroyed a whole Prussian army corps under -General Fouquet, with the exception of a small detachment of cavalry -which managed to cut its way through and escape. Fouquet was taken -prisoner, and all his supplies and ammunition fell into the hands of the -Austrians. Important as this achievement was in itself, its principal -value to Maria Theresa lay in the effect produced by so signal a victory -at the very beginning of the campaign. Her troops had fought with -desperate fury and showed no quarter, for they had been met with -stubborn resistance and heroic valor on the part of the Prussians. There -was great rejoicing when the news of the victory reached Vienna, and no -one was happier than the Empress over the moral effect it produced. - -Frederick, who was confronting Daun in Saxony, had determined to go to -the assistance of Fouquet in Silesia, but Daun followed, or rather kept -close beside him, while Lacy was in the rear, annoying and impeding him -at every turn and doing much damage to his supply trains. Therefore he -halted at Görlitz, and, changing his plan entirely, decided to attempt -the reconquest of Dresden. He forced Lacy out of his way, evaded the -Imperial army, and summoned Dresden to surrender. Failing in an attempt -to surprise the city, he began to bombard it, although he lacked heavy -artillery. When Daun discovered the King’s move, he lost no time in -turning back after him, and, reaching Dresden, dispersed the Prince of -Holstein’s force, and sent a considerable body of troops to the -assistance of the garrison, in spite of all Frederick’s efforts to -prevent it. Thinking that Daun would not allow the city to be ruined, he -continued the bombardment, and wrought havoc within the walls. Great as -its distress was, however, Dresden would not yield, and Frederick’s -troubles increased daily. Glatz was captured, his losses at Dresden were -very heavy, and a large part of his necessary supplies fell into the -hands of the Austrians. - -Thus blow followed blow, and the loss of Glatz depressed Frederick in -proportion as it rejoiced Maria Theresa, who thereby gained once more a -foothold in Silesia. Nor was Laudon content with his easy conquest of -Glatz. Encouraged by it, and knowing the insufficiency of the garrison -at Breslau, he proceeded directly to that place, expecting as speedy a -victory there as at Glatz; a natural error, perhaps, but a serious one, -as he soon discovered. The commander at Breslau was Tauentzien, a man -not easy to subdue. Although Laudon brought all his force to bear -against the city, he made no progress toward its capture; and when -Prince Henry came to its relief, he was forced to raise the siege. - -Frederick meantime had abandoned his fruitless bombardment of Dresden -and hastened to Silesia, where his presence was needed; but Daun must -have been accurately informed as to his movements, for he followed -closely and passed him, Lacy falling to the rear of the Prussians. Thus -there was the strange spectacle of what seemed like one huge army -marching toward Silesia in three divisions, while Laudon approached with -his troops from Breslau to meet them, and the Russians also advanced to -join the allies. The Austrian officer seemed quite justified in his -remark when he said, “The bag is open and ready to catch the Prussians; -we have only to pull the string!” - -When this was repeated to Frederick his eyes flashed, and he said with a -bitter laugh, “The man has spoken truly; but I will make a hole in the -bag that they will not find it easy to mend!” - -Vienna waited anxiously for the next news. Such a thing as Frederick’s -escape seemed scarcely possible. But almost every night he changed his -position, which kept Daun in uncertainty as to his whereabouts, and it -was this ceaseless activity and the wonderful mobility of his troops -which proved “the hole in the bag” that was to show him the way out. - -From the positions occupied by the encircling armies of the enemy, he -perceived it was Daun’s plan to annihilate him by a combined attack. The -decisive moment arrived on the fourteenth of August, 1760. Daun was -absolutely certain of success; and indeed who would not have been, with -the Prussians completely surrounded as they were? During the night, -however, Frederick abandoned his position and moved to Parchwitz. -Surprised and chagrined, Daun found that his plans were frustrated, and -that, while the Prussians had not yet escaped from “the bag,” he had not -altogether succeeded in “pulling the string.” Nor was Laudon any the -less astonished, when he approached Liegnitz with thirty thousand men, -to find the Prussians drawn up in order of battle. He hastened to form -his own lines, but had only partially succeeded when the enemy attacked -him. Taken completely by surprise, Laudon had the added disadvantage of -a most unfavorable position, which greatly impeded the movements of his -troops. Though they fought bravely, returning again and again to the -charge, he was finally forced to retreat with heavy loss. - -Everything seemed to have conspired against the Austrian generals. Daun -might have sent assistance to Laudon had he known of the battle; but a -strong wind prevented any sound of the heavy firing from reaching him, -so he suspected nothing. If Laudon had sent him word, the result might -have been different—indeed must have been; but even when he received -news of it Daun made no move, thinking the locality where the attack -would have to be made was too unfavorable to offer any hope of success. - -Laudon was depressed by this defeat; but he was not held responsible for -it even by the Empress, who, while she regretted a misfortune that was -also her own, sent him assurances of her sympathy and continued favor. -To be able thus to “pour wine and oil on his wounds” and keep up her own -courage as well, instead of giving way to depression, was still another -proof of the strength and wisdom that never failed her. - -Frederick was well aware that his victory had brought him only temporary -relief. He had made the “hole in the bag,” to be sure, but to get out of -it was another matter. Daun understood this also, but none the less his -failure to assist Laudon was a grave error. His plans were well laid, -for the position of the Austrian and Russian forces not only made it -very difficult for the Prussians to obtain their supplies, but must in -time cut them off altogether. The resources of Breslau had been so -exhausted by the siege that Frederick’s only way out of his predicament -was the doubtful possibility of a victory over Daun’s army. The -withdrawal of the Russians, however, opened the way for him to Bohemia, -but in Saxony his outlook was unfavorable. The “hole in the bag” had -helped him only for the time being, and Daun meanwhile was planning to -strike a blow at his heart by seizing Berlin. Should the Russians be -able to accomplish this, he was to fall back, while an Austrian -auxiliary force under Lacy advanced to their support. - -This plan was carried out, and on the third of October the Russian -vanguard suddenly appeared before Berlin. The danger was imminent, and, -while the city hastily prepared for defence, Prince Eugene of -Würtemberg, who had been opposing the Swedes, hurried a part of his army -to the capital by forced marches. Help was also summoned from Saxony, -but the odds (sixteen thousand against thirty-five thousand) were too -great, and Berlin was forced to capitulate. It was well for the city -that General Tottleben showed both clemency and forbearance, and spared -the treasures of art and learning accumulated there; but Lacy’s Austrian -and Saxon troops were not so considerate, and Frederick’s palaces were -overrun and despoiled by them. - -It was only a few days, however, before the news that Frederick himself -was approaching to the rescue of his capital drove the enemy from the -walls of Berlin. Matters had not been progressing favorably for the -King. His prospects were still dark, and if they were to assume a -brighter aspect he would be obliged to attack Daun, whose position at -Torgau was so strong as to make it a very difficult undertaking. The -Austrian troops were fresh, moreover, and well equipped; but, -notwithstanding all this and the advantage of numbers,—Daun had sixty -thousand men, while he had but forty thousand himself,—Frederick decided -to make the attempt, desperate as it seemed. - -The struggle was long and deadly; the constant discharge of artillery -shook the earth and whole ranks were mown down, even the King himself -being wounded. Daun received a bullet in the thigh, but he was so -confident of victory that he despatched a messenger to Vienna with the -news—too soon, however, for the day was not yet ended! Just as night was -closing in, Zieten, who had previously taken no part in the action, -scaled the heights of Süplitz and captured the hill. This decided the -fate of the Austrians. Notwithstanding all their efforts, they were -compelled to give way and retreat to Dresden,—a bitter blow to Daun, who -had already announced his victory in Vienna! The battle was one of the -bloodiest of the war; sixteen thousand Austrians lay dead on the field -or were taken prisoners. But the Prussians had paid dearly for their -victory, having lost fourteen thousand men. Maria Theresa, however, -showed her usual tact and magnanimity toward the defeated general, by -going out of her way to meet him on his return from Torgau, and seeing -that his wound received proper attention. - -Frederick had not succeeded, however, in wresting the Plauen valley, the -key to Dresden, from the Austrians. They went into Winter quarters -there, while Laudon, after an unsuccessful attempt to capture Kosel, -retired to Glatz. The Russians withdrew to Poland and the Swedes to -Pomerania. The French had accomplished little and had met with many -reverses, but toward the end of the campaign they obtained a victory -over the Hereditary Prince of Brunswick. The struggle was continued in -Hesse without any decisive results, until the coming of Winter made it -necessary to suspend hostilities. Thus ended the fifth year of the war, -with its harvest of death and destruction, leaving all the armies -completely exhausted. And still no sign of peace! - -Notwithstanding his victories, Frederick had suffered heavily, and the -future looked dark for him; while Maria Theresa could look forward, if -not confidently, at least with less doubt and anxiety. She continued her -preparations most indefatigably. Laudon was placed in command in -Silesia, while Saxony was assigned to Daun as his field of action, the -object of their united endeavors being the reconquest of Silesia. -Frederick was aware of this, and shaped his plans accordingly, although -circumstances compelled him to act strictly on the defensive. He -occupied the famous camp at Bunselwiltz, where he was in a good position -to protect Schweidnitz. Laudon was anxious to attack him there, but the -Russian General Butterlin refused to be drawn into a decisive -engagement; at most he would only consent to assist Laudon with an -auxiliary force. Frederick had no fear of an attack by day, but was -obliged to guard against the danger of being surprised at night. -September of 1761 came, and still nothing had occurred. On the thirtieth -of that month, however, Laudon made a sudden attack on Schweidnitz, from -all sides at once, and the commander there, who had neglected all -precautions, taken completely by surprise, was forced to surrender -unconditionally. - -Frederick’s star seemed to be setting; for in Pomerania too he had been -unfortunate. The usual vacillating and dilatory methods of the War -Office favored him somewhat, for Laudon had received orders not to -undertake any further operations and to confine himself to the -defensive. The fall of Kolberg, which had made a stout resistance, and -only capitulated when all the supplies had given out, was a fresh blow -to the King. The Prussians had met with no decisive results in their -encounters with the French, nor had they succeeded in inflicting any -damage upon them. The end of the campaign left Frederick apparently on -the verge of ruin. Maria Theresa’s heart was full of joy and hope, for -never had Silesia been so nearly within her grasp as now, when her enemy -had apparently exhausted his last resources. - -The beginning of the year 1762 seemed to give her fresh grounds for -hope, but these were suddenly dissipated by the news of the death of the -Czarina Elizabeth of Russia.[18] She had been Frederick’s bitterest -enemy, and her successor, Peter III, was his most enthusiastic admirer. -The new Czar gave immediate proof of his friendship by issuing a -manifesto in which he formally announced his intention of making peace -with Prussia. A treaty was signed May 5, 1762, which restored to -Frederick all conquests made by the Russians, and paved the way for an -alliance between the two countries. This completely altered the aspect -of affairs, and dashed Maria Theresa’s hopes and plans to the ground; -for Frederick was now in a position to concentrate all his forces -against Austria. Sweden too had withdrawn from its alliance with -Austria, and followed the example of Russia in making terms of peace -with Prussia. Everything seemed conspiring against the Empress. - -Silesia still remained the centre of the struggle, and Frederick assumed -the command there in person, the recapture of Schweidnitz being his -first object. Choosing a favorable position, he awaited the arrival of -the Russian troops promised him by his new ally, Peter III, before -attempting any important move against his old adversary, Daun. Just as -all his preparations were complete, however, and he was about to begin -the attack, news arrived which threatened to upset all his plans. The -Czar, Peter III, had been dethroned. Catherine II immediately succeeded -him, and her first act was the recall of the troops which had been sent -to assist the Prussians. This was a misfortune which Frederick had not -anticipated, but he tried to avert its immediate disastrous results by -persuading the Russian general to defer his departure for three days. -This made prompt action necessary, but Frederick was the man of all -others to meet emergencies. Although the Russians took no part in the -action, Daun was quite in the dark as to their attitude, and this -uncertainty obliged him to weaken his force by detaching a body of -troops to watch them. Frederick’s attack was successful. Daun’s army was -defeated and driven from the heights of Burkersdorf. - -The King’s greatest anxiety now concerned Catherine’s attitude toward -European affairs; consequently her declaration of neutrality was a great -relief to his mind, for he feared that Russia’s power might be again -exerted on the side of Austria. After his victory at Burkersdorf, he -lost no time in laying siege to Schweidnitz. Daun tried to relieve brave -old Count Guasco, who was in command there, but met with such a serious -defeat at Reichenbach that he was obliged to leave the stronghold to the -fate which finally overtook it. - -The King next turned his attention to Saxony, where his brother Henry -was bravely resisting the Austrians and the Imperial army. The Austrians -had not been meeting with great success, but the arrival of Count -Haddick as commander-in-chief seemed to turn the fortune of war again in -their favor. Had Haddick not waited for reënforcements from Daun, Prince -Henry would probably have been defeated; but by the time they arrived -the Prussian army had also been strengthened by troops from Silesia, and -in the battle of Freiberg, which immediately ensued, the Austrians were -defeated with heavy loss. - -It was the last battle of this dreadful war, which for so many long -years had wrought untold misery throughout the wretched countries that -had been the scene of the bloody conflict. Frederick, to be sure, -continued the struggle against the Imperial army until the panic caused -by Kleist’s huzzars forced the small German States to beg for peace. In -Westphalia, and Hesse, also, the Prussians at last laid down their -victorious arms. In truth, the exhaustion of all parties made peace -imperative. It was finally declared February 15, 1763, and a treaty was -signed at Hubertsburg which restored all conquests and left everything -practically where it was at the beginning of the Seven Years’ War, -Prussia retaining undisturbed possession of Silesia. - -This was the heaviest sacrifice that Maria Theresa could have been -called upon to make for peace. It cost her a great struggle with -herself, and many bitter tears, but she did it so that the blessings of -peace might be restored to her people. - - - - - Chapter VII - The Last Days of Maria Theresa - - -Peace! The joyful cry rang from one end of Maria Theresa’s dominions to -the other, and was echoed in her own heart; for, deeply as she grieved -over Silesia, now lost to her forever, she must have had a feeling of -thankfulness when she thought of those battlefields which had been -reddened with the blood of so many thousands of her people. Her deeply -religious nature must have prompted the thought: “Since all my -sacrifices, all my efforts and exertions have availed nothing toward the -restoration of Silesia to me, it must be the will of Him who rules all, -and without whose notice not a sparrow falls.” - -The great Empress, who could control herself so well, could not fail to -recognize how incomplete her efforts toward governing and improving the -condition of her people had been thus far, and to welcome a peace which -would enable her to continue the work, and, in devoting all her energies -to remove the devastation caused by the war, find a balm for the wound -in her own heart which the loss of Silesia had inflicted. - -It would be doing Maria Theresa a great injustice, however, to imply -that she to whom the condition of the government and its evils had been -so clear, even during her father’s lifetime, had not profited by the -occasional intervals of peace which the country had enjoyed, and worked -zealously for their reform until war again turned the ploughshare into -the sword. It was impossible for her to recognize defects without -endeavoring to remedy them. We have already seen how resolutely she -checked the luxury and extravagance of the Court after her father’s -death; how, taught by bitter experience the need of reformation in the -army, she had strengthened and prepared it for the long and desperate -struggle that was to come; how she had increased the country’s revenues -and readjusted the system of taxation upon which she depended for means -to defend her right to the throne; and with what unerring judgment she -had chosen the best men to carry out her plans, and placed them where -their abilities would be of most service to the country. - -Her character and talents especially fitted her for the position she -occupied as sovereign of a great Empire in need of reorganization, for -to her clear insight, her habit of going to the root of things, and her -wide sympathies, was added a calmness and strength of purpose which -enabled her to achieve great results without rashness or precipitancy. -Her reforms indeed were brought about so gradually, and newer and more -effective methods succeeded the old so naturally, that they aroused no -opposition, and were accomplished with none of that confusion which more -abrupt and violent changes might have caused. She took great pleasure in -watching the fruitful results of these efforts, without any desire for -that personal glory which is often so cheaply obtained. There was, in -truth, no department of public affairs which was not in need of -reconstruction, no part of the national life where she did not find -something to rectify; but nothing escaped her, even to the smallest -detail. Everywhere, from the army down to her own domestic service, the -results of her conscientious care and judicious supervision were -visible. - -In all matters of learning and education Maria Theresa depended on the -help of Van Swieten, an eminent and accomplished Dutch physician. She -had appointed him to a position in Court, but soon recognized his -profound knowledge in all branches of learning, and at once assigned him -to a field where his talents could be utilized, not only in the sanitary -administration of her realm, but also in other departments in which his -services were quite as valuable. - -Under the personal supervision of the Empress, Van Swieten undertook the -reconstruction of the whole system of education and the reorganization -of the Imperial library. Many schools and institutions were established, -including one for the study of Oriental languages, rendered necessary by -the increasing importance of Austria’s relations with the East, one for -veterinary surgery, and an academy for young noblemen. Though deeply and -sincerely devout, Maria Theresa realized that the ecclesiastical power -and authority required restriction, and that the condition of the -monasteries was sadly in need of reform. Much as she accomplished for -higher culture, the education of the lower classes was no less important -to her; for Austria had not kept pace with general progress in this -direction, and dense ignorance prevailed among them. Her chief adviser -and supporter in this work was Joseph von Sonnenfels, whose suggestion, -“It is not enough to have public schools in the large cities; not even -the smallest village should be without one,” was warmly approved by -Maria Theresa, the mother of her country. The Normal School in Vienna -set an example for other cities, which was soon followed in the -so-called “low country.” - -If the abolishment of the rack, with its inhuman and unchristian -tortures, had been Maria Theresa’s only contribution to higher -civilization in her Empire, she would have deserved the thanks, not only -of her own people but of all mankind; but while this was her most -notable act, there was no department of life, no branch of the -government, that did not bear witness to her noble qualities of head and -heart or feel the influence of her beneficent power. She loved and -fostered music, and among the masters who shed a lustre over that period -the great names of Gluck, Haydn, and Mozart will testify to her -unfailing interest in this art; while the branches of painting and -sculpture claimed no less a share of her patronage and support. - -It is useless to attempt here to go into all the details of her various -achievements, but one subject must be mentioned which deeply involved -the welfare of the people and of the country,—that of agriculture, -trade, and commerce. Her efforts to improve agricultural conditions were -necessarily rudimental, and results were left for the future to develop; -but it was Maria Theresa’s sowing that made the harvest of later times -possible, and she prepared the way by founding schools for the study of -agriculture, thus providing opportunities for the farmers to secure -larger knowledge of their avocation. Another great step was the -realization of the need of a system of drainage, now so indispensable to -human welfare, but which at that time had received little attention, -especially in Austria. She instituted a thorough study of the subject, -had large areas of land drained and made productive, thus providing more -farms for the people. She also built new villages in the sparsely -populated districts of Hungary, Galicia, Bohemia, and Banat,[19] and -settled them with industrious workmen; founded the Economical Society of -Lower Austria, and instituted annual prize examinations. She imported -merino sheep from Spain, and had them distributed among sheep-raisers. -In Hungary and Bohemia, where there were large flax fields, apiaries -were started. Fine breeds of horses were raised for use by the cavalry. -In these and other ways the resources of the country were developed for -its own enrichment, instead of going out of the country for the -advantage of foreign treasuries. Trade and commerce were facilitated by -the building of new roads and canals. Rivers were made more navigable; -new markets were opened up and seaports were improved and increased, -while home industries and manufactures were encouraged by the erection -of factories. - -In short, the field over which her watchful supervision extended was -boundless, and yet every detail received her personal attention. All -reports were made to her directly, and she discussed matters of all -kinds with those who were experts, often surprising them by her accurate -knowledge and apt suggestions. And yet with all these cares the Empress -still found time to perform the various duties of government with -unabated zeal and energy, and devoted herself to her family, the care of -which was a sacred mission to her, with the utmost fidelity. - -As we take a glance into this august family circle it is difficult to -believe it that of an Emperor and Empress, such an atmosphere of -simplicity and sincere affection prevailed there. Maria Theresa presided -over it with all the womanly charm and devotion of a true German -housewife and mother. A handsomer royal couple could scarcely have been -found. Their married life had been very happy, for they were one in -heart and mind. She was devoted to her husband and he to her, although -her father had not favored the attachment. The Emperor Francis II was -calm and deliberate; Maria Theresa high-spirited and quick-tempered, but -firm and decided, and full of life and vivacity. Their natures therefore -complemented each other, the Emperor’s placidity and easy-going -disposition often acting as a beneficial restraint. When a disagreement -occurred between them,—something that will happen in the happiest -married life,—the Empress would burst out impetuously, while her consort -only grumbled in his beard; but the chief lady-in-waiting, Countess -Fuchs, who shared the confidence of both, usually succeeded in soon -restoring peace, for their misunderstandings never lasted long. - -The Emperor rarely concerned himself with matters that did not appeal to -his own tastes and inclinations, and took no part in affairs of state -except at the request of his wife. At such times he gave his advice -gladly and cheerfully, for no one could resist the covert flattery of -Maria Theresa’s entreaties. Their marriage was blessed with sixteen -children, living bonds which united and made the happiness of their -lives, and whose love and affection were a refuge to the Empress from -the cares of state. How often must her weary brain and overburdened soul -have found rest and comfort in the embraces of her children, especially -the younger ones, always nearest to a mother’s heart, while she drew -fresh strength and courage from their pure and innocent affection! The -difference in the natures of the imperial pair was of advantage also in -the training of their children, for the father’s unfailing patience and -good nature often acted as a check on the mother’s hasty and imperious -temper. At the same time there was no friction, for they were of one -mind as to the importance of implanting the right principles; the -Emperor insisting on strict obedience, propriety of behavior, and order -(which was especially dear to him), while their moral and religious -training fell to the share of the Empress, who never appeared lovelier -or more interesting than in the privacy of her family life. - -The education of their numerous children was the most sacred duty and -interest of both parents, and their teachers were selected with the -greatest care. The Empress devoted especial attention to the education -of her oldest son and successor, Joseph, particularly in the various -languages spoken in her dominions. She knew from her own experience how -strong is the bond between a sovereign and his people when he can speak -with them in their mother-tongue. As a mark of her gratitude toward -Hungary, she gave her dear “Seppel” (her familiar name for the Archduke -Joseph), as steward of his household, the brave Hungarian Prince -Bathiany, a man well fitted for the position and much esteemed and -beloved by his own countrymen. No detail was neglected in the care -bestowed on the management of the royal children, and the Empress’ -strict orders that they should “always be courteous to servants and -inferiors” might well serve as an example to all mothers. This simple -and beautiful family life, which had been Maria Theresa’s chief joy and -happiness, was sadly shattered by the death of the husband to whom she -was so tenderly attached. It cast a deep shadow over the rest of her -life, and from the day of his death she never laid aside her mourning. - -How richly Maria Theresa rewarded faithful service, aside from the -honors or orders she conferred, is shown by the friendly relations -between herself and the men she most valued and esteemed. She called old -Count Palffy her “father”; the brave and loyal Khevenhüller, her -“knight”; gallant Traun, her “shield”; and so on. Of the honored Count -Chotek she once wrote: “I have had news from him every day, and was -anxious for two days lest the worst might happen. When he is able to be -out of bed, I shall visit him.” Again, when Count Chotek had begged from -the Empress the services of the Court physician, Dr. Kessler, for his -sick child, she wrote back at once: - -“Thank God that he is to be in such good hands as Kessler’s. It can be -easily arranged, and the letter will be sent to Van Swieten as a matter -of form. I could not sleep last night for thinking of the charming -child, and Van Swieten was much affected when he learned from me of his -condition, but cheered up at once when he found that Kessler had charge -of him. I hope he will not be marked as his brother Humelauer was,[20] -and that Kessler will let me know every day how he is, for I am deeply -interested.” - - [Illustration: “_Be comforted, my good woman, for I have come to see - you_”] - -Once when she was at Laxenburg[21] it chanced that a poor woman, one -hundred and eight years of age, who was well known to her, and had not -missed for many years the usual ceremony of the foot-washing on Maundy -Thursday, was unable that year to be present, and bitterly lamented that -she was not to see her beloved Empress. Maria Theresa heard of this, and -was so touched by it that she went herself to the dame’s miserable -dwelling. - -“You were grieving,” she said, with her winning smile, “because you -could not see me? Well, be comforted then, my good woman, for I have -come to see you,” and seating herself by the sick-bed she talked for -some time with the delighted old woman in her kindly and sympathetic -way, leaving when she departed a sum of money for her care and support. -Nor did she ever afterward lose sight of her. - -An event which happened at the time of the birth of one of her grandsons -is deeply graven on the hearts of the Austrians. She was at the theatre -on the evening of February 19, 1768, when a message was brought to her -announcing the birth of a son to her daughter-in-law, the wife of her -son Leopold, Grand Duke of Tuscany. Overjoyed with the news, she quickly -rose, and leaning far over the railing of her box she waved the paper -and announced to the audience, “Leopold has a boy!” It may be imagined -what applause followed these words, so clearly illustrating the familiar -relations existing between her and her people. - -But Maria Theresa’s declining years unfortunately were destined to be no -less stormy than the rest of her life had been. The death of her -husband, coming so suddenly and unexpectedly, was a crushing blow, but -in so far as she felt the need of a man’s help she depended on her son -Joseph. She made him co-regent with her, not because his youthful -strength and energy were necessary to her, but because circumstances -made it desirable. Many political complications had arisen—notably the -partition of Poland, against which Maria Theresa, with her strong sense -of right and justice, protested vigorously. The mere mention of it -sufficed to arouse her furious indignation. Although the Poles had -brought it upon themselves, and perhaps deserved no better fate, she -felt sure that only evil could result from such a step, as a declaration -she made over her own signature when the affair was concluded shows. It -ran thus: “I agree to it since such a number of wise men have so -decreed, but long after I am dead time will show the bitter -consequences!” The whole affair caused her “great sorrow,” as she -herself expressed it, and made her feel “more anxious than anything has -ever done; indeed I am ashamed to have witnessed it!” - -The Emperor Joseph’s political views were decidedly opposed to those of -his great mother, and necessarily so, perhaps, owing to the changes in -conditions and circumstances. This was especially the case in the matter -of the Bavarian succession, which cast a shadow over the Empress’ later -years. On the death of the Elector of Bavaria without issue, Joseph laid -claim to his dominions; but Maria Theresa recognized the weakness of -these claims, although at the same time she strongly resented Frederick -II’s interference and opposition to her son’s plans. She shrank from the -prospect of another war, but the situation became so involved and -threatening that a conflict seemed inevitable. Preparations for war were -actually begun, when the Peace of Teschen[22] put an end to the danger, -much to Maria Theresa’s relief as well as satisfaction, for she had -practically been the means of bringing it about. - -Her great influence and popularity remained undiminished to the last; -nor did age destroy the charm of her personality, although increasing -stoutness caused her much annoyance and trouble. Her mind and heart -retained all their youthful vigor, however, nor did she ever lose her -kindly interest and sympathy for those about her. - -On the eighteenth of November, 1780, a singular accident occurred to the -Empress. Her grief for her dead husband was deep and sincere, and she -faithfully observed every anniversary of his death, often going to his -tomb in the imperial vault. As she walked with great difficulty, -however, and the climbing of stairs was especially unpleasant to her, -she had had a sort of seat contrived in which she could be raised or -lowered easily and slowly into the vault. Upon her visit to the tomb on -this occasion she had almost reached the floor of the vault when the -strong rope which lowered her broke. She was not injured except from the -shock, but this affected her all the more, for she regarded the incident -as an omen that she too would soon be consigned to that silent place of -rest. - -Indeed, on the very next day, possibly as the result of a chill -contracted in the tomb, she was seized with convulsive attacks of -coughing, which she at first considered of little consequence; but the -spasms grew so much worse that suffocation was feared. Bleeding brought -little relief, and pleurisy soon developed, increasing her distress so -that she was forced to sit up in an arm-chair. She bore her sufferings -patiently and uncomplainingly, however. Only once, after a severe -paroxysm of coughing and struggle for breath, she said, “God grant the -end may come soon, for I do not know how I can bear it any longer,” and -to the Archduke Maximilian she remarked, “Thus far my courage and -firmness have not deserted me; pray God, upon Whom all my thoughts are -fixed, that I may keep them to the last!” - -The malady increased, and a premonition of approaching death seized her. -She called for the last sacrament, like a good Catholic, and then -summoned to her bedside all the members of her family who were in -Vienna. - -“Dear children,” she said, “I have received the holy sacrament and know -there is no hope of recovery for me. Remember what care and pains your -father, the late Emperor, and I have bestowed upon your education; how -we have always loved you and tried to do everything for you that could -add to your happiness. All that I have in the world belongs to you,” -turning to the Emperor Joseph, “so I need make no disposition of -anything. Only my children belong to me, and always will. I commit them -to your care. Be a father to them! I shall die content if I have your -promise to watch over them truly and faithfully.” - -To the other children she said, “Henceforth you must look upon the -Emperor as your sovereign; obey and honor him as such. Be guided by his -counsel; trust and love him with all your hearts, that he may have cause -to bestow on you his care, his friendship, and his affection.” - -Then she quietly and calmly bestowed a maternal blessing upon each of -her children, absent as well as present. Deeply moved, they gave way to -their grief in sobs and tears, which affected Maria Theresa most -painfully, but she controlled herself and said to them firmly: - -“I think it would be better for you to go into the next room and compose -yourselves.” - -Even at that solemn moment she was still busy with affairs of -government, and she signed several state documents with her own hand. -She thanked her faithful Kaunitz for his loyal service to her, and also -charged the Hungarian chancellor, Esterhazy, to convey her thanks to his -people for all their loyalty, devotion, and help in time of need, at the -same time bidding the Emperor Joseph ever to bear this in mind. - -Joseph never left her side. She suffered greatly from distress for -breath, and at eight o’clock cried out: “Open the window!” at the same -time rising from her chair. The Emperor supported her gently in his -arms, and asked, “Where does Your Majesty wish to go?” - -Looking upward, she cried, “To thee! I come!” and with these last words -sank back and expired. - -Her death occurred November 29, 1780, in the sixty-fourth year of her -age. Four days afterward she was laid by the side of her husband in the -imperial vault of the Capuchins in Vienna. Her death plunged the whole -country into mourning. Few have departed from life so beloved and so -honored. - -Frederick the Great wrote of her: “The death of the Empress has grieved -me much; she honored her throne and her sex. I have made war upon her, -but I have never been her enemy!” - - - - - Footnotes - - -[1]The term “Pragmatic Sanction” was first used in the case of decrees - issued by Byzantine emperors with reference to the affairs of their - provinces. It was next applied to the limitations of the spiritual - authority of the Pope in European countries. In the sense in which it - is used above it is applied to the succession of sovereignty. The - Pragmatic Sanction of Charles VI is the most famous of all. It had - three provisions, (1) that the lands belonging to the house of - Austria should remain indivisible; (2) that in the absence of male - heirs they should devolve upon Charles’ daughters, the oldest of whom - was Maria Theresa; and (3) that in case of the extinction of the - line, the inheritance should pass to the daughters of Joseph I and - their descendants. Charles issued this Sanction in 1713. - -[2]Maria Theresa, Archduchess of Austria, Queen of Hungary and Bohemia, - and Empress of Germany, was the daughter of Charles VI of Austria and - Elizabeth Christina of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel. After the death of - Archduke Leopold, her only brother, she became sole heiress of the - Austrian dominions in 1724, married Francis Stephen of Lorraine in - 1736, came to the throne in 1740, her husband being declared - co-regent. She died in 1780. Of her sixteen children, ten reached - maturity. Her sons were Joseph II, who succeeded his father as Holy - Roman Emperor in 1765; Emperor Leopold II; Ferdinand, Duke of Modena, - and Maximilian, Elector of Cologne. Her most famous daughter was - Marie Antoinette, wife of Louis XVI of France, one of the many - victims of the French Revolution. - -[3]Prince Eugene, one of the greatest of the world’s generals, was born - at Paris, October 18, 1663, and died at Vienna, April 21, 1736. He - entered the service of Austria in 1683; defeated the Turks in 1697; - at the outbreak of the Spanish war of the succession invaded Italy; - joined Marlborough in Germany; and defeated the French and Bavarians - at Blenheim in 1704. In 1706 he drove the French out of Italy, and in - 1708 won the great victories at Oudenarde, Lille, and Malplaquet. War - breaking out afresh with Turkey, he won the great battle at Belgrade - against overwhelming odds, and forced the Turks to accept peace. The - year of Maria Theresa’s nuptials, 1736, was the year of his death. - -[4]Frederick contended that he inherited a lawful claim to Silesia, and - that the Pragmatic Sanction, which his father had recognized, - referred only to lands belonging to the house of Austria. - -[5]Frederick offered to aid Maria Theresa against all her enemies if she - would concede his claims upon Silesia, but the Queen haughtily - declined, and even intimated that Frederick was a robber. - -[6]Count Maximilian Ulysses von Browne, an Austrian field-marshal, was - born at Basel, Switzerland, Oct. 23, 1705, and died at Prague, - Bohemia, June 26, 1757. He was a commander both in the War of the - Austrian Succession and the Seven Years’ War. - -[7]Count Kurt Christoph Schwerin, a German general, was born at - Wusecken, Pomerania, Oct. 26, 1684, and was killed at the battle of - Prague, May 6, 1757. He was made a field-marshal by Frederick the - Great, and won the important victory of Mollwitz, a Silesian village. - -[8]This refers to the time when the Hungarians revolted and called upon - the Turks to help them. The latter, under Kara Mustapha, besieged - Vienna in 1683, which was only saved by an army of Poles and Germans - under Sobieski (John III, King of Poland), in which Kolonitzsch and - Stahremberg were conspicuous. - -[9]Karl Albrecht, Elector of Bavaria, subsequently Charles VII, was born - at Brussels, Aug. 6, 1697, and died at Munich, Jan. 20, 1745. He was - a claimant of the Austrian inheritance, took part in the War of the - Succession, was proclaimed King of Bohemia in 1741, and crowned - Emperor in 1742. - -[10]Hans Joachim von Zieten was a famous cavalry officer in the Prussian - army, and won distinction from a march with his hussars in 1745. He - decided three of Frederick’s victories,—Leuthen, Liegnitz, and - Torgau. - -[11]Count Raimondo Montecuculi was born at Modena, Italy, in 1608, and - died at Linz, Austria, in 1680. He served with great distinction in - the Thirty Years’ War; commanded the Austrian army which was sent to - Poland against the Swedes and Transylvanians, 1657-60; gained a great - battle over the Turks at St. Gotthard in 1664; and fought Turenne and - Condé on the Rhine from 1672 to 1675. He wrote a famous treatise on - the art of war, from which the saying above attributed to him is - quoted. - -[12]Kurmark the old name for the larger portion of Brandenburg, Prussia. - -[13]Philip V of Spain, the grandson of Louis XIV of France, was born at - Versailles, Dec. 19, 1683; died at Madrid, July 9, 1746. He was - called the Duke of Anjou until his succession to the Spanish throne, - which caused the War of the Spanish Succession. - -[14]Ferdinand VI, born Sept. 13, 1712, was the son of Philip V, and - succeeded his father in 1746. He was of a weak constitution and - melancholy, and relinquished the affairs of government almost - entirely to his counsellors. His melancholy eventually developed into - insanity. - -[15]Wenzel Anton Kaunitz, Count of Rietberg, was one of the most famous - of European diplomatists. He was born at Vienna, Jan. 2, 1711. His - first mission was the formation of an alliance of Austria, Sardinia, - and Great Britain against the Bourbons. He laid the foundation of his - fame at the Congress of Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748. Between 1750 and - 1752 he concluded a secret alliance between France and Austria. In - 1756 he was made Chancellor of the Netherlands and Italy, and at the - partition of Poland in 1772 he secured Galicia for Austria. He - directed the affairs of Austria for more than forty years, and was - specially prominent in his resistance to the power of Prussia. - -[16]“Prince Folly.” - -[17]Madame Pompadour had great influence in the Court of Louis XV of - France, and virtually dictated the policy of the government during - this period. - -[18]The Czarina died Jan. 5, 1762. - -[19]Banat is a part of Southern Hungary between the Maros on the north, - the Theiss on the west, and the Danube on the south. It was part of - the “Military Frontier” which Maria Theresa established. - -[20]Smallpox was epidemic at this time in Vienna. - -[21]Laxenburg is a village about nine miles from Vienna, where there was - a castle and royal park. - -[22]Teschen is a manufacturing town in Austrian Silesia. The treaty - concluded there May 13, 1779, between Austria and Prussia, terminated - the War of the Bavarian Succession, and is known as “The Peace of - Teschen.” - - - - - Appendix - - -The following is a chronological statement of the more important events -in the reign of Maria Theresa: - - 1717 Birth of Maria Theresa. - 1731 Acceptance of the Pragmatic Sanction. - 1733 War with France on behalf of King of Poland. - 1736 Marriage of Maria Theresa to Francis of Lorraine. - 1739 Peace with Turkey. - 1740 Death of Emperor Charles VI. - 1740 Succession of Maria Theresa. - 1745 Francis I elected Emperor. - 1741-45 War of the Austrian Succession. - 1745 Peace concluded at Dresden. - 1745-48 War with France. - 1748 Peace concluded at Aix-la-Chapelle. - 1757-63 Seven Years’ War. - 1763 Peace concluded at Hubertsburg. - 1765 Death of Emperor Francis I. - 1765 Succession of Joseph II. - 1772 Partition of Poland. - 1778-79 War of the Bavarian Succession concluded, without bloodshed, - by Peace of Teschen. - 1780 Death of Maria Theresa. - - - - - LIFE STORIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE - - - _BIOGRAPHICAL ROMANCES - TRANSLATED FROM THE GERMAN BY_ - GEORGE P. UPTON - - _A new, interesting, and very useful series that will be found -especially suitable for school libraries and for supplementary reading_ - -The books in this series are translated from the German, because in that -country a specialty is made of really desirable reading for the young. -Eight titles are now ready and more will follow. - -Their simplicity and accuracy make them very useful for every school -library in the grades. - -For parents who feel disposed to give their children books that provide -a mild element of historical information, as well as first-class -entertainment, the little books will prove a veritable find. - -The “life-stories” retain the story form throughout, and embody in each -chapter a stirring event in the life of the hero or the action of the -time. The dramatis personæ are actual characters, and the facts in the -main are historically correct. They are therefore both entertaining and -instructive, and present biography in its most attractive form for the -young. - - A FULL LIST OF THE TITLES IS GIVEN ON THE NEXT PAGE - -The work of translation has been done by Mr. George P. Upton, whose -“Memories” and Lives of Beethoven, Haydn, and Liszt, from the German of -Max Mueller and Dr. Nohl, have been so successful. - - _Each is a small square 16mo in uniform binding, with four - illustrations. Each 60 cents net._ - - _FULL LIST OF TITLES_ - Frederick the Great - The Maid of Orleans - The Little Dauphin - Maria Theresa - William Tell - Mozart - Beethoven - Johann Sebastian Bach - -“These narratives have been well calculated for youthful minds past -infancy, and Mr. Upton’s version is easy and idiomatic.”—_The Nation._ - -“He is a delightful writer, clearness, strength, and sincerity marking -everything to which he puts his hand. He has translated these little -histories from the German in a way that the reader knows has conserved -all the strength of the original.”—_Chicago Evening Post._ - -“They are written in simple, graphic style, handsomely illustrated, and -will be read with delight by the young people for whose benefit they -have been prepared.”—_Chicago Tribune._ - -“The work of translation seems to have been well done, and these little -biographies are very well fitted for the use of young people.... The -volumes are compact and neat, and are illustrated sufficiently but not -too elaborately.”—_Springfield Republican._ - -“These books are most entertaining and vastly more wholesome than the -story books with which the appetites of young readers are for the most -part satisfied.”—_Indianapolis Journal._ - - _OF ALL BOOKSELLERS OR OF THE PUBLISHERS_ - - - - - LIFE STORIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE - - _Translated from the German by - GEORGE P. UPTON_ - - 8 Vols. Ready - - Beethoven - Mozart - Bach - Maid of Orleans - William Tell - The Little Dauphin - Frederick the Great - Maria Theresa - - _Each, with 4 Illustrations, 60 cents net_ - A. C. McCLURG & CO., CHICAGO - - - - - Transcriber’s Notes - - ---Copyright notice provided as in the original—this e-text is public - domain in the country of publication. - ---In the text versions, delimited italics text in _underscores_ (the - HTML version reproduces the font form of the printed book.) - ---Silently corrected palpable typos; left non-standard spellings and - dialect unchanged. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Maria Therese (Life Stories for Young -People), by W. D. 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margin-right:auto; margin-left:auto; } - - blockquote { max-width:23em; } - div.verse { max-width:25em; margin-right:auto; margin-left:auto; } - div.bq { margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; max-width:23em; } - /* book advertisements */ - div.bcat dl dd { margin-left:4em; max-width:21em; } - div.bcat dl dt { text-indent:-2em; margin-left:2em; } - p.bkad {font-size:125%; font-weight:bold; margin-top:2em; max-width:20em; margin-right:auto; margin-left:auto; } - p.bkpr {font-size:90%; } - p.bkrv { } - dl.blist dt { margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; } - dl.blist, dl.biblio { margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; max-width:25em; } - - dl.int, dl.undent { margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; max-width:25em; } - dl.undent dt { margin-left:4em; text-indent:-2em; margin-right:1em; } -.box dl.undent { margin-left:2em; margin-right:2em; } - dl.int dt {margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; } - dl.int dd {margin-left:2em; } - ul { max-width:23em; margin-right:auto; margin-left:auto; } - -</style> -</head> -<body> - - -<pre> - -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Maria Therese (Life Stories for Young -People), by W. D. Von Horn - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Maria Therese (Life Stories for Young People) - -Author: W. D. Von Horn - -Translator: George P. Upton - -Release Date: June 30, 2020 [EBook #62527] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MARIA THERESE (LIFE STORIES *** - - - - -Produced by D A Alexander, Stephen Hutcheson, and the -Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net -(This file was produced from images generously made -available by The Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - -<div class="img"> -<img class="cover" id="coverpage" src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Maria Theresa" width="800" height="1105" /> -</div> -<div class="img" id="pic1"> -<img src="images/p0.jpg" alt="" width="692" height="930" /> -<p class="caption"><i>Portrait of Maria Theresa</i></p> -</div> -<div class="box"> -<p class="center"><span class="sc"><i>Life Stories for Young People</i></span></p> -<h1>MARIA THERESA</h1> -<p class="center"><span class="large"><i>Translated from the German of -<br />W. D. Von Horn</i></span></p> -<p class="center"><span class="small">BY</span> -<br /><span class="large">GEORGE P. UPTON</span> -<br /><span class="small"><i>Translator of “Memories,” author of “Upton Handbooks on Music,” editor “Autobiography of Theodore Thomas,” etc., etc.</i></span></p> -<p class="center"><span class="smaller">WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS</span></p> -<div class="img"> -<img src="images/p1.jpg" alt="A. C. McCLURG & CO." width="200" height="199" /> -</div> -<p class="center">CHICAGO -<br />A. C. McCLURG & CO. -<br />1905</p> -</div> -<p class="center small"><span class="sc">Copyright -<br />A. C. McClurg & Co.</span> -<br />1905 -<br />Published September 16, 1905</p> -<p class="center smaller">THE UNIVERSITY PRESS, CAMBRIDGE, U.S.A.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_v">v</div> -<h2>Translator’s Preface</h2> -<p>Among the famous queens of the world—Catharine -II of Russia, Elizabeth, Anne -Boleyn, and Victoria of England, Mary -Queen of Scots, Isabella of Spain, Louise -of Prussia, Marie Antoinette, Marie and Catharine -di Medici of France, and others, Maria Theresa of -Austria holds a conspicuous place. In statesmanship -and patriotism she ranks with Elizabeth and -Catharine. As Catharine greatly improved the -administration of her Empire, introduced new laws -and extended its frontiers, and as Elizabeth’s reign -was characterized by great commercial enterprises and -extraordinary intellectual activity, so the reign of -Maria Theresa, though she was engaged for years in -two great wars,—that of the War of the Austrian -Succession and the Seven Years’ War with Frederick -for the recovery of Silesia, which he had taken from -her,—proved to be of the highest benefit to Austria -in the strengthening of law and the introduction of -needed reforms and wise measures for the welfare of -the Empire.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_vi">vi</div> -<p>For years she was engaged in war for the -preservation of Silesia with the most potent sovereign -in Europe—Frederick the Great. Doubtless he -had some antique claim upon Silesia, but when Maria -Theresa succeeded to the throne under the terms of -the Pragmatic Sanction, all the European powers, -Prussia among them, whose rights might be affected, -renounced their claims. She relied upon their good -faith, but on the slightest of pretexts Frederick broke -it and determined to rob her of Silesia, even at the -cost of plunging all Europe into a long and devastating -war. He set aside a new treaty to enforce an -old claim. He plainly condemned himself by his -own words in his Memoirs: “Ambition, interest, -the desire of making people talk about me carried -the day and I decided for war.” When peace was -finally made, Maria Theresa retained her old inheritance, -though she lost Silesia; but Frederick was -more than willing to make peace, for all Germany -had been a terrible sufferer by the war and Prussia -was in dire straits.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_vii">vii</div> -<p>The story of the life of the -great queen is briefly told in these pages. It is the -story of the life of a proud, ambitious queen; a wise, -judicious ruler, who had the best interests of her -subjects at heart, and for whom they were always -ready to die; a woman of spotless personal character -and true to all her domestic duties at a time when -immorality and corruption were rife in high places. -The story covers some of the same episodes of -history which occur in the narrative of Frederick, -in this series, but is none the less interesting, as the -reader will find both sides presented.</p> -<p><span class="jr">G. P. U.</span></p> -<p><span class="small"><span class="sc">Chicago, 1905</span></span></p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_ix">ix</div> -<h2>Contents</h2> -<dl class="toc"> -<dt><span class="cn">I </span><a href="#c1"><span class="sc">The Young Queen</span></a> 13</dt> -<dt><span class="cn">II </span><a href="#c2"><span class="sc">Campaigns against Prussia, France, and Bohemia</span></a> 33</dt> -<dt><span class="cn">III </span><a href="#c3"><span class="sc">The Second Silesian War</span></a> 56</dt> -<dt><span class="cn">IV </span><a href="#c4"><span class="sc">Plots and Counterplots</span></a> 72</dt> -<dt><span class="cn">V </span><a href="#c5"><span class="sc">Battles of the Seven Years’ War</span></a> 85</dt> -<dt><span class="cn">VI </span><a href="#c6"><span class="sc">Close of the Long Struggle</span></a> 104</dt> -<dt><span class="cn">VII </span><a href="#c7"><span class="sc">The Last Days of Maria Theresa</span></a> 122</dt> -<dt><span class="cn"> </span><a href="#c8"><span class="sc">Appendix</span></a> 141</dt> -</dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_xi">xi</div> -<h2>List of Illustrations</h2> -<dl class="toc"> -<dt class="jr"><span class="smaller"><span class="sc">Page</span></span></dt> -<dt><a href="#pic1">Portrait of Maria Theresa</a><i>Frontispiece</i></dt> -<dt><a href="#pic2">Maria Theresa in the Council Chamber</a>18</dt> -<dt><a href="#pic3">“We are ready to die for our Empress”</a>40</dt> -<dt><a href="#pic4">“Be comforted, my good woman, for I have come to see you”</a>132</dt> -</dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_13">13</div> -<h1 title="">Maria Theresa</h1> -<h2 id="c1"><span class="h2line1">Chapter I</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">The Young Queen</span></h2> -<p>It would almost seem that the Emperor Charles -VI, the father of Maria Theresa, had a presentiment -of what was to come, when, directly -after his marriage, he obtained from the various -states united under his dominion an order of succession -called “The Pragmatic Sanction,”<a class="fn" id="fr_1" href="#fn_1">[1]</a> which -decreed that in case his house should become extinct -in the male line, succession to the throne -should pass to his female descendants. To make -this law binding and legal was such an important -matter to him that it may be said to have been the -chief aim of his life.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_14">14</div> -<p>In the year 1716, to the great joy of the Emperor, -a son was born to him. Vienna and the whole -country shared in the rejoicings of the royal parents; -but unfortunately their happiness was of short -duration, for, before the Autumn of that year had -strewn the earth with withered leaves, the heir to -the throne had drooped and died. The Emperor’s -grief was intense, and was made harder to bear by -reason of the many other cares and troubles which -beset him on all sides at that time.</p> -<p>The second child was a daughter, Maria Theresa, -who was born May 13, 1717,<a class="fn" id="fr_2" href="#fn_2">[2]</a> and upon whose -head, according to the right of primogeniture established -by the Pragmatic Sanction, the crowns of -the united Austrian states were one day to rest. -Who could have imagined that this child, while -inheriting all the beauty of her mother, would be -endowed at the same time with a masculinity of -intellect, together with a strength and wisdom, a -firmness yet kindliness of disposition, which but -few men have manifested?</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_15">15</div> -<p>St. Ambrose’s “Hymn of Praise” was at once -sung in the most solemn manner in St. Stephen’s -Cathedral, in the presence of all the highest dignitaries -of the Empire, and the baptism of the heiress -to the throne took place on the evening of the day -of her birth with great pomp and splendor. After -the loss of their first-born, the imperial couple were -overjoyed at the advent of this child, and, amid all -the cares and responsibilities forced upon him by -his numerous wars, the devoted father never lost -sight of his fixed purpose or relaxed his efforts to -obtain universal recognition of his law of succession -among the European powers, as well as the various -states of his own empire. He felt the importance -of securing his beloved daughter’s undisputed title -to the throne, while the Empress’ motherly heart -rejoiced at each hardly won acknowledgment of the -rights of her child, who already showed signs of -such splendid promise.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_16">16</div> -<p>But it was not alone in such well-grounded and -well-directed efforts that the parents’ care showed itself: -no pains were spared to develop to the fullest -extent Maria Theresa’s abundant mental gifts and -talents, so as to fit her for her future position as -ruler of an empire; nor did the noble mother fail to -sow the seed and nourish the growth in her daughter’s -tender nature of those womanly virtues which -were to bear such rich harvest.</p> -<p>With loving eyes the wise and careful Empress -watched over the early training of the Princess’ -mind,—a mind which warranted the brightest -hopes of all those to whose hands her education -was intrusted. As may be readily understood, -these instructors were selected from among the -most distinguished ladies of the Court; the Countesses -von Thurn and Valsassina, von Stubenberg -and von Fuchs. They worked in perfect accord -with the august mother upon whose breast God -had placed the precious jewel, and to whose care -He had intrusted the treasure. Later, as it became -necessary for her to occupy herself with -more serious and important subjects, learned and -capable men were assigned the task of guiding -the clear and active mind of the Princess through -the departments of religion, history, and other -branches of learning, the comprehension of which -was deemed necessary. The study of languages, -too, was begun at an early age and covered a wide -range, as it was important that the future ruler of -Austria should be familiar with the various tongues -spoken within her dominions, and thus be able to -dispense with interpreters who might, and indeed -must inevitably, stand between her and her people -to a certain extent. Above all, it was requisite that -she should not only understand Latin but speak it -fluently, since that was the language spoken in -Hungary; and almost equally important was a -knowledge of French, Italian, and Spanish. The -most accomplished masters were chosen by the imperial -parents, and equal care was bestowed on the -choice of teachers for music, drawing, and painting.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_17">17</div> -<p>My young readers will perceive from this that -the Archduchess had no easy tasks to perform.</p> -<p>Though, as compared with the requirements of -our times, such an education may seem defective in -many respects, still it bore surprising fruit, due -largely to the remarkable endowments of her who -received it; she made such good use of it that it was -possible for her not only to assume the high position -that devolved upon her at an early age, but to -maintain it with strength and dignity through all -the troubled period of her minority.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_18">18</div> -<p>The following incident confirms the truth of this -statement. Maria Theresa was sixteen years of age -when the important and complicated question of the -election of a king of Poland was to be decided by -the King’s councillors. The imperial maiden entered -the council chamber at her father’s side, to -take part in the deliberations of the foremost statesmen -of the empire, and bore herself with a grace -and dignity that excited universal admiration. She -listened with grave attention to the wise words of -the councillors, but when it came her turn to -express her opinions, at her father’s desire, the -astonishment of the ministers was unbounded, as -was the Emperor’s delight also, at the clearness -and accuracy of her judgment, and the acuteness -and keenness of her perceptions.</p> -<p>This is given as a proof of her clear understanding -and early maturity of mind, but it must not be -supposed that these qualities detracted in any way -from her feminine charms. Indeed, her kindness -of heart, delicacy of thought, and above all her -moral purity and lofty strength of purpose, combined -to form a personality which seemed born to -rule by divine right over the hearts of men, as well as -to sway the sceptre of a mighty Empire; nor was her -power lessened by a physical beauty and grace that -made her the envy of all the princesses of Europe.</p> -<div class="img" id="pic2"> -<img src="images/p3.jpg" alt="" width="713" height="990" /> -<p class="caption"><i>Maria Theresa in the Council Chamber</i></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_19">19</div> -<p>As she approached the age when the question -who should one day share the throne with her had -to be seriously considered, its political bearing -began to assert itself; personal views were taken less -into account than careful calculations as to what -would benefit the crown and state and serve to increase -the national importance and influence. The -Emperor and his consort had already discussed the -question privately, before any of the foreign princes -had turned their glances toward the throne and the -heiress herself.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_20">20</div> -<p>An old tradition, to the effect that the crown of -Spain would one day be joined again to that which -was to adorn the beautiful head of Maria Theresa, -was much talked of in Vienna, and with even -more seriousness in Madrid. It came to nothing, -however, and this laid the foundations of a deep -and lasting enmity in Spain toward Austria. Other -alliances, too, were discussed and rejected. Whether -the affections of the Princess were involved in any -of them is doubtful, especially as there happened to -be a certain prince staying at the imperial court in -Vienna who lacked none of the attractions of mind -or person that particularly fitted him for success in -his wooing. This was Francis Stephen, son of -Duke Leopold and Hereditary Prince of Lorraine, -who was somewhat older indeed than the youthful -Archduchess, but worthy of her in every way. He -had succeeded to the dukedom of Lorraine on his -father’s death, and there seemed no obstacles to -the alliance, either personal or political, when an -approaching war-cloud relegated all thoughts of -marriage into the background.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_21">21</div> -<p>The centre of disturbance in those days was -Poland, a part it has repeatedly played since, under -other circumstances and conditions. The throne of -this unhappy land was vacant, and the number of -claimants, with the variety of their pretensions, made -it a veritable apple of discord. Charles VI supported -the claim of the Elector of Saxony, but -France, cherishing an old grudge, had other plans, -and took up arms against Austria. The war did -not last long, for Charles was anxious for peace; but -many important changes resulted, which reduced -Austria’s possessions in Italy, and Maria Theresa’s -betrothed, instead of remaining Duke of Lorraine, -was made Grand Duke of Tuscany. After peace -had been declared, preparations were resumed for the -marriage of the affianced pair. The nuptials were -celebrated with the greatest splendor; but unfortunately -the joy and satisfaction which the occasion -brought the Emperor were embittered by the disastrous -results of a war with Turkey, which made -the death of Prince Eugene,<a class="fn" id="fr_3" href="#fn_3">[3]</a> “der edler Ritter,” -even more keenly felt, since all that his sword had -won for Austria was lost again through the incompetency -of other commanders. Not long after -this, the happy young couple began their triumphal -journey to Tuscany, the sovereignty of which had -devolved upon the consort of the Archduchess.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_22">22</div> -<p>The Emperor Charles’ most ardent desire, to see -a male heir born of this happy union, was not to be -fulfilled; he was forced to close his eyes full of -anxiety as to the continuation of his line and crushed -by the fatal peace of Belgrade, which had been such -a blow to him. His death occurred on October -20, 1740. The inheritance which he bequeathed -to Maria Theresa, as his heiress and successor, consisted -of little territory beyond what Prince Eugene’s -sword had won and secured. Austria’s possessions -had become greatly diminished by the results of -unfortunate wars. The great leaders and nobles of -the Empire, instead of working together to insure -the stability of the much-talked-of Pragmatic Sanction, -or, what was even more important, to fill the -treasury and establish and maintain an army that -should command respect, had ceased to be of any -help or support to the Emperor; while an exceedingly -lavish and brilliant Court swallowed up more -than the country’s resources warranted. So when -Maria Theresa came to the throne, the state treasury -was almost empty, the army large only on paper; in -short, everything was lacking, and no order or system -existed anywhere.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_23">23</div> -<p>The Emperor was a kind-hearted, cultivated, and -high-minded man, but not the kind of a ruler demanded -by the condition of affairs and the importance -of his position. He had a natural taste for art and -learning, and sympathized with all that was lofty and -noble. He was also devoted to the welfare of his -people and indefatigable in all that pertained to their -good; but in matters that concerned the political -position of Austria, he lacked the necessary firmness -and energy. Thus, while in some ways Maria -Theresa had only to maintain what her noble father -had planned and begun, in others she was obliged -to act on her own responsibility and strive to remedy -evils that needed a stronger and more masculine -hand than is often possessed by a woman. But to -her had been granted the clear, judicious mind and -resolute spirit of a born ruler; she was singularly -fitted for the difficult task, and what a man might -not have been able to accomplish even under the -most favorable circumstances, the woman and youthful -Empress effected with the happiest results. It -was no easy task for her, however, and the eyes -of Europe were fixed expectantly, if somewhat -doubtfully, on the fair young Princess who had -grasped the reins of government under such difficult -conditions.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_24">24</div> -<p>One plan had been suggested to her which, -viewed in the light of subsequent events, must have -made a strong impression on her mind. When -the question of choosing a consort for the Emperor’s -beautiful and promising daughter had been uppermost, -Prince Eugene of Savoy proposed a union -with the Crown Prince Frederick of Prussia, he -who afterward deservedly won for himself the title -of “the Great”; and with his wonderful foresight -and sagacity—indeed, it would almost seem with a -prophetic vision of the future—strongly urged the -execution of his plan. He did not succeed in -uniting these two great hearts and minds, yet it -shows how free from prejudice the great hero was. -How different might the history of Europe have -been had this dream of the knightly hero been -realized! How far-reaching the consequences, extending -even to our own times! How much, alas! -that must be lamented, might Germany perhaps -have been spared! But it was otherwise decreed -in that high tribunal which rules all human affairs -and speaks the irrevocable words,—“Thus Shall -It Be!”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_25">25</div> -<p>Maria Theresa was not yet twenty-four years old -when she ascended the throne. She, whose insight -was so clear and judgment so unerring, could not -disguise from herself that her task was a hard one. -The gravity of it was ever present before her, but -she never allowed herself to be cast down or discouraged. -She was ill, too, when the Emperor -closed his eyes upon the troubles of this world, and -sorrow for her honored father, together with the -magnitude of her undertaking, lay heavily upon her -heart; but with a devout glance to heaven, a -fervent prayer for help to the source of all strength -and courage, her lofty spirit rose again with the -consciousness of divine aid and a firm resolve to -fulfil the duties that had been imposed upon her. -The leaders who should have been a support to her -were more overcome by the Emperor’s death than -the devoted daughter who was able to conquer her -grief so heroically, and she was compelled to take -the lead, and revive their faltering spirits by her -powerful will and lofty courage.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_26">26</div> -<p>She had chosen for her motto one that she lived -up to in thought and deed from the first to the -last day of her reign, and of which all her acts and -ideas bore the impress, namely, <i>Justitia et Clementia</i>, -or, in English, “Justice and Clemency.” There -was very soon a brilliant illustration of the latter -quality. It was a time of want and distress for the -poor, and one of the first acts of her reign was to -throw open the well-filled imperial granaries and -induce the great lords in her dominions to do the -same. Is it any wonder that the people loved her -with an enthusiastic devotion, and revered her as -an angel sent to them from God? A second act, -which quickly followed, completed this impression -and strengthened its effect. Large herds of deer -had been allowed to overrun the country and become -a scourge to the industrious peasants, who -were compelled to look on quietly while the animals, -protected by law, grazed without hindrance over -their cultivated fields, or suffer the heaviest penalties -if they resisted. During the preceding year it had -been the cause of an uprising in Styria, and the -leaders of the rebellion had been condemned to -death. Here were two great wrongs to be redressed, -and the Empress did not hesitate to use the proper -means. She caused the deer to be shot and their -flesh publicly sold at the lowest prices, and pardoned -those under sentence of death in Styria, but -at the same time did not allow the insurgents -to escape without any punishment. Her motto, -“Justice and Clemency,” had become the rule of -her life, and it was thus she entered upon her -lofty and difficult sphere of action, with the God of -justice and clemency ever before her eyes and in -her heart.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_27">27</div> -<p>That many reforms were necessary was everywhere -made clear by the pressure of obsolete customs -and ideas; but that they could be effected -so promptly and thoroughly was more than any -one had dared to hope. How could it have been -expected that a woman, however wise, talented, and -full of lofty aims, should understand the condition -of the country well enough to decide at once upon -the changes that were necessary, and be able to lay -her hand upon the proper means for bringing them -about?</p> -<p>The surprising fact, however, was brought to -light that the young ruler was fully acquainted with -the state of affairs in her realm and with the causes -of the principal evils, which astonished the people -as much as it did her ministers, to whom she had -already revealed this unsuspected sagacity and penetration -at their first conference, thereby causing -some uneasiness to agitate the old gentlemen’s -powdered wigs and make them anxious to assist -her in her reforms.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_28">28</div> -<p>Maria Theresa already had realized the force of -the advice Prince Eugene had so strongly urged -upon her father. The army was utterly demoralized; -the officers had unlimited leave of absence, -and frequently lived in Vienna or anywhere they -chose, except with their regiments and in their -quarters. So it was like a thunderbolt to them -when the young Empress issued orders for the -immediate return of all officers to their regiments, -and for the army to be increased and placed upon -such a footing that a sudden outbreak of war should -not find it unprepared; but at the same time she -won the devotion of the entire army by thus infusing -fresh life and vigor into the almost paralyzed -service, and also by another act of clemency. The -leading officers, colonels and generals, who had -been held responsible for the results of the last disastrous -Turkish war, and been made to pay heavily -for their mistakes by dismissal and imprisonment, -were not only liberated but restored to all their -former honors and dignities. The effect of this -upon the army was magical, and the shout of Hungary -in later days, “We will die for our Empress!” -swept through the army in an enthusiastic expression -of devotion and reverence, which was also -shared by the officers’ families.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_29">29</div> -<p>Charles VI had been harshly blamed for the -enormous sums swallowed up by the imperial -household. The retinue of well-paid officials and -retainers was so numerous that they only hindered -the business at Court instead of promoting it, and -the salaries were out of all proportion to the services -rendered. Fraud and peculation, too, were -not wanting, and Maria Theresa found herself burdened -with a household which cost the state more -than the important affairs of government. With -her clear insight and resolute will, it was but a short -step from perception to action. She determined -that as far as was consistent with the dignity of the -Court, it should be regulated according to the system -that prevailed in lower ranks of life; the spirit of -display and show should be curbed, and a judicious -economy introduced. Dismissals accordingly took -place at once, salaries were decreased, many unnecessary -expenses done away with, and a strict inspection -of household accounts and expenditures -instituted; and, as Maria Theresa’s consort also -brought his influence to bear in the control and -regulation of this as of other departments of state -finances, matters began to assume a very different -appearance, and the ever-pressing need for money -disappeared. The people, too, were delighted to see -that their beloved young ruler understood the management -of her vast household as well as any thrifty -German housewife. As in her administration of -the affairs of the Empire she showed a masculine -clearness and certainty in deciding between what -was proper or improper, right or wrong, so -here also her feminine instincts for order and -the practical management of domestic affairs were -conspicuous.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_30">30</div> -<p>How much Maria Theresa loved and respected -her husband is shown very plainly in the fact that -she could not bear to have him occupy an inferior -position to her, and that she spared no pains to -make a way for him toward imperial honors. -Scarcely a month after their accession, she made -him co-regent and bestowed upon him the electoral -dignities which belonged to the crown of Bohemia, -thereby displaying not only her affection for him -but also her womanly tact and diplomacy. She -realized the strained relations with foreign courts -that existed in Austria, and well knew that only -the slightest provocation was needed to involve her -in terrible wars. Thus it was a question not only -of gratifying the dictates of her own heart, but also -of guarding against any errors or false steps which -her foes might seize upon and make an excuse for -active enmity; and she succeeded in this in a -masterly manner, though more depended upon the -observance of forms and ceremonies than their real -significance warranted. It was of the highest importance -not to give offence anywhere; for although -the so-called Pragmatic Sanction had been -recognized in many quarters,—a recognition too -often purchased by her father at a heavy sacrifice,—it -was by no means certain that objections -might not yet be raised against the step, as well as -against her elevation of her husband to imperial -honors, and that would mean war. It was therefore -a relief and satisfaction to her that the States of -her Empire did not delay in pronouncing their -hearty concurrence in both measures. When some -who opposed them showed their disapproval by -an absurd attempt to assert their authority, the -kindly sovereign maintained a discreet silence and -ignored it. Bavaria, indeed, asserted claims to -the crown of Bohemia; but when Maria Theresa, -in reply, sent troops to the disputed kingdom, a -wholesome fear weakened the ambition of Bavaria, -and the hint was sufficient to prevent any further -trouble.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_32">32</div> -<p>So Maria Theresa’s throne seemed firmly established -both at home and abroad. She had a loyal, -devoted people on one side and an enthusiastic -army on the other, to support her, and looked -cheerfully and hopefully into the future, where no -gathering storm, no lowering clouds, appeared to -threaten her peace and security.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_33">33</div> -<h2 id="c2"><span class="h2line1">Chapter II</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">Campaigns against Prussia, France, and Bohemia</span></h2> -<p>And yet—! Where the Spree winds along -between its sandy banks, a young eagle -was beginning his flight toward the sun. -Prince Eugene, “the gallant knight,” -had seen more clearly than he whose eyes were fixed -only on the Pragmatic Sanction. His good counsel -had shared the fate of all well-meant advice -which earns no thanks and is rarely followed, and -there was no one now at the imperial court who had -Eugene of Savoy’s far-seeing vision in matters of -statecraft. But the eagle had already spread his pinions, -and though he had but one head, to be sure, -yet what a head it was! This eagle was the young -King of Prussia, Frederick, second of the name.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_34">34</div> -<p>The year 1740 had witnessed new rulers upon -two thrones: upon the smaller, and, one might say, -still embryonic one, a man; upon the greater, -already established, a woman; both young, energetic, -and richly endowed by nature, both the foremost -figures of their time.</p> -<p>The proverb, “Two hard stones seldom grind -well,” has much truth in it, and none the less if -the word “hard” be taken in a figurative sense. -Thousands of heads and hearts were agitated by -the question, how these two European monarchs of -equal birth and capabilities would get on together. -Would not all their power be exerted to obtain the -supremacy? And in this struggle, to use a popular -but expressive phrase, would not “the fur fly”?</p> -<p>It was only in Vienna that people were deceived -as to Frederick’s strength. Those immediately -about the gifted young King were little concerned -as to the outcome of any warlike complications, for -from the very earliest days of his reign he had been -strengthening and equipping his army. A well-filled -treasury also favored his secretly cherished plan of -claiming the Duchy of Silesia, and winning back -with the sword what he considered his own inheritance, -according to some old agreement concerning -the succession.<a class="fn" id="fr_4" href="#fn_4">[4]</a> His army advanced suddenly -against Silesia, and he followed it immediately -after a court ball in Berlin, where no one had the -least suspicion of his intention. He despatched -Count Cotter to Vienna, it is true, to state the -terms by which war could be averted;<a class="fn" id="fr_5" href="#fn_5">[5]</a> but Austria -would not consent to them, and while these brief -negotiations were being conducted, Frederick’s -army had already set foot upon the frontier of -Silesia.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_35">35</div> -<p>This news fell upon the Austrian sovereign like -a thunderbolt out of a clear sky; but the die was -cast, the torch of war alight. To resign Silesia -voluntarily never entered her mind for a moment, -but alas! her father’s indifference to Prince Eugene’s -wise counsel was now bearing fruit. Although -not willing to accept Frederick’s terms for a -peaceful settlement of the question, Maria Theresa -realized fully the difficulties of her situation, and -hastily called upon those who had recognized the -Pragmatic Sanction to redeem their promises and -lend her some substantial support now that so -powerful an assault had been made upon this measure. -But she only had to face the bitter experience -expressed in the old saying:</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_36">36</div> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“Friends in prosperity—</p> -<p class="t0">Each will weigh a pound;</p> -<p class="t0">But to the ounce, in time of need,</p> -<p class="t0">A thousand may be found!”</p> -</div> -<p>Those whom she summoned to her aid shrugged -their shoulders, and sympathized, but made no -move to array themselves on her side. It is the -way of the world, and in this dark hour Maria -Theresa was forced to learn, in bitterness of spirit, -that there is a vast difference between words and -deeds.</p> -<p>There was not much time for choice. The situation -must be met at once; but the Austrian force -in Silesia was too small to build any hopes upon. -Browne<a class="fn" id="fr_6" href="#fn_6">[6]</a> collected an army in Moravia; but to -cross the mountains by bad roads and at an unfavorable -time of year was a task not easily or -quickly accomplished, so that, thanks to his own -energy and his well-equipped and disciplined army, -Frederick made a rapid advance, and had gained -possession of the most important places before -Browne’s troops could get near enough to attempt -any effective movements. When the cannon finally -thundered at Mollwitz, Schwerin<a class="fn" id="fr_7" href="#fn_7">[7]</a> gained a brilliant -victory over the Austrians, little in his favor as the -conflict promised to be at first.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_37">37</div> -<p>The loss of this battle was a great disaster, and -the saying that troubles never come singly proved -true likewise. Thus encouraged, all the enemies of -Austria, who until now had prudently hidden their -real animosity under the mask of friendship, threw -off their disguise and openly arrayed themselves on -the side of the young King of Prussia. The aggrandizing -spirit of France, ever casting covetous -glances toward the Rhine, made itself most actively -felt, but intrigues were rife everywhere, and already -there was talk of a division of the Austrian Empire -among its enemies.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_38">38</div> -<p>Whether all these castles were to prove only -castles in the air depended now on Maria Theresa. -Old Austrian statesmen might doubtfully shake -their bewigged heads, but their youthful ruler -never wavered. Not a finger’s breadth of Silesia -would she surrender; at no price would she voluntarily -part with any of her inheritance. She well -knew what her duty required, and the birth of a son -(afterward the great Emperor Joseph II) vindicated -this noble woman’s firmness and masculine strength -of purpose. Her heart was full of faith and courage, -and the joy her maternity brought her was -shared by the people, who showed a touching devotion -to her. This was the foundation upon which -she built her hopes; and it was strong enough to -warrant confidence in Austria’s future, though the -present looked dark enough.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_39">39</div> -<p>England made an effort to mediate between -Maria Theresa and her adversary, but Frederick -rejected any compromise and demanded the cession -of Silesia, with the threat that if it were not yielded -to him he would seize not only it, but four other -duchies beside. He could always be depended on -to keep his word, especially when he made emphatic -statements, and Maria Theresa’s cause seemed lost -before it really was so. But she stood firm as a rock, -in spite of her increasing danger; in spite of the -faintheartedness of her ministers; in spite of the -plots of her enemies; in spite of Frederick II’s -confidence. At any cost the war must be carried -on; she must not allow herself to be humbled. -The time for negotiation was past; action must -take its place; words were useless, deeds must -decide.</p> -<p>Maria Theresa’s prospects were dubious. The -French had crossed the Rhine with a large force -and joined Bavaria. Passau was taken by surprise; -Linz had fallen; even Vienna was threatened, and -would have been obliged to surrender had the -enemy pressed its advantage that far.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_40">40</div> -<p>Maria Theresa had been active in her preparations -in the meantime. The love of the people for -their distressed ruler showed itself everywhere. -Men flocked to the recruiting stations, and all who -were able hastened to take up arms. In Vienna -there was the greatest enthusiasm; all work in -the shops ceased, and thousands of strong arms -toiled at the neglected fortifications of the imperial -city. Neither were there only men’s hands at -work, for women and young girls were to be seen -in the ranks of the toilers, laboring indefatigably, -just as it had been when Kara Mustapha had approached -Vienna, and Kolonitzsch and the old hero -Stahremberg led the defence.<a class="fn" id="fr_8" href="#fn_8">[8]</a> Everywhere the -greatest interest was felt in the fate of the beautiful, -unfortunate Princess, and the women especially, -both of her own and foreign countries, showed the -warmest sympathy, while in England they vied with -one another in contributing money for her treasury, -knowing that she greatly needed such assistance. -But her foes were too many and too strong for her, -and all these efforts would have been in vain had -not Hungary, with chivalrous self-sacrifice, lent its -aid to the Princess who wore its sacred crown also.</p> -<p>Maria Theresa had won the love of the Hungarians, -and this conquest now bore her golden fruit, -for the love of a people is the only lasting bulwark -of a throne. Certain States, however, to assert their -own importance, seemed determined to break down -this bulwark. But when she appeared in the midst -of the assembly of the Hungarian States, her deeply -troubled look and the appeal that sprang from her -overladen heart fired the nobles with wild enthusiasm. -“We are ready to die for our Queen, Maria -Theresa!” rang from every throat and welled out -from every heart as an oath of fidelity, and the unanimous -resolution was at once taken to aid her with -all their forces.</p> -<div class="img" id="pic3"> -<img src="images/p4.jpg" alt="" width="708" height="980" /> -<p class="caption">“<i>We are ready to die for our Empress</i>”</p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_41">41</div> -<p>Maria Theresa was deeply affected; she burst -into tears, and who does not know the effect that -tears in a woman’s eyes have upon the hearts of -men? When Maria Theresa’s consort had been -acknowledged as co-regent by the Hungarians, the -oath taken, and she held up her little son Joseph -before the Diet at that solemn moment, such a -burst of enthusiasm followed that they swore afresh -their willingness to die for their Queen, and declared -firmly that if money were needed for the war they -would cast all their gold and silver ornaments and -vessels into the smelting-pot,—indeed, were this -not enough, even the treasures of the Church -should be added.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_42">42</div> -<p>If anything could have comforted Maria Theresa’s -mind and raised her spirits, it would have -been this experience. There is not much danger -of a tottering throne where the people are so ready -to prove their devotion by any sacrifice; and what -Hungary promised it faithfully performed. At -this time the mixture of peoples along the Danube, -where it approaches the Turkish possessions, with -the tribes that Russia in Asia had contributed, -could hardly have been equalled for wildness and -barbarity. They were good light horsemen, and -always ready when it was a question of destruction -and pillage; but in open warfare against the well-drilled -Prussians they stood but a doubtful chance. -Nevertheless, they had Cossacks among them that -had not done badly in harassing the French. The -Hungarians, though headed by a nobility of their -own, had only these people to depend on, but they -were better than nothing, and the fifteen thousand -nobles with their followers made a heavy balance -in the scales. Every heart was full of enthusiasm -for the noble woman who was so hard pressed, -and while their forces were being organized—for an -army is not raised by the stroke of a magic wand—this -sentiment deepened continually.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_43">43</div> -<p>While the hostile army had already advanced as -far as Linz, the Queen hoped for assistance from -England in the shape of gold from London and -troops from Hanover, but it seemed in truth as -though all help would be cut off. Even when -George II of England had raised an army in -Hanover, the French, under Maillebois, marched -up through Westphalia, and the English began to -find Hanover uncomfortable. With an Englishman -charity begins at home, and George’s “skin was -nearer to him than his shirt,” as the saying goes, so -he made the best terms he could with the French, -and abandoned Maria Theresa in spite of all his -chivalrous protestations.</p> -<p>With France, Bavaria, and Saxony threatening -her on one side, Prussia on the other, and as yet -no army to oppose them with any hope of success, -what could be more welcome than a settlement with -Frederick II, arranged by England’s mediation, and -to which Frederick gladly agreed, since it secured -him the possession of Silesia and averted the danger -that seemed impending from the attitude of the -Elector of Bavaria? The treaty was signed at -Oberschnellendorf, but absolute secrecy was to be -maintained concerning it. Thus Maria Theresa -acquired, in this direction, at least, a free hand; -and it was very necessary, for Bavaria and France -were seriously threatening the capital of Bohemia, -whence the Elector of Bavaria might have taken -Vienna at a single blow, but, allured by the prospect -of a crown, the attraction in Bohemia was too -strong.<a class="fn" id="fr_9" href="#fn_9">[9]</a></p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_44">44</div> -<p>Such was the state of affairs when Maria Theresa’s -army of sixty thousand men entered Bohemia and -rapidly advanced toward Prague, hoping to be able -to relieve the city, which had a garrison of only -three thousand and was in no condition to hold -out against an army like that of united France, -Bavaria, and Saxony, which was pressing it hard. -There could be no question of a long resistance; -therefore haste was necessary for the Austrians if -they were to be of any service. But they came too -late. Prague had fallen, and the Elector of Bavaria -was crowned King of Bohemia. This, however, to -him, was but a step toward the Imperial Crown, -which he already saw upon his head. Therefore, no -sooner were the coronation ceremonies ended than -he established a regency in Prague, hastened to -Munich, and from thence by way of Mannheim to -Frankfort-on-the-Main. One thought, one hope, -sustained Maria Theresa after this bitter blow,—namely, -that her husband would be chosen Emperor -at the electoral assembly then being held at -Frankfort; but here, too, a fresh disappointment -awaited her. The Elector of Bavaria’s successes in -Bohemia added powerfully to his influence, and he -was elected Emperor January 30, 1742, his coronation -following, February 12 of the same year. That -Maria Theresa should refuse to acknowledge him -was but natural, and, as she denied the validity of -the election, that she should refuse to deliver the -imperial archives was also natural.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_45">45</div> -<p>The Elector of Bavaria at last had reached the -summit of his ambitions, but it was also the turning -point; thenceforward his path led downward, -and victory turned toward Maria Theresa’s colors. -Scarcely was the crown placed on his head, when his -own capital, Munich, fell into the hands of Maria -Theresa. Her husband had succeeded in Bohemia, -with the gallant Khevenhüller’s assistance, in winning -the Hungarians to him and cutting off the enemy’s -forces there from those which remained in Austria, -and thus began a campaign that meant destruction to -the audacious foe. In Bavaria the Austrians carried -all before them, and Maria Theresa’s victorious -banner was soon waving over all that province.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_46">46</div> -<p>This state of things naturally attracted the attention -of Frederick II, and drew him again into the -field of action. As the agreement to keep the treaty -of Oberschnellendorf had been broken, he no longer -felt bound by his own promise. He again joined -forces with the hard-pressed Elector, the new Emperor, -and a fresh war-torch was set ablaze, which -alarmed Maria Theresa more than the old one. -Frederick’s arms were victorious, his activity in -making alliances against Austria unceasing, and when -the Zieten<a class="fn" id="fr_10" href="#fn_10">[10]</a> hussars made inroads as far as Stockerau, -destruction seemed hanging once more over Maria -Theresa’s head. The storm did not break, however, -for Frederick found himself checked by Saxony, and -the French were little inclined to play into the hands -of Prussia. Frederick would gladly have consented -to an adjustment of his relations with Austria, had -it been possible; but the battles of Chotusitz and -Czaslau changed the aspect of things, for they gave -him the victory, though at a terrible sacrifice. Nevertheless, -his view of the situation was not altered to -such an extent that he did not still wish to end the -war. With the same desire on both sides there -could be but one result, and peace was signed at -Breslau in the Summer of 1742.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_47">47</div> -<p>By this treaty Frederick received the duchy of -Upper and Lower Silesia and Glatz, and renounced -all further claims on Maria Theresa. The boundaries -were firmly fixed, and she won a free hand in -this quarter, but with a loss that cut her to the -heart. The finest jewel had been torn from her -crown, and with a bleeding heart she had been forced -to give it up in order to save the rest of her inheritance. -On one side the flames of war were now extinguished, -but on the other they still blazed fiercely. -Her hopes were nearing fulfilment. The troops -which she had been obliged to employ against Frederick -could now be sent to oppose her other foes, and -this was a great gain, for this division of her strength -had been a constant source of anxiety to her, and -with good reason. Bohemia next claimed her attention, -and thither she sent the forces thus released. -Nor was this the only reward so dearly bought by -the peace of Breslau; for her friends were now -encouraged to show their sympathy and offer her -assistance. To win back Bohemia and its capital -was her next important task.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_48">48</div> -<p>In Italy the situation had improved for her—not -without some sacrifice, it is true—and from there -she could also send troops to Bohemia, to enable the -Austrian army to invest Prague. In the besieged -city were a body of French, and this caused as -much anxiety in Paris as it did to Marshal Belle-Isle -himself in Prague. He tried to make terms, -but his schemes were frustrated, as well as the proposed -negotiations for peace from Paris, by the -resolute courage and firmness of the Empress. She -would listen to none of Francis’ proposals, none of -Belle-Isle’s plans for capitulation. She rejected -both with noble pride and indignation, deeply as -her refusal might be resented by France.</p> -<p>In Prague the distress of the French increased -rapidly. The lack of provisions had become alarming. -Belle-Isle had only one hope—the French -auxiliary corps under Harcourt which Khevenhüller -was holding back on the Danube. But could -he count on it? The army on the lower Rhine -was in the same predicament. Here, as there, a -decided “Halt!” had been called to France, which -she was compelled to obey. It seemed impossible -that their comrades in Prague could expect any -help from either of these quarters; yet nevertheless -it came, at the express command of the King -of France.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_49">49</div> -<p>The commander-in-chief of the French on the -lower Rhine, where an English force was opposing -them, suddenly departed, leaving one division engaged -with the English, and hastened unobstructed -to Bavaria, where he was joined by a Bavarian army -corps. At the same time Count Maurice of Saxony -replaced Harcourt in the army on the Danube. He -also contrived to elude Khevenhüller, and made all -speed with the main body of his troops toward -Maillebois’ division. The bold stroke was successful, -and while the besieging army, apprised of this -new danger, was hastening to meet it, the beleaguered -French tried to escape from Prague and join Maillebois. -The attempt failed, however, as did that -general’s efforts to relieve the city. Closely invested -as it now was by Lobkowitz, Prague could no longer -hold out; for, in addition to the scarcity of food, they -had to endure the bitter cold of Winter, and there -was a lack of fuel also. He conducted the siege so -carelessly, however, that Belle-Isle finally managed -to escape with the French garrison and all the artillery -and stores. Not till they were gone did the -Austrians discover it and pursue them; but they -succeeded in reaching Eger, though with great suffering -and loss. Those who were left behind in Prague -would have been taken prisoners had not their leader -made known to the Austrian commander that they -must be allowed to retire with military honors, or -he would set fire to the city and bury himself and -all his troops under its ashes. Lobkowitz consented -to their retreat in order to save Prague, and thus -ingloriously took possession of the shattered city. -Had Maria Theresa not had a kind and merciful -heart, the inhabitants would have suffered even more -than they had been called upon to endure; for many -of those who had been so ready to help crown the -Elector of Bavaria well deserved the punishment -they thus escaped. Now that Bohemia as far as -the city of Eger was once more her own, Maria -Theresa was crowned with great pomp as Queen of -Bohemia.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_50">50</div> -<p>An anecdote in this connection will be of interest. -A courier arrived from Charles VII, bringing a -protest from him, as crowned King of Bohemia, -against Maria Theresa’s coronation. Smiling, she -ordered the courier to be given a number of her gold -coronation coins, with instructions to carry them -back to his master without delay. This was done, -and doubtless the sight of the coins caused little -pleasure in Munich.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_51">51</div> -<p>Fortune now seemed to favor Maria Theresa -everywhere. In Italy, too, events had shaped themselves -to her advantage, and at the close of the year -1742 she could look cheerfully into the future, -although the sky was not entirely cloudless; for in -Italy there were many knots to be untied that only -the sword could loosen.</p> -<p>The Spring saw banners waving and heard the roll -of the drums in Bavaria. The Bavarian Field Marshal -von Seckendorff, who had been ordered back to -Munich by his lord and emperor, fell back across -the Iser before Prince Charles of Lorraine and old -Khevenhüller, who were pressing him hotly. The -French general, Broglio, meanwhile inactive in -Osterhof, watching these proceedings, made no response -to Seckendorff’s appeals. Nor was this -retreat all; for, more important still, the whole -division under General Minuzzi was completely -crushed by the Austrians in a bloody battle, where -Minuzzi himself was taken prisoner. This was a -Spring greeting most joyfully received in Vienna, -and which seemed but a forerunner of still further -victories.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_52">52</div> -<p>No sooner was this accomplished than Khevenhüller -turned his attention to the French, whom he -would gladly have shown the way across the Rhine. -Broglio may have suspected this, and was so obliging -as to relieve the old hero of this agreeable task, -for at Khevenhüller’s approach he turned his troops -toward Ingolstadt (which was not forward) and kept -his movements secret until he was across the Rhine, -where twelve thousand men would reënforce him. -Then, and then only, did he feel himself safe. -Bavaria now realized what she was to expect from -her light-footed allies, and sent them no thanks. -Charles VII, too, knew at last upon what he had been -relying and that he must once more bid farewell to -his good city of Munich, if, indeed, he might not be -obliged to occupy an unsought lodging in Vienna. -Had he looked at this time at the coronation coins -brought him by the courier from Vienna, it must have -seemed that a mocking smile hovered about Maria -Theresa’s lips, and that she whispered softly but significantly, -“<i>Auf wiedersehen!</i>” There was no choice -left him but to enter into negotiations with Austria -to protect his ancestral domains.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_53">53</div> -<p>Maria Theresa, in the midst of her victorious -career, offered the hand of peace. Charles VII -renounced his claims to the Austrian succession and, -fortunately for the public tranquillity, left all the conquered -territory in the possession of Austria. To -guard against any future trouble Maria Theresa had -all these States take the oath of allegiance to her, -even though they might be only temporarily in her -possession. This was a triumph for her which offset -the homage received by Charles in Bohemia,—a -return which he had well deserved and which he -well understood without any further explanation.</p> -<p>Thus fortune still smiled upon Maria Theresa, -here as elsewhere. The English army in the -Netherlands had crossed the Rhine, and, advancing -by way of Frankfort, received a large reënforcement -and tried to effect a union with Khevenhüller -and Prince Charles of Lorraine, who had pushed -forward from the Upper Rhine. Marshal de -Noailles was opposing them with a considerable -force, but when he perceived their design he -crossed the Rhine to attack the English. George -II himself joined the army just then, fortunately, -and a battle was fought at Dettingen, on the Main, -which resulted in Noailles’ retreat across the Rhine -again. The King of England then held a council -of war with Khevenhüller and the Prince at -Hainault to decide what course to pursue. It was -agreed that King George should lead the way -while the Austrian generals crossed the river at -Basel and try to reach Lorraine, in order to take -up Winter quarters in Champagne. This plan miscarried, -however, and the Austrian army returned -to Bavaria for the Winter, while King George, after -destroying the French works on the Rhine, especially -at Landau, withdrew again across the river and -also went into Winter quarters, for Winter campaigns -were not generally undertaken at that time.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_54">54</div> -<p>Though the results of the wars Maria Theresa -was waging against her enemies were most gratifying, -the troubles in Italy still weighed like an Alp -upon her heart. The Spanish general in command -there had drawn upon himself, and not without -cause, the reproach of negligence. A substitute -had replaced him with urgent orders to retrieve the -errors of his predecessor, and he might have been -able to do so had he not had an adversary so -brave, crafty, and well versed in the arts of war as -the old field-marshal, Count Traun.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_55">55</div> -<p>Already there had been a bloody battle, February -8, 1743, in which he had been the victor, but at -this time negotiations were begun which put an end -to the bloodshed. They took place at Worms, -between England, Sardinia, and Austria, and again -was Maria Theresa obliged to resign some of her -territory, this time in Sardinia, in order to effect -the alliance. Scarcely were the terms completed, -when Lobkowitz, who had succeeded old Traun in -the command, advanced against the Spaniards and -drove them back: whereupon the King of Sardinia -struck the French-Spanish army such a blow that -it was forced to retreat to the south of France for -the Winter.</p> -<p>Though Maria Theresa had been unfortunate in -having to relinquish more of her territory in this -campaign, still, the armies were victorious, and all -these circumstances had served to unite her more -closely to her friends, and had given her a new ally -in the person of the Elector Frederick Augustus IV -of Saxony, with twenty thousand troops to assist -her. Thus far the outlook was very bright; but -by the close of the year 1743 new clouds foretold a -gathering storm. The lion on the Spree had begun -to stir and toss his mane. Frederick’s army, which -had once in jest been called the “Potsdam Night-watch -Parade,” was as little a subject for derision as -he who commanded and was the soul of it.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_56">56</div> -<h2 id="c3"><span class="h2line1">Chapter III</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">The Second Silesian War</span></h2> -<p>Although she had prepared for it -carefully, Maria Theresa could not look -forward with much confidence to this -new struggle, which began in the Spring. -Khevenhüller was dead, and she had shed tears of -sorrow and gratitude for him, which the brave old -soldier had well deserved from his sovereign. She -felt the loss of his strong support in this war, upon -which France, who heretofore had merely been an -ally of the enemies of Austria, had now entered on -her own account, in league with Spain.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_57">57</div> -<p>The campaign began in the Netherlands, where a -well-organized French army under capable leadership -was arrayed against the combined forces of Austria, -Holland, and England, the latter being under various -commands and far inferior in numbers. The advantage, -therefore, was decidedly with the French. To -offset this, an Austrian force was sent to invade -Alsace, which was occupied by French and Bavarian -troops. It was led by Prince Charles of Lorraine -and brave old “Father Traun,” as the soldiers called -the old Count, who was universally beloved by them. -In the Netherlands fortune favored the French; in -Alsace, the Austrians. Prince Charles of Lorraine -marched triumphantly into Lorraine, and his light -cavalry made inroads as far as the environs of -Lüneville, where he was checked by fresh forces -under able generals sent from France to oppose his -victorious advance.</p> -<p>Such was the state of affairs beyond the Rhine -when the second Silesian war involved Maria -Theresa in fresh troubles. Frederick II, who was -anxious about the safety of his newly acquired possessions, -had taken advantage of the peace further -to strengthen his army and make all his preparations -for a campaign. Moreover, he understood -how to fill the public treasury without seeming to -impair the resources or prosperity of the people—certainly -a great and rare art.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_58">58</div> -<p>At this important juncture, when Maria Theresa’s -attention was fully occupied in the Netherlands and -in Alsace, he had a well-equipped army of one -hundred and twenty thousand men, an abundance -of stores and ammunition, and, above all, plenty of -money at his command, which Montecuculi<a class="fn" id="fr_11" href="#fn_11">[11]</a> rightly -called the first, second, and third requirements for -conducting a war, and of which Austria had never -possessed a surplus, least of all now. Frederick’s -apprehensions concerning Silesia were strengthened -by the fact that, since the peace of Breslau, Maria -Theresa’s power had increased to such an extent -that with the assistance of her allies she might easily -plan to reconquer the province whose loss she had -never forgotten; indeed, he felt sure this would be -the case. He followed one of his own precepts -when he took up the sword again, “that it is -always the greatest folly not to anticipate a disaster, -if one hopes to avert it.” Nevertheless, he -clearly realized the advantages of an alliance with -the neutral German princes, and tried hard to bring -it about; and when this plan failed, he joined forces -with France, the Emperor Charles VII, and others, -thus insuring the success of his plans.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_59">59</div> -<p>Maria Theresa’s heart sank when she heard of -this, but trust in God and the justice of her cause -sustained her, as these words of hers prove: “God -knows my right; He will protect me as He has -hitherto done!” Many letters were exchanged -between Frederick and herself, each charging the -other with breaking their treaty; but it was of no -avail. War was finally declared, ostensibly in behalf -of the Emperor Charles VII, and Frederick’s army, -one hundred thousand strong, invaded Bohemia, -while a part of it was sent to guard Kurmark<a class="fn" id="fr_12" href="#fn_12">[12]</a> and -Silesia. Saxony was stunned when Frederick without -further ceremony crossed its frontiers, and -made some fruitless attempts at resistance, but Zieten -cleared the way with his huzzars, and in an incredibly -short time Frederick was before Prague.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_60">60</div> -<p>Maria Theresa called out the militia of the country -to meet the danger; but of what avail was the -militia against the invincible Prussians? Where -should she turn for aid in her extremity but to her -loyal Hungary? She hastened to Presburg, where -once more her words and her beauty kindled a -blaze of enthusiasm and devotion, and almost as if -sprung from the earth forty thousand Hungarians -stood ready to fight for her; thirty thousand more -formed the reserve, and ten thousand were hurriedly -despatched to Bohemia to oppose Frederick. This -was the work of the old Palatine Palffy, who was -no longer able to do any fighting himself. Maria -Theresa wrote him that charming letter which will -ever remain a model in the art of saying much in -few words, and with it sent her finest horse, a costly -jewelled sword, and a valuable diamond ring. She -wrote:</p> -<blockquote> -<p>“<span class="sc">My Father Palffy</span>,—I send you this horse, which -is worthy of being mounted only by the noblest of my subjects; -accept also this sword to defend me against my enemies, -and keep this ring as a token of my lasting affection.</p> -<p><span class="jr"><span class="sc">Theresa.</span>”</span></p> -</blockquote> -<p>The sending of the letter and the gifts was soon -known all over Hungary, and its effect upon a -people so easily roused to enthusiasm, and at the -same time ready to devote themselves to her cause -with the last drop of their blood, may well be imagined. -Before help could arrive, however, Frederick -had taken Prague, and several other important -cities also fell into his hands. The friends of -Maria Theresa began to lose courage, but not she! -When the Hungarians arrived, she forced Saxony -into some decisive course and recalled Prince -Charles of Lorraine to Bohemia.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_61">61</div> -<p>Notwithstanding the difficulty of such an undertaking -against so powerful an adversary, Prince -Charles met with brilliant success, and the troops -from Alsace were aided by auxiliary forces from -Saxony. Old Count Traun found the plan of cutting -Frederick off from Prague and conquering him -by starvation an excellent one, and proceeded to -carry it out in a masterly manner. Frederick -sought to force his adversary into a battle, but the -latter continually evaded him. Traun’s light horsemen -harassed his troops on every side and captured -his provision train, while the Bohemians, with their -Queen’s soldiers, buried the stores in the ground -and then made their escape in the forests. Frederick -was beside himself with rage. His soldiers, -suffering from hunger and every discomfort, quarrelled -among themselves and deserted in large numbers, -and at last, though much against his will, he -was obliged to begin a retreat.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_62">62</div> -<p>Thus the Austrians again came into possession of -Bohemia, with but trifling losses; and old “Father -Traun,” thinking it wise to follow the Prussians, -even entered Glatz and Upper Silesia. Already it -began to seem as though Maria Theresa might regain -her beloved Silesia, when all at once the tables -were turned.</p> -<p>The army imprudently had been allowed to scatter. -The troops from Saxony had withdrawn and -other divisions had been despatched elsewhere, -when the Prussians suddenly turned and assumed -the offensive, and Traun was obliged to retreat to -Moravia. The Austrians struck a few more vigorous -blows, and the campaign ended in both armies -going into Winter quarters. Although she had been -obliged to yield some advantages to Frederick, the -campaign on the whole had resulted decidedly in -Maria Theresa’s favor. Frederick was disposed -therefore to make peace, and signified his willingness -to do so, but Maria Theresa rejected his overtures, -since she had formed a new alliance with England, -Holland, and Saxony, and now had a prospect of -retrieving her losses and winning back Silesia, the -lost jewel that had been torn from her crown.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_63">63</div> -<p>With this bright outlook for the future, the -Spring campaign was just beginning, when the Emperor -Charles VII died, January 20, 1745. This -event completely changed the aspect of affairs, and -the imperial crown, once possessed by her own -house, seemed to Maria Theresa a prize worth any -effort could she but see it placed upon the head of -her consort.</p> -<p>Little heed was paid to the unfortunate Emperor’s -advice to his son, Maximilian Joseph, to make peace -with Austria and banish all hopes of the imperial -crown from his heart. The young Elector was only -too ready to listen to ambitious schemers, but before -the earth was fully decked with living green, all his -hopes had perished. The victories of the Austrians -compelled him, as they once had done his father, to -fly from Munich. Then for the first time he realized -the wisdom of his father’s counsel, and refused to -listen any longer to those who advised him to continue -the struggle. He sued for peace, which was -concluded on April 22, 1745, at Füssen. Austria -restored all his conquered territory to him, while he -renounced his claims to the succession, acknowledged -Maria Theresa’s rights under the Pragmatic -Sanction, and promised her husband his vote at -the imperial election. The Empress’ heart beat -high with joy, for this broke the alliance known as -the “Frankfort Union,” and Frederick II now -stood alone. His situation became even more -threatening when Russia announced that she would -permit no attack on Saxony, which amounted to an -unequivocal if tacit declaration that in such a case -she would join the league that had been formed in -Warsaw between Austria, England, Holland, and -Saxony, called the “Quadruple Alliance.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_64">64</div> -<p>Frederick now concluded it was better to seek -peace than to enter the lists against such odds; but -all his attempts at negotiation were frustrated, notwithstanding -the advantageous character of the conditions -he offered. Maria Theresa was determined -to have Silesia back again, but he would not agree -to that. She then tried to win over Saxony, and in -that she succeeded brilliantly. The prospect looked -dark for Frederick II, for he also was in need of -money. The royal plate had already found its way -secretly to the mint, to reappear in silver coins, -but that was insufficient. The King did not attempt -to conceal the fact from himself that he -stood on the edge of a precipice, but a spirit like -his was not to be daunted by fear of threatening -spectres.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_65">65</div> -<p>The campaign finally reopened under these altered -conditions. Maria Theresa sent eighty thousand -of her troops, with thirty thousand Saxons, to -take possession of Silesia. This army was in high -spirits, for it was rumored all over the country that -Frederick was completely discouraged and disheartened -by the misfortunes of the last campaign. No -one suspected that he himself had caused this report -to be circulated. He wanted to entice the Austrians -across the mountains, and they walked into -the trap. Frederick had taken up a position that -would enable him to fall upon the enemy as it -emerged from the mountains, and he awaited Prince -Charles with perfect calmness and confidence. His -concealed position completely deceived the Austrians; -they supposed the small band of Prussians, -which they had discovered from a mountain top, to -be part of the rear-guard of the army retreating to -Breslau.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_66">66</div> -<p>When Frederick crossed the stream at Striegau -on the morning of the fourth of June, his troops encountered -two battalions of Saxons, who were not a -little startled to meet with Prussians there. They -halted to wait for the rest of the army to come up -with them, but it had scarcely made its appearance -when Frederick opened a murderous artillery fire. -The Austrian cavalry hurled itself upon the Prussians, -but was soon thrown into wildest confusion -and totally routed. The two Saxon battalions -that had led the way were almost entirely cut to -pieces, and the Austrians who followed shared the -same fate. The Prince of Lorraine was thoroughly -deceived, for he supposed the cannonading and fire -of musketry came from the Saxons who were capturing -Striegau. It did not occur to him, therefore, to -send relief, for he still imagined the Prussians in -full retreat toward Breslau. When at last he discovered -the Saxons in disorderly flight and realized -what had happened, he hastened to place his troops -in order of battle, but before this could be accomplished -the Prussians had attacked and routed -them. Nothing was left for him, after five hours’ -hard fighting, but to turn about and escape by way -of Hohenfriedberg. They were not pursued, for -Frederick’s army was too exhausted after the struggle. -It was a terribly disastrous battle for Austria -and Saxony, and for Frederick a victory which did -not produce the results it seemed to promise.</p> -<p>Prince Charles withdrew to Bohemia, and took -up a strong position there with the Saxons. Frederick -followed, but did not dare to attack him while -he was so strongly intrenched, and remained there -inactive for three months, while the Austrians had -as little desire to assume the offensive before the -arrival of reënforcements.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_67">67</div> -<p>All this time the war in Flanders had been -blazing fiercely, and the French had gained several -victories over the allies. The King of England, -George II, who had been placed in a very trying -position by France, was anxious for Maria Theresa -and Frederick to make terms with each other, and -tried his best to bring it about. An agreement was -actually drawn up, but when Maria Theresa found -that the King of England had guaranteed the possession -of Silesia to Frederick, she firmly refused to -have anything more to do with it. Rather would -she—and these were her own words—“part with -the gown from her back than Silesia.” She attached -but little importance to the lost battle of Hohenfriedberg, -and had perfect confidence in the judgment -and bravery of Prince Charles of Lorraine -and the loyalty of her Hungarians. Moreover, the -prospects were good that the imperial crown would -fall to her husband’s lot. How then could she -resign herself to the thought of sacrificing her -beloved Silesia?</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_68">68</div> -<p>Her consort, Francis Stephen, was indeed elected -Emperor and crowned under the name of Francis I, -and thus Maria Theresa’s dearest wish was fulfilled. -She had fresh hope and courage, and a vigorous -prosecution of the war was ordered.</p> -<p>The plans of George II of England came to -naught, and Frederick resumed hostilities, for the -Empress would never consent to give up Silesia; -but he knew his task was a hard one. In Silesia -the Hungarians had taken Kosel. A part of his -army was sent to recapture it and drive them out, -in which it was successful. Another detachment -went to join old Dessauer at Halle, to oppose the -Saxons who were threatening Brandenburg. Frederick -had but twenty-two thousand men to oppose -a superior force of Austrians, and delay had placed -them at a disadvantage; for it had enabled the -enemy to approach so near that an attack could not -be avoided. He determined therefore to change his -position and move farther away; but just as he was -about to put this plan into execution, Charles of -Lorraine began his assault. It was on the morning -of September 30, 1745, near Sohr. Frederick still -had time to dispose his troops; then he hurled his -cavalry against the Austrians. This was the beginning -of a battle that resulted in a brilliant victory -for the Prussians, for the infantry with magnificent -bravery followed the example of the cavalry. For -five days Frederick’s army camped undisturbed on -the battlefield, and then moved toward Silesia to go -into Winter quarters.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_69">69</div> -<p>Once more there were hopes of peace, but it was -not yet to be. In Vienna a Winter campaign had -been determined on. The army was to advance -directly to Berlin under the Prince of Lorraine. -One division on the Rhine was to unite with Saxony -in driving the Prussians from Halle, and then join -the main army before Berlin. Maria Theresa’s -secret plans were betrayed, however, to the King of -Prussia, and that enabled him to set every lever in -motion to thwart her projects, in accordance with his -favorite method, “anticipate the disaster.” It was -dangerous work for him, for Russia had promised to -support Saxony in case of attack from Prussia, and -the warning was repeated when Frederick announced -his purpose; but strong measures were necessary, -and he departed to join the main body of his army -in Silesia. Here he learned that Prince Charles -and the Saxons had invaded Upper Lusatia. After -seeing that the Silesian frontier was well protected, -therefore, he hastened with all possible secrecy to -Lusatia and met the enemy at Kunersdorf. His -sudden attack was successful, and put an end to all -hopes of taking Berlin by surprise. The unexpected -appearance of the Prussians and their victory -disheartened the Austrian army, and Prince Charles -retreated to Bohemia.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_70">70</div> -<p>Nor was this defeat all. Frederick summoned -old Dessauer to Saxony, advanced against Dresden, -and made an offer of peace to Saxony, but it was -rejected. The sword had to settle the question, -which it speedily did. The battle of Kesselsdorf -was decisive; a bad blunder of the Saxons gave the -victory to Prussia, and obliged Prince Charles to -seek safety with his army. The defeated Saxons -abandoned their capital, and Frederick entered -Dresden, December 18, 1745. This opened the -way for peace, and terms were made soon afterward -by which Frederick definitely acknowledged Maria -Theresa’s right to the electoral vote of Bohemia -and the validity of her husband’s election as -Emperor, but retained possession of Silesia.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_71">71</div> -<p>Thus Austria, great as her losses had been in -this war, had at least gained what the Empress so -earnestly desired; but at the same time had been -again obliged to leave Silesia in the hands of Prussia -and put a good face on the matter. Saxony, on the -other hand, had felt the full weight of the conqueror’s -hand, and was glad to come out of it so -cheaply after all. The treaty of Dresden also securely -settled various other affairs of Maria Theresa’s -at home, which had been disturbed by the -long and ruinous conflict.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_72">72</div> -<h2 id="c4"><span class="h2line1">Chapter IV</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">Plots and Counterplots</span></h2> -<p>In Italy, affairs proved even more disastrous. -Genoa, which up to this time had remained -neutral, now sided with Spain, Naples, and -France, so that there was an addition of ten thousand -men to the enemy’s forces to be reckoned with -when the campaign opened in May. This gave -them an army of seventy thousand capable of crushing -Austria and its ally Sardinia.</p> -<p>The outlook was dark for Maria Theresa when -the Dresden Treaty was signed. While on the one -hand it brought respite, on the other redoubled vigilance -and energy were needed. The overburdened -Empress breathed a little more freely, and calmly -faced the situation in Italy, where she had sent reënforcements -to the army and placed Prince Wenzel -Lichtenstein in command. Thirty thousand fresh -troops, with a <i>man</i> at their head, count for a great -deal; the latter even more than the former, since any -number of troops without a competent leader can -accomplish little.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_73">73</div> -<p>The new campaign, in the Spring of 1746, began -hopefully, and its promise was realized largely by -an unforeseen event which occurred on the ninth of -July and made an important change in the situation. -This was the death of King Philip V of Spain,<a class="fn" id="fr_13" href="#fn_13">[13]</a> and -the succession to the throne of Ferdinand VI,<a class="fn" id="fr_14" href="#fn_14">[14]</a> who -was anxious for peace.</p> -<p>A change in the leadership of the Spanish forces -in Italy had already weakened them, and the recall -of six thousand men to Spain greatly increased Lichtenstein’s -advantage, as results were not slow in proving. -The battle of the tenth of August disposed of -the Spaniards as far as Maria Theresa’s army was concerned, -and left it free to chastise Genoa. That Republic, -already alarmed at the turn of events, became -panicstricken when the Austrians captured Bocchetta, -and the Senate bowed its once proud neck -beneath the foot of the victor. The punishment it -had so well merited was not lacking when the day of -reckoning came. Maria Theresa magnanimously, -indeed, sought to save Genoa from the depths of humiliation -to which Botta relentlessly subjected it, for -the crippled Republic had suffered enough,—and -too much, as the sequel showed.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_74">74</div> -<p>At this juncture, when the army was victorious -and both ready and able to continue the work, -Maria Theresa’s plans were frustrated by the jealousy -of England and Sardinia. The two allies felt -obliged to turn their arms against Naples, which lay -so near, and the result was obvious: the Empress -was forced to abandon them and follow the French -and Spaniards to Nice. The advance into Provence, -however, was suddenly brought to a standstill, -because of the harsh treatment Genoa had received. -The bow had been bent too far, and it broke. A -popular insurrection was the fruit of Botta’s revenge. -Austria’s disregard of the fact that a people driven -to desperation will risk everything—a fact unfortunately -too often forgotten, in spite of the terrible -examples in history,—cost it dearly; for, aside from -its material losses in men and supplies, Botta’s flight -and the forced retreat of Browne from Provence -were bitter fruit. Nor was it made any less so by -the loss of Genoa itself, and the fact that Austria -had only itself to blame; for the brutal severity of -the conqueror and his overbearing arrogance were -alone responsible. Genoa retained its freedom after -this, and the war was continued with varying results -until the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle put an end to the -bloodshed; but Austria had no cause to rejoice -over this peace, and Maria Theresa felt it deeply.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_75">75</div> -<p>The Queen, however, now turned her vigorous -mind and generous sympathies into other channels -than those which ran red with human blood, and -devoted herself to the welfare of her people. War, -even in its grandest aspect, is and must always be -degrading to humanity and a source of untold -misery. The old German saying that “Peace -nourishes; strife consumes,” is a true one. In spite -of manifold disasters, Maria Theresa had emerged -from the long struggle with success; she had defeated -the efforts of her enemies to break her power, -and had strengthened her empire. It had taken -eight years of war; but the great Empress had not -been through this hard school of experience without -profiting much by it, even if her gains were not those -of territory.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_76">76</div> -<p>The eight years of peace that now ensued gave -her time and opportunity to effect the reforms she -had in mind, a work that appealed strongly to -her and was worthy of her best endeavors. She had -a wide field before her, for the weakness of the antiquated -system of government bequeathed from the -Middle Ages was felt on all sides. A great advance -in civilization had been made during that period, -and many cumbersome formalities had to be abandoned -in order that the administration of affairs -should be in sympathy with this development.</p> -<p>Maria Theresa grasped the situation clearly; she -understood all this, as well as her own position and -power and the country’s needs. It was a woman -in this case that proved the old saying, “One’s self -is the man”; for it was she herself who was the -motive power in these salutary reforms; it was her -own hand that guided the affairs of state and directed -the reforms in the condition of her people.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_77">77</div> -<p>Experience had taught her the value of Prince -Eugene’s advice to her father, which unfortunately -for himself the latter had so little heeded; hence her -first thought was for the reorganization of the army. -Well as she knew its deficiencies, she showed no -haste or precipitation in making the necessary -changes, but proceeded slowly though surely to the -end she had in view. The wonderful personal -influence and power of this remarkable woman were -not the only evidences of her greatness; they were -apparent also in her successful discovery of the right -men, and assignment of them to positions where they -would be most effective and accomplish the most -good. The change brought about in the army was -an illustration of this; not only was the discipline -wonderfully improved, but so much spirit and enthusiasm -were infused into it that at the beginning of -the Seven Years’ War Frederick the Great himself -was forced to declare, “These are no longer the -old Austrians!” But there was the same love and -devotion for the Empress which had been manifested -in the days of the first Silesian war, and the army -submitted willingly and cheerfully to all her measures -of reform.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_78">78</div> -<p>In this work Maria Theresa had two faithful -assistants, Count Daun, whose ancestral home was -a stronghold in the volcanic mountains of Eifel and -even in its ruined state a worthy cradle of a great -race, and Prince Wenzel Lichtenstein. As Daun, -one might say, created the infantry, so old Lichtenstein -was the founder of the new artillery—two -branches of the service in which Frederick II was -an adept. The cavalry, just as it stood, had served -as a model for Frederick, but even in that branch -of the service there was room for improvement. -Maria Theresa devoted especial attention to the -breeding of good horses for the cavalry, and took -great interest in hospital work. It would take too -long to go into all the details of this important -work, but one of her remarkable achievements must -not be overlooked. This was the construction of -a line of defences, or “military frontier,” along the -Turkish border, which interposed an effective barrier -against those invasions and unexpected attacks -which had been so common in previous wars with -that country.</p> -<p>If Maria Theresa’s determined efforts to -strengthen her army really meant that she had -Silesia in her mind, who can blame her, especially -when the affection with which she clung to that lost -province and her inward conviction that two natures -like hers and Frederick II’s could never remain -long at peace with one another, as was indeed -the case, are considered?</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_79">79</div> -<p>With this problem of perfecting the army and fitting -it for future service—possibly the re-conquest -of Silesia—was closely linked another, suggested -by that saying of Montecuculi’s already quoted; -namely, that the requisites of war were, firstly, -money; secondly, more money; and thirdly, more -money again, and plenty of it. The second task -that confronted Maria Theresa’s dauntless spirit was -the question of taxes, or, in a word, what we call -finances. Austria was rich in resources, but there -had been a lack of good management in their application. -Judicious economy was much needed in -this branch of the administration, and, remembering -the extravagance and wastefulness that had prevailed -in her father’s time, the Empress began the -reduction of expenses. This action and her realization -that the proper remedy was to be obtained -not by the imposition of crushing taxes on her subjects, -but by developing the rich resources of the -country, merely furnish further proofs of her political -wisdom and statesmanship.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_80">80</div> -<p>During the last war, the lack of funds in the -treasury had made it necessary to impose heavy -taxes to meet the deficiency, but the system was -wrong, and failed to effect the desired object; it -only made the taxes extremely burdensome, and its -injustice increased the irritation and discontent of the -people. This was an evil that needed a remedy, -as her unerring glance had long since discovered, -and she lost no time in devoting all her energies to -the establishment of a system, wherein juster methods -should be employed; there were so many who for -various reasons were exempt from taxation, that it -became absolutely necessary to limit the number. -These reforms were received with great enthusiasm -all over the land, and endeared her still more to the -people.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_81">81</div> -<p>Part of Maria Theresa’s success was due to her -judgment and sagacity in choosing for her advisers -men of the highest talents and abilities, as well as -to that unerring tact which is one of nature’s best -gifts to mankind, and which helped her here as it -had with the army. Among her statesmen, she -possessed in Kaunitz<a class="fn" id="fr_15" href="#fn_15">[15]</a> not only an able and clever -diplomatist, who filled the highest posts of honor -with credit to himself and his country, but also a -faithful and devoted servant, and an invaluable aid -to her in all her far-reaching plans. The one with -which she was closely concerned at this time had -been suggested by England. It was a proposal to -retain the imperial crown of the Holy Roman Empire -of the German nation in her family, and make -her son, the Archduke Joseph, King of Rome; -thus giving him the right, on the death of her husband, -to succeed him as Emperor, and prevent any -more such destructive wars as those from which the -country had already suffered. England had devised -this scheme, and was willing to do its share toward -bringing it about; but there were many obstacles in -the way, not the least of them, Prussia. France -was another; but Germany itself, for that matter, -furnished difficulties enough to relegate its accomplishment -to the far-distant future.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_82">82</div> -<p>The Empress, strongly as the plan appealed to -her, was cautious and said little, but England continued -to urge the matter with a persistence that -excited some doubt as to the sincerity of its attitude -toward Austria. At last its motives became -apparent, and Maria Theresa abandoned any further -consideration of the plan. This caused somewhat -strained relations between the two countries. During -the negotiations, moreover, England’s behavior -was such that Kaunitz, in defence of the dignity of -his sovereign, was forced to protest against it as inadmissible -in diplomatic intercourse. His remonstrances -were unheeded, however; and when it came -to the question of affairs in the Netherlands, England’s -communications and Austria’s replies became -even more pointed. A complete rupture was inevitable, -but Kaunitz would not permit matters to -proceed as far as that until he had seen his way -clear to a union with France.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_83">83</div> -<p>His one idea, since he had been in power, was -the recovery of Silesia, and as a means to that end -he endeavored to come to an agreement with France -and turn it to his advantage. He was shrewd -enough to keep this plan a secret, as well as that -other which went hand in hand with it, the humiliation -of Prussia. That Maria Theresa, who had -never ceased to grieve over the loss of Silesia, fully -sympathized with these schemes cannot be doubted. -The only hope of their realization, however, lay in -separating Prussia from all her allies; and an alliance -with France would be a long step in this direction. -England and France at that time were on the verge -of hostilities over the boundaries of Canada, and -England had been endeavoring to involve France -in a war with some of the European powers, so as -to have a free hand in America. This, however, -could not be accomplished without assistance; and, -beside, there was Hanover to protect. The number -of troops there had been increased, to be sure, -but they were not sufficient to insure its safety. -At this point England demanded to know how -large a force Austria could raise in case France -and Prussia should invade the Netherlands and -Hanover.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_84">84</div> -<p>Maria Theresa’s eyes were opened now, and she -replied that she could not spare any troops from -Bohemia without exposing it to danger from -Prussia. She would furnish the twenty-five thousand -men agreed upon, in the Netherlands, leaving -England to take Reuss in payment and seek assistance -from the sovereign princes of Germany. -These terms of Maria Theresa’s were definite and -final, but England further demanded that Austria -should not only send thirty thousand men immediately -to the Netherlands, but also an extra force -to defend Hanover. This Maria Theresa refused -to do, whereupon England threatened to break its -alliance with Austria unless it complied with these -demands. Maria Theresa then declared plainly -what she should demand of England in return for -the protection of her territory against Prussia and -Italy. Before her answer had been sent, still more -peremptory demands arrived from England; but -Kaunitz made no reply to them. Matters had -gone too far to avoid a breach any longer. England -broke off negotiations with Austria and went -over at once to the King of Prussia.</p> -<p>Frederick II had learned through a traitor at -Dresden that a secret alliance existed against him -between Austria and Saxony, to which Russia was -a party. He therefore gladly accepted the overtures -of England, since his union with France had -come to an end, with little prospect of its renewal. -The treaty between Maria Theresa and France was -signed on the first of May, 1756.</p> -<p>Thus there had been a remarkable change in the -relations of the European powers when the storm-clouds -gathered once more and broke in the Seven -Years’ War.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_85">85</div> -<h2 id="c5"><span class="h2line1">Chapter V</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">Battles of the Seven Years’ War</span></h2> -<p>True to his practice of boldly meeting an -impending danger, Frederick preferred -to open hostilities himself, rather than -leave it to his enemies. Why should he -hesitate to kindle the flames of war in the land of so -bitter an enemy as the Elector of Saxony (also -King of Poland) had shown himself to be? Without -any formal declaration having been made, therefore, -he proceeded to invade Saxony with an army of -sixty thousand men in three divisions. His advance, -as usual, was rapid; all places of importance were -seized, and on September 10, 1756, he entered -Dresden. The Elector fled to the fortress of -Königstein, which was considered impregnable, and -at the foot of which the Saxon army of seventeen -thousand men, all told, was in position.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_86">86</div> -<p>The Queen alone remained in Dresden. She had -the key to the secret archives, and when Frederick -ordered them to be seized she placed herself -before the door of the room in which they were -kept, declaring they should never be taken except -by force. She was pushed aside, however, the -chests were broken open, and Frederick found the -documents, copies of which had been sent him by -the traitor already mentioned, and which furnished -proof of the secret alliance against him. With the -exception of this violence, which, in truth, the -august lady had brought upon herself, she was -treated with the greatest respect. The poor -country fared worse. Although pillage was -strictly forbidden, Saxony had to bear all the oppression -of a conquered country and meet levies of -all kinds. Frederick emptied the arsenals, confiscated -all the state revenues, and treated Saxony as -if it were part of his own dominions; but he spared -the people wherever it was possible. Ignoring the -protests of the Emperor and also of France, he -pursued his own course, and worked for his own -ends firmly and resolutely.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_87">87</div> -<p>The position which the Saxon troops held at the -foot of Königstein was unassailable. The only way -to vanquish them was by starvation, so the King -left them well surrounded and marched with his -army into Bohemia to prevent any assistance reaching -the Saxons from that quarter. There were two -Austrian armies in Bohemia—one under the command -of Marshal Browne, at Kollin; the other -under General Piccolomini at Olmütz, and later at -Königgrätz. Browne was Saxony’s nearest hope of -rescue; but Frederick’s sudden and unexpected -appearance in Bohemia took him by surprise and -found him unprepared for action. Several weeks -elapsed, in fact, before he was ready to move, and -Frederick made good use of the time. Moreover, -the Minister of War, regarded as the most conservative -of the Austrian field-marshals, wished to -spare the army as much as possible, and to threaten -Frederick for the advantage of Saxony without exposing -it to long marches and changes of position.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_88">88</div> -<p>Browne sent a force of eight thousand to Losowitz -under Count Wied, while he himself left -Kollin and took up a position near Budin. Wied’s -vanguard met the Prussians at Peterswalde, September -tenth, and Browne was forced into an engagement. -The battle was fought near Losowitz, -October, 1756, but was not decisive, both generals -claiming the victory. Meanwhile, the famished -Saxons at Königstein were in terrible straits. They -had made an ineffectual effort to escape, and a -second attempt was scarcely more successful, for -their new position was no better than the one they -had abandoned. The Prussians again surrounded -them, and Browne, who had hurried forward hoping -to rescue the beleaguered army, was compelled -to retreat, leaving the unfortunate Saxons with no -choice but to lay down their arms and surrender -themselves with all their artillery to Frederick.</p> -<p>This blow crushed Saxony’s hopes of further -resistance, but the King of Prussia, more magnanimous -than might have been expected considering -his many reasons for irritation against that country, -granted neutrality to Königstein and its occupants. -The Elector wisely preferred, however, to retire to -Warsaw, and Frederick, for reasons of his own, -took good care that he should meet with no interference -from Prussian troops on the way thither.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_89">89</div> -<p>These events closed the campaign. Browne remained -in Bohemia and the King went into Winter -quarters in Saxony, leaving part of his troops in -Silesia. Maria Theresa took the loss of Saxony -very much to heart, for she was thereby deprived of -a faithful ally. Her army had suffered little and -accomplished less, but at least it had escaped great -dangers and was safe, and this was some cause for -congratulation in Vienna; for, considering the unprepared -condition in which the opening of the -campaign had found Browne, the outcome might -easily have been different and his troops have shared -the fate of Saxony’s.</p> -<p>At all events, Maria Theresa had received a fresh -warning to be on her guard against such an adversary, -who appeared with the swiftness of an arrow -where he was least expected, and was rarely to be -found when he was looked for. With her usual -energy she urged on the preparation of the army, -and bestowed upon the task all the care and devotion -of a mother for her children. But, busied as -she was with affairs at home, she was none the less -mindful of the value of neighborly help in time of -need,—an emergency always to be considered where -Frederick the Great was concerned. As a fact, -he himself had unconsciously done more for her -than her best friend could have accomplished; for -the summary methods he had resorted to in Saxony, -in defiance of the customary rights of nations, was -unprecedented and greatly incensed other rulers, -especially the Elector, shut up in his fortress of -Königstein like a bird in a cage, with no hope of -escape save by the favor of Frederick and his assurance -of safety from attack by Prussian troops, -who, to put it mildly, would scarcely have treated -him with courtly politeness.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_90">90</div> -<p>Many of these sovereigns were, no doubt, thinking -“What has befallen Saxony might also happen in -our own lands any day”; and if it came to the actual -question whether such a fate were merited or no, -their consciences might not have altogether acquitted -them. Be this as it may, there was a general feeling -of resentment among them, and the tendency of -popular report to magnify matters did its part -toward helping Maria Theresa by intensifying the -feeling against Frederick. Even the Holy Roman -Empire of the German nation condemned his conduct -and joined the ranks of his enemies. Frederick, -however, understood the nondescript character of -the Imperial army too well to be disturbed by this, -and his able and active adversary was also sufficiently -aware of it to urge on her own preparations -the more actively. If the Imperial army had been -her only dependence, there would have been little -hope for her; but the French alliance had proved -most satisfactory, and promised to be of the greatest -service to her in the event of the dissolution of the -German union. Indeed, its assurance of help was -now all the more certain because Frederick’s actions -were calculated to increase the hatred of France -for him.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_91">91</div> -<p>Sweden also allied itself to France, and Russia -had promised to support Austria with an army of -one hundred thousand men. With three additional -armies, even though Sweden’s strength did not -count for much, and a total force of four hundred -thousand, Maria Theresa’s prospects looked very -bright, and it was not to be wondered at that -her eyes were fixed confidently and expectantly on -her beloved Silesia. Prince Charles of Lorraine -was put in command of the Austrian army, and -under him was Marshal Browne, the former -commander-in-chief in Bohemia. This completely -altered the plan of campaign that Browne had laid -out, and the rapid movements of the active enemy -had to be met with the slow-moving and cumbersome -army of the allies. After careful and judicious -consideration, it was agreed that the best way -of utilizing the coöperation of the allied armies was -to close in on Frederick from every side, and thus -destroy his forces and completely crush him. Was -the King aware of this plan? It seems probable -from the plans which he adopted. Prince Charles -and Browne occupied strong positions and calmly -waited for the Prussian attack, while Daun was stationed -some distance to the rear—a fact that caused -Frederick some uneasiness.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_92">92</div> -<p>The first battle of the campaign took place in -the neighborhood of Prague on May 6, 1757. -The Austrians seemed to have the advantage at -first, for their artillery caused deadly havoc among -the Prussians. The gallant Schwerin, seeing the -danger, seized the colors of his regiment and rode -at full speed against the enemy, urging his men on -with shouts of encouragement. A shot found its -way to his heart almost instantly, but his words -still rang in every ear, his brave example was before -every eye, and his death filled every heart with -a thirst for revenge. The battle was fierce and -bloody, and resulted in a victory for the Prussians; -but it was not a decisive one, and Schwerin’s fall was -a serious blow to them. Frederick said when informed -of his death, “He was worth ten thousand -men to me!” The King was greatly depressed by -this loss, and also by the fact that the greater part -of Maria Theresa’s army was safe within the walls -of Prague, which looked like a speedy close to the -campaign. Moreover, Daun’s division was still -fresh, and free now to join the rest of the army, -another advantage in their favor.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_93">93</div> -<p>There was nothing left for Frederick but to lay -siege to Prague; but as it promised to be a long and -tedious affair for him, he ruthlessly bombarded the -city and invoked the aid of two terrible allies—fire -and famine. Every day increased the horrors -of the situation in Prague. Prince Charles made -every effort to encourage and cheer the soldiers and -the citizens and persuade them to hold out by -promises of speedy relief, but their own sufferings -were more powerful arguments than any of his -representations. The citizens lost heart, and the -troops were continually committing acts of violence -and becoming mutinous, so that Prince Charles was -finally compelled to have a gallows erected in the -public square to warn the marauders. Matters -were desperate, when Daun approached with orders -from Maria Theresa to relieve the distressed city at -any cost.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_94">94</div> -<p>The case was urgent, for the army and city -might soon fall into Frederick’s hands, a result he -was confidently reckoning upon. Daun must be -driven from the neighborhood in order to accomplish -it, and how to do that without weakening his -besieging army was the problem that confronted -him. With his usual skill, however, he solved it -by hastening forward with a small detachment to -join the Prince of Bevern’s division, and with him -advancing to meet Daun. The battle of Kollin -was the result of their meeting. It was a desperate -struggle, and a disastrous defeat for the hitherto victorious -King of Prussia. Daun was the victor and -Prague was saved.</p> -<p>Maria Theresa received the news with a jubilant -heart, and hastened at once with the Emperor to -inform the Countess Daun of her husband’s victory -in person. Nor was this enough. To celebrate -the day she established the “Order of Maria -Theresa,” which was to be won only by deeds of -bravery in battle, and which by the infrequency of -its bestowal was held as the highest possible honor -in the Austrian army. The first cross of the order -glistened upon the breast of Daun. As a still -further expression of her joy and exultation, the -Empress had a jubilee medal coined in commemoration -of her victory.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_95">95</div> -<p>The results of the battle of Kollin were far reaching. -The popular belief in Frederick’s invincibility -received a severe blow, and the courage of his -soldiers sank in proportion as that of the Austrians -rose. Maria Theresa’s forces were continually receiving -additions, while the Prussian army began to -dwindle. Matters looked somewhat brighter along -the Rhine, but the Imperial army with a French -auxiliary force was advancing to the rescue of Saxony, -and Frederick was forced to march hurriedly -into Thuringia to meet them, leaving his army in -Saxony and Lusatia under competent generals.</p> -<p>Soubise, so famous for his agility in retreat, fell -back at Frederick’s approach, and Erfurt opened -its gates to him. A few days later Seydlitz surprised -the French at Gotha, and drove them away -in what might be called headlong flight; for in the -ducal palace Seydlitz found the dishes still smoking -on the table as they had been left, and he and his -officers sat down with a good appetite to enjoy the -meal the hungry Frenchmen had been so easily -frightened away from. This little exploit of the -cavalry afforded unbounded delight to the King -and his soldiers, and served as a prelude to what -was to follow at Rossbach.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_96">96</div> -<p>Nothing could equal the scorn with which the -French in their overwhelming conceit regarded -Prussia’s little army; indeed, some of the officers -went so far as to question whether it were not derogatory -to their honor to engage in serious conflict -with such a paltry force. But when the battle -really began they took to their heels in a manner -that scarcely has its equal in history. Of the noble -Imperial army it can only be said that the greater -part of it left the field without firing a shot. It -was a rabbit-hunt, not a battle of men, in which the -Prussians played the parts of hunters and drivers -at the same time, with Seydlitz for a leader. That -doughty baron’s only regret was that he had not -been able to catch the gallant Soubise himself; but -the swiftest horse could scarcely have done that!</p> -<p>To prove that even flight may lead to glory -Prince Soubise, whom even the French themselves -had nicknamed “Prince Sottise,”<a class="fn" id="fr_16" href="#fn_16">[16]</a> received a -Field-Marshal’s staff after this. The riddle is easily -solved, however,—Pompadour!<a class="fn" id="fr_17" href="#fn_17">[17]</a> The French continued -their flight as far as the Rhine, until they -were sure Frederick had been left far behind.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_97">97</div> -<p>The Austrians had been victorious since the -battle of Kollin. Bevern’s and Winterfeld’s forces -had been defeated. Silesia was almost within their -grasp, a result they hoped to see accomplished -before the end of the campaign. But Frederick -had other plans. The battle of Rossbach had restored -Saxony to him, but matters had come to the -point when he must regain his hold on Silesia or -lose all the advantage he had won.</p> -<p>In twelve days he crossed the whole breadth of -his dominions, and effected a union with Bevern’s -force in Silesia. This gave him about thirty-three -thousand men, and with these troops, many of them -exhausted by their long march, he faced an Austrian -army of double their strength near the village of -Leuthen. Here the Austrians met a crushing defeat; -they lost twenty-six thousand five hundred men, -killed or taken prisoners, one hundred and sixteen -cannon, fifty-one standards, and four thousand commissary, -baggage, and ammunition wagons, beside -forfeiting the results of all their former victories. -Whole regiments were annihilated or taken prisoners. -The contemptuous designation of the Prussian -army as the “Potsdam Night-watch Parade” -was terribly avenged, and the precept was brought -home to the Austrians, as it had been to the French -at Rossbach, that “pride goeth before a fall”!</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_98">98</div> -<p>And Maria Theresa?</p> -<p>It was a bitter disappointment she was called -upon to bear. She had looked upon Silesia as her -own once more; she had seen her army triumph -over the enemy; her heart had been full of joy and -gratitude,—and now!</p> -<p>Nevertheless, in spite of these misfortunes, her -brave spirit did not quail; her faith in the justice of -her cause was unshaken. She redoubled her exertions -to strengthen the army and make up the -terrible losses it had suffered. But were there not -quiet hours when with clasped hands she raised -her tearful eyes to Heaven in prayer, as a relief -to her oppressed heart? Being but a woman, and -a devout and pious woman, it must have been so.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_99">99</div> -<p>The third year of the war began in the early -Spring: what terrible sacrifices it was to cost! -What bloodshed and suffering, what distress and -misery to thousands! Yet there was no thought -of peace. Still must the sword reap its deadly harvest, -like the scythe in the ripe grain-field, and -Maria Theresa was powerless to prevent it. Her -funds were low, their replenishment very difficult; -and what vast sums were required to fill the gaps -that Leuthen alone had caused! Bohemia was exhausted, -little dependence could be placed upon the -other states for help, and the treasury was slow in -filling. She saw nothing but difficulties ahead, and, -worst of all, the people were disheartened. The -feeling against Prince Charles of Lorraine became -so strong that he was forced to resign; but for once -the ministry of war, which usually bore the blame -of all mistakes and disasters, escaped the unsparing -censure that was universally expressed against the -commander-in-chief. Count Daun was appointed -in his place, and hastened to Vienna to consult -upon plans for the new campaign.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_100">100</div> -<p>A few preliminary skirmishes resulted in favor of -the Austrians, but the first important event was the -loss of Schweidnitz, their last hold in Silesia. The -garrison, reduced by want and distress, were taken -prisoners by Frederick, who then advanced against -Olmütz. From thence to Vienna was but a step, -and one that was seriously considered by many of -the Prussians. But Maria Theresa had again put -the right man in the right place—two men, indeed, -who proved themselves worthy of her confidence, -Daun and Laudon. Daun’s great skill lay in his -choice of positions, and he possessed a caution and -deliberation that often put Frederick’s patience to -the test and defeated his plans. He made no move -until he was satisfied as to the fitness of his army, -which consisted largely of new troops; but when his -preparations were complete he marched to the assistance -of Olmütz, which Frederick had besieged. -He cut off the supplies of the Prussians by attacking -and destroying a heavy train of provisions and -ammunition which Frederick was anxiously expecting -and depending upon. This loss, together with -a sudden attack by Daun, forced the Prussians to -raise the siege and retreat. Olmütz was saved.</p> -<p>Maria Theresa was greatly relieved, for she -realized the importance of Olmütz, and was correspondingly -grateful to her commander-in-chief, -whose services she had already had good cause to -value. She built fresh hopes, too, on the invasion -of Brandenburg by the Russians, which obliged -Frederick to divide his forces to meet this new -danger. Leaving part of his army to oppose Daun, -he marched rapidly against the Russians, who were -ravaging Prussia. He defeated them with great -slaughter at Zorndorf, wreaked a terrible vengeance -upon them, and then returned to Saxony, where -he was much needed, for his brother Henry was -there and was hard pressed by Daun and the Imperial -army. Daun employed his usual tactics in -making his own position secure, while his light -cavalry continually harassed the King’s troops, and -in avoiding the decisive action into which Frederick -was anxious to force him.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_101">101</div> -<p>Frederick pitched his camp at Hochkirchen, on -a plain directly opposite Daun, a position protested -against by all his generals and of which Keith -said, “If the Austrians leave us here in peace, they -all ought to be hanged!” The King paid no attention, -however, to this good advice. Daun’s eagle -glance was not one to overlook an opportunity that -lay within his grasp, but his deliberation seemed to -imply that he did not intend to accept the bold challenge, -and Frederick had already decided to break -up his camp, when Daun suddenly fell upon it in -the early morning (October 14, 1758) while the -Prussians were still asleep. A desperate struggle -followed, at first in total darkness. Then the daylight -struggling through a heavy mist, with flames -from the burning village, lit up the scene of -slaughter where the Austrians had the foe at their -mercy. Had not Frederick’s army maintained its -discipline so well, but a small part of it would have -escaped.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_102">102</div> -<p>It was a brilliant victory for Daun, but he committed -a grave error in not following it up, as his -adversary would not have failed to do. Too late -he realized the folly of allowing his irrepressible foe -to escape, only to rally his forces and drive the -Austrians from Silesia. Daun hoped to retrieve -this blunder by achievements in Saxony. He had -the advantage there and advanced to attack Dresden, -but the Prussian General Schmettau set fire to the -suburbs and showed signs of such vigorous resistance -that, rather than see the city destroyed, -Daun abandoned the attack and withdrew into -Bohemia.</p> -<p>The results achieved by the allied armies in other -quarters were not remarkable. Daun by his victory -at Hochkirchen bore off the honors of this campaign, -nor did he lack laurels in recognition of his services. -He had a mistress who rewarded right royally.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_103">103</div> -<p>Maria Theresa needed the Winter’s rest to -strengthen her position both at home and abroad. -Some new alliances and a renewal of the old ones -seemed to promise well for the future. Russia made -fresh preparations on land and sea; an agreement -was made with Sweden and Denmark by which they -were to close the passage of the strait against the -English, and the Imperial army bestirred itself to -repair damages.</p> -<p>Nor did Frederick neglect this opportunity to -replenish his treasury, which was much in need of it, -and to increase and improve his army.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_104">104</div> -<h2 id="c6"><span class="h2line1">Chapter VI</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">Close of the Long Struggle</span></h2> -<p>The campaign of 1759 began with inroads -by the Prussians, who committed terrible -ravages. Prince Henry of Prussia was -ordered to destroy the warehouses and -magazines in Bohemia as well as in Franconia, both -of which were suffering from depredations he had -made with the object of replenishing Prussia’s war -coffers.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_105">105</div> -<p>Daun did not take the field until later. He -cautiously waited for the appearance of the allies, and -besides, it was important to effect the union of Laudon -with the Russians. Although Frederick exerted -himself to prevent this, Daun carried out his plans -successfully, and confronted the King with an army -of sixty thousand men. As the latter’s total force -amounted to only forty thousand, he retired, and -the allies took up a strong position near Kunersdorf. -There they were boldly attacked by the Prussians, -and a battle ensued which at first seemed to promise -Frederick a brilliant victory; but Laudon changed -the fortunes of the day and drove the Prussians -from the field. When Frederick wrote to his minister, -Von Finkenstein, that it was a misfortune -he still lived, he expressed his desperate situation -after the battle of Kunersdorf, for had the Russians -followed up their advantage he must inevitably -have been overwhelmed. A disagreement between -Laudon and the Russian General Soltikoff was the -cause of this failure, or, as was afterwards maintained -and perhaps with some reason, the Russians’ -crafty policy did not include Frederick’s complete -destruction. Although Soltikoff, with an eye to -possible changes in the Russian government and -its attitude toward the King of Prussia, may have -determined not to follow up the victory, still it is -difficult to explain why Daun should have remained -inactive when the enemy’s complete defeat would -have inevitably produced such important results for -Austria. At last he moved to another position at -Triebel, which commanded the Prussian situation; -but Prince Henry contrived to annoy and harass his -troops constantly without risking a decisive engagement.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_106">106</div> -<p>One misfortune after another befell Frederick. -General Finck’s corps of twelve thousand men were -defeated and taken prisoners by Daun, a heavy -blow to the King’s pride as well as to his army; -and a few days later fifteen thousand of Diereck’s -force shared the same fate. Such a succession of -disasters seriously crippled Frederick’s resources, -and even the reënforcements brought him by the -Hereditary Prince of Brunswick could do nothing -to help matters.</p> -<p>Notwithstanding the severity of the weather, it -was not until the beginning of January, 1760, that -the armies went into Winter quarters. Frederick -remained in Freiberg, and his troops camped in the -villages about Dresden, some of them even in tents. -It was bitterly cold and they could keep warm only -by huddling together. Sickness broke out among -them, and the mortality was great; but Daun did -not fare much better. Both armies suffered terribly, -and their losses were heavy.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_107">107</div> -<p>The year had been a disastrous one for Frederick, -and fortune had smiled on the Empress; but -her goal, Silesia, was still far distant, although -Frederick’s lack of resources for the continuance of -the war seemed to bring it a little nearer. Her affairs, -indeed, were in better condition than the King’s. -He was in great need of money to recruit his army, -and obliged to resort to any expedient to obtain it. -He could not afford to be particular about his -methods, as poor Saxony discovered to its cost. The -willingness of its subjects to make sacrifices for her -made it easier for Maria Theresa to obtain the means -that she also needed for the prosecution of the war. -Frederick tried in various ways to bring about a -peace, but the Empress would not yield now that -her hopes seemed about to be realized. She resolutely -determined to continue the struggle for the -sake of Silesia, that precious jewel she hoped soon -to place once more in her imperial crown.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_108">108</div> -<p>The next campaign opened in Silesia, and propitiously -for Maria Theresa; for, at Landshut, Laudon -destroyed a whole Prussian army corps under -General Fouquet, with the exception of a small -detachment of cavalry which managed to cut its way -through and escape. Fouquet was taken prisoner, -and all his supplies and ammunition fell into the -hands of the Austrians. Important as this achievement -was in itself, its principal value to Maria -Theresa lay in the effect produced by so signal a -victory at the very beginning of the campaign. -Her troops had fought with desperate fury and -showed no quarter, for they had been met with -stubborn resistance and heroic valor on the part of -the Prussians. There was great rejoicing when the -news of the victory reached Vienna, and no one was -happier than the Empress over the moral effect it -produced.</p> -<p>Frederick, who was confronting Daun in Saxony, -had determined to go to the assistance of Fouquet -in Silesia, but Daun followed, or rather kept close -beside him, while Lacy was in the rear, annoying -and impeding him at every turn and doing much -damage to his supply trains. Therefore he halted -at Görlitz, and, changing his plan entirely, decided -to attempt the reconquest of Dresden. He forced -Lacy out of his way, evaded the Imperial army, and -summoned Dresden to surrender. Failing in an -attempt to surprise the city, he began to bombard -it, although he lacked heavy artillery. When Daun -discovered the King’s move, he lost no time in -turning back after him, and, reaching Dresden, dispersed -the Prince of Holstein’s force, and sent a -considerable body of troops to the assistance of the -garrison, in spite of all Frederick’s efforts to prevent -it. Thinking that Daun would not allow the city -to be ruined, he continued the bombardment, and -wrought havoc within the walls. Great as its distress -was, however, Dresden would not yield, and -Frederick’s troubles increased daily. Glatz was captured, -his losses at Dresden were very heavy, and -a large part of his necessary supplies fell into the -hands of the Austrians.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_109">109</div> -<p>Thus blow followed blow, and the loss of Glatz -depressed Frederick in proportion as it rejoiced -Maria Theresa, who thereby gained once more a -foothold in Silesia. Nor was Laudon content with -his easy conquest of Glatz. Encouraged by it, and -knowing the insufficiency of the garrison at Breslau, -he proceeded directly to that place, expecting as -speedy a victory there as at Glatz; a natural error, -perhaps, but a serious one, as he soon discovered. -The commander at Breslau was Tauentzien, a man -not easy to subdue. Although Laudon brought all -his force to bear against the city, he made no -progress toward its capture; and when Prince -Henry came to its relief, he was forced to raise the -siege.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_110">110</div> -<p>Frederick meantime had abandoned his fruitless -bombardment of Dresden and hastened to Silesia, -where his presence was needed; but Daun must -have been accurately informed as to his movements, -for he followed closely and passed him, Lacy falling -to the rear of the Prussians. Thus there was the -strange spectacle of what seemed like one huge -army marching toward Silesia in three divisions, -while Laudon approached with his troops from -Breslau to meet them, and the Russians also advanced -to join the allies. The Austrian officer -seemed quite justified in his remark when he said, -“The bag is open and ready to catch the Prussians; -we have only to pull the string!”</p> -<p>When this was repeated to Frederick his eyes -flashed, and he said with a bitter laugh, “The -man has spoken truly; but I will make a hole in -the bag that they will not find it easy to mend!”</p> -<p>Vienna waited anxiously for the next news. -Such a thing as Frederick’s escape seemed scarcely -possible. But almost every night he changed his -position, which kept Daun in uncertainty as to his -whereabouts, and it was this ceaseless activity and -the wonderful mobility of his troops which proved -“the hole in the bag” that was to show him the -way out.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_111">111</div> -<p>From the positions occupied by the encircling -armies of the enemy, he perceived it was Daun’s -plan to annihilate him by a combined attack. The -decisive moment arrived on the fourteenth of August, -1760. Daun was absolutely certain of success; -and indeed who would not have been, with the -Prussians completely surrounded as they were? -During the night, however, Frederick abandoned -his position and moved to Parchwitz. Surprised -and chagrined, Daun found that his plans were -frustrated, and that, while the Prussians had not -yet escaped from “the bag,” he had not altogether -succeeded in “pulling the string.” Nor was Laudon -any the less astonished, when he approached -Liegnitz with thirty thousand men, to find the -Prussians drawn up in order of battle. He hastened -to form his own lines, but had only partially -succeeded when the enemy attacked him. Taken -completely by surprise, Laudon had the added disadvantage -of a most unfavorable position, which -greatly impeded the movements of his troops. -Though they fought bravely, returning again and -again to the charge, he was finally forced to retreat -with heavy loss.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_112">112</div> -<p>Everything seemed to have conspired against the -Austrian generals. Daun might have sent assistance -to Laudon had he known of the battle; but a -strong wind prevented any sound of the heavy firing -from reaching him, so he suspected nothing. If -Laudon had sent him word, the result might have -been different—indeed must have been; but even -when he received news of it Daun made no move, -thinking the locality where the attack would have -to be made was too unfavorable to offer any hope -of success.</p> -<p>Laudon was depressed by this defeat; but he -was not held responsible for it even by the Empress, -who, while she regretted a misfortune that -was also her own, sent him assurances of her sympathy -and continued favor. To be able thus to -“pour wine and oil on his wounds” and keep up -her own courage as well, instead of giving way to -depression, was still another proof of the strength -and wisdom that never failed her.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_113">113</div> -<p>Frederick was well aware that his victory had -brought him only temporary relief. He had made -the “hole in the bag,” to be sure, but to get out of -it was another matter. Daun understood this also, -but none the less his failure to assist Laudon was a -grave error. His plans were well laid, for the position -of the Austrian and Russian forces not only -made it very difficult for the Prussians to obtain -their supplies, but must in time cut them off altogether. -The resources of Breslau had been so exhausted -by the siege that Frederick’s only way out -of his predicament was the doubtful possibility of a -victory over Daun’s army. The withdrawal of the -Russians, however, opened the way for him to Bohemia, -but in Saxony his outlook was unfavorable. -The “hole in the bag” had helped him only for -the time being, and Daun meanwhile was planning -to strike a blow at his heart by seizing Berlin. -Should the Russians be able to accomplish this, he -was to fall back, while an Austrian auxiliary force -under Lacy advanced to their support.</p> -<p>This plan was carried out, and on the third of -October the Russian vanguard suddenly appeared -before Berlin. The danger was imminent, and, -while the city hastily prepared for defence, Prince -Eugene of Würtemberg, who had been opposing -the Swedes, hurried a part of his army to the capital -by forced marches. Help was also summoned -from Saxony, but the odds (sixteen thousand against -thirty-five thousand) were too great, and Berlin was -forced to capitulate. It was well for the city that -General Tottleben showed both clemency and forbearance, -and spared the treasures of art and learning -accumulated there; but Lacy’s Austrian and -Saxon troops were not so considerate, and Frederick’s -palaces were overrun and despoiled by them.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_114">114</div> -<p>It was only a few days, however, before the news -that Frederick himself was approaching to the -rescue of his capital drove the enemy from the -walls of Berlin. Matters had not been progressing -favorably for the King. His prospects were still -dark, and if they were to assume a brighter aspect -he would be obliged to attack Daun, whose position -at Torgau was so strong as to make it a very -difficult undertaking. The Austrian troops were -fresh, moreover, and well equipped; but, notwithstanding -all this and the advantage of numbers,—Daun -had sixty thousand men, while he had but -forty thousand himself,—Frederick decided to -make the attempt, desperate as it seemed.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_115">115</div> -<p>The struggle was long and deadly; the constant -discharge of artillery shook the earth and whole -ranks were mown down, even the King himself -being wounded. Daun received a bullet in the -thigh, but he was so confident of victory that he -despatched a messenger to Vienna with the news—too -soon, however, for the day was not yet ended! -Just as night was closing in, Zieten, who had previously -taken no part in the action, scaled the -heights of Süplitz and captured the hill. This decided -the fate of the Austrians. Notwithstanding -all their efforts, they were compelled to give way -and retreat to Dresden,—a bitter blow to Daun, -who had already announced his victory in Vienna! -The battle was one of the bloodiest of the war; -sixteen thousand Austrians lay dead on the field or -were taken prisoners. But the Prussians had paid -dearly for their victory, having lost fourteen thousand -men. Maria Theresa, however, showed her -usual tact and magnanimity toward the defeated -general, by going out of her way to meet him on -his return from Torgau, and seeing that his wound -received proper attention.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_116">116</div> -<p>Frederick had not succeeded, however, in wresting -the Plauen valley, the key to Dresden, from the -Austrians. They went into Winter quarters there, -while Laudon, after an unsuccessful attempt to capture -Kosel, retired to Glatz. The Russians withdrew -to Poland and the Swedes to Pomerania. -The French had accomplished little and had met -with many reverses, but toward the end of the -campaign they obtained a victory over the Hereditary -Prince of Brunswick. The struggle was continued -in Hesse without any decisive results, until -the coming of Winter made it necessary to suspend -hostilities. Thus ended the fifth year of the war, -with its harvest of death and destruction, leaving -all the armies completely exhausted. And still no -sign of peace!</p> -<p>Notwithstanding his victories, Frederick had suffered -heavily, and the future looked dark for him; -while Maria Theresa could look forward, if not -confidently, at least with less doubt and anxiety. -She continued her preparations most indefatigably. -Laudon was placed in command in Silesia, while -Saxony was assigned to Daun as his field of action, -the object of their united endeavors being the reconquest -of Silesia. Frederick was aware of this, -and shaped his plans accordingly, although circumstances -compelled him to act strictly on the defensive. -He occupied the famous camp at Bunselwiltz, -where he was in a good position to protect Schweidnitz. -Laudon was anxious to attack him there, but -the Russian General Butterlin refused to be drawn -into a decisive engagement; at most he would only -consent to assist Laudon with an auxiliary force. -Frederick had no fear of an attack by day, but was -obliged to guard against the danger of being surprised -at night. September of 1761 came, and still -nothing had occurred. On the thirtieth of that -month, however, Laudon made a sudden attack on -Schweidnitz, from all sides at once, and the commander -there, who had neglected all precautions, -taken completely by surprise, was forced to surrender -unconditionally.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_117">117</div> -<p>Frederick’s star seemed to be setting; for in -Pomerania too he had been unfortunate. The usual -vacillating and dilatory methods of the War Office -favored him somewhat, for Laudon had received -orders not to undertake any further operations and -to confine himself to the defensive. The fall of -Kolberg, which had made a stout resistance, and -only capitulated when all the supplies had given -out, was a fresh blow to the King. The Prussians -had met with no decisive results in their encounters -with the French, nor had they succeeded in inflicting -any damage upon them. The end of the campaign -left Frederick apparently on the verge of -ruin. Maria Theresa’s heart was full of joy and -hope, for never had Silesia been so nearly within -her grasp as now, when her enemy had apparently -exhausted his last resources.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_118">118</div> -<p>The beginning of the year 1762 seemed to give -her fresh grounds for hope, but these were suddenly -dissipated by the news of the death of the -Czarina Elizabeth of Russia.<a class="fn" id="fr_18" href="#fn_18">[18]</a> -She had been Frederick’s -bitterest enemy, and her successor, Peter III, -was his most enthusiastic admirer. The new Czar -gave immediate proof of his friendship by issuing a -manifesto in which he formally announced his intention -of making peace with Prussia. A treaty -was signed May 5, 1762, which restored to Frederick -all conquests made by the Russians, and paved -the way for an alliance between the two countries. -This completely altered the aspect of affairs, and -dashed Maria Theresa’s hopes and plans to the -ground; for Frederick was now in a position to -concentrate all his forces against Austria. Sweden -too had withdrawn from its alliance with Austria, -and followed the example of Russia in making -terms of peace with Prussia. Everything seemed -conspiring against the Empress.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_119">119</div> -<p>Silesia still remained the centre of the struggle, -and Frederick assumed the command there in person, -the recapture of Schweidnitz being his first -object. Choosing a favorable position, he awaited -the arrival of the Russian troops promised him by -his new ally, Peter III, before attempting any important -move against his old adversary, Daun. Just -as all his preparations were complete, however, and -he was about to begin the attack, news arrived -which threatened to upset all his plans. The Czar, -Peter III, had been dethroned. Catherine II immediately -succeeded him, and her first act was the -recall of the troops which had been sent to assist -the Prussians. This was a misfortune which -Frederick had not anticipated, but he tried to avert -its immediate disastrous results by persuading the -Russian general to defer his departure for three days. -This made prompt action necessary, but Frederick -was the man of all others to meet emergencies. -Although the Russians took no part in the action, -Daun was quite in the dark as to their attitude, and -this uncertainty obliged him to weaken his force -by detaching a body of troops to watch them. -Frederick’s attack was successful. Daun’s army -was defeated and driven from the heights of Burkersdorf.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_120">120</div> -<p>The King’s greatest anxiety now concerned -Catherine’s attitude toward European affairs; consequently -her declaration of neutrality was a great -relief to his mind, for he feared that Russia’s power -might be again exerted on the side of Austria. -After his victory at Burkersdorf, he lost no time in -laying siege to Schweidnitz. Daun tried to relieve -brave old Count Guasco, who was in command there, -but met with such a serious defeat at Reichenbach -that he was obliged to leave the stronghold to the -fate which finally overtook it.</p> -<p>The King next turned his attention to Saxony, -where his brother Henry was bravely resisting the -Austrians and the Imperial army. The Austrians -had not been meeting with great success, but the -arrival of Count Haddick as commander-in-chief -seemed to turn the fortune of war again in their -favor. Had Haddick not waited for reënforcements -from Daun, Prince Henry would probably -have been defeated; but by the time they arrived -the Prussian army had also been strengthened by -troops from Silesia, and in the battle of Freiberg, -which immediately ensued, the Austrians were defeated -with heavy loss.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_121">121</div> -<p>It was the last battle of this dreadful war, which -for so many long years had wrought untold misery -throughout the wretched countries that had been the -scene of the bloody conflict. Frederick, to be sure, -continued the struggle against the Imperial army -until the panic caused by Kleist’s huzzars forced -the small German States to beg for peace. In Westphalia, -and Hesse, also, the Prussians at last laid -down their victorious arms. In truth, the exhaustion -of all parties made peace imperative. It was finally -declared February 15, 1763, and a treaty was signed -at Hubertsburg which restored all conquests and -left everything practically where it was at the beginning -of the Seven Years’ War, Prussia retaining -undisturbed possession of Silesia.</p> -<p>This was the heaviest sacrifice that Maria Theresa -could have been called upon to make for peace. It -cost her a great struggle with herself, and many -bitter tears, but she did it so that the blessings of -peace might be restored to her people.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_122">122</div> -<h2 id="c7"><span class="h2line1">Chapter VII</span> -<br /><span class="h2line2">The Last Days of Maria Theresa</span></h2> -<p>Peace! The joyful cry rang from one -end of Maria Theresa’s dominions to the -other, and was echoed in her own heart; -for, deeply as she grieved over Silesia, now -lost to her forever, she must have had a feeling of -thankfulness when she thought of those battlefields -which had been reddened with the blood of so -many thousands of her people. Her deeply religious -nature must have prompted the thought: -“Since all my sacrifices, all my efforts and exertions -have availed nothing toward the restoration of Silesia -to me, it must be the will of Him who rules all, and -without whose notice not a sparrow falls.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_123">123</div> -<p>The great Empress, who could control herself so -well, could not fail to recognize how incomplete her -efforts toward governing and improving the condition -of her people had been thus far, and to welcome -a peace which would enable her to continue -the work, and, in devoting all her energies to remove -the devastation caused by the war, find a balm -for the wound in her own heart which the loss of -Silesia had inflicted.</p> -<p>It would be doing Maria Theresa a great injustice, -however, to imply that she to whom the condition -of the government and its evils had been so clear, -even during her father’s lifetime, had not profited -by the occasional intervals of peace which the -country had enjoyed, and worked zealously for their -reform until war again turned the ploughshare into -the sword. It was impossible for her to recognize -defects without endeavoring to remedy them. We -have already seen how resolutely she checked the -luxury and extravagance of the Court after her -father’s death; how, taught by bitter experience the -need of reformation in the army, she had strengthened -and prepared it for the long and desperate -struggle that was to come; how she had increased -the country’s revenues and readjusted the system -of taxation upon which she depended for means to -defend her right to the throne; and with what -unerring judgment she had chosen the best men to -carry out her plans, and placed them where their -abilities would be of most service to the country.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_124">124</div> -<p>Her character and talents especially fitted her for -the position she occupied as sovereign of a great -Empire in need of reorganization, for to her clear -insight, her habit of going to the root of things, -and her wide sympathies, was added a calmness and -strength of purpose which enabled her to achieve -great results without rashness or precipitancy. Her -reforms indeed were brought about so gradually, -and newer and more effective methods succeeded -the old so naturally, that they aroused no opposition, -and were accomplished with none of that -confusion which more abrupt and violent changes -might have caused. She took great pleasure in -watching the fruitful results of these efforts, without -any desire for that personal glory which is often so -cheaply obtained. There was, in truth, no department -of public affairs which was not in need of -reconstruction, no part of the national life where -she did not find something to rectify; but nothing -escaped her, even to the smallest detail. Everywhere, -from the army down to her own domestic -service, the results of her conscientious care and -judicious supervision were visible.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_125">125</div> -<p>In all matters of learning and education Maria -Theresa depended on the help of Van Swieten, an -eminent and accomplished Dutch physician. She -had appointed him to a position in Court, but soon -recognized his profound knowledge in all branches -of learning, and at once assigned him to a field -where his talents could be utilized, not only in the -sanitary administration of her realm, but also in -other departments in which his services were quite -as valuable.</p> -<p>Under the personal supervision of the Empress, -Van Swieten undertook the reconstruction of the -whole system of education and the reorganization of -the Imperial library. Many schools and institutions -were established, including one for the study of -Oriental languages, rendered necessary by the increasing -importance of Austria’s relations with the -East, one for veterinary surgery, and an academy -for young noblemen. Though deeply and sincerely -devout, Maria Theresa realized that the ecclesiastical -power and authority required restriction, and that -the condition of the monasteries was sadly in need -of reform. Much as she accomplished for higher -culture, the education of the lower classes was no -less important to her; for Austria had not kept pace -with general progress in this direction, and dense -ignorance prevailed among them. Her chief adviser -and supporter in this work was Joseph von -Sonnenfels, whose suggestion, “It is not enough to -have public schools in the large cities; not even -the smallest village should be without one,” was -warmly approved by Maria Theresa, the mother of -her country. The Normal School in Vienna set an -example for other cities, which was soon followed -in the so-called “low country.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_126">126</div> -<p>If the abolishment of the rack, with its inhuman -and unchristian tortures, had been Maria Theresa’s -only contribution to higher civilization in her Empire, -she would have deserved the thanks, not only of her -own people but of all mankind; but while this was -her most notable act, there was no department of -life, no branch of the government, that did not bear -witness to her noble qualities of head and heart or -feel the influence of her beneficent power. She loved -and fostered music, and among the masters who -shed a lustre over that period the great names of -Gluck, Haydn, and Mozart will testify to her unfailing -interest in this art; while the branches of -painting and sculpture claimed no less a share of -her patronage and support.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_127">127</div> -<p>It is useless to attempt here to go into all the -details of her various achievements, but one subject -must be mentioned which deeply involved the -welfare of the people and of the country,—that of -agriculture, trade, and commerce. Her efforts to -improve agricultural conditions were necessarily -rudimental, and results were left for the future to -develop; but it was Maria Theresa’s sowing that -made the harvest of later times possible, and she -prepared the way by founding schools for the study -of agriculture, thus providing opportunities for the -farmers to secure larger knowledge of their avocation. -Another great step was the realization of the need -of a system of drainage, now so indispensable to -human welfare, but which at that time had received -little attention, especially in Austria. She instituted -a thorough study of the subject, had large areas of -land drained and made productive, thus providing -more farms for the people. She also built new villages -in the sparsely populated districts of Hungary, -Galicia, Bohemia, and Banat,<a class="fn" id="fr_19" href="#fn_19">[19]</a> and settled them with -industrious workmen; founded the Economical -Society of Lower Austria, and instituted annual -prize examinations. She imported merino sheep -from Spain, and had them distributed among sheep-raisers. -In Hungary and Bohemia, where there -were large flax fields, apiaries were started. Fine -breeds of horses were raised for use by the cavalry. -In these and other ways the resources of the country -were developed for its own enrichment, instead of -going out of the country for the advantage of foreign -treasuries. Trade and commerce were facilitated by -the building of new roads and canals. Rivers were -made more navigable; new markets were opened up -and seaports were improved and increased, while -home industries and manufactures were encouraged -by the erection of factories.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_128">128</div> -<p>In short, the field over which her watchful supervision -extended was boundless, and yet every detail -received her personal attention. All reports were -made to her directly, and she discussed matters of -all kinds with those who were experts, often surprising -them by her accurate knowledge and apt suggestions. -And yet with all these cares the Empress -still found time to perform the various duties of -government with unabated zeal and energy, and -devoted herself to her family, the care of which was -a sacred mission to her, with the utmost fidelity.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_129">129</div> -<p>As we take a glance into this august family circle -it is difficult to believe it that of an Emperor and -Empress, such an atmosphere of simplicity and -sincere affection prevailed there. Maria Theresa -presided over it with all the womanly charm and -devotion of a true German housewife and mother. -A handsomer royal couple could scarcely have been -found. Their married life had been very happy, -for they were one in heart and mind. She was -devoted to her husband and he to her, although -her father had not favored the attachment. The -Emperor Francis II was calm and deliberate; -Maria Theresa high-spirited and quick-tempered, -but firm and decided, and full of life and vivacity. -Their natures therefore complemented each other, -the Emperor’s placidity and easy-going disposition -often acting as a beneficial restraint. When a disagreement -occurred between them,—something that -will happen in the happiest married life,—the -Empress would burst out impetuously, while her -consort only grumbled in his beard; but the chief -lady-in-waiting, Countess Fuchs, who shared the -confidence of both, usually succeeded in soon restoring -peace, for their misunderstandings never -lasted long.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_130">130</div> -<p>The Emperor rarely concerned himself with -matters that did not appeal to his own tastes and -inclinations, and took no part in affairs of state except -at the request of his wife. At such times he -gave his advice gladly and cheerfully, for no one -could resist the covert flattery of Maria Theresa’s -entreaties. Their marriage was blessed with sixteen -children, living bonds which united and made the -happiness of their lives, and whose love and affection -were a refuge to the Empress from the cares of -state. How often must her weary brain and overburdened -soul have found rest and comfort in the -embraces of her children, especially the younger -ones, always nearest to a mother’s heart, while she -drew fresh strength and courage from their pure and -innocent affection! The difference in the natures of -the imperial pair was of advantage also in the training -of their children, for the father’s unfailing patience -and good nature often acted as a check on the mother’s -hasty and imperious temper. At the same time -there was no friction, for they were of one mind as -to the importance of implanting the right principles; -the Emperor insisting on strict obedience, propriety -of behavior, and order (which was especially dear to -him), while their moral and religious training fell to -the share of the Empress, who never appeared lovelier -or more interesting than in the privacy of her -family life.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_131">131</div> -<p>The education of their numerous children was -the most sacred duty and interest of both parents, -and their teachers were selected with the greatest -care. The Empress devoted especial attention to -the education of her oldest son and successor, -Joseph, particularly in the various languages -spoken in her dominions. She knew from her -own experience how strong is the bond between a -sovereign and his people when he can speak with -them in their mother-tongue. As a mark of her -gratitude toward Hungary, she gave her dear “Seppel” -(her familiar name for the Archduke Joseph), -as steward of his household, the brave Hungarian -Prince Bathiany, a man well fitted for the position -and much esteemed and beloved by his own -countrymen. No detail was neglected in the care -bestowed on the management of the royal children, -and the Empress’ strict orders that they should -“always be courteous to servants and inferiors” -might well serve as an example to all mothers. -This simple and beautiful family life, which had -been Maria Theresa’s chief joy and happiness, was -sadly shattered by the death of the husband to -whom she was so tenderly attached. It cast a deep -shadow over the rest of her life, and from the day -of his death she never laid aside her mourning.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_132">132</div> -<p>How richly Maria Theresa rewarded faithful service, -aside from the honors or orders she conferred, -is shown by the friendly relations between herself -and the men she most valued and esteemed. She -called old Count Palffy her “father”; the brave and -loyal Khevenhüller, her “knight”; gallant Traun, -her “shield”; and so on. Of the honored Count -Chotek she once wrote: “I have had news from -him every day, and was anxious for two days lest -the worst might happen. When he is able to be -out of bed, I shall visit him.” Again, when Count -Chotek had begged from the Empress the services -of the Court physician, Dr. Kessler, for his sick -child, she wrote back at once:</p> -<p>“Thank God that he is to be in such good -hands as Kessler’s. It can be easily arranged, and -the letter will be sent to Van Swieten as a matter -of form. I could not sleep last night for thinking -of the charming child, and Van Swieten was much -affected when he learned from me of his condition, -but cheered up at once when he found that Kessler -had charge of him. I hope he will not be marked -as his brother Humelauer was,<a class="fn" id="fr_20" href="#fn_20">[20]</a> and that Kessler -will let me know every day how he is, for I am -deeply interested.”</p> -<div class="img" id="pic4"> -<img src="images/p5.jpg" alt="" width="724" height="988" /> -<p class="caption">“<i>Be comforted, my good woman, for I have come to see you</i>”</p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_133">133</div> -<p>Once when she was at Laxenburg<a class="fn" id="fr_21" href="#fn_21">[21]</a> it chanced -that a poor woman, one hundred and eight years of -age, who was well known to her, and had not -missed for many years the usual ceremony of the -foot-washing on Maundy Thursday, was unable -that year to be present, and bitterly lamented that -she was not to see her beloved Empress. Maria -Theresa heard of this, and was so touched by it that -she went herself to the dame’s miserable dwelling.</p> -<p>“You were grieving,” she said, with her winning -smile, “because you could not see me? Well, be -comforted then, my good woman, for I have come -to see you,” and seating herself by the sick-bed she -talked for some time with the delighted old woman -in her kindly and sympathetic way, leaving when -she departed a sum of money for her care and support. -Nor did she ever afterward lose sight of her.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_134">134</div> -<p>An event which happened at the time of the birth -of one of her grandsons is deeply graven on the -hearts of the Austrians. She was at the theatre on -the evening of February 19, 1768, when a message was -brought to her announcing the birth of a son to her -daughter-in-law, the wife of her son Leopold, Grand -Duke of Tuscany. Overjoyed with the news, she -quickly rose, and leaning far over the railing of her -box she waved the paper and announced to the -audience, “Leopold has a boy!” It may be -imagined what applause followed these words, so -clearly illustrating the familiar relations existing -between her and her people.</p> -<p>But Maria Theresa’s declining years unfortunately -were destined to be no less stormy than the -rest of her life had been. The death of her husband, -coming so suddenly and unexpectedly, was a -crushing blow, but in so far as she felt the need of -a man’s help she depended on her son Joseph. She -made him co-regent with her, not because his -youthful strength and energy were necessary to her, -but because circumstances made it desirable. Many -political complications had arisen—notably the partition -of Poland, against which Maria Theresa, -with her strong sense of right and justice, protested -vigorously. The mere mention of it sufficed to -arouse her furious indignation. Although the -Poles had brought it upon themselves, and perhaps -deserved no better fate, she felt sure that only evil -could result from such a step, as a declaration she -made over her own signature when the affair was -concluded shows. It ran thus: “I agree to it since -such a number of wise men have so decreed, but -long after I am dead time will show the bitter consequences!” -The whole affair caused her “great -sorrow,” as she herself expressed it, and made her -feel “more anxious than anything has ever done; -indeed I am ashamed to have witnessed it!”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_135">135</div> -<p>The Emperor Joseph’s political views were decidedly -opposed to those of his great mother, and -necessarily so, perhaps, owing to the changes in conditions -and circumstances. This was especially the -case in the matter of the Bavarian succession, which -cast a shadow over the Empress’ later years. On the -death of the Elector of Bavaria without issue, Joseph -laid claim to his dominions; but Maria Theresa recognized -the weakness of these claims, although at the -same time she strongly resented Frederick II’s interference -and opposition to her son’s plans. She -shrank from the prospect of another war, but the -situation became so involved and threatening that a -conflict seemed inevitable. Preparations for war -were actually begun, when the Peace of Teschen<a class="fn" id="fr_22" href="#fn_22">[22]</a> -put an end to the danger, much to Maria Theresa’s -relief as well as satisfaction, for she had practically -been the means of bringing it about.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_136">136</div> -<p>Her great influence and popularity remained undiminished -to the last; nor did age destroy the -charm of her personality, although increasing stoutness -caused her much annoyance and trouble. Her -mind and heart retained all their youthful vigor, -however, nor did she ever lose her kindly interest -and sympathy for those about her.</p> -<p>On the eighteenth of November, 1780, a singular -accident occurred to the Empress. Her grief for her -dead husband was deep and sincere, and she faithfully -observed every anniversary of his death, often -going to his tomb in the imperial vault. As she -walked with great difficulty, however, and the climbing -of stairs was especially unpleasant to her, she -had had a sort of seat contrived in which she could -be raised or lowered easily and slowly into the vault. -Upon her visit to the tomb on this occasion she -had almost reached the floor of the vault when the -strong rope which lowered her broke. She was not -injured except from the shock, but this affected her -all the more, for she regarded the incident as an -omen that she too would soon be consigned to that -silent place of rest.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_137">137</div> -<p>Indeed, on the very next day, possibly as the result -of a chill contracted in the tomb, she was seized -with convulsive attacks of coughing, which she at -first considered of little consequence; but the spasms -grew so much worse that suffocation was feared. -Bleeding brought little relief, and pleurisy soon developed, -increasing her distress so that she was -forced to sit up in an arm-chair. She bore her sufferings -patiently and uncomplainingly, however. -Only once, after a severe paroxysm of coughing and -struggle for breath, she said, “God grant the end -may come soon, for I do not know how I can bear -it any longer,” and to the Archduke Maximilian -she remarked, “Thus far my courage and firmness -have not deserted me; pray God, upon Whom all -my thoughts are fixed, that I may keep them to -the last!”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_138">138</div> -<p>The malady increased, and a premonition of approaching -death seized her. She called for the last -sacrament, like a good Catholic, and then summoned -to her bedside all the members of her family who -were in Vienna.</p> -<p>“Dear children,” she said, “I have received the -holy sacrament and know there is no hope of recovery -for me. Remember what care and pains your -father, the late Emperor, and I have bestowed upon -your education; how we have always loved you -and tried to do everything for you that could add -to your happiness. All that I have in the world -belongs to you,” turning to the Emperor Joseph, -“so I need make no disposition of anything. -Only my children belong to me, and always will. -I commit them to your care. Be a father to them! -I shall die content if I have your promise to watch -over them truly and faithfully.”</p> -<p>To the other children she said, “Henceforth -you must look upon the Emperor as your sovereign; -obey and honor him as such. Be guided by -his counsel; trust and love him with all your hearts, -that he may have cause to bestow on you his care, -his friendship, and his affection.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_139">139</div> -<p>Then she quietly and calmly bestowed a maternal -blessing upon each of her children, absent as well as -present. Deeply moved, they gave way to their -grief in sobs and tears, which affected Maria Theresa -most painfully, but she controlled herself and said -to them firmly:</p> -<p>“I think it would be better for you to go into -the next room and compose yourselves.”</p> -<p>Even at that solemn moment she was still busy -with affairs of government, and she signed several -state documents with her own hand. She thanked -her faithful Kaunitz for his loyal service to her, -and also charged the Hungarian chancellor, Esterhazy, -to convey her thanks to his people for all -their loyalty, devotion, and help in time of need, at -the same time bidding the Emperor Joseph ever to -bear this in mind.</p> -<p>Joseph never left her side. She suffered greatly -from distress for breath, and at eight o’clock cried -out: “Open the window!” at the same time rising -from her chair. The Emperor supported her gently -in his arms, and asked, “Where does Your Majesty -wish to go?”</p> -<p>Looking upward, she cried, “To thee! I come!” -and with these last words sank back and expired.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_140">140</div> -<p>Her death occurred November 29, 1780, in the -sixty-fourth year of her age. Four days afterward -she was laid by the side of her husband in the imperial -vault of the Capuchins in Vienna. Her death -plunged the whole country into mourning. Few -have departed from life so beloved and so honored.</p> -<p>Frederick the Great wrote of her: “The death -of the Empress has grieved me much; she honored -her throne and her sex. I have made war upon -her, but I have never been her enemy!”</p> -<h2>Footnotes</h2> -<div class="fnblock"><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_1" href="#fr_1">[1]</a>The term “Pragmatic Sanction” was first used in the case of decrees issued -by Byzantine emperors with reference to the affairs of their provinces. It was -next applied to the limitations of the spiritual authority of the Pope in European -countries. In the sense in which it is used above it is applied to the succession of -sovereignty. The Pragmatic Sanction of Charles VI is the most famous of all. -It had three provisions, (1) that the lands belonging to the house of Austria should -remain indivisible; (2) that in the absence of male heirs they should devolve upon -Charles’ daughters, the oldest of whom was Maria Theresa; and (3) that in case -of the extinction of the line, the inheritance should pass to the daughters of Joseph -I and their descendants. Charles issued this Sanction in 1713. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_2" href="#fr_2">[2]</a>Maria Theresa, Archduchess of Austria, Queen of Hungary and Bohemia, and -Empress of Germany, was the daughter of Charles VI of Austria and Elizabeth -Christina of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel. After the death of Archduke Leopold, her -only brother, she became sole heiress of the Austrian dominions in 1724, married -Francis Stephen of Lorraine in 1736, came to the throne in 1740, her husband -being declared co-regent. She died in 1780. Of her sixteen children, ten reached -maturity. Her sons were Joseph II, who succeeded his father as Holy Roman Emperor -in 1765; Emperor Leopold II; Ferdinand, Duke of Modena, and Maximilian, -Elector of Cologne. Her most famous daughter was Marie Antoinette, -wife of Louis XVI of France, one of the many victims of the French Revolution. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_3" href="#fr_3">[3]</a>Prince Eugene, one of the greatest of the world’s generals, was born at Paris, -October 18, 1663, and died at Vienna, April 21, 1736. He entered the service -of Austria in 1683; defeated the Turks in 1697; at the outbreak of the Spanish -war of the succession invaded Italy; joined Marlborough in Germany; and defeated -the French and Bavarians at Blenheim in 1704. In 1706 he drove the French -out of Italy, and in 1708 won the great victories at Oudenarde, Lille, and Malplaquet. -War breaking out afresh with Turkey, he won the great battle at Belgrade -against overwhelming odds, and forced the Turks to accept peace. The year of -Maria Theresa’s nuptials, 1736, was the year of his death. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_4" href="#fr_4">[4]</a>Frederick contended that he inherited a lawful claim to Silesia, and that -the Pragmatic Sanction, which his father had recognized, referred only to lands -belonging to the house of Austria. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_5" href="#fr_5">[5]</a>Frederick offered to aid Maria Theresa against all her enemies if she would -concede his claims upon Silesia, but the Queen haughtily declined, and even intimated -that Frederick was a robber. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_6" href="#fr_6">[6]</a>Count Maximilian Ulysses von Browne, an Austrian field-marshal, was born -at Basel, Switzerland, Oct. 23, 1705, and died at Prague, Bohemia, June 26, -1757. He was a commander both in the War of the Austrian Succession and the -Seven Years’ War. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_7" href="#fr_7">[7]</a>Count Kurt Christoph Schwerin, a German general, was born at Wusecken, -Pomerania, Oct. 26, 1684, and was killed at the battle of Prague, May 6, 1757. -He was made a field-marshal by Frederick the Great, and won the important victory -of Mollwitz, a Silesian village. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_8" href="#fr_8">[8]</a>This refers to the time when the Hungarians revolted and called upon the -Turks to help them. The latter, under Kara Mustapha, besieged Vienna in 1683, -which was only saved by an army of Poles and Germans under Sobieski (John III, -King of Poland), in which Kolonitzsch and Stahremberg were conspicuous. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_9" href="#fr_9">[9]</a>Karl Albrecht, Elector of Bavaria, subsequently Charles VII, was born at -Brussels, Aug. 6, 1697, and died at Munich, Jan. 20, 1745. He was a -claimant of the Austrian inheritance, took part in the War of the Succession, was -proclaimed King of Bohemia in 1741, and crowned Emperor in 1742. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_10" href="#fr_10">[10]</a>Hans Joachim von Zieten was a famous cavalry officer in the Prussian army, -and won distinction from a march with his hussars in 1745. He decided three of -Frederick’s victories,—Leuthen, Liegnitz, and Torgau. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_11" href="#fr_11">[11]</a>Count Raimondo Montecuculi was born at Modena, Italy, in 1608, and -died at Linz, Austria, in 1680. He served with great distinction in the Thirty -Years’ War; commanded the Austrian army which was sent to Poland against the -Swedes and Transylvanians, 1657-60; gained a great battle over the Turks at St. -Gotthard in 1664; and fought Turenne and Condé on the Rhine from 1672 to -1675. He wrote a famous treatise on the art of war, from which the saying above -attributed to him is quoted. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_12" href="#fr_12">[12]</a>Kurmark the old name for the larger portion of Brandenburg, Prussia. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_13" href="#fr_13">[13]</a>Philip V of Spain, the grandson of Louis XIV of France, was born at Versailles, -Dec. 19, 1683; died at Madrid, July 9, 1746. He was called the Duke of -Anjou until his succession to the Spanish throne, which caused the War of the -Spanish Succession. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_14" href="#fr_14">[14]</a>Ferdinand VI, born Sept. 13, 1712, was the son of Philip V, and succeeded his -father in 1746. He was of a weak constitution and melancholy, and relinquished the -affairs of government almost entirely to his counsellors. His melancholy eventually -developed into insanity. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_15" href="#fr_15">[15]</a>Wenzel Anton Kaunitz, Count of Rietberg, was one of the most famous of -European diplomatists. He was born at Vienna, Jan. 2, 1711. His first mission -was the formation of an alliance of Austria, Sardinia, and Great Britain against the -Bourbons. He laid the foundation of his fame at the Congress of Aix-la-Chapelle -in 1748. Between 1750 and 1752 he concluded a secret alliance between France -and Austria. In 1756 he was made Chancellor of the Netherlands and Italy, and -at the partition of Poland in 1772 he secured Galicia for Austria. He directed the -affairs of Austria for more than forty years, and was specially prominent in his -resistance to the power of Prussia. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_16" href="#fr_16">[16]</a>“Prince Folly.” -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_17" href="#fr_17">[17]</a>Madame Pompadour had great influence in the Court of Louis XV of France, -and virtually dictated the policy of the government during this period. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_18" href="#fr_18">[18]</a>The Czarina died Jan. 5, 1762. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_19" href="#fr_19">[19]</a>Banat is a part of Southern Hungary between the Maros on the north, the -Theiss on the west, and the Danube on the south. It was part of the “Military -Frontier” which Maria Theresa established. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_20" href="#fr_20">[20]</a>Smallpox was epidemic at this time in Vienna. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_21" href="#fr_21">[21]</a>Laxenburg is a village about nine miles from Vienna, where there was a castle -and royal park. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_22" href="#fr_22">[22]</a>Teschen is a manufacturing town in Austrian Silesia. The treaty concluded -there May 13, 1779, between Austria and Prussia, terminated the War of the -Bavarian Succession, and is known as “The Peace of Teschen.” -</div> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_141">141</div> -<h2 id="c8">Appendix</h2> -<p>The following is a chronological statement of the more -important events in the reign of Maria Theresa:</p> -<table class="center" summary=""> -<tr><td>1717 </td><td>Birth of Maria Theresa.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1731 </td><td>Acceptance of the Pragmatic Sanction.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1733 </td><td>War with France on behalf of King of Poland.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1736 </td><td>Marriage of Maria Theresa to Francis of Lorraine.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1739 </td><td>Peace with Turkey.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1740 </td><td>Death of Emperor Charles VI.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1740 </td><td>Succession of Maria Theresa.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1745 </td><td>Francis I elected Emperor.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1741-45 </td><td>War of the Austrian Succession.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1745 </td><td>Peace concluded at Dresden.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1745-48 </td><td>War with France.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1748 </td><td>Peace concluded at Aix-la-Chapelle.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1757-63 </td><td>Seven Years’ War.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1763 </td><td>Peace concluded at Hubertsburg.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1765 </td><td>Death of Emperor Francis I.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1765 </td><td>Succession of Joseph II.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1772 </td><td>Partition of Poland.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1778-79 </td><td>War of the Bavarian Succession concluded, without bloodshed, by Peace of Teschen.</td></tr> -<tr><td>1780 </td><td>Death of Maria Theresa.</td></tr> -</table> -<h2 id="c9"><span class="h2line1">LIFE STORIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE</span></h2> -<p class="center"><i>BIOGRAPHICAL ROMANCES -<br /><span class="small">TRANSLATED FROM THE GERMAN BY</span></i> -<br /><span class="large">GEORGE P. UPTON</span></p> -<p class="center small"><i>A new, interesting, and very useful series that will be found especially suitable for school libraries and for supplementary reading</i></p> -<p>The books in this series are translated from the German, because -in that country a specialty is made of really desirable -reading for the young. Eight titles are now ready and more will -follow.</p> -<p>Their simplicity and accuracy make them very useful for every -school library in the grades.</p> -<p>For parents who feel disposed to give their children books that -provide a mild element of historical information, as well as first-class -entertainment, the little books will prove a veritable find.</p> -<p>The “life-stories” retain the story form throughout, and embody -in each chapter a stirring event in the life of the hero or the action -of the time. The dramatis personæ are actual characters, and the -facts in the main are historically correct. They are therefore both -entertaining and instructive, and present biography in its most attractive -form for the young.</p> -<p class="center smaller">A FULL LIST OF THE TITLES IS GIVEN ON THE NEXT PAGE</p> -<p>The work of translation has been done by Mr. George P. -Upton, whose “Memories” and Lives of Beethoven, Haydn, and -Liszt, from the German of Max Mueller and Dr. Nohl, have been -so successful.</p> -<p class="center small"><i>Each is a small square 16mo in uniform binding, with four illustrations. Each 60 cents net.</i></p> -<p class="center"><i><span class="small">FULL LIST OF TITLES</span></i> -<br /><span class="sc">Frederick the Great</span> -<br /><span class="sc">The Maid of Orleans</span> -<br /><span class="sc">The Little Dauphin</span> -<br /><span class="sc">Maria Theresa</span> -<br /><span class="sc">William Tell</span> -<br /><span class="sc">Mozart</span> -<br /><span class="sc">Beethoven</span> -<br /><span class="sc">Johann Sebastian Bach</span></p> -<p>“These narratives have been well calculated for youthful minds -past infancy, and Mr. Upton’s version is easy and idiomatic.”—<i>The -Nation.</i></p> -<p>“He is a delightful writer, clearness, strength, and sincerity marking -everything to which he puts his hand. He has translated these little -histories from the German in a way that the reader knows has conserved -all the strength of the original.”—<i>Chicago Evening Post.</i></p> -<p>“They are written in simple, graphic style, handsomely illustrated, -and will be read with delight by the young people for whose benefit -they have been prepared.”—<i>Chicago Tribune.</i></p> -<p>“The work of translation seems to have been well done, and these -little biographies are very well fitted for the use of young people.... -The volumes are compact and neat, and are illustrated sufficiently but -not too elaborately.”—<i>Springfield Republican.</i></p> -<p>“These books are most entertaining and vastly more wholesome than -the story books with which the appetites of young readers are for the -most part satisfied.”—<i>Indianapolis Journal.</i></p> -<p class="center"><i>OF ALL BOOKSELLERS OR OF THE PUBLISHERS</i></p> -<div class="box"> -<p class="center">LIFE STORIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE</p> -<p class="center"><i>Translated from the German by -<br /><span class="small">GEORGE P. UPTON</span></i></p> -<p class="center">8 Vols. Ready</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Beethoven</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Mozart</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Bach</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Maid of Orleans</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">William Tell</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">The Little Dauphin</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Frederick the Great</span></dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Maria Theresa</span></dt></dl> -<p class="center"><i>Each, with 4 Illustrations, 60 cents net</i> -<br />A. C. McCLURG & CO., CHICAGO</p> -</div> -<h2>Transcriber’s Notes</h2> -<ul> -<li>Copyright notice provided as in the original—this e-text is public domain in the country of publication.</li> -<li>In the text versions, delimited italics text in _underscores_ (the HTML version reproduces the font form of the printed book.)</li> -<li>Silently corrected palpable typos; left non-standard spellings and dialect unchanged.</li> -</ul> - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Maria Therese (Life Stories for Young -People), by W. D. 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