CRISTO RAUL.ORG

READING HALL THE DOORS OF WISDOM

THE

FOUNDING OF THE GERMAN EMPIRE BY WILLIAM I.

BASED CHIEFLY UPON PRUSSIAN STATE DOCUMENTS

BY

HEINRICH VON SYBEL

BOOK I. RETROSPECT.

I. THE EARLIEST TIMES. II. AUSTRIA AND PRUSSIA. III. FOREIGN RULE — WAR OF INDEPENDENCE . IV. FIRST YEARS OF THE DIET. V. INFLUENCE OF THE REVOLUTION OF 18o0. VI. FREDERICK WILLIAM IV

BOOK II. FIRST ATTEMPT AT GERMAN UNITY.

1. THE MARCH REVOLUTION. 2. THE PARTIES. 3. NATIONAL ASSEMBLY AND IMPERIAL REGENT. 4. COMPLICATIONS.

BOOK III. FAILURE OF THE PROJECTS FOR GERMAN UNITY.

1. SCHLESWIG-HOLSTEIN. 2. THE PARLIAMENT AND THE POWERS. 3. THE QUESTION OF THE SUPREME AUTHORIY. 4. THE CATASTROPHE

BOOK IV. THE PRUSSIAN UNION.

I. LEAGUE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS. 2. THE COUNTER-LEAGUE. 3 . RUSSIAN INFLUENCE. . THE CRISIS

BOOK V. REVIVAL OF THE CONFEDERATE DIET.

I. COUNT BRANDENBURG IN WARSAW

Brandenburg's Instructions. —Brandenburg and Czar Nicholas. — Russia and the Holstein Question. —The King and the Confederate Diet. — Brandenburg and the Emperor. — Negotiations with Schwarzenberg. — Dis- cussion of tlie Hessian Question. — Temporary Agreement. — Brandenburg's Wish for Peace. — Radowitz desires War. — The King desires a Compromise. — The King leaves it to the Ministry. — Brandenburg's pro- posed Despatch. — The Ministry decide for Peace.

II. OLMUTZ 3

Alarming News. — Prussian Mobilization. — Schwarzenberg's threatening Note. — Skirmish at Bronzell. — Abolition of the Union Constitution. — New Difficulties. — Prussian Address from the Throne. — Reply of Austria. — Discussion in the Ministry. — Austria's Ulti- matum. — The King's Speech. — The King's Letter. — Departure for Olmiitz. —Detailed Decisions. — Question of Disarmament. — Results of the Agreement. — Ratifi- cation of the Agreement. — Criticism of the Agree- ment. — Probable Results of a War.

III. THE DRESDEN CONGRESS

Plans of Reform. — Opening of the Congress. — The Executive.— Schwarzenberg and Manteuffel.—Attempts at Reconciliation. — The Decisions of the Committees. — Schwarzenberg' s Wishes. — Objection to Austria's Proposition. — Conference over the Presidency. — Frustration of Austria's Plans. — Prussia's Standpoint. — Prussia proposes an Alliance. — Shall the Committee be heard ? — Close of the Congress,

IV. THE NEW CONFEDERATE DIET

Former Democratic Demands. — The Reaction in Austria. — Tlie Change in Austria. — Question of a Charter in Prussia. — Tlie Reaction in Prussia. —Feudal and Clerical Relations. — Motions of the Two Great Powers.—The Reaction Commission.— Beginning of the Hessian Chastisement.— Peucker's Attempts to mediate. —Continuance of Oppression. —Arbitrary Measures. — Further Measures. — The Confederate Commissioners. —Everything left to the Great Powers. —Draught of a New Constitution. —Representation of the Estates. — The Report of the Committee. — Difference of Opinions. —New Constitution of Hesse-Cassel.

BOOK VI. GERMANY AT THE TIME OF THE CRIMEAN WAR.

I. DUALISM IN THE CONFEDERATION

Parties in the Diet. — Otto von Bismarck. — Schonhausen. — Frederick William IV. and Bismarck. —Bis- marck's Natural Talents. — Bismarck's political Principles. — Bismarck in the Diet. — Quarrel over the Ger- man Fleet. — Sale of the German Fleet. —Affairs in Hanover. Hanover and the Tariff Union. —Prussian Views. — Change of Government in Hanover. —Austria's Proposals. —Count Buol. — Commercial Treaty with Austria. — Coup d'Etat in Hanover.

II. THE NEW AUSTRO-PRUSSIAN ALLIANCE

Growth of Russian Influence. — Russia's Plans in the East. —Opposition of the other Powers. — Russia's Isolation. — Austria and the Western Powers. — Difference of Opinions in Prussia. — Opposing Sentiments in Prussia. — The King's Standpoint. — The Mission of Pourtales. — Prussia's Neutrality. —Prussia's Proposition to Austria. — Mission of General von Hess. — Austria's Proposal. —Negotiations in Berlin. — Criticism of the Treaty. —Attitude of the Lesser States. — Meeting at Tetschen

III. DISCORD

Negotiations about the Evacuation. — Austria and the Western Powers. — The Four Requisitions. — Attitude of Prussia and Napoleon. — Prussia's Fears. — Buol's Offer. — Conclusion of the Alliance. — The King's Di- lemma. — Prussia and the three Allies. — Buol's Despatches. — Prussia's Reply. — Refusal of German Assistance.

IV. RESULTS

Accession of Alexander II. — England's Proposition. — Drouyn De Lhuys. — Drouyn and the Emperor. — Character of Napoleon. — Napoleon's Policy. — Termination of the Conferences. — Austria's Despatch. — The Paris Congress. — The Satisfaction of the Lesser States.

V. THE CLOSE OF THE REIGN OF FREDERICK WILLIAM IV

Differences among the Powers. — Bavarian Proposals in the Diet. — Beust's Memorial. — The Neuchatel Complication. — Excitement of Frederick William. — Prussia's Demands rejected. — The King wins Napoleon's Support. — Switzerland persists in her Refusal. — The King convenes the Diet. — Napoleon's Action. — Prussia's Decision. — Austria opposes Prussia. — Switzerland decides to yield. — Conference concerning Neuchatel. — Propositions of the Four Powers. — Tire King's Hesitation. — Conclusion of the Compact. — Herr von Beust. — Herr von Meysenbug. — Prussia's Answer to Beust. — Illness of Frederick William.

BOOK VII. FIRST YEARS OF THE RULE OF KING WILLIAM I

I. BEGINNING OF THE REGENCY

Prince William of Prussia. — Political Principles of the Prince. — The Prince's Devotion to his Duties. — Bismarck's Opinion of the Prince. — Deputy or Regent ? Rudolph von Auerswald. — A Regency Advocated. — The Decision. — Hohenzollern-Auerswald Ministry. — Bavarian Episode. — The Elections. — The European Situation. — Austria and Prussia. — Schleswig-Holstein.

II. THE ITALIAN WAR

Franco-Sardinian Alliance. —Efforts to bring on War. — Austria's Appeal to Germany. — Public Opinion in Germany divided. —Attempts at Mediation. —Prussia's Neutrality. —Prussia's Negotiations at Vienna. — Prussia states her Position. —Progress of the War. —Prussian Preparations. — Preliminaries of Peace. — Popular Movement in Central Italy. — Criticism of Prussia's Course. —Reaction in Germany. —The German National Association.

III. QUESTIONS OF REFORM IN GERMANY

Dissatisfaction with Prussia. — Views of the different States. —Motion directed against Prussia. — The Hessian Constitution. — Usedom criticises the Diet's Action. — Prussia accepts Usedom's Motion. —Objections in South Germany. — Second Report of the Committee. — Decree of March 24, 1860. — Increased Agitation in Italy. — Policy of Napoleon. — Napoleon's Advances to Prussia. — Assembly of Princes in Baden. — Napoleon in Baden. — Disagreement among the Princes. — The King of Bavaria and the Regent. — The Prince and Francis Joseph. —Unity of Italy. — The Sovereigns at Warsaw.

IV. CONTEST OVER THE MILITARY REFORMS IN PRUSSIA

Military Reforms. —Dissatisfaction in Prussia. — Reasons for Military Reform. —Plan of the Prince Regent. — The Regent's Speech. — Opposition in the Parliament. — Patow's Provisional Arrangement. — The Reform carried out. —The Upper House and the Throne. —The Opposition becomes more bitter.

V. CONFLICTS IN ALL DIRECTIONS

Defence of the Coasts. — Hesse-Cassel. —King William at Ostend. — William I. crowned at Konigsberg. — Beust's Proposition for Reform. — The Proposition rejected. — Roggenbach's Outline. — Austria's Position. —Indignation against Prussia. — The Party of Progress in Prussia. — The Opposition in the Lower House. — The Difficulties increase. —The Hohenzollern Ministry resign.

BOOK VIII. BEGINNING OF THE MINISTRY OF BISMARCK.

I. STRUGGLE OVER THE CONSTITUTION

Affairs in Hesse-Cassel. — General Willisen in Cassel. — Prussia's threatening Attitude. —Questions of Tariff. — Austria interferes. — Commercial Treaty with France. —Prussia recognizes Italy. —Prussia's Attitude. — Prussia's Position in Europe. — Opposition to the Military Reforms. — Debates in the Parliament. — The Principles involved. — Bismarck appointed Prime Minister. — The Upper House rejects the Budget. — Bis- marck's View of the Struggle. — Changes in the Cabinet. — Bismarck's Action in German Matters. — Bismarck and Count Karolyi. — Austria's Proposal rejected.

II. COMPLICATIONS IN POLAND

Napoleon III. and Poland. — State of Things in Poland. — Polish Parties, — The Marquis Wielopolski. — Wielopolski's Proposition. — Spread of Insubordination. — Methods of the National Committee. —Action of the Russian Government. — Wielopolski and the Radicals. — The National Committee. — Wielopolski in St. Petersburg. — Attempts at Assassination. — Plan of Recruiting at Will. —Details of the Plan. —Revolutionary Preparations. — Outbreak of the Revolt. — Plans of the Grand Duke. — View taken by Prussia.

III. PRUSSIA AND RUSSIA

Policy of France. — Prussia and the Polish Troubles. — Alvensleben at St. Petersburg. — State of Things in Poland. — Attitude of France. — The French Proposal. — Misunderstanding with Russia. — Gortschakoff thwarted. — The Lower House attacks Bismarck. — Weakness of the Government. — Attitude of England. — France negotiates with Austria. — Austria's Hesitation. — Austria joins the Western Powers. — Russia's Answer. —Affairs in Poland. — Tlie Three Powers again interfere. — Russia persists in her Attitude. — Prussia refuses to make War

IV. THE ASSEMBLY OF PRINCES AT FRANKFORT

Proposal of an Assembly of Princes. —The Austrian Memorial. — King William and Francis Joseph. — Prussia states her Position. — Bismarck's Criticism. — Preparations at Frankfort. — First Sitting of the Assembly. — Doings of the Assembly. —Debates about the Outlines. — Result of the Deliberations. — Prussian View of the Resolutions. —Views of the Foreign Powers. — France again draws near to Prussia. — Austria and the Lesser States.

BOOK IX. ORIGIN OF THE GERMAN-DANISH WAR.

I. THE OLD CONSTITUTION OF SCHLESWIGHOLSTEIN

Relation of the Duchies to Denmark. — Changes in the Conditions. — Frederick VI. of Denmark. — Provincial Estates. — The House of Gottorp. — Doiibts about the Succession. — Rise of the " Eider-Danish " Party. — The " Eider- Danish " Projects. — Intended Incorporation of Schleswig.

II. THE QUESTION OF THE SUCCESSION

Efforts of King Christian VIII. — Agitation by the Eider- Danes. —Motion of Algreen-Ussing. — Controversies about the Succession. — The Duke of Augustenburg. — Attitude of the Powers. — Attitude of France. — French Attempts at Intervention. —The Feeling in Germany. — View of Radowitz. — Resolution of the Diet in September, 1846. — Compromise suggested by Prussia. — King Frederick VII. — Excitement in Copenhagen. —The Ministry resigns. — Insurrection in the Duchies. — German "War with Denmark.

III. THE COMPACTS OF 1852

Summary of the Events of the War. — The Question of Succession. — Conference of Sovereigns at Wai-saw. — Views of the Powers. — Danish Propositions. — The Danish Minis-ter, Bluhme. — Bluhme's Proposals. — Change of Ministry in 1852. — Satisfaction of the Powers. — Negotiations with Augustenburg. — Bismarck and Augustenburg. — Danish Offers to Augustenburg. — New DiiSculties. — Dissatisfaction with Prussia. — The London Protocol of May 8, 1852. — Signing of the Protocol. — Criticism of the Compacts. — Danish Act of Succession. — Augustenburg.

IV. DENMARK BREAKS THE COMPACTS

Police Tyranny in the Duchies. — Tlie General Constitution. —Attitude of the German Powers. — Bismarck's Report. — Decree of Feb. 11, 1858. — Ostensible Submission of Denmark. — The Affair drags on. — Hall's Reply. — Exchange of Notes. — Foreign Opinions. — English Attempts to mediate. — The View taken in Denmark. — Hall answers the German Powers. — Bright Prospects for Denmark. — Proclamation of March 30, 1863. — Hopes of the "EiderDanes."

BOOK X. THE CHASTISEMENT BY THE CONFEDERATION.

I. THE CHASTISEMENT DECIDED UPON

Bismarck's View of the Situation. — The Diet and Public 0]iinion. — Bismarck's Action in the House. — Report of the Committees. — Demands of the Confederate Diet. — Martial Zeal in Denmark. — Various Sentiments in Ger- many. — King Frederick's Speech. — Bismarck and Baron Blixen. — Bismarck's Answer. — Bismarck writes to Vou Sydow. — King Frederick and His Ministers. — The New Constitution. —The Constitution adopted.

II. THE SUCCESSION AND THE CONSTITUTION

Napoleon's Project of a Congress. — Bad State of Things in Austria. — Accession of Christian IX. — The Feeling in the Duchies. — The Assembly at Kiel — King Christian's Hesitation. — Violent Excitement in Germany. — IMinisters, Chambers, and People agree. — Attitude of Austria and Prussia. — Bismarck's View. — Prussia anxious for the Chastisement. —Austria and Prussia agree. —England seeks to mediate. — Attitude of France. — The French Advances coolly met. —Royal Covincil in Berlin. — Warlike Measures.

III. THE CHASTISEMENT IN HOLSTEIN

Austria accepts Prussia's Proposals. — Vote of the Diet. — Feeling in England. — Opposition in the Prussian Parlia- ment. — The Chastisement decreed. — France aiul England. — Russian Mediatory Proposition. — Bismarck and Lord "Wodehouse. — Change of Ministers in Denmark. — Bavaria takes a Prominent Part. —The Hereditary Prince in Holstein. — Plan of the Lesser States. — The Committee of Thirty-six. —View of Austria. — Bismarck's Memorial. — Propo.sition of Austria and Prussia

IV. THE COMPACT OF JANUARY 16, 1864

Rechbeig's Note to Bavaria. — Bismarck and Buchanan. —RecLberg's Compliance. — The Austrian Outline. — Bismarck's Amendment. — The Vote in the Diet. — Advance of the Troops. — Uneasiness of the Lesser States. — Lord John Russell. — English Proposal to defer Operations. — Rejection of the English Proposal. — The Note of the Two Powers.

BOOK XI. DANNEVIRKE AND DUPPEL.

I. OUTBREAK OF THE WAR

The Dannevirke. — Moltke's Plan of Operations. — Wrangel's Arrangements. — The First Combats. — De Meza's Resolutions. — Evacuation of the Dannevirke. — Impression made by the Event. — The Feeling in Germany. — Irritation in the Lesser States. — The Holstein Towns occupied. —Mauteuffel sent to Dresden. —Manteuffel and King John.

II. GENERAL MANTEUFFEL IN VIENNA

Discussion of Further Steps. — Austria's Protest. — Manteuffel's Mission. — Austria's Fears. — Repeated Delays. — Austrian Advice. — Defiance of the Danes. — Austria's Compliance. — Occupation of South Jutland. — Operations at Diippel. — Blumenthal's Plan. —Attempt to cross the Sound.

III. THE STORMING OF DUPPE

Invitation to a Conference. — Austria against Augustenburg. — Death of King Max. — Bevist chosen to be sent to London. — Bombardment of Sonderborg. — General Gerlach's Report. — Preparations for the Assault. — Capture of the Redoubts. —Advance into Jutland. — The Effect of the Victories. — Foreign Opinions.

IV. THE LONDON CONFERENCE

Napoleon seeks Prussian Favor. —The Emperor's Proposals. — Prussia's Dilemma. — Prussian Despatch to Paris. — Napoleon's Sentiments. — Representatives at the Congress. — The Conference proposes a Truce. — Negotiations over the Truce. — Agitation in Germany. — Treaties of 1852 declared Void. — Attitude of England. —Message to Berustorff. — The German Declaration.

BOOK XII. ALSEN AND THE PEACE.

I. CLOSE OF THE LONDON CONFERENCE

Bismarck's Despatch. — Views of the King and Crown Prince. — Austria's Policy. — Rechberg's Reply. — Schmerling's Endeavors. — Bismarck's Telegram. — Motions in the Conference. — Proposal to divide Schleswig. — Bismarck and Augustenburg. — The Grand Duke of Oldenburg. — The Emperor Alexander. — Bismarck and the Czar. — Victory of the "Eider-Danes." — Motion for a Plebiscitum. — England proposes Mediation. — Close of the Conflict.

II. ALSEN. — PRELIMINARIES OF PEACE

Consultation in Carlsbad. — The Army in Jutland. — Prince Frederick Charles. —The Landing upon Alsen. — Effects of the Victory. — Discouragement in Copenhagen. — Fall of the "Eider-Danes." — Further Conquests. — Bismarck's Advice. — Beust's Success. — Compacts with the Hanse Towns. — Peace Preliminaries. — Continuance of the Negotiations. — Prussia's Policy. — Bismarck's Standpoint. — General Observations.

III. THE PEACE OF VIENNA

Non-Participation of the Diet. — The South German States. — Interview at Schonbrunn. — The Future of Schleswig-Holstein. — New Tariff Treaties. — Popular Feelings in Austria. — Peace Negotiations at Vienna. — Financial Questions. —Rudolph Delbriick. — Bismarck and Rechberg. — The Tariff-Union completed. — Bismarck's Conciliatory Wishes. — Bismarck's Report. — The King's Opinion. — Change of Ministry at Vienna. — Peaceful Feelings.

BOOK XIII. STRAINED RELATIONS BETWEEN AUSTRIA AND PRUSSIA

I. THE SEPTEMBER TREATY WITH ITALY

The French Policy towards Italy. — Particularism in Italy. — Napoleon accedes to Italy's Wishes. — Proposal to change the Capital. —Victor Emmanuel's Decision. — La Marmora in Paris. — Feelings about the Treaty. — The Feeling in Rome. —Sentiments in Italy. — Austria's Leaning to Italy.

II. WITHDRAWAL OF THE CONFEDERATE TROOPS FROM HOLSTEIN

Austrian and Prussian Standpoints. — Recliberg and Mensdorff. — Count Mensdortf. —Tlie Austrian Despatches. —The Troops in the Ducliies. — Austria's Attitude. — Saxony's Attitude. — Saxony's Refusal. — Austrian Compliance. — Biegeleben's Note. —Vote to withdraw from Holstein.

III. PRUSSIA'S FEBRUARY DEMANDS

Positions of the Parties. — Prospects of tlie Parties. — Prussia's Declarations. — Official Investigations. — Austria's Treaty. — Opinions in Germany. — Bismarck and Karolyi. — Instructions to Savigny. — The Specifications. — Dissatisfaction in Vienna.

IV. PRUSSIA AND FRANCE

Attitude of Europe. — Bismarck and Benedetti. — Bismarck's Letter to Goltz.

V. CONDITIONS IN SCHLESWIG-HOLSTEIN

Finances in the Ducliies. —Tlie Weakness of the Duchies. —Popular Sentiments. —Particularism in Holstein. — The Opposition. —The Augustenburg Government. —Augustenburg Agitations. —Sentiments favor- ing Prussia. — Motion of Beust and Pfordten. — Tlie Motion in tlie Diet. — Prussia's Marine-Station at Kiel.

VI. AUSTRIA AND THE CONFEDERATE DIET

The Feeling in the Duchies. —Prussia's Determination. — Austria's Protest. — Bismarck's Investigation. — Bismarck's Plans. — Austria's Conditions. — Bis- marck's Reply. —Effect of Bismarck's Proposition. — Agitation in the Duchies. — The Situation in Austria. — Embarrassment in Austria. — Ministerial Council. — The Opinions of the Ministers, — The Position mg,in- tained.

BOOK XIV. THE GASTEIN TREATY.

I. PRUSSIA'S ULTIMATUM

The Situation of Prussia. — The Difficulties continue. — Fresh Attempts at Harmony. — Conciliatory Movements. — State of Things in the Duchies. — At- tempts to influence the Prince. — Legal Opinion as to Augustenburg. — Heffter's Opinion. —Decision against Augustenburg. — The Feeling of the King. — Military Arrangements in Prussia. —Prussia's Readiness. — Unsatisfactory Answer from Vienna. — The Ministerial Council. —The Ultimatum sent to Austria. — Von der Pfordten. — Pfordten attempts Mediation.

II. MINISTERIAL CRISIS IN AUSTRIA

Opposition to Schmerling. —Action of the Parliaiuent. — Count Belcredi. — Discussions over the Budget. — The New Ministry. — Count Blome in Gastein. —Conversation at Gastein. — Blome's Proposal. — Session of tlie Austrian Cabinet. — The Emperor's Letter. — Prussian Deliberations. —Negotiations with Italy. — The Minister La Marmora. — Bismarclc's Standpoint. — Altitude of France and Italy. I

II. CHANGE IN THE GOVERNMENT OF SCHLESWIG-HOLSTEIN

Blome's Outline of a Treaty. — Discussion of the Outline. —Advantages for Prussia. — The Attitude of Foreign Powers. — The Execution of the Treaty. — The Effect of its Announcement. —Opposition to the Treaty. —Anger of the Lesser States. — Beust's Displeasure. — La Marmora.

IV. BISMARCK IN BIARRITZ

The Feeling in Paris. — Drouyn de Lhuys. — Napoleon's Utterances. —Napoleon and Goltz. — Publication of the French Circular. — Bismarck's Departure for Biarritz. — Bismarck and Drouyn de Lhuys. — Bismarck and the Emperor. — Bismarck's Interview with Napoleon. —Further Conversation.

V. SEMI-CORDIAL RELATIONS

Affairs in North Schleswig. — General Manteulfel. — Manteuffel and Bismarck. — Manteuffel and Bodel- schwingh. — The Seven Feet of Earth. — General von Gablenz. — Gablenz and Manteuffel. — The Popularity of Gablenz. —The Austrian Constitution. —The Dis- cussion in the Diet. — United Action of the Powers.

BOOK XV. PRUSSO-ITALIAN ALLIANCE

I. THE END OF THE AUSTRIAN ALLIANCE

Italian Proposals in Vienna. — Austria's Suspicions. — Italian Commercial Treaty. — Discord in the Duchies. —Augustenburg Demonstrations. — Manteuffel's Protest. — Prussia's Protest at Vienna. — Bismarck's Views. — Bismarck's Letter to Usedom. — Bismarck's Complaints to Austria. — Demonstration in Altona. — Werther's Instructions. — The Surprise in Vienna. — Austria's Reply.

II. A THREATENING SKY

King William and Bismarck. — Pfordten's Opinion. — Despatches of Gollz and Usedom. — Great Ministerial Council. — Opinions of the Ministers. — The King defers the War. — The King's Letter to Napoleon. — Question of French Compensation. — Moltke's intended Mission. — Moltke's Instructions.

III. CONCLUSION OF THE ITALIAN TREATY

La Marmora's Hopes. — Govone's Mission to Berlin. — Italy's Suspicion's. — Bismarck's Tactics. — Anxiety in Vienna. — Countess Hohenthal. — Rumors in Austria. — Mensdorff's Circular Note. — The Prussian Circular. — Italy signs the Treaty. — Text of the Treaty.

IV. THE MOTION FOR CONFEDERATE REFORM

Prussia's First Steps. — Sentiments of Baron Pfordten. — Bismarck on Elections. — Bavaria's Policy. — Pfordten's Standpoint. — Prussia's Motion. — Reception of the Motion. — Foreign Criticism. — Action of the Diet. — The Motion in the Diet. — Prussia's Proposal. — The Decision of the Committee.

BOOK XVI. RUPTURE BETWEEN AUSTRIA AND PRUSSIA.

I. GENERAL PREPARATION FOR WAR

Asserted Love of Peace. — Preparations in Austria. —Agreement to disarm. — Affairs in Italy. — Austrian Rumors Unfounded. — Austria's Mobilization. — Austrian Diplomacy. — Italian Anxiety. — Prussia still holds Back. —Bismarck's Explanations. — Mobilization in Prussia. — Doings in Hanover. — Action of the Lesser States. — Tiie Feeling throughout Germany. — Public Opinion in Germany.

II. FINAL ATTEMPT AT RECONCILIATION

Napoleon proposes a Congress. — Turn In the French Policy. — Thiers' s Speech. —Proposal of France to Italy. — Italy's Refusal. — Napoleon's Speech at Auxerre. — Baron Anton von Gablenz. — Bismarck's Despatch of May 7th. — Gablenz and his Program. — Generals Gablenz and Manteuffel. — Manteuffel's Letter. — Gablenz and the Emperor. — King George of Hanover. — Hanover and Hesse-Cassel. — Internal Condition of Austria. — Rejection of the Proposals.

III. AUSTRIA AND FRANCE

Napoleon's Plans. — Drouyn de Lhuys and Goltz. — Napoleon's Purposes. — Napoleon's Ill-Will against Italy. — Austria and Italy, — Hopes for the Churcli. — Austria rejects tlie Congress. — War virtually declared. — Napoleon's Message to Vienna. — French Promises. — Treaty of France and Austria. — Prussia will not cede Land. — Bismarck's Standpoint. — Ituraors in Florence. —Napoleon's Manifesto. — Effect of the Manifesto.

IV. THE DECLARATION OF WAR

The Prussian Position. — Reply to Austria's Motion, — Fresh Complaints from Austria. — Bismarck's Letter to Duke Ernest. — Prevalence of the National Idea. — Pfordten's Sentiments. — Manteuffel's Note to Gablenz. —Austria's Motion. — Criticism of the Motion. — Prussian Measures. — Bismarck's Memorial. — Decree of June 14th. — The Vote of each State. — Prussia's Declaration.

BOOK XVII. WAR IN NORTH GERMANY AND ITALY

I. PLANS FOR THE CAMPAIGN 3 Benedek. — Austrian Army at Olmiitz. — The Austrian Army. — Austria's poor Equipment. — The Confederate Army. — Bavaria and Austria. — The Bavarian Policy. — The Other German States. — Prussian Considerations. — Plan for Prussian Offensive. — General Von Falckenstein.

II. THE CONQUEST OF NORTH GERMANY

Herwarth occupies Saxony. — Hesse-Cassel. — The King of Hanover. — Negative Reply to Prussia. — Occupation of Hanover. —The Hanoverian Army. — Favorable Prospects. —Falckenstein's Instructions. — Falckenstein's Remissness. — Negotiations. — Complications. — Major Jacobi. — Royal Orders. —Truce. —Fresh Negotiations. — Serious Misunderstandings. — Falckenstein's "Wilfulness. — Special Despatch from the King. — Categorical Command of the King. — Position of tlie Hanoverian Army. — Langensalza. — Capitulation of Hanover.

III. CUSTOZZA

The Italian Army. — Hungarian Sympathies. — La Mar- mora and Usedom. — La Marmora and Bernhardi. —La Marmora's Persistence. — Ricasoli becomes Prime Minister. — Cialdini and La Marmora. — The Archduke Albrecht. — La Marmora's bad Plans. — The Archduke's Movements. — Surprise of the Italians. — The Right Wing. — La Marmora's Flight. — Retreat over the Mincio. — Results

BOOK XVIII. THE BOHEMIAN WAR.

I. PRINCE FREDERICK CHARLES IN BOHEMIA

Scene of tlie War in Bohemia. — Moltke's General Instructions. — Plans for the Advance. — Austrian Orders. — Position of the Austrians. — Battle at Podol. — Rapid Advance of the First Army. — The Crown Prince of Saxony. — Combat at Gitschin. — Heavy Losses of the Austro-Saxous. — Confusion of the Beaten Army.

II. THE CROWN PRINCE FREDERICK WILLIAM IN BOHEMIA

Prussian Plans. — March to Nachod and Trautenau. — The Prussian Vanguard at Nachod. — Conflict at Nachod. — Bonin's March on Trautenau. — Combat at Trautenau. — The Austrians press forward. — Defence of Kapellenberg. — Victory of the Austrians. — Benedek's vacillating Decisions. — The Prussians resume the Offensive — Prussian Attack on Skalitz. — Capture of Skalitz. — The Guards attack Gablenz. — Victory at Burkersdorf. — Misfortune of Grivicitz. — Battle at Schweinschadel. — Benedek's Plans thwarted.

III. KING WILLIAM IN BOHEMIA

The Austrians at Koniggratz. —Message to Napoleon. — Benedek decides to Fight. — The Battle-field. — The Austrian Position. — Sentiments in the Army. — Benedek's Plans. — Prussian Decision to Attack. — Consultation at Headquarters. — Loyalty of the Prussian Troops. — Capture of Ober-Prim. — Arrival of the King. — Distrust of Benedek's Orders. — Danger of the First Army. — Fransecky in the Swiepwald. — Heroic Endurance. — Last Victorious Struggle. — Approach of the Crown Prince. — The Austrian Right Wing. — Disobedience of the Generals. — Advance of the Second Army. — The Taking of Chlum. — Capture of Problus. — Benedek's Dispositions. — Defence of the Austrians. —Engagement of the Cavalry. — Austria's Defeat. —Losses on Both Sides. — Effect of the Defeat

BOOK XIX. NEGOTIATIONS AND BATTLES

I. FRENCH MEDIATION

Austria's Wish for Mediation. — Napoleon's Decision. — The French Ministry. — Isolation of France. — Sentiments in Germany. — Prussia's Reply to Napoleon. — Indignation in Italy. — French Proposals declined. — Ricasoli's Firmness. — Napoleon's Displeasure. — Negotiations of Count Goltz. — Agitation against Prussia. — The Empress Eugenie. — Interviews with Reuss. — Revulsion in French Policy. — Napoleon and Goltz. — Report of Goltz.

II. PROPOSALS OF PEACE

Supplies in Bohemia. — Austria wishes a Truce. — Bis- marck's Decision. — Instructions to Goltz. —The Prussian Policy. — Turn in Prussian Politics. — Napoleon's Uneasiness. — Agreements. — Letter of Prince Napoleon. — Goltz and Napoleon. — Austrian Forces on the Danube. — Prussian Advance. — Benedetti's Visit. — A Truce sought in Yain. — Capture of Tobitschau.

III. THE PRELIMINARIES OF PEACE

Austria and Napoleon. — Sentiments of the People. — Attempt to negotiate directly. —Feelings of the King. — Napoleon's Programme. —Herring's Mission. — Acceptance of the Truce. — Engagement at Blurnenau. — Negotiations at Nicolsburg. — Prussian Outline. — French Attitude. — Napoleon's Conclusions. — Saxony and Bavaria. —The Need of Haste. — Bismarck's Memorial. — Last Conferences. — Conclusion of the Preliminaries.

IV. CAMPAIGN OF THE ARMY OF THE MAIN

The Confederate Corps. — Attempted Union of the Corps. —General Goben. — Falckenstein's Suppositions. — Plans of Prince Charles. — Action of the Confederate Diet. — March of the Prussians. — Engagement at Kissingen. — Prussian Victory. — March to Frankfort. — Gobeu's Advance. —Engagement at Aschaffenburg. — Falckenstein's Removal. — Frankfort's Punishment. — Prussian Reinforcement. — The Position on the Tauber. — Bischofsheim and "Werbach. — Neubrunn and Rossbrunn.

BOOK XX. FOUNDATION OF THE NEW EMPIRE.

I. END OF THE PRUSSIAN CONSTITUTIONAL STRUGGLE

The Lesser States seek Peace. — Question of a Bill of In- demnity. —The King's Decision. —Paris and St. Petersburg. — Steps Taken by Prussia. — Attitude of Russia. —The North German Confederation. — Meeting at Brunswick. — The King's Speech. —Effect of the Speech. — Party Changes.

II. FRENCH AND RUSSIAN INTERVENTION

Napoleon's Policy. — French Demands. — Indecision of the Emperor. — Proposals of Drouyn de Lhuys. — Bismarck rejects the Proposals. — Ittilian Difficulties. — Moltke's Opinion. — The French Proposals Withdrawn. — Manteuffel's Instructions. — Manteuffel in St. Petersburg. — Bismarck's Firmness. — Results.

III. CONCLUSION OF THE PEACE

Negotiations with the Southern States. — Alliance of Prussia and Wiirtemberg. — Foreign Criticism. — Treaty with Baden.— Bavaria and Darmstadt. — Dalwigk appeals to France. — Attitude of the Russian Emperor. — Peace with Bavaria. — Letter of King Louis II. — Definitive Peace with Austria. — The Clause about the Duchies. — Dispute between Austria and Italy. — Question of the Public Debt. — New Proposals of France. — Bismarck's Dilatory Policy. — Signing of the Peace of Prague. — Dissolution of the Old Diet. — Negotiations with France. — The French Circular. — Doctrines of the Circular. — Austro-Italian Peace.

IV. INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT

The Parties. — The North German Confederation. — Address from the Lower House. — The King's Reply. — The Indemnity Bill. — Internal Peace secured. — Bismarck's Explanations. — Discussion of the Committee. — Accei)tance of the Bill. — Opposition to the Electoral Law. — Bismarck's Defence of the Bill. — Question of Universal Suffrage. — Question of a Loan. — Objections. — Granting of the Loan. — Reuss and Meiningen. — Negotiations with Saxony. — Final Agreement. — The Bavarian Chambers. — Sentiments in Wurtemberg. — Baden's German Sentiments. — Attitude of the South. — State of Things in Germany. —The German Empire is founded.

BOOK XXI. NORTH-GERMAN CONFEDERATION.

I. PREPARING FOR THE REICHSTAG

Uncertain Condition of Europe. — Opposition in South Germany. — Hesse favorably inclined. — Disaffection in Schleswig-Holstein. — Military Conspiracy against Prussia. — Prussian Military Measures. — Bismarck's Return to Berlin. —The Draft Constitution. —Chief Features of the Draft. —Proposed Changes. —Tliurn and Taxis Posts confiscated. — Election for the Reichstag. — Benedetti renews his Proposals. — Bismarck's Dilatory Policy. — Bismarck's Former Criticisms. — Paris grows Impatient. — Negotiations are dis- continued. — Napoleon's Speech from the Throne. — Speech from the Prussian Throne.

II. THE FIRST ^YEEKS OF THE REICHSTAG

Opening of the Reichstag. — General Discussion of the Draft. — Control of the Budget. —Waldeck rejects the Entire Draft. —More Liberal Constitution desired. —The Line of the Main. — Stand taken by Bismarck. —Possibility of a Transition Period. — (J uelphic Opposition. —Ultramontane Opposition. — Events in Paris. — Paris threatens. — Luxemburg in the Reichstag. — Functions of Federal Legislation. — Amplification of the Draft. —A Responsible Ministry debated. —National Liberal Change of Opinion. —Debate . upon Universal Suffrage. —The Majority reluctantly submit.— Length of the Legislative Period. —Compensation for Deputies.

III. LUXEMBURG

France declares its Intentions. — Prussia's Right to occupy. —Benedetti's Report from Berlin. — Bismarck's Categorical Reply. — Holland's Mistake. —The Cession is concluded. — Bismarck and Benedetti. —Bennigsen's Interpellation. — Bismarck's Reply. — Holland declines to cede Luxemburg. —France renounces Luxemburg. —Bavaria makes a Proposal. —Prussia accepts. —Austria declines. —War is Imminent.

IV. THE NORTH GERMAN FEDERAL CONSTITUTION.

Wrangles over the Army Budget. —The Ordinance of Dec. 22, 1819. —New Party Combinations. —The Party of Progress. —The National Liberals. — Forckenbeck's Proposal. —Moltke and his Associates. — Federal Finances. — Proposals and Counter Proposals. — Attempts to Compromise. —"Victory for the National Liberals. —Federal Tri- bunal demanded. — Relations to the Southern States. — Bismarck and the National Liberals. —The Governments carry their Point. — Ujest-Bennigsen Motion. — Conclusion. —The Constitution is proclaimed.

V. FOREIGN RELATIONS

The London Conference. — England makes Difficulties. — Opening of the Conference. — Neutrality of Luxemburg. — Subterfuge of the English Cabinet. — The Guelphic Legion. — French Dislike of Bismarck. —Article IV. of the Treaty of Prague. —Two Interpretations of the Article. — The King and Bismarck in Paris. — Attempt to assassinate the Czar. — Article V. of the Treaty of Prague. —France attempts Interference. —Prussia resents the Interference. — Francis Joseph and Napoleon. — Harmony between the two Moaarchs. —Peaceful Intentions on all Sides.

BOOK XXII. REORGANIZATION OF THE CUSTOMS UNION.

I. THE NEW CUSTOMS UNION TREATIES

Bavaria's Prime Minister. — Hohenlohe's German Pro- gramme. —South German Military Conference. —Military Convention with Hesse. —The Army Question in "Wiirtemberg. — Suckow's Memorial. — Changes in the Ministry. — Prussian Military System adopted. — Proposed Customs Union Reforms. — Bismarck takes Hold. — Baden, "Wiir- temberg, and Hesse decide. —Agreement with Bavaria. — Discontent in the New Provinces. —The Hessian State Treasure. —The King's Intervention. —A more friendly Spirit prevails.

II. THE CUSTOMS UNION TREATIES RATIFIED

The Reichstag elects its Officers. — The Address to the King. —Military Conventions. — A Navy. — Treaties regarding Excise on Salt. — Postal Kefornis. — Law regarding Military Duty. — Administration of the Federal Debt. — Law regarding Migration. —A Legal Rate of Interest abolished. —A Bill regarding Labor Unions. — Fate of the Bill in the Reichstag. — In the Federal Council. — Baden's Attitude. — Moritz Mohl antagonizes Prussia. — Opinions in Bavaria. —The Treaties in the Reichstag. —The Treaties in Bavarian Chambers. —Final Action of the Reichstag. — All Parties approve the Treaties. — Vanibiiler on the Alliance. —Final Results.

III. PRUSSIA'S INTERNAL POLICY

Character of German Parliaments. —Negotiations with King George V. — The King's Incentive to the Treaty.— Opposition of the Liberal Parties. —The Conservatives oppose Bismarck. —An Animated Discussion. —The National Liberals for the Government. — King George's Property confiscated. —The Elector's Property confiscated. —The Guelphic Legion is disbanded. —Action regarding Freedom of Speech.— The Liberals are exasperated.— The Government ceases to prosecute. —Elections in Bavaria. —Elections in Wiirtemberg.

IV. ITALIAN AND SPANISH INTRICACIES

The Roman Question. — Napoleon and Victor Emmanuel. — Ricasoli's Fall. — Ratazzi and Garibaldi. — Garibaldi's Roman Expedition. — Mentana. — Napoleon proposes a Conference. — Bismarck's Attitude.— The Powers averse to a Congress. —Rouher's Declaration. — Italy seeks Alliance with France. — French Army Reforms. — Inadequate Pro- vision.— Napoleon and Spain.— The Spanish Revolt.

V. THE GERMAN AND THE ORIENTAL QUESTION

Prince Charles of Hohenzollern. —The Prince and King of Prussia. —The Prince advised to decline. — Change of Opinion in Berlin. — Prince Charles in Roumania. — The Roumanian Army. — Insurrection in Bulgaria. — Bratianu's Agitation. — Baden's Aspirations. — Suckow's Mission in Berlin. — Military Compacts. —Anxiety in Vienna and Paris. —Negotiations relative to Prussia. — Napoleon de- murs at Disarmament.- Tlie Magyars Indignant. — Bratianuis dismissed. —Oriental Crisis solved by Bismarck.

BOOK XXIII. GERMANY AND FRANCE

I. THE FIRST CUSTOMS PARLIAMENT

I. First Half of the Reichstag Session. — Benefi- cent Federal Legislation. — An Old Motion revived. — Freedom of Speech for Deputies. — Miquel's Proposed Clause. — Responsible Ministry debated. — Bismarck's Speech. —II. The Customs Parliament. — The Parlia- ment organizes. — South German Elections criticised. — Proposed Address rejected. — Commercial Treaties. — Treaty with Austria ratified. — Tax on Tobacco debated. —The Government's Bill rejected. — The Tobacco Tax greatly reduced. —A Question of Competency. — Develop- ment of the Debate. — The National Spirit prevails. — The Duty on Petroleum. — The Duty rejected. —Re-opening of the Reichstag. — III. Closing Weeks of the Rkkhstag. — Renewed Debate on ^liquel Clause. —The Point at Issue. —The Governments propose a Compromise. —The Pro- ;ressists oppose It. —The Compromise Bill passed. — A Court of Accounts. — A Bill regarding Federal Officials. — Co-operative Associations. — Make-Shift Bill to regulate Trades.

II. FLUCTUATIONS IN FRENCH POLITICS

The Rise of Liberalism. — Emile Ollivitr. Napoleon's Plans of Reform. — Napoleon and Ollivier. Manifesto of Jan. 19. — Ollivier returns to the Opposition. —II. Atte.mpt to for.m a Triple Alliance. — The Conservative Bonaparti.sts. — The Arcadians. — Purchase of Belgian Railways. — Belgium protests. — The Triple Alliance proposed. — Austria agrees. — Opposition to Napoleon's Plans. — Pru.ssia's Attitude of Reserve. — Napoleon and Belgium reconciled. — Draft of a Treaty of Alliance. — Napoleon and Victor Emmaimel. — Tlie .VUiance is not con- cluded.— III. Triumph of the Liberal Tendencies.— Elections in France. — A Liberal Majority. — Modification of the INIinistry. — Senatus ConsuHum of Sept. 10. — Serious Illness of Napoleon. — The Plans of Alliance fail. —Prussia's Crown Prince in Vienna. — His Cordial Reception.

III. COSMOPOLITAN ASPIRATIONS

Adversaries of Individual Liberty. — I. Communistic Movement. — Schulze-Delitzsch. — Ferdinand Lassalle. — Organization of "The International." — Marx's Theory of Surplus Value. — Criticism of Marx's Theory. — Liebknecht sent to Germany. — Annual Meeting at Niirnberg. — -Vnnual Meeting at Eisenach. —Annual Meeting at Stuttgart. —The Danger of a Class Conflict. — II. Clerical Aspirations. — Triumphs of the Clerical Movement. — Pope Pius IX. — A New Dogma. — Encyclical and Sylla- bus .— Agitation Against Prussia. — The Austrian Constitution cursed. — A Vatican Council called. — Bishops issue a Pastoral Letter.

V. PARLIAMENTARY CONFLICTS, RESULTS ACHIEVED BY THE GOVERNMENT

Prussian Deficit announced. — Determined Opposition. — Greater Freedom in Business. — Mutual Legal Aid. —Electoral Law. — Freedom of Speech. — Civil Code. —Responsible Ministry discussed. — The Federal Budget criticised. — Many New Taxes proposed. — The Military Burden Criti- cised. —Reichstag rejects the New Taxes. — The Customs Parliament. —Tax on Sugar approved . — Duty on Petroleum rejected. — Prussian Deficit. —Plan to reduce the Debt. — Criticism by the Opposition. — Virchow's Lapsus Linguae. —Camphauseu's Plan adopted. —Opening of the Reichstag. —Motion in Favor of Admitting Baden. — The Penal Code. — Eduard Lasker. —The Customs Parliament. — Opposition to the Death Penalty. — The Penal Code adopted.

V. CLERICAL TENDENCIES IN THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT

Difficulty in forming a New Cabinet. — A Responsible Ministry instated. — Great Victory for the Ministry. —Government Candidatures. — Count Daru's Foreign Policy. — Austrian Plan of Campaign. —France and the Vatican. —Ollivier and Daru differ. — Ollivier prevails. —A Plebiscitum proposed. — Rouher's Influence. — Draft of a New Constitution. — Republican Opposition. — Ministerial Crisis. —Preparations for the Plebiscitum. — Victory for the Monarchy. —The Duke de Gramont. — Effect of the Crisis. — Debate upon St. Gothard Railway. —Francis Joseph against the Alliance.

BOOK XXIV. ORIGIN OF THE FRENCH WAR

I. THE HOHENZOLLERN CANDIDACY

Salazar's Proposals of February, 1869. — Prince Charles Anthony declines. — Benedetti interviews Bismarck. — The Second Spanish Attempt. —A Second Refusal.— Spain's Fruitless Attempt in Italy. —Spanish Offer made a Third Time. — King William opposes Acceptance. —Bismarck advocates It. — A Fourth Attempt determined upon. —Negotiations unknown to the King. — Prince Leopold accepts. — Prim and the French Ambassador. —Survey of the Transaction.

II. THE WITHDRAWAL OF PRINCE LEOPOLD

Gramont Indignant. — The Official Press attacks Prussia. —Prussia explains its Position. — The Cochery Interpellation. —The Cabinet discusses the Reply. —Napoleon for Peace. — Gramont for War. — Gramont's Threatening Speech. —Intense Excitement in Paris. — King William asked to retract. — Benedetti sent to Ems. — Instructions given by Bismarck. — Gramont wavers. — Napoleon circumvents Gramont. — Gi'amont's Appeal to Precedent. — Benedetti's First Interview. — Bismarck Ready to go to Ems.—Benedetti's Second Interview. —The Withdrawal determined upon. —The Withdrawal announced. — Bismarck in Berlin.

III. NEW CLAIMS MADE BY FRANCE

The Withdrawal not Sufficient. — Letter of Apology asked. —Gramont demands Guaranties. — Gramont's Policy criticised. — Napoleon's Consent obtained. — Excitement in Paris. — Question of Mobilization in Paris. — Urgent In- structions to Benedetti. — King William and Benedetti. — Beneiletti rebuffed. — Bismarck and Lord Loftus. —The Ems Despatch. —Refusal of French Claims published. — Patriotic Excitement in Germany.

IV. THE DECLARATION OF WAR

First Cabinet Council of July 14. — Second Cabinet Council of July U. — The Decision is for Peace. —Tliird Cabinet Council of July 14. —The Decision is for War. — What led to the Declaration of War. — Mobilization. — Message to the Chambers. — The Left and Thiers oppose war. — The Govermiient asks Means for War. — Gramont's Deception. —War.—Yitzthum's Endeavors. — King William's Return to Berlin. — North German Enthusiasm. — Federal Council and Reichstag.— National Enthusiasm in Bavaria. —Clerical Opposition. — National Sentiment triumphs. — Wiirtemberg Enthusiastic also. — National Enthusiasm in Baden. — "If defeated, we will endure."

V. ATTEMPTS TO FORM ALLIANCES

Spain Neutral. — England Neutral. — Contraband of War. —Russia Neutral. — Denmark Neutral. — French Offers to Italy and Austria. — Count Beust's Apprehensions. —Austria influenced to Neutrality. — Count Beust's Letter of July 20. — Evacuation of Rome proposed. —The September Convention. —Victor Emmanuel and Sella. —Italy's Preparations for War. — Italy Neutral. — The Conference at Vienna. —Vitzthum's Mission in Florence. —Victor Emmanuel's Final Decision. — Indignation in the Vatican.— Incentives of the Combatants.

PREFACE.

After having pictured in my “History of the Revolutionary Period from 1789 to 1800” the downfall of the Holy Roman Empire among the Germans, nothing could have more interest for me, in view of the great events of 1866 and 1870, than now to describe, with the aid of authentic documents, the rebirth of the German Empire. It was naturally, for a long time, impossible to carry out this plan, for political reasons; but after Prince Bismarck allowed the publication of his Frankfort reports and letters, I was so fortunate as I to receive from him, March 19, 1881, the permission to make use of the contents of the Government Archives, as well as of the registry of the Department of Foreign Affairs, with a view to publishing a history of Prussia during the years 1850-1870.

Here I found an almost unlimited supply of most useful material: ministerial decrees, ambassadors’ reports, minutes of Sessions and Conferences, telegrams, correspondence of all kinds, numerous diplomatic communications and despatches from foreign powers, important transactions of the Chambers, and newspaper clippings, — all well arranged in long rows of many hundred packages of State papers. These were supplemented by the papers of the State Department, and of the Staff of the Commander-in-Chief, by oral information obtained from persons who took part in the events, or were closely connected with them; also, as far as the antagonistic party was concerned, by the old Archives of Hanover, Hesse-Cassel, and Nassau. Thus it was possible, for the most part, to write the history of these decades from the very documents which had been issued during the course of Prussia’s career or had determined the same. It was possible to follow very exactly every turn in Prussian politics during the decisive crises, often day by day, sometimes even hour by hour. I think I may be allowed to express my conviction that after so many incomplete, partly incorrect, and even untrue presentations of the subject, we have here an accurate and comprehensive picture of the Prussian aims and efforts. The reader will be surprised to see how many important facts and considerations appear in this connection for the first time, or, at least, in a new light.

I have not troubled myself about other archives, for the simple reason that there was not the slightest prospect that a petition to make use of them would be granted. I should gladly and thankfully accept any further information or correction in any special line, if, as was the case with my History of the Revolutionary Period, the appearance of this book should occasion, in other quarters, documentary investigation, and, at the same time, an extension of our historical knowledge.

In no part of the book have I tried to conceal my Prussian and National Liberal convictions; and yet I hope that the reader will not misjudge my endeavor to recognize, without palliation, faults and mistakes in my own camp, and to judge justly and fairly the conduct of my opponents, that is to say, not to refer their motives as to foolishness or baseness, but to explain them as the result of the traditional premises upon which their whole position is based. The struggles of 1866 did not arise from the arbitrariness of personal passions; they sprang rather from the inevitable conflict between old rights, which had been growing for centuries, and the national sentiment which made itself felt more and more. This caused an unhealthy condition of things, which became at last unendurable, and only a violent crisis could bring about a state of convalescence. Happily for Germany, the period of recovery was reached. The opponents of 1866 are not simply reconciled to one another, but united more firmly and lastingly in the bonds of friendship than ever before. The times of the old Bundestag are behind us, and they form a closed chapter of our past history. We are able to talk as dispassionately about Koniggratz as about Kollin and Leuthen.

My most earnest wish will be realized, if I shall have succeeded in making this way of looking at things clearly felt in every word of this book. Then the diagnosis of the disease and of the crisis cannot but serve to establish more firmly the newly acquired health and concord.

The two volumes now published bring the narration to the commencement of the last war with Denmark; those next following, which bring the history down to the formation of the North German Confederation, will appear in the course of the coming year. I cannot now definitely set a time for the completion of the entire work; but I shall do all in my power to hasten it.

CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE.

1740-1786, Reign of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia.

1786-1797, Reign of Frederick William II.

1797-1840, Reign of Frederick William III.

1840-1861, Reign of Frederick William IV.

1858-1861, Regency of William I.

1861-1888, Reign of William I.

1862, July 12. Formation of the Confederation of the Rhine.

October 14. Battle of Jena.

1807, July 9. Peace of Tilsit, between Prussia and France.

1813, Oct. 16-19.Battle of Leipzig.

1814, May 30. First Peace of Paris.

Sept. 20-1815, June 10. Congress of Vienna.

1815, May 22. Constitutional Law granted in Prussia by Frederick William III

June 8. German Confederation constituted at Vienna.

June 18. Battle of Waterloo.

Nov. 20. Second Peace of Paris.

1816, November 16. First Session of the German Confederate Diet at Frankfort.

1819, Sept 20. Carlsbad Decrees adopted.

1820, June 8. Vienna Final Act.

1830, July 27-29. Revolution at Paris.

Sept. 7. Revolution at Brunswick; flight of the Duke.

Sept. 13. Revolution in Saxony ; abdication of the King.

1830-1848. Reign of Louis Philippe.

1831, Jan. 5. New Constitution in Hesse-Cassel.

Sept. 30. Elector William II. abdicates in favor of the Electoral Prince as Co-regent.

1832, June 28. New Confederate Laws passed.

1834, Jan. 1. Establishment of the Tariff-Union.

1835, March 2. Death of Francis of Austria, accession of Ferdinand I.

1846. Insurrections in Poland and Galicia.

July 8. Christian VIII. of Denmark declares the integrity of the Kingdom, and the right of the Crown to Schleswig and Holstein.V

1847, Feb. 13. Summons issued to the United Provincial Diet in Prussia.

Sep. 12. Meeting of Liberals at Offenburg.

Oct. 10. Meeting of Constitutional party at Heppenheim.

Nov. 20. Frederick William I. becomes Elector of Hesse-Cassel.

1848, Jan. 20. Accession of Frederick VI., King of Denmark.

Jan. 28. Frederick VII proclaims a new Constitution, uniting the Duchies more closely with Denmark.

Feb. 24. Outbreak of the Revolution in Paris.

March 13. Insurrection in Vienna ; flight of Metternich.

March 18. Insurrection in Berlin.

March 24. Eider-Danish Government declares the incorporation of the Duchies.

March 24. Insurrection in the Duchies; Provisional Government established.

March 24. The rebels in the Duchies seize the fortress of Rendsburg.

March 30-April 4. German Preliminary Parliament at Frankfort.

April 9. Troops of the Duchies defeated near Flensburg.

April 23. Danes defeated by Prussians, aiding the Duchies, at the Dannevirke.

May 2. Capture of the fortress of Fridericia.

May 15. Insurrection at Vienna ; Emperor flees to Innsbruck.

May 18. Meeting of the German National Assembly at Frankfort.

May 29. Archduke John appointed Vicar-General of the Austrian Empire at Vienna.

June 28. Decree of the National Assembly concerning a Central Government.

June 29. Archduke John chosen Regent of the German Empire.

July 12. The Confederate Diet remits its functions to the Archduke John.

July 12. Termination of the Confederate Diet.

July 25. Italians defeated at Custozza by Radetzky.

Aug. 26. Truce and Compact of Malmo signed.

Sept. 5. Compact of Malmo rejected by the Committee of National Assembly.

Sept. 16. Compact of Malmo accepted by the National Assembly.

Sept. 17. Riot in Frankfort.

Oct. 6. Insurrection in Vienna; murder of Count Latour.

Nov. 22. Schwarzenberg appointed Prime Minister of Austria.

Nov. 22. Austrian Diet at Krenisier.

Dec. 2. The Emperor Ferdinand I.abdicates in favor of his nephew, Francis Joseph.

Dec. 10. Louis Napoleon chosen President of the French Republic.

1849, Feb. 26. Victory of Austrians over Hungarians.

March 4. New Constitution proclaimed for Austria

1849, March 7.Close of the Kremsier Diet

March 23. Battle of Novara; abdication of Charles Albert, King of Sardinia, in favor of his son, Victor Emmanuel.

March 24. The Prussian King formally recognizes the claims of the Duchies.

March 26.End of the truce of Malmö.

March 28. The German National Assembly elects the King of Prussia "Hereditary Emperor of Germany."

April 3. The King declines the imperial crown.

April 3. Hostilities with Denmark recommence.

April 8. Wildenbruch's interview with the King of Denmark.

April 12. The German National Assembly recognizes the Provisional Government of the Duchies.

May 26. Formation of the League of the Three Kingdoms.

June 5. The King of Denmark sanctions a new liberal constitution.

July 3. The French enter Rome.

July 10. Armistice renewed at Malmö.

Sept. 30. Compact of the "Interim:" a treaty between Prussia and Austria for the formation of a new central authority for a limited time.

1850, Feb. 23. Appointment of Hassenpflug, Minister in Hesse-Cassel.

Feb. 27. Federation of the Four Kingdoms.

March and April. Union Parliament meets at Erfurt.

May 8. Meeting of Princes in Berlin.

May 10. Confederate Congress, summoned by Austria, meets at Frankfort.

July 2. Separate Peace between Denmark and Prussia.

July 14. Official declaration from the King of Denmark.

July 24. Battle of Idstedt ; defeat of Schlcswig-Holsteiners.

Aug. 2. Protocol signed in London by the Great Powers, proclaiming the integrity of Denmark.

Sept. 2. Restoration of the Confederate Diet at Frankfort; Prussia and her associates refuse to join it

Oct. 11. League formed at Bregenz by Austria, Bavaria, and Wiirtemberg against Prussia.

Oct. 17. Brandenburg meets the Czar at Warsaw.

Oct. 26. Brandenburg's first interview with the Austrian Emperor.

Nov. 2. Ministerial Council at Berlin decides upon peaceful measures.

Nov. 6. Death of Count Brandenburg.

Nov. 8. Skirmish at Bronzell.

Nov. 9. Schwarzenberg demands the abolition of the Prussian Union.

Nov. 9. Prussian troops occupy the military roads in HesseCassel.

Nov. 29. Convention of Olmütz.

t.....