"And now, Colonel, sit down, and you too, Piotr. I have something of
the utmost importance to say to you, and which must be kept absolutely
to yourselves. It is this: in all probability we shall be at war with
Bornia before the month is out."
A gleam lit up Quarovitch's face. Piotr sat silent.
"You have no doubt heard," I continued, "that Bornia has mobilised for
manoeuvres. I have information that they are extremely busy at their
arsenals, that ammunition is being hastened to the frontiers--and it is
not blank shell. The time has passed when due warning was given before
going to war. It is therefore necessary to prepare in peace time. Of
course the whole affair may be nothing, or it may be as we surmise: that
Bornia thinks that she is strong enough to crush us, and place Prince
Alexis on the throne in my place. If that indeed be their plan, some
small incident will serve as an excuse for an ultimatum. In any case,
if it does not come now, it will in the near future. I think myself,
and the Ministers think with me, that they mean war now."
"It were better so, your Majesty, if we are ready too," said Colonel von
Quarovitch.
"And what say you, Piotr?"
"That we farmers do not want war, but if it comes we shall know when to
fight, and how to fight, but not when to stop fighting, especially when
you say they wish to dethrone your Majesty."
"Piotr speaks well," said Quarovitch.
"Good! You in the army will fight, because it is your duty; you of the
farms, in self-protection; and both for Rudarlia."
"And the King," said Quarovitch. "Don't forget that, your Majesty;
Piotr, here, would not have raised a hand if Ivan had been still
reigning; and I should have hated doing so."
"It is lucky you are seldom at Court, Colonel, because I can see that
you would forget your soldierly habits for those of the courtier."
"God forbid, your Majesty!" he cried, and then we all three laughed
again.