In the end the position would become an impossible one, and it would be easy after the war was over to indemnify Brandenburg with money and with private property in the heart of France for example, and obtain the cession of those most coveted provinces between the Meuse and the Weser to the King.

"What an advantage for France," whispered Sully, "to unite to its power so important a part of Germany.

For it cannot be denied that by accepting the succour given by the King now those princes oblige themselves to ask for help in the future in order to preserve their new acquisition.

Thus your Majesty will make them pay for it very dearly." Thus the very virtuous self-denial in regard to the Duke of Savoy did not prevent a secret but well developed ambition at the expense of the Elector of Brandenburg.

For after all it was well enough known that the Elector was the really important and serious candidate.