The Emperor answered by a command that he should draw up a new order reversing this decree.
This Bismarck refused to do; the Emperor repeated his instructions.

It was a fundamental point on which no compromise was possible; the Emperor proposed to take away from the Chancellor that supreme position he had so long enjoyed; to recall into his own hands that immediate control over all departments which in old days the Kings of Prussia had exercised and, as Bismarck said, to be his own Prime Minister.

In this degradation of his position Bismarck would not acquiesce; he had no alternative but to resign.
The final separation between these two men, each so self-willed and confident in his own strength, was not to be completed by ceremonious discussions on constitutional forms.

It was during an audience at the castle, that the Emperor had explained his views, Bismarck his objections; the Emperor insisted that his will must be carried out, if not by Bismarck, then by another.

"Then I am to understand, your Majesty," said Bismarck, speaking in English; "that I am in your way ?" "Yes," was the answer.