"Appoint Bismarck Minister-President," was the answer.

"But he is not here, he will not accept," objected the King, referring doubtless to the difficulties which Bismarck had raised formerly.

"He is in Berlin at this moment," said Roon.

The King ordered him to come to Potsdam.

When Bismarck arrived there he found the King sitting at his table, and in front of him the act of abdication, already signed.