[History of Friedrich II. of Prussia<br> Vol. XII. (of XXI.) by Thomas Carlyle]@TWC D-Link book
History of Friedrich II. of Prussia
Vol. XII. (of XXI.)

CHAPTER III
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The details of which, in these exuberant Manuscripts, would but weary the reader.

Choosing of the proper posts and battering-places (post "on the other side of the River," "on this side of it," "on the Island in the middle of it"), and obstinate intrenching and preparing of the same in spite of frost; "wooden bridge built" farther up; with "regulation of the river-boats, the Polish Ferry," and much else: all this we omit; and will glance only at one pregnant point, by way of sample:-- ...

"Most indispensable of all, the King has to provide Subsistences:--and enters now upon the new plan, which will have to be followed henceforth.

The Provincial Chief-men (LANDES-AELTESTEN, Land's-ELDESTS, their title) are summoned, from nine or ten Circles which are likely to be interested: they appear punctually, and in numbers,--lest contumacy worsen the inevitable.

King dines them, to start with; as many as 'ninety-five covers,'-- day not given, but probably one of the first in Herrendorf: not Christmas itself, one hopes! "Dinner done, the ninety-five Land's-Eldest are instructed by proper parties, What the Infantry's ration is, in meat, in bread, exact to the ounce; what the Cavalry's is, and that of the Cavalry's Horse.


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