I want nothing with them; the money they bring I mean to bestow on our Field Hospitals, and will not forget YOU in disposing of it." Saldern, usually so prompt with his "JA" on any Order from the King, looks embarrassed, stands silent,--to the King's great surprise;--and after a moment or two says:-- SALDERN.

"Forgive me, your Majesty: but this is contrary to my honor and my oath." KING (still in a calm tone).

"You would be right to think so if I did not intend this desperate method for a good object.

Listen to me: great Lords don't feel it in their scalp, when their subjects are torn by the hair; one has to grip their own locks, as the only way to give them pain." (These last words the King said in a sharper tone; he again made his apology for the resolution he had formed; and renewed his Order.
With the modesty usual to him, but also with manliness, Saldern replied:)-- SALDERN.

"Order me, your Majesty, to attack the enemy and his batteries, I will on the instant cheerfully obey: but against honor, oath and duty, I cannot, I dare not!" The King, with voice gradually rising, I suppose, repeated his demonstration that the thing was proper, necessary in the circumstances; but Saldern, true to the inward voice, answered steadily:-- SALDERN.