The Elector of Bavaria was, after the Emperor, the most powerful of the Roman Catholic potentates of Germany.

He was young, brave, and ambitious of military distinction.

The Spanish Court was willing to appoint him, and he was desirous to be appointed; but much delay was caused by an absurd difficulty.

The Elector thought it beneath him to ask for what he wished to have.

The formalists of the Cabinet of Madrid thought it beneath the dignity of the Catholic King to give what had not been asked.