Page:Gregor The story of Bohemia.pdf/97

 Before attacking the enemy, they entered the sacred groves, cut down the ancient oaks, and burned the images, thus showing the people the helplessness of the gods in whom they had placed so much faith. Having lost faith in their gods, the Prussians were struck with a panic and easily defeated; and, there being no other alternative, they consented to be baptized.

To conciliate the conquered, and make the new religion appear more attractive to them, the commanders decided to stand as sponsors to the chief Prussians. King Ottokar stood sponsor to the first nobleman, giving him his own name, and, what was of more value, many rich gifts; Otto, the Margrave of Brandenburg, and other German princes, followed the royal example. The common people, seeing their leaders treated with so much consideration, hastened from all directions, willingly receiving baptism.

In commemoration of the success of the enterprise, Ottokar founded a new city, which was named Königsberg, after which he returned to his own country.

This campaign against the Prussians greatly enhanced the glory and military renown of Ottokar. Upon the death of the Emperor of Germany, he was offered the imperial crown; but fearing that, beyond the empty title, he would have more trouble than gain, he declined the honor. The wretched condition of the German Empire may be inferred from the fact, that no home prince could be found to accept the imperial crown; and the electors were obliged to go to a foreign land to seek for a suitable candidate. Richard of Cornwall, brother of the English king, was chosen to be emperor, the Bohemian king at once forming a treaty of alliance and friendship with him.