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 perhaps thinking about the Ferdinands of Austria, who never felt in duty bound to fulfill their oaths, but secretly got rid of them through their confessors. Do you think that Frederick of Prussia would deal with you otherwise, even though he were bound by the most sacred promises to help you, and even though he acknowledged your faith to be his? Oh, take warning from the examples of the past, and be cautious before a deceitful stranger! So long as you were useful to him, he would make promises and hold communications with you; he would use as well as abuse you; and after attaining his object with your assistance, he would betray you, simply saying that traitors deserve no better treatment.”

The harper did not pause to take breath.

“Oh, take warning, Brethren, once more I beg of you. The king would rob you of your last, most precious treasure. And, besides, you would stain the honor of your nation by becoming allies with the greatest enemy of your country—the man who