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 on an elevation to be respected and trusted, after it had been prostrated by enemies of whom your highness is by no means the least in power and courage. His personal character is exhibited by the preference accorded to him by the distinguished queen whom he has lost; and he believes he sees in the princess whom he solicits a worthy successor of the amiable lady whom his country still deplores.”

Abraham’s diplomatic purpose extended beyond the marriage alliance. It included also a deeper meaning; and as such Ladislaus interpreted his address. To Solomon, for the present, fell the more prosaic duty of assuring the king that Bohemia and Moravia were absolutely free from epidemic; that peace and revived prosperity encouraged domestic industries; and that repose seemed to portend a happy residence at Fürstenberg, should the king accept the very friendly overture now made.”

Ladislaus replied that he felt flattered by the request presented for his sister’s hand.

“I am especially honored,” he added, “by the illustrious embassy that my brother Zawis has commissioned; and I return to your highness,—to your excellent valor,—and to your scholarly wisdom, my profound acknowledgment for the conspicuous courtesy with which you have honored my court, and the exalted sentiments and polished language which you have spoken. That you considered such commendation of your illustrious chief appropriately presented to me demands my grateful thanks for the compliment it implies, that I am a person to whom