Marlborough bowed gravely; he did not believe that anyone would sacrifice power and interest to their word; he was too well used to the ways of princes to be greatly impressed by what Karl said.
Perfectly at his ease and with a charming smile he studied this imperious boy who had put Northern Europe under his foot.
With that graceful composure so natural to him he began to talk of the war with France, naming some of the victories of the allies.
Karl could not listen without interest to any matter connected with military affairs, and he had a natural prejudice against the French, so he remained silent, resting his hands on the hilt of his great plain heavy sword that he held in front of him, and followed with attention what the Duke was saying.
But he was as impervious to the charm of Marlborough as he had been to that of Aurora von Königsmarck.
Marlborough, who was used to swaying men and exercising a strong personal influence, soon perceived this.
“Sire,” he said suddenly, his fine eyes keen, alert, and slightly amused, “why do I speak of these things to one who has accomplished so many greater ones? Your Majesty, who has already dethroned one King, and will another----”
“Whom do you think I shall dethrone, my lord?” he asked, and signed to M. Robinson, the English minister, to quickly interpret his question.
“Sire,” he said aloud, “I was meaning the Czar of Muscovy.”
Now there was no mistaking the fire that leapt into the cold eyes of Karl; he would not answer, but Marlborough read him plainly.
There was a little map of Muscovy, in colored paints, lying on a table by the window, and the Duke glanced at it as he spoke again.
“There can be no doubt,” he continued, “that your Majesty’s task will be as glorious as it will be tremendous.”
When this was translated to Karl he turned imperiously to M. Robinson.
“Tell the Duke,” he said, “that my designs are not disclosed even to my intimates.”
This was a little softened in the translation, but Marlborough was fine enough to catch the full meaning of the words.
He was quite indifferent to this rude rebuff; he had discovered all he wished to know and continued to discuss indifferent matters, soon taking his leave, nor did Karl seek to detain him, but most coldly accepted his adieux.