The Emperor, who had previously described the Army as "the
necessary and surest guarantee" for the execution of the tasks of the State, concludes with a repudiation of all ambitious de- signs :—" Careless of the splendour of glorious achievements, I shall be content if it can hereafter be said of my govern- ment that it has been beneficial to my people, useful to my country, and a blessing to the Empire." The general tone of the whole document, which is said to have been written by Herr Friedberg, Minister of Justice, is that of a man who is conscious of his authority, and intends to rule, but will direct his powers to secure pacific ends, and elevate the civil well-being of his people. It has been warmly received in Germany ; but the National Zeitwag warns the people against reading into it meanings it was not intended to bear. Before publication, it was submitted to Prince Bismarck, who returned it unaltered.
