Harold Macgrath

The Puppet Crown Harold Macgrath

Book Excerpt: ...assed?""Yes, it is true. I am well pleased. Jacobi and Brother have agreed to place them at face value. I intend to lay out a park for the public at the foot of the lake. That will demolish two millions and a half. The remainder is to be used in city improvements and the reconstruction of the apartments in the palace, which are too small. If only you knew what a pleasure this affords me! I wish to make my good city of Bleiberg a thing of beauty--parks, fountains, broad and well paved streets.""The Diet was unanimous in regard to this loan?""In fact they suggested it, and I was much in favor.""You have many friends there, then?""Friends?" The king's face grew puzzled, and its animation faded away. "None that I know. This is positively the first time we ever agreed about anything.""And did not that strike you as rather singular?""Why, no.""Of course, the people are enthusiastic, considering the old rate of taxation will be renewed?" The diplomat re...