Germany of the Germans

ir ruler that the Emperor is recognised by the German people. Yet during his reign of more than twenty years the sword of Germany has not once been drawn, although it has on occasions rattled ominously in its sheath. The fact is, the Kaiser loves to feel his power, which enables him to maintain the prestige of the House of Hohenzollern and with it that of the German Empire. He indulges in what might almost be termed worship for his ancestor, the Grand Elector Frederick Wilhelm of Brandenburg, who first changed Prussia from a vassal province into an independent principality. The Emperor certainly inherited the traditional devotion to duty of the Hohenzollerns. He is a lover of hard work. There is no eight-hour day for him, and if he l comPletes his formidable list of daily tasks in double that time it is only because of his extraordinary energy and system. His example in this respect seems also to affect those around him, and the position of his Court officials is never a sinecure. When any matter of importance is brought to his notice, he insists that it shall be settled the same day, if at all possible, for he does not like anything to be held over. The signature of all State papers is carried out immediately they are presented to his Majesty, who never fails to order that they shall be returned to the Ministry whence they emanated on the same day. Very often on the following morning he inquires of his secretaries or chapter{Section 4aides-de-ca... --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.