THE DYNASTS ACT v
Moreover, the accessories of his glory Have been, and will be, admirably designed To fire the fancy of a young princess.
FRANCIS
Thus far you satisfy me. ... So, to close, Or not to close with him, is now the thing.
METTERNICH
Your Majesty commands the issue quite: The Father of his people can alone In such a case give answer—yes or no. Vagueness and doubt have ruined Russia's chance ; Let not, then, such be ours.
FRANCIS
You mean, if I, You'd answer straight. What would that answer be ?
METTERNICH
In state affairs, sire, as in private life, Times will arise when even the faithfullest squire Finds him unfit to jog his chieftain's choice, On whom responsibility must lastly rest. And such times are pre-eminently, sire, Those wherein thought alone is not enough To serve the head as guide. As Emperor, As father, both, to you, to you in sole Must appertain the privilege to pronounce Which track stern duty bids you tread herein.
FRANCIS
Affection is my duty, heart my guide.— Without constraint or prompting I shall leave The big decision in my daughter's hands,
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