... but my plans were taking
shape gradually as the moments slipped away.... In this isolated,
though nicely furnished and elegant two-story dwelling, I got closer
to the heart of my celebrated prisoner and his family than any other
man alive.... In the few hours left to us before the time set for
their 'execution'--in these evening shadows of July, 1918,--we have
been discussing the effect of THEIR SACRIFICE upon the history of the
world.... I put this down from memory:
"'It is understood already in certain chancellories,' my prisoner
significantly replied, 'how my execution will be publicly accounted
for.... Each Ministry will appoint a Commission, suggested by the
Crown, to investigate and publish its own report.... The report
published will be given out under the name of a Naval or Military
Commission to impart an official sanction to the supposed inquiry and
support the authenticity of the document agreed upon.... Naturally
these prearranged reports will vary so as to satisfy the state of
mind in each particular country.'... 'If regicides are so easily
arranged,' I observed cautiously, 'perhaps the duration of this
"Revolution" is also definitely determined?'... There'll be a period
of revolution and distress,' my prisoner remarked, 'before our
country settles down to industry and contentment. But the desire of
"self-determination" will mislead the unfortunate and cause them to
embrace a tyranny of the most cruel and selfish type.
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