IN SWEDEN 73

creating trouble here, and of so weakening William; and
it may be that some day or other it may suit him to send
over an army here to fight William with the aid of the
Stuarts’ friends, instead of fighting him in Holland or else-
where. But whether he may think fit to do so in one year
or in twenty years hence who can say? It is a question
solely of military policy.

“The Stuarts are simply used by the French king to pull
English chestnuts out of the fire. I would that they had
established themselves anywhere rather than in France. It
does them harm with vast numbers who would otherwise be
their friends, at any rate in England. In Scotland it is other-
wise, for Scotland has always been in alliance with France;
but in England it is different. France has always been the
national foe; and had not Charles and James proved them-
selves so subservient to Louis, William of Orange would
never have been crowned king. ‘There are vast numbers in
England who would rather see a Stuart than a Dutchman on
the throne, but who will never strike a blow to replace them
there, and that because they will come over backed up by
French bayonets. Well, let us talk of something else. lf
the time ever comes to act, we shall be ready, but till then
we can let the matter sleep, the more so as we have a new
life before us, and plenty of other things to occupy our
thoughts.”’

“What is it, father,” Harry asked, “that the Swedes and
Danes are going to fight about?”

“Tt is a difficult question, Harry; but there can be little
doubt that Denmark is in the wrong. The King of
Sweden died in April, 1697. His’ death was unfortunate,
for the powers contending in Europe had all agreed to
refer their quarrels to his mediation. At his death Den-
mark endeavoured to obtain the honour, but failed; and
by the mediation chiefly of the Swedish regency peace was
concluded between France, England, and Holland in the