Autobiography of Andrew Dickson White

Chapter 39

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The most curious example of the eloquence of silence in Bismarck"s case, which I noted, was when his strongest opponent, Windthorst, as the representative of the combination of Roman Catholics and others generally in opposition, but who, at that particular time, seemed to have made a sort of agreement to support some of Bismarck"s measures, went to the tribune and began a long and very earnest speech. Windthorst was a man of diminutive stature, smaller even than Thiers,--almost a dwarf,--and his first words on this occasion had a comical effect. He said, in substance, ""I am told that if we enter into a combination with the chancellor in this matter, we are sure to come out second best."" At this Bismarck raised his head, turned and looked at the orator, the attention of the whole audience being fastened upon both. ""But,""

continued Windthorst, ""the chancellor will have to get up very early in the morning to outwit us in this matter.""

There was a general outburst of laughter as the two leaders eyed each other. It reminded one of nothing so much as a st.u.r.dy mastiff contemplating a snappish terrier.

As to his relations with his family, which, to some little extent, I noticed when with them, nothing could be more hearty, simple, and kindly. He was beautifully devoted to his wife, and evidently gloried in his two stalwart sons, Prince Herbert and ""Count Bill,"" and in his daughter, Countess von Rantzau; and they, in return, showed a devotion to him not less touching. No matter how severe the conflicts which raged outside, within his family the stern chancellor of ""blood and iron"" seemed to disappear; and in his place came the kindly, genial husband, father, and host.

The last time I ever saw him was at the Schnhausen station on my way to Bremen. He walked slowly from the train to his carriage, leaning heavily on his stick. He seemed not likely to last long; but Dr. Schweninger"s treatment gave him a new lease of life, so that, on my return to Berlin eighteen years later, he was still living.

In reply to a respectful message he sent me a kindly greeting, and expressed the hope that he would, ere long, be well enough to receive me; but he was even then sinking, and soon pa.s.sed away. So was lost to mortal sight the greatest German since Luther.

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