attack the city at all its gates with fire and sword, and thus burn out the tyrant and his horde: moreover he had a secret cause in his heart, which was to gain (if possible) the liberty of his fellow in arms. This measure took some time to execute, but when his army was formed, judiciously disposed, and the plan of attack nearly completed, he received news, that Frederick had accepted a title and station under the king. This he could hardly credit, especially when he thought upon the death of Gustavus.
The fact was this: when Frederick had recovered from his wounds, he had nothing to expect but present death, all ransom being refused. The king, who judged (and in some measure rightly), that the love of liberty in those out of office is another name for the love of power, thought it prudent to tempt Frederick, and if possible to win him to his interest. Not that he would benefit himself much by it, but that it would eat into the heart of Christian, and shake the confidence of his troops. Restless ambition, joined to a severe and ferocious disposition, with the love of power (not the love of honour), were the prevailing features of Frederick's mind; so that, not having the courage to die, he renounced his faith, and took his seat by the king's chair.
