If Augustus drives out the Swedes, we shall probably
have trouble with him afterwards. If Charles drives out Augustus,
we shall have a fresh king, and shall no doubt choose one upon the
recommendation of Charles, who will then march away again, leaving
us to manage our own affairs. Therefore, we have no animosity
whatever against you as a Swedish officer, but for comfort's sake
it is better that nothing should be said of this, and that I should
introduce you to my friends simply as an English gentleman, who has
rendered me the greatest possible service."
The countess retired to bed, a short time after they had finished
their meal, and the others sat up talking until late in the
evening. Charlie learnt that the country was still in a greatly
disturbed state. Parties of disbanded soldiers and others, rendered
desperate by cold and hardship, were everywhere plundering the
peasantry, and many encounters had taken place between them and the
nobles, who, with their retainers, had marched against them. Travel
would be dangerous for a long time to come.
"Therefore, until the spring, you must not think of moving," the
count said. "Indeed, I think that your best plan, when you start,
will be to work due north, and join the Swedish forces near Narva.
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