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46
THE BATTLE

nation is an obstacle to the universal dominion of Rome in thisedirection; and their subversion by all evil means has been determined on. Rudolph has sustained Otakar’s own subjects in their resistance to his authority as their king, as I personally know. Imperial requirements are the pretext; but the Roman and the German confederates are fully cognizant of the real causes of the dissension. Otakar was sustained and encouraged by the duplicity of Rome until he had irretrievably committed himself. Should he fall—and as I know and honor the man he will either fall or win—you would be wise to seek some other asylum than can be found in the Tchekh dominion. If I mistake not, your friend is of those dispersed people who have found a refuge in these countries, from other parts of Europe,on account of divergence from the sentiments claimed by Rome as peculiarly hers, and most deserving of regard on that account. These people have readily assimilated themselves with the general sentiment prevailing among the native inhabitants. Their prudence and their industry are alike commendable. Personally remaining distinct, and still avoiding public notice, their sentiments find ready acquiescence among the populations whose patriotic feeling and old associations with the Eastern Empire find a common expression in antagonism to Roman encroachment. Their numbers are far greater than generally supposed. Otakar has silently countenanced them; and the Lech princes have usually protected and encouraged their establishments. Many new and prom-