VIII - The Last King of Austria
1858
Told using diaries, letters and other personal accounts from the Koblenz Archives
April 20th, 1858
Franz Joseph sat at the table, accompanied by his Prime Minister, Count von Buol, and several other members of the government. He was only 28 years old, but the effects of stress were beginning to show on the young man's face. He knew that the people of Austria were losing their almost unshakeable respect for him.
He glanced outside the window, where he could make out the gates of the palace. There was a large crowd gathered outside, holding placards, the words on which he could not make out. A second, presumably opposed, protest group arrived from the right and several police gunshots could be heard. Franz turned back to the table.
Across from him sat Friedrich of Germany, accompanied by his respective government officials, and several intimidating body guards. Two of these were stood menacingly behind Franz himself. The German King was saying something to von Buol, but Franz had given up listening properly some time ago. He thought it was best that he returned to the negotiations.
"I am sure you are very aware," said Friedrich, "that your empire is falling apart. Are you not told what is going on? Have you heard of the revolts down to the south?" He paused, muttered something to the man behind him and continued.
"This is our final offer. We will offer all Austrians a place in the new German Empire," he pointed to the map in front of him - "according to these borders. You will have a democratic regional government. You will have stability."
Franz looked across to von Buol, who had his face in his hands. An hour previously he had been animatedly shouting down the Germans' demands. But it was too much now. It was evidently Franz's turn to speak.
"And if I refuse? This is ridiculous, it is far-fetched. It can never happen."
"Well, you have no support from any country to help with the rebel situation. I doubt your ancestors' empire will last much longer. Austria will fall apart into violence."
A German officer produced a slip of paper and slid it towards the young King. Franz turned once more to von Buol, who nodded slowly. He put his pen to the paper and signed his name.
"Good, very good," said the King. "Preparations will begin immediately. We will send troops to restore order here in Vienna, and food for the famine in the south."
Franz nodded again and swiftly left the room. In the hallway he solemnly studied a portrait of his father, before retiring to his bedchamber. As the rain outside intensified, he realised suddenly that he was the last King of Austria.
