"I can swear on my life—as long as France still stands, I will do everything in my power to defend Poland!"
Though the Prince of France spoke only two short sentences, his slightly immature yet utterly sincere expression moved the King of Poland.
Stanisław August Poniatowski took two steps forward and gave the youth a solemn bow: "Joseph and I have never doubted that France is Poland's most reliable friend. We also wholeheartedly support Your Highness the Crown Prince's plan."
The Regent Poniatowski added, "But it will be very difficult to convince the parliamentarians. You know, for them to agree to bow before the Russian, Prussian, and Austrian invaders would be even more painful than burning their own souls."
Poland is now a constitutional monarchy; the King cannot bypass the Congress to make major decisions.
Charles, following his brother's instructions, asked, "Your Majesty, are you and the Regent King willing to sacrifice everything for Poland?"
