Once for the sceptre of Germany, fought with Bavarian Louis <br /> Frederick, of Hapsburg descent, both being called to the throne. <br /> But the envious fortune of war delivered the Austrian <br /> Into the hands of the foe, who overcame him in fight. <br /> With the throne he purchased his freedom, pledging his honor <br /> For the victor to draw 'gainst his own people his sword; <br /> But what he vowed when in chains, when free he could not accomplish, <br /> So, of his own free accord, put on his fetters again. <br /> Deeply moved, his foe embraced him,--and from thenceforward <br /> As a friend with a friend, pledged they the cup at the feast; <br /> Arm-in-arm, the princes on one couch slumbered together. <br /> While a still bloodier hate severed the nations apart. <br /> 'Gainst the army of Frederick Louis now went, and behind him <br /> Left the foe he had fought, over Bavaria to watch. <br /> "Ay, it is true! 'Tis really true! I have it in writing!" <br /> Thus did the Pontifex cry, when he first heard of the news.<br /><br />Friedrich Schiller<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/german-faith/
