CHAPTER XXVI.. Maria Theresa.

MARIA THERESA. From 1739 to 1741.

Anguish of the King.--Letter to the Queen of Russia.--The Imperial Circular.--Deplorable Condition of Austria.--Death of Charles VI.--Accession of Maria Theresa.--Vigorous Measures of the Queen.--Claim of the Duke of Bavaria.--Responses from the Courts.--Coldness of the French Court.--Frederic of Prussia.--His Invasion of Silesia.--March of the Austrians.--Battle of Molnitz.--Firmness of Maria Theresa.--Proposed Division of Plunder.--Villainy of Frederic.--Interview with the King.--Character of Frederic.--Commencement of the General Invasion. Page 411