Although no one yet knew it, Das k.k. Infanterie Regiment Ritter von Frank, Nr 79 would be moving soon. Back in Vienna, the Emperor Francis Joseph had been finally stung into action, and in a few days would order the entire Northern Army in Bohemia placed on a war footing. In this way, the wily Bismarck had wrong footed the Austrians yet again.

Everyone knew that it would take the newly activated Regiments of Infantry at least eight weeks to fully mobilize, bring up their reserves and move to the forward areas closest to the Prussian front. On the other side of the border, it would only take Moltke and Bismarck three weeks to get their forces into place. Under almost any circumstances, therefore, Austria had to make the first move, and there after be blamed for starting the conflict.

Putting armies on a war footing also raised the problem of who was to command them. Archduke Albrecht had been the logical, correct and best choice, so the emperor chose Benedek instead. Benedek had once successful general, but he was now well past his prime and everyone, including himself, was well aware of his limitations. Benedek resisted the offer strongly, but would finally take on the job of commanding the Army of the North, and would slowly, painfully slowly, leave Verona, where he was happy, and move first to Vienna and finally join his army around Olomouc on May 26th.

All of this was hidden in the future as Darmstaedter rode home with his wife. What he did know was that he now had a valuable source of information inside the monastery. From now on, what ever Napp did, or knew, would be promptly reported to Darmstaedter's office and appropriate action could be taken. This was his chance to finally deal with Klacel and his Hussites, and nothing was going to be left to the idle whims of fate.