After Frederick's betrothal, Franz finalized the marriage arrangements for his other three sons with the fastest possible speed. Since the children were still young, the betrothal was only verbal, with the ceremony to follow in the future.
In those days, royal marriages were arranged by the parents, and a suitable match was all about equal social rank. As long as both sets of parents agreed, it was basically settled, and the opinions of those involved were rarely sought.
Even if you asked, it was futile; the oldest involved was barely in their teens, and the youngest not even ten. Expecting them to ponder a lifelong commitment was truly unreasonable.
Seeing that Franz was not in high spirits, Queen Helen asked with concern, "What's the matter, are you worried about something?"
"Yes, I am wondering whether arranging marriages for the little guys now is right or wrong. If we choose poorly, will they resent us?" Franz replied.
