cahn

No, not Fritz, and not Tsarevitch Alexei, either! Manuel, younger brother of João V of Portugal (reigned 1706-1740).

In my continuing research on Peter Keith, I read up a bit on Portgual in the early 18th century. And I found this.

Infante Manuel: Can I be involved in politics?

João: No. Why would I allow my brothers any power?

Manuel: The army?

João: No. This is a family tradition. Sons and brothers don't get to do anything interesting.

1715, when Manuel is 18 years old.

Manuel: *sneaks on board an English ship*

Manuel: Hello, Netherlands! Nice to be here. Nice to be literally anywhere that isn't with my obnoxious older brother. Party time!

João: You get your butt back here!

Manuel: Lalala, I can't hear you. Hey, Paris, traveling is fun!

French gov't: Uh, welcome, but, hmm, how to say this. Try not to start a diplomatic incident? Maybe you should go back home.

Manuel: Vienna! This is far enough away from Lisbon, right?

Austrian gov't: I mean, not that we're not hosting hiding a certain other runaway prince (why us?), but maybe you should go home?

Manuel: But I like it here. Can I help fight Turks?

Prince Eugene: I like how you think! Let's conquer Belgrade together!

1718, when the war ends.

Manuel: Party time in every capital of Europe!

[Mildred: Why will neither this book nor Wikipedia give me details on which ones and when?]

1733, War of the Polish Succession

Manuel: How about me? I'd make a great king of Poland.

Other European powers: Maaaaybe. We'll think about it.

1734, shortly thereafter.

Other European powers: Okay, no. Go home. João, pay his debts and don't punish him.

João: ????

1734-1766

Manuel: *lives happily ever after in Portugal*

Fritz: Some people have all the luck.

Alexei: *sob*

[Mildred: Seriously, I need more details. This is just enough to be tantalizing.]