Flowers, Swords and France

Germany?

When hearing this word, the Austrians fell silent again, and then looked at each other again.

Was this a casual remark without any special intention, a slip of the tongue, or was it deliberate?

After a while, they quickly reached a consensus and decided to continue questioning.

"Sir, I admire your religious enthusiasm and fear of God. I am also willing to defend the best faith of mankind." After complimenting Ciel for a few words, he quickly changed the subject, "But... …You just talked about Germany. Please forgive me for being rude. A large part of the German states believe in Protestantism, and our country has no right to represent their religious tendencies, not to mention..."

Helmut von Melesen's expression has become very solemn, and he may have regarded this place as some kind of diplomatic negotiation occasion. "It was precisely because of the pressure from France that the Holy Roman Empire finally collapsed. Today, it is difficult for Germany to gather a force to jointly defend the sacred Christian values ​​with France."

Because of Ciel's hint, he had been so interested that he had to get to the bottom of it. But he didn't want to show too much traces, so he kept trying to brush off Austria's ambitions towards Germany, while also making a subtle reference to the unscrupulous France back then.

His innuendo did not make Ciel feel uncomfortable or flinch. Instead, Ciel smiled even more gently.

"You are right. Due to some personal opinions of the emperor, he shattered and reshaped Germany and constructed a new system according to his own will. However, since that day, Europe has not become calmer . On the contrary, there is no peace everywhere, until now. As a descendant, I have no intention and no right to criticize the emperor's actions, but I personally think that if he had chosen a more pro-Austrian stance, it would have been better for him, for us, and for us. Everyone is probably a better way to deal with it..."

Charles's implicit doubts about Napoleon were certainly not genuine. In the era of Napoleon, he was deliberately trying to weaken Austria, which was understandable because he was in Napoleon's position. He would do the same thing - he was just saying this deliberately to numb the Austrians and please them.

"That is to say, in your heart, do you think Austria can still represent Germany?" Now that he has said this, Helmut von Melesen finally asked directly, "You have no objection to our country's participation in Germany?" Expand your rights appropriately?”

"This is not a question of what I think or don't think, but a question of stating a fact. Austria's superior position in Germany today can be seen by everyone - and it is what it should enjoy because of its superior strength." Charles answered equally bluntly, "Even in today's Confederation Assembly in Frankfurt, Austria enjoys an unequivocally superior position, doesn't it? In this case, is it surprising that Austria can represent Germany?"

"Of course... of course..." Although he is a sophisticated diplomat. But Helmut von Melesen would definitely be happy to accept Charles's deliberate flattery.

With a smile on his face, he nodded frequently. "Thank you for your compliment, sir. You are right. Our country has indeed carried the hope of Germany for a long time. Our country's long history has indeed given us a unique German sense of mission and responsibility. As proven by countless precedents in history In order to defend Germany, we will not hesitate to devote all our strength; at the same time... we are willing to establish friendship with everyone, as long as he has good intentions. Germany, you know, is a united and equal union in which states, large and small, have the same rights and the same fear of God and the law... So, we are not "He is the hegemon of the German Confederation, but an elder who has rich experience and is willing to share this experience. We respect all states and are happy to help them... rather than dominate them."

After a pause, he added another sentence in a thoughtful tone. "We Germans respect all other peoples, but at the same time we are difficult to be moved by foreign things."

After Charles recognized Austria's superior position in Germany, in return Helmut von Melesen immediately hinted that Austria was also not opposed to rapprochement with Bonaparte France - as long as it was 'in good faith' of.

However, they still did not take the initiative to propose further cooperation. Instead, they sang the argument of "all German states are equal", refused Charles's instigation, and even secretly warned France not to meddle in German affairs without authorization. Apparently, they still had goodwill toward France. doubt.

Or do they have unrealistic confidence in their pitiful strength and 'inheritance'?

Haha, time will make you wake up from your dream.

It seems that this is indeed the bottom line for the Austrians. Ciel sneered secretly in his heart.

After flattering them for so long, it’s time to give them a warning, lest they really think I don’t understand anything.

"I can completely understand your thoughts, sir. You must have noticed that I have full respect for your country and the Germans, and I have absolutely no intention of offending your national feelings... nor France." Charles said in a kind of way He replied in a rather dismissive tone, "However, I think , this kind of offense does exist elsewhere - and right in front of your country. As the saying goes, fortresses are the easiest to breach. I think this is very appropriate for your country's German mission and German values. , Aren’t the people who do the most damage within Germany?”

Helmut von Melesen frowned slightly.

"I guess I don't know what you're talking about," he replied reluctantly after a moment.

"Sir, you don't know what I'm referring to?" Charles raised his eyebrows, as if he was very surprised. "This is strange. Isn't this all on the table? Isn't there someone country, formed a customs union in northern Germany, intending to isolate your country economically? Isn't it true that a certain country tried to form a political union of German states that excluded your country a few years ago, and even almost accepted it? The crown of Germany? There is a certain country that has sent a man named von Bismarck as a representative to the Confederation Assembly in Frankfurt to provoke your country every day and spare no effort to undermine your country's status. outside You are a young man in this situation, but I can understand all this effortlessly. How can you not know? So, in this situation, you, who is in the position of the insider, say you don’t know what I am referring to. It’s so surprising to me!”

Under Ciel's slightly mocking words, Helmut von Melesen's face became increasingly ugly. "Sir, you are obviously trying to sow discord between us and a certain country. Moreover, let me say, this is an internal matter of Germany."

"You think I am provoking? No, I am just stating some obvious facts." Charles smiled and waved his hand, "Isn't all this obvious? In the great and united Germany, there are many Some people want to challenge Austria's authority so openly - well, according to your words, it is because of others. As a respectful and well-intentioned elder, this has to make me feel a little worried about the future of Germany in Austria... If I don't tell you these well-known facts, wouldn't all these facts exist? Sir? If you really think so, then I can only say that I am sorry."

Helmut von Melesen was silent.

Even though he knew that Mr. Treville had bad intentions and was deliberately provoking, he still could not reply.

Because everyone knows it. The Prussians' ambition to dominate Germany is obvious, and even they themselves are too lazy to hide it. In this case, what is wrong with what Mr. Treville said?

"Austria is strong enough to defend itself and its due position in Germany." In the end, he could only reluctantly let go of these harsh words.

"Yes. I believe so too." Although he didn't believe his cruel words at all, Ciel still smiled and nodded. "The Austrians are a country that has stood the test of history. It is qualified to work hard to preserve its own interests and glory, just like France. Let me say again, the president and I have full respect for your country, and Happy to see us living together peacefully.”

"Thank you for your support. I will convey this goodwill to Mr. Ambassador and Prince Schwarzenberg." After Charles made such a statement, the atmosphere calmed down again. Helmut von Melesen regained his composure, and then said that he would convey the attitude of the new French ruling group towards Austria revealed by Charles.

This group of people who had recently usurped state power wanted to support Austria in expanding its interests in Germany and attacking Prussia. This proposition was too big for him to accept.

"Okay, thank you, Mr. von Melesen." Seeing that the other party had already said this, Charles no longer pressed him, but raised his glass again and drank the wine in the glass.

At least the goal tonight was achieved, he thought to himself.

However, at this moment, relying on the corner of his eye, he discovered that the young man named Richard von Metternich was making a covert gesture to him, as if he wanted to chat with him alone. As if chatting.

oh? It seems there will be an unexpected harvest tonight?

Very good, welcome to all comers.

The smile on Charles's face remained unchanged, and then he looked at the young man. Then he made a gentle gesture, and then the two of them looked away, and their eyes no longer crossed.

As time went by, the banquet became more and more lively. Because they no longer talk about those troublesome diplomatic topics, everyone can talk openly, and Helmut von Melesen no longer restricts his subordinates from speaking.

In this enthusiastic atmosphere, Charlotte was also very happy. She felt that her efforts were not in vain, and there was no embarrassment in the first banquet held at home to entertain guests.

And Charlotte was also treated attentively by these diplomats, because these Austrians were diplomats and had been to many places in Europe, so it was really fascinating to talk about the strange things from all over Europe. Charlotte was very I was quickly attracted by what these people said, and I kept asking questions and participating in the chat.

Seeing that the wine was already in full swing and the guests were chatting enthusiastically, Charles felt that the time had come. then. He stood up and greeted Richard von Metternich in a friendly manner.

"Mr. von Metternich. You and I want to make friends with you today. Don't you know that I have this honor?"

"If you wish. You are now my friend." Richard von Metternich replied with a smile.

"Oh! That's great!" Charles nodded heavily, obviously happy, "My friend, can you play billiards? I like playing this very much. If you can, I would like to play with you. Go and have some fun..."

"It just so happens that I also like to play billiards." Richard von Metternich bowed slightly, "If you are interested, I would be happy to accompany you..."

"Okay! Let's go over now! There happens to be a billiards room here. I'll take you there!" Charles seemed to be really interested and waved eagerly to Richard von Metternich. "Come on, let's drink this glass of wine first!"

Then, he leaned over and whispered in Charlotte's ear. "Lolot, Mr. von Metternich and I are going to play billiards. Can you chat with the guests here first?"

"No problem, you go ahead," Charlotte knew in her heart that he actually didn't like playing billiards at all, but she obediently didn't raise any questions. "But remember not to play too late."

"Okay, sir." Richard also drank the wine in the glass, then stood up and planned to leave with Charles.

Helmut von Melesen, the second secretary of the embassy sitting next to him, glanced at Richard hesitantly, as if he wanted to say something. Obviously. He understood that Ciel's intention to call him away alone was not just to play billiards.

But Richard von Metternich gave him a slight glance. It was as if he was asking what qualifications he had to control himself.

This is a prince after all! What can I do with him?

Finally, he sighed inwardly. I had to swallow the words in my mouth.

But it doesn't matter, even if he caused some trouble anyway. It won't implicate myself.

In this way, under the sight of Charlotte and other guests, Charles left the hall with Richard von Metternich and walked to the billiards room next to it.

………………

Under the watchful eye of Richard von Metternich, Charles first asked the servant to light the candles in the billiard room, and then placed the ivory billiard balls one by one under the bright light.

Because he had drunk a lot, Charles put his coat on the hanger and wore only a vest and bow tie. He looked a bit like the professional players on live TV in the 21st century.

However, in fact, he doesn't know how to play billiards at all. He only played it in high school in his previous life.

After the servants placed the billiard balls, Charles walked to the stage and stared at the whiteness reflected by the ivory billiard balls with a slight yellowish luster.

"Mr. von Metternich, I sincerely hope that you will be satisfied with my reception." His tone was very calm now, and he no longer had the hospitality as before.

"I have received a very satisfactory reception." Richard von Metternich, also wearing a vest, also walked to the table, then reached out from under the table and took out a wooden cue and took it to his hand. "I'm worried that the presence of irrelevant people like me may make you scrupulous and affect the issues you originally wanted to discuss with them..."

Humph, do you still want to pretend that you are an irrelevant person now? Ciel sneered inwardly.

"Oh, of course not. In fact, I'm glad that you - a destined rising star in Austrian politics - are here and can feel my goodwill towards your great country up close." Charles also picked up the ball. Rod, "Please believe that everything I said today is very sincere."

Then, Charles made a gesture to ask if he could kick off, and Richard von Metternich nodded slightly.

Charles placed the cue flat on the table, then slightly moved it back and forth to adjust the position, and then with a sudden force, the cue hit the cue ball.

With huge kinetic energy, the cue ball hit other balls at high speed.

"Bang!" The heavy bombardment caused the ball to scatter in all directions.

The balls were flying around, bumping into each other, and finally one ball fell into the bottom pocket.

What luck!

"I have no doubt about your sincerity, sir." Richard von Metternich nodded gently, and then also picked up the club to hit the ball. "I just don't understand what you expect from such sincerity."

With one shot of him. Another ball was pocketed.

Judging from the smoothness of his movements, Charles quickly judged that the opponent's billiards level was much better than his own.

Read the original text in Liu#9@书/吧!

but. His original intention is not here, so it doesn't matter.

"What I want to get is simple - I want your country's goodwill towards us..." Ciel hit the ball. While answering, "And, some kind of rebalancing of the balance of power in Europe."

"So, in your eyes, what does rebalancing mean?" Richard von Metternich opened his eyes slightly, and then continued to hit the ball, "Please tell me directly, I want to use It won't be long before I become Austria's secretary to France, and in a few years I'll be the ambassador. I think I'm qualified to learn more from you."

Are you no longer pretending to be a passerby now?

Ciel chuckled inwardly.

"I have made it very clear about rebalancing in my eyes..." Charles replied with a smile, "France expands itself where it belongs, while Austria maintains its unquestionable position in Germany. If necessary, We can have some kind of collaboration, which I’d ​​love to do.”

"You mean we can cooperate with each other and expand ourselves?" Richard von Metternich asked.

"Yes, that's it." Charles nodded clearly, "I don't think there is anything to criticize. A country wants to expand its influence and power. This is only natural, as an ambitious and ambitious country As a big country, Austria has the right to expect something that it deserves, even if it may require fighting some people to get it.”

"Am I to understand that France is willing to recognize Austria's comparative superiority in Germany in exchange for Austria's expansion of French power in all other areas?" Richard von Metternich hit the ball again, "It sounds like this Very fascinating. But... I want to ask, what do you mean by rebalancing? If your support of Austria's position in Germany comes at the expense of our country's interests elsewhere. I think this may not be an attractive proposition..."

"You don't need to worry too much about this." Charles replied immediately, and then put a ball into the bag again. "If I just say nice words, then what's the point of calling you here today? There is no doubt that "I do not unconditionally support all Austrian activities, but if Austria implements some policy of restricting Prussia, I think France can provide some support."

"You seem to be very dissatisfied with Prussia?" Richard von Metternich leaned down and pushed gently. "Why? I remember that it has no enmity with your family."

"I have no enmity against any European country." Charles emphasized again, then looked away and looked at Richard von Metternich, "However, Prussia's presence in the Rhineland is undoubtedly like It’s a sharp sword hanging in front of our country’s heart... It’s hard for me to ignore this threat.”

Richard von Metternich frowned and then stopped.

"If you want to instigate a fight between Austria and Prussia in order to seize the Rhineland, I think it is difficult for me to agree with your approach. No doubt we are happy to restrict Prussia, but this does not mean that we want to give the Rhineland to France. "

"Oh! Where did you go? I have already said that what I want is a rebalancing of the Vienna System in Europe, not a European-wide war against France. I only need to see the Prussians weakened in some way. "Ciel shook his head and said that the other party misunderstood him, "Just like Italy, we have been fighting for these places for hundreds of years, and the result is that we are all seriously injured. It's just other countries. If we implement a coordinated approach to a certain extent, we won't have to worry about it and risk war. Wouldn't this rebalancing be very beneficial to each other? Attacking Prussia will also be very helpful for us to restrain a country that is already very dangerous... That country has now stretched its hands too far, and we have to brace ourselves to deal with it. "

Richard von Metternich was silent.

"It seems that you want to implement some kind of policy against Prussia and Russia, and then hope to win over Austria."

"Yes, you're right!" Charles hit the ball hard again, "Behind Prussia is Russia, and now we have to find ways to deal with these two countries - as far as I can see."

"So. Do you really want Austria to re-establish its dominance over Germany?" After a moment, Richard von Metternich asked again. "Sir, at this moment, what I hope more is that you speak on behalf of France. Instead of just answering me with "I think"."

Charles was silent.

This question is very direct and acute.

If it were based on his personal feelings, he would definitely say "Yes, that's how I see it" - because Austria can't do this anyway.

However, now he dare not endorse Louis Bonaparte—the future Napoleon III—for his Austrian policy, even in his current position.

"The president will also accept my opinion." After a moment, he replied hesitantly, "Please believe that he respects my opinion very much."

"I believe so, sir." Richard von Metternich nodded. But he is no longer as eager as before.

He had understood clearly that what this person really meant was that France was willing to recognize Austria's relatively superior position in Germany and was happy to see it and might even help it fight Prussia's ambitions, but it was not willing to see the Holy Roman Empire's Any resurrection.

However, even so, it is still good news to know that an important aide of Louis Bonaparte hopes to attack Prussia and Russia.

"Of course, before that. I have to confirm whether you will change course and pursue a relatively compromise path." Charles suddenly asked, "I have been worried about this since I learned that Prince Schwarzenberg was in poor health. That's it - if your country is unwilling to fight against Prussia for the sake of German leadership, then there is no point in us acting actively..."

This inquiry, which slightly belittled Austria's ambition and will, made Richard von Metternich feel slightly annoyed, but he tried very hard not to show this anger.

"Our country will act for its own interests. No matter whether someone is here or not, of course it will not change much because of one of your proposals. It is true that the death of Prince Schwarzenberg will be a great loss for us. But the number of our country's Hundreds of years of history can withstand this kind of loss.”

"Okay, that's great." Charles picked up the club again. Then another shot came. "Strong countries have their own goals. I sincerely hope that your country can see its status clearly and choose a path that is in line with your country's interests."

"You seem very confident." Richard von Metternich also picked up the club again and put a ball into the bag. "But... I must admit that your proposal is very important to us." Attractive, at least in my opinion, where I am now, of course. A person of this status cannot make you any reliable promises, as I believe you can imagine. However, I personally value your goodwill very much and I also very much hope that you will make a strong promise to me just now. Good intentions toward Austria can become reality..."

Finally, they finished wearing their bottoms, and the originally tense atmosphere became relaxed again.

Ciel found that he had said more than he had imagined, and of course, he had received more than he had imagined.

The two looked at each other again, and then both smiled.

It's like they have really become friends.

Then, Ciel looked at the table again.

There were only a few goals left, most of which were scored by Richard von Metternich.

"Sir, it looks like you are going to win." Charles shrugged.

"Looks like I got lucky tonight," Richard replied with a smile. "I hope that my future communications with you will still be as pleasant as this."

"If you can really become an envoy to our country, I think we will have many opportunities to communicate like tonight." Charles picked up the silk cloth next to him and wiped the club, "Of course, even if you No, as a friend, I welcome you to visit me at any time..."

"It's a pity that you are going to England in two days, otherwise I would really like to visit more times!" Richard von Metternich shook his head gently, "But, it won't be long before I have to Returned to China.”

"As a Metternich, after all, you can't wander around for too long, and you still have to serve your country." Charles nodded with understanding, "If you return to Vienna, please be sure to say hello to your father for me. ”

"I will do this." Richard nodded, "I firmly believe that after knowing your performance tonight, my father will think more highly of you... At least I have not seen anyone who has just entered a diplomatic situation. Someone who can be as skillful as you.”

"I'm afraid you've over-rewarded me. I've always been very nervous. I'm afraid I'll make you unhappy or misunderstand me!"

"You are so humble." Richard von Metternich laughed, "Really, I have heard about your deeds for a long time and have always admired you. When I met you today, I realized that you are indeed well-deserved. , even more powerful than I imagined.”

"Maybe it's because I said something that you didn't like." Charles put the cue on the table and waved his hand to admit defeat, "If I said something that you didn't like, I'm afraid you wouldn't Having said that..."

"That's not necessarily the case," Richard shook his head. "I admire you because of your talents, not because of whether you are facing us."

"Then I accept your admiration with great honor." Charles extended his hand to Richard, "If you can, please also say a few kind words for me in front of His Majesty Franz Joseph. I really "I'm very worried about what will happen to his thoughts after the prince's death."

"Your worries are correct. Our Majesty is like..." Richard von Metternich frowned slightly, as if he was thinking about what words to use to describe Franz Joseph emperor.

After a moment, his eyes lit up after seeing the portrait hanging on the wall. "Yes, he is like a canvas. Others can easily paint colors in his mind, and he will act accordingly..."

This is so rare and appropriate!

After hearing this metaphor, Ciel couldn't help laughing. "I really didn't expect you to view your master like this."

"So I hope you won't tell the story." Richard von Metternich shrugged, "Let's get back to the topic, sir. Although His Majesty has no independent opinions, there are naturally enough smart people in Austria to let him do what he needs. You don’t have to worry at all.”

"That would be great." (To be continued...)