Flowers, Swords and France

"This is impossible! We have to spend money!"

In the large palace hall, only Baron de Beauvain was left roaring loudly, while everyone else looked at the Baron and Count Argu with different expressions.

"Sir, I think that in this special situation, we have to throw money, and we must throw money resolutely and without hesitation. Only in this way can we maintain stability!" Baron de Beauvain looked at the count without giving up. "If there is not enough credit, wouldn't it be better if we create credit out of thin air? We can increase the supply of bank notes and then put them into the market. As long as this money circulates in the market, companies and workers will be able to get what they urgently need. Financial support is like fresh water being poured into a thirsty pond.”

No one participated in the argument anymore, and they all understood that this had actually become a confrontation between the baron and the count.

"The current gold and silver preparations are simply not enough to realize your ambitious plan." Count Algu looked at the other party coldly, "We cannot send money out of thin air. This will only cause inflation and may cause the most terrible run. You It is said that the Bank of France cannot become a murderer, but if you follow your approach, the Bank of France itself will be murdered... If the Bank of France cannot stand up in the face of a run, then the entire French order will be destroyed, and all of us here will It’s all going to end.”

Although this is an era of precious metal-based currency, as a bank, it is certainly impossible to have sufficient reserves, even for a national bank like the Bank of France. However, Count Argoux believes that in order to maintain domestic financial stability, especially the stability of the Bank of France, a higher proportion of reserves must be maintained and banknotes cannot be issued out of thin air. He believes that this is the most basic financial ethics and the key to maintaining the stability of the Bank of France. The only way to bring order to domestic finance.

Therefore, under this idea, he agrees with maintaining the market and also agrees with restricting foreign investment and the outflow of precious metals. However, he strictly opposes the continued expansion of credit supply and the indiscriminate issuance of bank bonds. He only recommends that the government reduce expenditures and achieve fiscal balance as soon as possible - which is also the case for many in the financial world. common views of people.

"No, it won't be over, sir. We can completely use the current war as a reason to limit the redemption of gold and silver, and at the same time reduce the risks borne by the Bank of France. People will accept our measures, as long as we can give them prosperity." Count Argu is not polite. Despite the accusation, Baron de Beauvin was still very confident, "At the same time, we can reduce the denomination of bank notes and distribute the notes to the hands of the people across the country. For example, we can issue 50 franc or 20 franc bank notes to help Businesses pay wages.”

"This..." As soon as the baron said this, the others finally couldn't sit still.

At present, the bank notes issued by the Bank of France are all large-denominated notes, usually 1,000 francs or 500 francs, and the minimum denomination is 100 francs. Such denominations are destined to not be circulated in the market, because ordinary people's monthly income is generally not There are only about two to three hundred francs, so these banknotes can only be used as a means of payment between traders and companies.

What Baron de Beauvain actually meant was to use small-denomination banknotes to explosively issue currency, and then distribute it to cities and villages across the country through various branches of the Bank of France and local banks, because small-denomination banknotes will flow into the hands of ordinary people, so this Part of the huge additional issuance of banknotes will be distributed to the hands of the people across the country. In fact, they will bear the consequences of the additional issuance of currency. Moreover, because of the information circulation problem between various regions of the country, it is difficult for so many ordinary citizens to act in a coordinated manner. In fact, A nationwide run is impossible.

In other words, let the general public share the consequences of excessive currency issuance, and use this method to offset the shortage of gold and silver reserves.

"This is a scam, and it is a robbery of the people!" After a short silence, Count Argu became angry and shouted at the baron, "If we do this, prices will rise, and then the people's What about protests? The market will also be in chaos.”

"Paper currency was created by God for the purpose of over-issuance. If we do not over-issue, we will be complacent and let some shiny little metal restrict our entire economy and watch the mass unemployment of our citizens. This is right. A crime of the people!" The baron responded with the same loud reply, "Is there anything better we can do? To tighten money in such a terrible situation is suicide and will lead to war. Failure, because the economic situation at home will greatly affect the front line."

The Baron knew that for the government at this time, maintaining domestic stability and maintaining frontline stability were the two most important goals, and he could not care too much about this, so he focused on emphasizing these two points to government officials and His Majesty the Emperor.

He was telling His Majesty that excessive issuance of currency will cause serious problems, but at least it can solve the current problems, and future difficulties can be dealt with later.

"Only a bold person like you would do such an irresponsible act." Count Algu sneered, obviously not convinced at all, "And I cannot adopt this opinion."

"If you do this, I can only think that you are no longer qualified for this position!" The Baron also sneered, "You think I will bring widespread poverty and bankruptcy, but I think I will bring universal prosperity, maybe Prices will rise a bit, but this is a good thing. At least we have saved jobs and businesses can make profits! Facts will prove that I am right!”

"You want to use the entire country and nation to test your fantasy. This is a crime!" The count raised his head and responded to the baron, "As long as I am around, you will never let your fantasy come true. The Bank of France will not become a An institution whose goal is to act recklessly will steadily lead the country to prosperity. Your wild thoughts are best left in your study!"

"Then, I ask you to resign and stop causing losses to the country with your conservative attitude." The baron stood up and stared at the count.

In front of this large group of national dignitaries, a fierce quarrel broke out between two influential figures in the financial world. The entire point of view was almost irreconcilable, and the atmosphere of this imperial meeting became extremely tense.

The Baron has always wanted to replace Count Argu as the president of the Bank of France. Everyone knows this. Today, the two of them have almost had a public showdown. It is conceivable that this will end with the resignation of one party.

For this reason, everyone did not dare to speak at once, lest they take the wrong position and become a thorn in the side of the winner.

"I support Baron de Beauvain's view." After a short period of silence, Charles made his position clear. "Now that things have come to a point, we should seek to solve the problem in a radical way and inject new liquidity into the market. , it is imperative to boost confidence. I am the Minister of Transport, responsible for the construction of a large number of projects, and now also responsible for the production of military supplies. I deal with a large number of enterprises, so I may be more capable than everyone here. We are keenly aware of the problems caused by insufficient funds. The most painful thing for enterprises now is the lack of funds. The bonds issued are not accepted by the market. There are orders but it is difficult to start production. What is even more frightening is that even the government does not have much. Funds are distributed to them, so companies generally have difficulty operating. If this situation continues for too long, it may lead to widespread corporate bankruptcy... which will ultimately affect the stability of the empire. "

After a pause, Charles emphasized again, "Under the current circumstances, large-scale unemployment will not only affect military supplies, but what is even more terrifying is how can we suppress unemployed workers when the army is deployed on a large scale? So, no matter what the consequences are in the future, I fully agree with Baron de Beauvain’s opinion, at least we must stabilize the current situation.”

"The Army's combat mission is very heavy, and domestic stability is indeed crucial." After Charles finished his speech, His Excellency the Minister of War quickly echoed his words, "So I also think we can consider Baron de Beauvain's suggestion. "

To be honest, he didn't quite understand this kind of problem, but he instinctively hoped for more stability in the country while maintaining the prosperity of enterprises and the supply of military supplies. At the same time, he had a good personal relationship with Ciel, so he chose to echo Ciel after Ciel spoke, which invisibly made the Baron's supporters stronger.

The Minister of Transportation and the Minister of War expressed their opinions so quickly, which made Count Argu feel like he was hit hard. He looked at the two men steadily, as if trying to figure out whether this was a well-prepared attack. At this time, because With someone taking the lead, Baron de Beauvain's supporters also spoke one after another, and they seemed to have more momentum than the Earl.

However, the most important arbiter has yet to speak.

With a glimmer of hope, the count looked at His Majesty the Emperor on the throne.

"Your Majesty, what do you think we should do?"

He had made great contributions to the establishment of the empire and had been working hard. He believed that the emperor would understand his painstaking efforts.

However, to his disappointment, at this time, His Majesty's expression was still unpredictable and he did not express support directly.

"Don't be angry, please. This is a national matter and there should be no disputes." He said calmly, "I have heard all your arguments. They seem to be two completely opposite opinions..."

Then, he looked at Baron Rothschild, "Sir, which opinion do you support?"

"Both opinions are very reasonable and make it difficult to choose, Your Majesty." Baron James de Rothschild, who had not spoken until now, answered the emperor's question, "I think the professional attitudes of Count Argou and Baron Beauvain are There is no doubt that they all sincerely want to solve the problem for the country. To solve the existing difficulties, I think there is no need for everyone to argue. We should unite and discuss solutions calmly. However, the two opinions seem to be irreconcilable. I deeply regret this and don’t know how to decide. It can only be decided by you, Your Majesty.”

After saying these words that no one could offend, Baron Rothschild continued, "However, no matter whose opinion is implemented, I think the Bank of France needs a certain degree of gold and silver inflow to maintain it. Credit, I had already predicted this and asked about it My nephews, Lionel and Anthony, told me that they could help the French government by getting the Bank of England to heavily discount the British bonds held by France, and in this way provide France with the necessary funds...I think, This will be a huge help for France."

The baron's words immediately caused a commotion.

The "Lionel and Anthony" he mentioned refers to the eldest and second sons of his brother Nathan Rothschild, the head of the British branch of the Rothschild family. After Nathan's death, they have become the heirs of the family in the UK and inherited their father's business. Together, they control the family's huge wealth and have exerted great influence in the financial and political circles of the UK. They can certainly have a significant impact on the policies of the Bank of England.

France holds a large number of British bonds, but there is no doubt that under the current situation, if France sells a large number of them, it will cause chaos in the British market and will not get much money. However, if the Bank of England can accept these bonds and discount them, then the situation will be different, and France will definitely get a lot of funds.

And more importantly, in this case, the discount will increase a lot. With such a huge amount of funds, every percentage point increase in the discount rate will bring a lot of financial benefits to the Bank of England and the Rothschild family.

Although the Baron did not support either side on the surface, his statement actually leaned towards Baron de Bovan, and this became one of the main reasons why the Rothschild family supported Baron de Bovan.

The people present were all smart people. They could certainly hear the hidden meaning of Baron Rothschild and suddenly realized that the Baron had also become a supporter of Baron de Bovan.

This made Count Argu somewhat desperate.

He frowned and trembled slightly, obviously unwilling to accept such a reality.

"Mr. Rothschild, I am very grateful for your family's help to us." His Majesty the Emperor nodded slightly, then pondered for a moment, and then looked at Baron de Bovan, "Mr. de Bovan, how sure are you of your opinion?"

"Nothing can be certain, your majesty." Baron de Bovan now seemed calm and composed, no longer aggressive, "But I believe that with the British and us as allies, as long as we implement it properly, we should be able to implement this policy to the end without much risk, and this will ensure that your war is completed in victory, and more importantly, your country can maintain prosperity."

"You are irresponsible!" Count Argu interrupted him sharply, "Please Don't use sweet words to deceive us and your Majesty, you are causing countless people to suffer because of this!"

"Yes, maybe, but so what? There will always be people who suffer in the world! In a war, a crisis, tens of thousands of people, maybe more people will die, but I have to say that their death is worth it. They faithfully fulfilled their duties for the country and your Majesty... and the country benefited from it. "Baron de-Bovan raised his hands and made an orator-like gesture, "And we have the obligation to make their sacrifice valuable! We must win victory for your Majesty with fearless spirit, and also get a new era for France!"

At this time, the baron had given up arguing with the count, and his words were almost like a declaration of victory.

And with the baron's words, this meeting came to an end. In the end, His Majesty the Emperor did not make a ruling or adopt whose opinion, but announced the adjournment of the meeting and discussed it again at the next imperial meeting.

After the meeting, Count Argu was still pale and staggering, and he was in a very low mood.

The original text is available at Six # 9 @Books/Bar!

Although today's meeting did not produce any results, he could certainly see that Baron de Bovan's open challenge to him was not stopped or rebuked, which undoubtedly showed the attitude of the government and His Majesty the Emperor, and this was bad news for him - because his authority had been greatly hit.

Just as he walked out of the palace hall worriedly, a middle-aged man quickly approached him. He turned around and saw that it was the palace's steward, Carrion.

"Sir, you don't seem to be in a good mood... Do you want us to arrange someone to take you home?" The steward asked him with a perfect smile.

"No, my own carriage can take me back." Count Argu shook his head. He certainly knew that the other party would not look for him just for this matter.

Sure enough, the steward bowed slightly, supported the count, and then leaned close to his ear and whispered.

"Sir, I regret to tell you that after the imperial meeting, His Majesty the Emperor agreed with Baron de Bovan's view. He believed that we must face the current situation with a radical attitude and solve the financial crisis facing the empire."

Count Argu froze. If it weren't for Carrion supporting him, he would have almost fainted and fallen.

In theory, the emperor rarely expressed his views in person, and when he did, it represented a clear and unmistakable hint.

And for the count, this was also a hint for him to resign as soon as possible.

Considering his previous merits, His Majesty did not announce it on the spot, which was also a way to save his face. The next imperial meeting should be to discuss how to implement Baron de Bovan's comprehensive plan.

After calming down, the count returned to his usual calmness and demeanor.

"I am very sorry, sir." He said coldly, "Please tell His Majesty that with my attitude and style, it is really difficult for me to cooperate with the baron's approach. In addition, I am already old, so I beg him to allow me to resign..."

"Ah? How can this be done?!" Karion seemed shocked, "Sir, don't be angry..."

"I'm not angry. This is my final decision. Please forgive me, Your Majesty." The count was too lazy to act, so he coldly interrupted the palace minister. "I will submit my resignation tomorrow morning. Please ask for permission at the next royal meeting." I am not allowed to participate anymore.”

"If this is your opinion..." The palace minister looked embarrassed and regretful, "Then I can't force you... Come on, let me help you out, sir."

==================================

"It seems he has resigned with good will, Your Majesty."

In the hall of the palace, Charles, who was leaning against the window, had been watching the performance of Count Argu and Carlyon in the square outside. It was not until the count left the vestibule that Charles turned his head and said to His Majesty the Emperor. "I'm very sorry about it, but it's time for him to take a break."

"Count Algu is a very respectable old man. We have received great favor from him, so he should get some respect." His Majesty the Emperor said calmly, "He must retire in glory, and he must not be treated in the future. Any interruption."

"I will not let anyone disturb him, Your Majesty." Charles replied respectfully.

In this royal meeting, this group of financial aristocrats stood side by side with government officials in the palace and could participate in the most important state meetings together. This situation also appropriately illustrates the current political situation in France.

This group of financiers once opened the vaults of the Bank of France and funded the man on the throne. Now, they gathered again, and after intense discussions, they finally reached an agreement to help the emperor maintain his country- - And it is conceivable that in this process, they will also become one of the most powerful pillars of the dynasty and the largest vested interest group under the protection of the empire.

These ambitious, shrewd and ruthless people will never limit their sights to the French territory. They will use the power and force of the empire and use the French army that has been carefully crafted for decades since the Revolution to serve them. Expand your own interests and let France's financial hegemony extend to every corner of the world.

After they had a heated debate, the more radical faction overwhelmed the prudent and conservative faction, determined to implement the policy of expanding financial hegemony with greater intensity, and finally established the dominant position in the financial world.

After this invisible struggle, Count Argoux chose to retire gracefully, allowing the more radical Baron de Beauvin to gain power, and he will also become the new president of the Bank of France, and cooperate with his unique radical approach The expansion of empire.

"Charles, Baron de Beauvin was recommended by you. I remember how many good things you said about him." His Majesty the Emperor suddenly spoke, "Not only that, after the war, I will also appoint you as Minister of Finance, so that You two work together to carry forward your doctrine."

Ciel bowed his waist and expressed his gratitude to His Majesty the Emperor for his grace.

"This time, your wish is granted, but you must remember that this trust is by no means unconditional. You are using your future to guarantee the two of you." His Majesty the Emperor, who is sitting on the throne, is quite indifferent. He looked at Ciel calmly, "If you can't solve this situation, then you are the one who lied in front of me and deceived me and the entire empire. At that time, you need to take responsibility on your own! Do you understand?!"

There is no doubt that these practices will cause a lot of sequelae, especially after the war, the empire's finances will face a huge impact. Since Charles recommended Baron de Beauvin, he must indeed be responsible for this. .

"I will serve you wholeheartedly and take all responsibilities, Your Majesty." Charles replied without hesitation.