Chapter 549: Britain's Strategic Direction
The Marquis of Wellesley's expression grew increasingly grave as he continued reading the report. He turned to the section detailing France's diplomatic situation, which was equally astonishing.
Spain, being a fellow Bourbon monarchy, maintained traditionally strong relations with France.
The United States, ever since its independence, was an established ally of France.
Austria, grateful for France's significant support during the Silesian War, now shared a notably amicable relationship with them.
In southern Germany, the states had signed the Rhine-Seine Treaty with France, fostering thriving trade relations.
The Dutch Patriot Party, although somewhat discontent with France over the Southern Netherlands issue, maintained overall peaceful ties.
The Italian states continued their balancing act between France and Austria, careful not to offend either power.
Russia had partnered with France in developing the Donbas region. Catherine the Great was reportedly pleased with French investments there, and rumors swirled that she intended to marry her eldest granddaughter to the French Prince.
Wellesley's heart sank.
A Franco-Russian alliance?!
Such an alliance would create an unstoppable behemoth on the European continent. With the current capabilities of Austria, Prussia, and other states, they would be utterly incapable of countering such a coalition.
In other words, France's diplomatic position was near-perfect, akin to paradise.
Aside from Prussia, France faced virtually no adversaries and might soon gain Russia as a powerful ally.
Narrowing his eyes, Wellesley realized Britain needed to act quickly to destabilize France's international standing. If France succeeded in establishing continental hegemony, Britain's aspirations for dominance would be permanently stifled.
This scenario ran counter to Britain's long-held policy of "continental balance"—the European continent must remain fragmented, with no single dominant power.
Turning to Pitt, Wellesley said in a low, resolute voice:
"It seems we must act to preserve balance."
Pitt nodded in agreement.
"Indeed. We can't afford to waste any more time."
Glancing at Wellesley's current page, Pitt added:
"The following section details France's various domestic reforms over the past two years.
"We must admit, they've done remarkably well.
"They started by addressing tax issues, simultaneously curbing unruly nobles. Then, they reformed the banking system, streamlined financial operations, and established something called the 'Industrial Development Fund,' which successfully quelled discontent among the aristocracy.
"Once these measures stabilized their precarious finances, they were able to rapidly advance their industries.
"Afterward, they carried out land reforms, earning significant support from the populace. Recently, they even reclaimed tax collection rights from private contractors. I've heard this sparked violent clashes, costing hundreds of lives, yet public approval surged rather than waned.
"The Duke of Leeds predicts that with improved taxation, French industrial growth will accelerate further, posing a substantial threat to our products in the European market."
Pitt glanced at the report again.
"The Duke's insights into French military developments were less detailed, but you've already provided an alarming supplement.
"In summary, His Majesty has all but approved a strategic pivot toward countering France.
"I've tasked Cabinet ministers with developing strategies within their respective domains. Additional discussions are forthcoming, and I'll need you to submit a report on military planning as well.
"Once all plans are finalized, they'll be presented to the King for approval and implementation."
At no point did Pitt mention Parliament. While Britain was nominally governed by parliamentary democracy, such critical matters of national strategy were still largely decided by the elite members of the House of Lords and the monarchy.
Pitt sighed deeply after finishing his explanation.
"The calm we've enjoyed will soon end."
As their conversation concluded, the carriage arrived at St. James's Palace.
Stepping out, Wellesley found his mother and elder brother awaiting him with a group of officials. Cheers erupted from the gathered crowd:
"Our hero has returned!"
"The Guardian of the Far East, the great Marquis of Wellesley!"
Wellesley found the adulation grating. After a brief embrace with his mother and brother, he followed Pitt into the palace's grand ballroom, where a celebratory reception awaited.
Forcing a polite smile, Wellesley delivered a short speech and danced the opening waltz before retreating to a quiet corner to ponder Britain's next steps against France.
A graceful figure in a white gown floated nearby, holding a glass of wine as she waited expectantly for Wellesley to invite her to dance.
This was Catherine "Kitty" Pakenham, a noblewoman and Wellesley's romantic interest. Although she had shown little enthusiasm for him in the past, his recent triumph in India had made her reconsider.
Yet despite waiting for over ten minutes, the once-ardent young officer remained lost in thought, oblivious to her presence. Feeling disheartened, Kitty moved closer but stopped short when she saw Foreign Secretary Lord Grenville approach Wellesley. Sighing, she turned away.
"Congratulations," Grenville said, raising his glass.
"To a great victory."
"To victory," Wellesley replied, clinking glasses. After exchanging pleasantries, their conversation shifted to Britain's overarching strategy.
"You're correct—the current international landscape is highly favorable to the French," Grenville acknowledged. "But we're not entirely powerless."
Wellesley, familiar with the challenges of diplomatic maneuvering, was surprised.
"Do you have a plan in mind?"
"I have some general ideas I'd like to discuss," Grenville replied modestly, always respectful of Wellesley's intellect.
"I believe greed is the root of failure. If one refuses to sacrifice anything, one risks losing everything."
Wellesley nodded thoughtfully. "Go on."
"We've long opposed Russia's ambitions in Poland to secure better control over trade. But this stance has alienated Prussia and inadvertently sowed discord between Prussia and Austria."
Raising his glass, Grenville continued:
"In essence, our defense of Poland has blocked Prussia and Austria's expansion. Without Russian involvement, they struggle to project power eastward—particularly Austria, which seems more inclined toward exerting influence in Romania.
"And who benefits most from this deadlock? The French."
(To be continued…)
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