The Fox of France - Chapter 346: The Press Conference

Both Metternich and Nathan Rothschild were practical individuals. They were well aware that the crown of the “Holy Roman Emperor” held little practical significance. Theoretically, it granted Austria the power to intervene in the Rhineland. However, practically, the Rhineland was already under French influence, making it impossible for Austria to intervene.

Moreover, considering the Rhineland was predominantly Protestant, Austria not only couldn’t intervene but couldn’t even voice an opinion. Presently, even if Austria were to speak up, the heretics in the Rhineland, backed by the French, advocating for land reforms, would undoubtedly retort unanimously, “Shut up, we are discussing a republic!”

Hence, presently, the significance of this crown had considerably diminished. Yet, it still carried Habsburg’s legacy, and abandoning it seemed somewhat… Besides, though it had lost its effectiveness in European affairs, within Austria, this crown still held some influence.

Unlike France, even during the Bourbon era, Austria remained a significantly feudal nation. The Bourbon France, at least, centralized power. Though there were dukes and counts with their fiefdoms, these lands were under direct control of the kingdom’s government. The lords no longer had the same power to rule independently within their domains as they did before.

But Austria’s centralized power wasn’t as effective. Domestic lords retained substantial autonomy. In this scenario, this papally endorsed “Emperor of the Romans” hat was quite valuable. Besides, relinquishing the crown would be a considerable sacrifice—how could they give it up without compensation? Even if they were to relinquish it, there must be some payment involved!

However, Metternich couldn’t make decisions on this matter. After bidding farewell to Nathan Rothschild, he immediately penned a letter and dispatched it to Vienna using a carrier pigeon.

At this point, there existed a telegraph line between Vienna and Paris. However, because the operator of the telegraph was French, despite encryption, Metternich felt uneasy. A year prior, he intentionally sent a fabricated, misleading document through the telegraph system to Vienna, carefully observing the French’s reactions. As expected, he discovered several suspicious activities. Hence, the Austrian embassy began using carrier pigeons for conveying the most confidential information. Though slower than the telegraph, carrier pigeons were undoubtedly more reliable.

Watching the pigeon carrying the message cylinder fly into the sky, Metternich turned, preparing to visit a few friends, asking them to gauge the French’s mood. He knew he couldn’t make Napoleon abandon his ambitions, but at least he could test the waters, see if the French were willing to offer compensation.

But just then, from the sky, came the sound of wings flapping. Metternich turned to witness a grey pigeon landing, a small bamboo cylinder tied to its leg.

Two days earlier, when the incident occurred, Metternich immediately informed the homeland through telegraph. This was probably the response from the homeland.

The personnel managing the carrier pigeon removed the wax-sealed cylinder from its leg and handed it to Metternich. He inspected the seals, confirming the cylinder hadn’t been tampered with en route. Taking the cylinder to his office, he retrieved the letter and, with the codebook, began deciphering.

The letter indeed concerned the ongoing event. It first reported the investigation’s progress in Vienna and their subsequent actions. The Austrian government had seized the nonsensical newspaper and arrested its editors on charges of “insulting friendly leaders.” They intended to prosecute rigorously. Understandably so, these individuals had been spreading nonsense, causing astonishment among friendly nations’ citizens. If left unchecked, this could destabilize the country.

The letter suggested Metternich take immediate action, emphasizing Austria’s commitment to Franco-Austrian traditional friendship, staunchly opposing any conspiracy against France using Austrian territory. They advised informing the French media of Austria’s goodwill to quell the turmoil.

“These folks back home, why are they so slow?” Metternich pondered. “This situation is clearly a French ploy. What good can this achieve alone?”

Despite this, such a move had to be made. After a brief consideration, he called his secretary, instructing them to arrange a press conference. Meanwhile, Metternich headed straight to the French Foreign Ministry to convey Austria’s goodwill.

Metternich and French Foreign Minister Talleyrand were old acquaintances. Not that they had known each other for a long time, but they had prospered together and had quite a few reliable mutual interests.

After their meeting, Metternich informed Talleyrand of Austria’s actions and conveyed Austria’s appreciation for the traditional friendship with France, hoping this incident wouldn’t affect the amicable relationship between the two nations.

Talleyrand reciprocated, emphasizing France’s regard for the friendship with Austria and appreciating Austria’s steps to preserve their relationship, ensuring both nations remained friendly neighbors, both now and in the future.

Talleyrand’s official tone didn’t satisfy Metternich. He knew that in such situations, excessive diplomacy could complicate matters. However, as of now, Metternich hadn’t been authorized to negotiate with the French regarding the crown issue, so he couldn’t discuss asking the French for compensation. He could only subtly express to Talleyrand the hope that the French wouldn’t rush into things; many matters could still be negotiated.

The next day, at the Austrian embassy, Metternich held a press conference. He briefed the attending newspapers about Austria’s actions, hoping it would dispel any misunderstandings caused by the French media. He wished for these actions to deepen the friendship between the two nations.

After the news briefing, the floor was open to questions. The first to stand was a journalist from the Businessman Gazette.

“Ambassador, we noticed your mention of the recent closure of a newspaper due to illicit activities. In fact, such unlawful activities have been ongoing in your country for several years now. Why has your country taken action only now?”

“Ah, you see, those fellows are quite cunning. They’ve always been walking the thin line. Like France, we too aim to protect press freedom. These fake news outlets are experts at exploiting loopholes,” Metternich responded.

At this moment, a journalist from the Sun Gazette stood up and asked, “Mr. Ambassador, we are aware that earlier this year, our country thwarted an assassination plot against our Prime Minister. It’s rumored that these assassins had resided in your country for an extended period before entering ours. Could you provide some explanation for this?”

“Ah, these matters are complex. We are currently investigating the situation thoroughly. As soon as we have definitive information, we will communicate it appropriately,” Metternich replied diplomatically.