Three days later, in Napoleon's office.
Napoleon was deep in his usual work routine, engrossed in the latest reports from various Ministries. The initial signs were looking good. The Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure had noted progress in Paris' construction projects. The Ministry of Finance had impressive numbers to share - a significant twenty-five percent GDP increase, attributed to the widespread employment initiatives put into play. The Ministry of Police had encouraging news too, with crime rates dropping due to heightened law enforcement presence on the streets.
As he delved into the reports, his brow furrowed a bit, taking in the data and numbers on the pages before him. The combined efforts of his government were undoubtedly showing practical results.
His attention shifted from one report to another, diving into the detailed descriptions that painted a clear picture of the nation's current situation. The Ministry of Agriculture's report was particularly optimistic, highlighting positive agricultural growth. Farmers embracing modern technologies like steam tractors significantly boosted efficiency and yields.
In the midst of the pile of reports, one specific memo grabbed Napoleon's attention. It was a message from General Murat. The contents revealed that the Kingdom of Naples had entered an armistice at Foligno on February 9th, 1801. This step essentially signaled the end of hostilities between French and Neapolitan forces.
"Kingdom of Naples," Napoleon repeated, a flicker of recognition crossing his mind. The Kingdom had momentarily slipped his mind.
This Kingdom of Naples had sided with a coalition, a choice that had left it isolated from its previous allies. The French Navy had implemented a blockade on their main ports, further compounding their isolation. With the French Republic's victory over the Austrian Empire, the Kingdom's isolation had deepened. A stipulation in the Treaty of Luneville explicitly prohibited the Austrian Empire from trading with nations at war with France. On top of these pressures, France's control over Northern Italy further constricted the Kingdom's options.
"How should I handle this," Napoleon muttered quietly to himself. Reflecting on history, Napoleon had shown leniency towards the Kingdom of Naples to placate Russia's Emperor, Paul I. In the present context, it seemed like the most logical course of action, given there was no enmity between Napoleon and the Kingdom of Naples.
Napoleon reached for a pen and paper, swiftly drafting a letter to General Murat, who was stationed in the Kingdom of Naples. In the letter, he instructed Murat to maintain the armistice terms, ensure a peaceful transition and expressed his intent to continue fostering cooperative relations between the French Republic and the Kingdom of Naples.
After writing the letter, he called, "Beaumont!"
Moments later, Beaumont promptly entered Napoleon's office.
"How may I be of service, Your Excellency?" he inquired respectfully.
Napoleon looked up from his desk, his gaze focused on Beaumont. "I've just drafted a letter to General Murat. I want you to ensure it's delivered promptly. Use a telegraph."
Beaumont nodded, taking in the instructions. "Of course, Your Excellency. I'll ensure the letter reaches General Murat promptly. On another note, I was about to tell you that the Minister of War, Berthier, has sent a telegraph. He intends to visit you this afternoon."
"Berthier…" Napoleon contemplated aloud. "Did the letter specify the purpose of his visit?"
Beaumont retrieved a slim envelope from his coat pocket and handed it to Napoleon. "Here is the telegraph, Your Excellency. The exact purpose of Minister Berthier's visit is not explicitly stated, but it mentions that he seeks an audience to discuss matters of strategic importance."
Napoleon took the envelope and quickly scanned its contents. "Strategic importance," he murmured, wondering what it could be. "Very well, Beaumont. I shall receive Minister Berthier this afternoon. Notify him that he can proceed with his visit as scheduled."
"Understood, Your Excellency. I will relay your message immediately," Beaumont responded promptly. "Is there anything else you require at this moment?"
"No, that will be all for now."
"Very well, Your Excellency. Should you need any further assistance or updates, please do not hesitate to summon me."
"I appreciate that," Napoleon replied with a nod. "You're dismissed for now."
Beaumont left Napoleon's office, leaving Napoleon still wondering why Berthier is coming to his office. Could it be about the military reforms? If so, it's fast; he had expected Berthier to return in one or two months with a comprehensive report. Napoleon shook his head, reminding himself not to jump to conclusions. Berthier was known for his efficiency, after all.
Two hours later.
Beaumont returned to Napoleon's office. He bowed in front of Napoleon and informed, "Your Excellency, I have successfully transmitted your message to General Murat."
Napoleon simply nodded.
"The Minister of War, Berthier has arrived," Beaumont added. "Should I let him in now?"
Napoleon glanced up from his work, his mind now fully focused on the present situation.
"Yes, Beaumont. Please show him in."
Beaumont inclined his head respectfully and turned to leave the room. Within moments, he returned, ushering in Minister of War Berthier. The Minister entered with a purposeful stride and approached Napoleon's desk.
"Your Excellency," Berthier greeted with a slight nod.
Napoleon acknowledged him with a curt nod in return. "Minister Berthier, you've come at an opportune time. Please, take a seat."
Berthier took the indicated seat.
Napoleon studied Berthier for a moment, then leaned forward slightly, resting his hands on the desk.
"Your telegraph mentioned matters of strategic importance. I assume it's the reason for your visit?"
Berthier nodded, his expression becoming more earnest. "Indeed, Your Excellency. It's about an agreement proposed by the Kingdom of Spain."
"Spain?" Napoleon repeated. Did he hear him correctly? He was expecting it would be about the military reforms, but Spain wasn't on his immediate radar for discussions.
He leaned in, intrigued by Berthier's words.
ραΠdαsΝοvel.cοm "Tell me more, Minister," Napoleon prompted.
Berthier cleared his throat, gathering his thoughts before he continued. "Your Excellency, the Kingdom of Spain has reached out with a proposal that would transfer the Louisiana territory back to us in exchange for some territory in the Italian peninsula."
Napoleon's eyebrows rose. Louisiana? The lost territory of France in North America? Is Berthier referring to that territory? If so, then this would probably be the best day of his life. He had been waiting for this moment, when Spain would come to an agreement with the French Republic. But, how come it is so late? The Third Treaty of San Ildefonso was signed on October 1, 1800, in real history, but in this world, there's no such agreement. Could it be one of the effects of changing the course of history? Probably.
"I see," Napoleon replied, leaning back in his chair. "And what territory do they want from Italy?"
"Tuscany," Berthier revealed.
"I think it's best if we can get Talleyrand here before we start discussing this," Napoleon suggested, and called Beaumont inside.
"Beaumont, can you summon the Minister of Foreign Affairs for me please? With urgency."
"Right away, Your Excellency," Beaumont acknowledged the order.
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