For the past few years, the Tsar had been steadily reinforcing the Balkans, while all manner of supplies continued to converge there.
Russia's stated reason was suppressing the rebellion. If Britain really had not been supporting the rebel forces, he might even have suspected it was a Russian conspiracy.
Nicholas I's ambition for Constantinople had become almost common knowledge, and in recent years Russian envoys had traveled frequently between Vienna and Saint Petersburg.
George Hamilton-Gordon was nearly certain that the moment the armistice agreement expired, Russia would launch an attack on the Ottoman Empire.
Of course, given the temperament of that "Gendarme of Europe," as long as he reached an agreement with the Austrian Empire, it was not impossible that he would brazenly tear up the treaty.
"Damn sick man of West Asia!"
George Hamilton-Gordon spoke through gritted teeth.
His words immediately struck a chord with Foreign Secretary George Villiers.
"Prime Minister, you are absolutely right! Every one of these disasters was brewed by the Ottomans themselves! If they were not so weak, the Russians would not dare act with such utter impunity."
George Hamilton-Gordon grew even more furious upon hearing this.
"The Ottomans' incompetence has reached a point that is almost beyond saving. It is hard to imagine why this country has managed to exist for so long.
"We have extended them three loans already. Just look at what they have done! Why is the Iron Wall Defense Line built entirely out of wood and stone?
"Look at these photographs. Tell me they are defending against a Crusader expedition, and I would believe you!"
George Hamilton-Gordon pointed at the photographs spread across the desk. They showed nothing but rocks, dirt, several crooked wooden stakes, and not even a single proper firing slit.
The things in the photographs could not