Moreover, through nearly twenty years of public debate, Franz had long since desensitized Austrians to British theories. They would not, as they had in history, proactively cooperate with the other side.
"Let me say this again, Viscount. There are only Austria and Sardinia here. This is a matter between nations. Please do not drag those innocent people into it.
"If you cannot acknowledge that, then there is no need for us to continue talking."
Viscount Stratford's fists clenched with a crackle.
"What will it take for your country to let this go?"
This time, it was Lord Habescu's turn to reveal a puzzled expression.
"Of course, the invaders must receive the punishment they deserve."
Lord Habescu's words made Viscount Stratford's teeth grind, but Britain was currently in a period of weakness. Fighting on the Austrian Empire's doorstep was truly beyond its strength.
He cast a furtive glance at Walewski, the French foreign minister beside him. The latter still looked as though his eyes watched his nose, and his nose watched his heart.
Britain would likely have a hard time getting the French to stand at the front now, but he had to stop the Austrian Empire from using this opportunity to expand.
One half of the Holy Alliance was expanding madly on land, while the other was poaching Britain's turf at sea. How could the world hegemon possibly endure that?
"Your country will pay a price for being so obstinate!"
Viscount Stratford rose to leave. Lord Habescu showed no intention of stopping him, leaving the former no choice but to depart stiffly.
After Viscount Stratford left, Walewski also politely chose to depart. However, he said nothing superfluous and made no statement of position.
Lord Habescu could not help but regard Walewski more highly. He had heard that the latter had