Unlike Leopold II and Francesco V, Charles I still dreamed of trading sovereignty for the right to govern.
"Dear Franz, the Duchy of Parma is also willing to accept Austria's protection. But I think I was born to rule, and I know my duchy better than anyone.
As you've seen, governing is no simple matter. There may even be threats to deal with, as there are now.
I think you have a greater gift for war and should put your talents on the battlefield. Leave this dull, tedious business to your uncle."
Charles I spoke with such heartfelt sincerity that, if Franz had been an inexperienced young man, or simply unaware of the other man's true nature, he might well have been moved by his words.
But Franz knew perfectly well that Charles I was incapable of managing his lands. Excessive administrative fragmentation would not only drive up costs but also reduce efficiency.
Worse still, a separate political entity would interfere with Franz's plans.
"I think I have a greater gift for politics. You, on the other hand, ought to receive more military training.
If you could lead an army and defeat those who are disrupting order, you wouldn't need to come here now."
Franz's reply was scathing. To be honest, he had no intention of letting a turncoat like Charles I think he was an honest, guileless man.
That could be taken as a weakness and exploited. Wine for friends, blades for enemies—that was how to keep relations harmonious.
Franz's words may have been harsh, but they were also true. And with the situation stacked against him, Charles I had no choice.
For now, he could only rely on the Austrian Empire to recover his lost lands. His cousin Louis Philippe and France were already yesterday's news.
With great