Chapter 100: Prussian-Russian Conflict
Metternich answered helplessly, "Your Highness, the French government has always been inefficient. At a time like this, they're still debating it in Parliament!"
Even he had to admit defeat before the French efficiency. Both sides had already signed the treaty, and all the terms had been agreed upon in advance, yet when it came time to act, they still managed to drop the ball.
"Could it be that the French have suddenly lost interest in Italy and now want to go back on their word?" Prime Minister Felix asked doubtfully.
Metternich said, half laughing and half crying, "No, the French government has no intention of reneging. What they are arguing over is how many troops to send, who will serve as commander, and which unit should be dispatched."
It was enough to make one drunk. Such a trivial matter still had to be decided by Parliament. By the time they reached a conclusion, Austria would probably have already finished dealing with the Kingdom of Sardinia.
Franz rubbed his forehead and said, "Forget it. Our French ally is unreliable. Fortunately, we never expected them to accomplish much in the first place. As long as they don't cause trouble, that will be enough.
"The Foreign Ministry should keep a close eye on the British. Given their style, they will certainly try something at a time like this. Don't give them an opportunity."
According to the Austro-French Secret Treaty, during the Battle of Venice, the French should have sent troops to raid the Sardinians' nest, destroy the Kingdom of Sardinia, and then split Sardinian territory equally between the two countries.
Now that the Battle of Venice had already ended, the French Parliament still had not produced a result. Franz no longer expected the French to contribute much.
"Your Highness,