Chapter 462: Adapting Measures to Local Conditions
Looking at the white-haired old prime minister, Franz felt some hesitation himself. He asked himself, Is this really the right thing to do?
The thought was quickly dismissed. Politics allowed no indecision. Besides, Prime Minister Felix still looked full of vigor and handled government affairs with effortless ease.
Franz, sentimental by nature, did not like changing people too often. Aside from cabinet members who had stepped down early for health reasons, the rest had served for over twenty years.
Stability at the top ensured the continuity of policy to the greatest extent. Austria's ability to maintain rapid development over the years was due in no small part to their contributions.
As for the problem of ministers becoming so accomplished that they overshadowed the ruler, or concerns about the cabinet growing too powerful—those were things only mediocre monarchs needed to consider. Franz was not worried in the slightest.
As long as things were handled properly, "merits towering over the ruler" could be turned into a celebrated tale of a wise sovereign and worthy ministers. Most of the time, famous ministers merely served to highlight a famous ruler.
With a little guidance of public opinion, the ministers' achievements became proof of the emperor's ability to recognize and employ talent. There was no need to compete with one's subordinates for credit. Only those whose claim to the throne was illegitimate needed to worry day after day.
In this respect, Western emperors had it far easier. They did not have to fear their subordinates rebelling once they grew powerful. The awareness of legal legitimacy had already taken deep root in people's hearts. What mattered now was bloodline; this was no longer a world where princes and generals asked, "Are they born to greatness?"
Of course, revolutionaries were