Not only the French wanted to play the fisherman; after the Anglo-Boer War erupted, Prussia too began to stir.
William I was simply more cautious and did not rush to show his hand. Although the United Kingdom and Austria had come to blows in South Africa, it was all happening in the shadows. On the surface, the two sides were still "friendly nations."
Since they had not torn off all pretenses, it meant they could compromise at any moment. William I did not believe the South African question was an irreconcilable deadlock between the two countries.
But his view did not represent that of the Berlin Government. The Junker Nobility, long unable to hold themselves back, had already begun to stir.
Chancellor Moltke said in delight, "Your Majesty, this is a perfect opportunity. Conflict has broken out between the United Kingdom and Austria, while the French have turned their attention to Italy.
"At this moment, no one can stop us from moving against the German Federal Empire. The opportunity to unify North Germany has arrived."
The unification of North Germany was of vital importance to Prussia. Once it annexed the German Federal Empire, Europe would no longer be dominated by three great powers, but by four.
Although Prussia had now defeated the Russian Empire, in everyone's minds, it still ranked behind the Russian Empire.
It was recognized as a member of the great-power club, but only as a second-rate great power—possessing some say, yet lacking the influence to dictate the course of Europe.
This was not a matter of empty reputation, but one determined by strength. Whether in economic or military power, the Kingdom of Prussia was still unable to stand shoulder to shoulder with the United Kingdom, France, and Austria.
After defeating the Russians, the Junker Nobility's confidence had