Chapter 596: The Emperor's Menu
Gladstone was not blinded by the good news before him. Monopolizing the Ottoman Empire's benefits would certainly be wonderful, but supporting the Ottoman Empire to check Austria was not something Britain could accomplish alone.
Now that the Ottoman Empire was in decline, the Vienna Government could stand by coldly and let them do as they pleased. But the moment the Ottoman Empire showed signs of resurgence, the situation would immediately change.
If one day the Vienna Government suddenly decided to pull out the thorn in its back, the British would in fact be too far away to do anything about it.
The London Government could not possibly fight Austria for the Ottomans. Regardless of victory or defeat, it would only benefit the French.
Thus, dragging the French into the water was the best choice. There was no need to expect the Ottoman Empire to accomplish much; as long as it existed, Austria would be unable to devote its full strength to competing for dominance on the European continent.
Unable to go all out, Austria naturally would have no way to break through the obstacles and unify the German region. Indeed, for its own strategic security, the Austrians would have to hold the French back as well.
With France and Austria pulling at each other's legs, the British could play balance between them and achieve their own strategic objectives.
McLean shook his head. "Prime Minister, I'm afraid that will be troublesome. France's financial circles do not look favorably upon the Ottoman Empire. Since the Second Near East War, French banks have not issued the Ottoman Government a single loan.
"When Napoleon III was on the throne, his relationship with the financial world was terrible, and it still has not eased. Even if the Paris Government is