Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• The British support for Chile forces Peru and Bolivia to seek backing from France and Austria.
• Austria considers loaning money to Bolivia, with the mineral resources of the Atacama Desert as collateral.
• Austria's Foreign Minister informs the Emperor that the Russo-Austrian Alliance treaty is due to expire in three months.
• The Emperor contemplates whether to renew the alliance, weighing its economic and strategic benefits.

Character Developments

• Emperor Franz is shown to be pragmatic and cautious, considering the economic and strategic implications of renewing the alliance.
• Minister of Finance Karl advises the Emperor on the risks of accepting Bolivia's mineral resources as collateral.
• Prime Minister Felix and Minister of Agriculture Hols provide their perspectives on the value of renewing the Russo-Austrian Alliance.

Significant Themes

• Economic interdependence and its impact on political alliances.
• The tension between economic benefits and strategic interests.
• The influence of public opinion on political decisions.

Character Interactions

• Emperor Franz consults with his ministers, including Chief of the General Staff Albrecht, Finance Minister Karl, Foreign Minister Wessenberg, Prime Minister Felix, and Minister of Agriculture Hols.
• The Emperor and his ministers discuss the potential loan to Bolivia and the renewal of the Russo-Austrian Alliance, each providing their insights and advice.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Russo-Austrian Alliance dissolves, signaling the imminent start of the Prusso-Russian War.
• The Prusso-Polish Federation and the Russian Empire have been preparing for war, with both having developed their military industries and transportation networks significantly.
• The Tsarist Government is furious and faces a crucial decision: launch a war early or prepare defenses and wait for the Prusso-Polish Federation to attack.

Character Developments

• Tsar Alexander II is enraged by the dissolution of the Russo-Austrian Alliance and struggles to make a decision about the war.
• Grand Duke Alexandrovich tries to persuade his father to consider the situation rationally.
• Ministers discuss the financial aspects of the war and the challenges in securing funds.

Significant Themes

• The importance of military industry and transportation in modern warfare.
• The financial burden of war and the need to secure funding from international markets.
• The strategic dilemma faced by the Tsarist Government: launch a war early or prepare defenses.

Character Interactions

• Alexander II interacts with his ministers, expressing his anger and listening to their advice.
• Alexandrovich tries to reason with his father and guide him towards a more strategic decision.
• The ministers discuss and debate the financial aspects of the war and the challenges of securing funds.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Russian Empire's envoy, Nikolayevich, approaches Austria's Foreign Minister, Wessenberg, to request a loan of 500 million Divine Shields (equivalent to 1,830 tons of gold) for the impending Prusso-Russian War.
• Wessenberg refuses the loan due to the Tsarist Government's poor credit and lack of suitable collateral.
• Wessenberg suggests using the Russian Empire's gold reserves as collateral, but Nikolayevich refuses.
• The next day, Franz, the Austrian Emperor, discusses the loan with his Prime Minister, Felix. They agree to monitor global financial movements and secure the best possible terms for Austria.

Character Developments

• Alexander II, the Russian Emperor, is depicted as desperate for funds, willing to mortgage territory but not gold reserves.
• Franz, the Austrian Emperor, is portrayed as shrewd and calculating, aiming to maximize Austria's gains from the loan.
• Wessenberg is shown as cautious and pragmatic, refusing the loan due to the Tsarist Government's lack of credibility.

Significant Themes

• The importance of financial strength in warfare.
• The risks and benefits of lending and borrowing money, especially between nations.
• The geopolitical implications of loans and their collateral.

Character Interactions

• Nikolayevich and Wessenberg discuss the loan, with Wessenberg refusing due to the Tsarist Government's lack of credibility.
• Franz and Felix discuss the loan, agreeing to monitor global financial movements and secure the best possible terms for Austria.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Russian Empire's Foreign Ministry official, Philip Francis Thomas, visits the Nordic Federation's Foreign Ministry to propose a loan of 800 million kroner in exchange for the Finnish region as collateral.
• The Nordic Federation's Foreign Minister, Carla Valenti, initially rejects the proposal, citing the Russian Empire's poor financial situation and the Finnish region's limited economic value.

Character Developments

• Philip Francis Thomas: Despite his pride as a Russian official, he understands the reality of his country's situation and is willing to perform a thankless task to keep the Nordic Federation steady.
• Carla Valenti: She is cautious and pragmatic, considering the risks and benefits of the loan proposal, and is aware of the Nordic Federation's desire to reclaim Finland.

Significant Themes

• Realpolitik: Both the Russian Empire and the Nordic Federation are driven by pragmatic considerations, prioritizing their national interests above all else.
• Economic Strength: The chapter emphasizes the importance of economic power, with both nations seeking to strengthen their positions through financial means.
• Historical Foundations: The Nordic Federation's desire to reclaim lost lands is rooted in its historical foundations and conservative strategic tendencies.

Character Interactions

• Philip Francis Thomas and Carla Valenti: Their interaction is characterized by diplomatic tension and mutual understanding of each other's positions. Thomas probes Valenti's willingness to consider the loan, while Valenti expresses her concerns and reservations.
• Oscar II and Carla Valenti: The king and his foreign minister discuss the risks and potential benefits of the loan proposal, ultimately deciding to continue negotiations with the Russians while seeking to mitigate risks.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Prusso-Polish Federation struggles to secure loans due to lack of valuable collateral and war risk.
• The Berlin Government considers using territory, tax revenues, railways, and ports as collateral, but the sums involved are too large.
• William I considers borrowing from Jewish capitalists, who are willing to oppose Russia but prioritize tangible interests over supporting a Jewish state.
• William I decides to visit Europe to raise war funds.
• Marshal Albrecht von Roon, a key figure in the Prussian military and government, dies, leaving a power vacuum.

Character Developments

• William I shows desperation and helplessness in securing war funds, indicating his growing concern and urgency.
• Albrecht von Roon's death highlights his crucial role in balancing military and government power, and his passing creates a power vacuum that William I must address.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for resources and collateral in securing loans for war.
• The complex relationship between the military and government, and the challenges of maintaining power balance.
• The precarious situation of the Prusso-Polish Federation, which could lose everything if it loses the war.

Character Interactions

• William I interacts with his Foreign Minister, Jeffrey Friedman, discussing loan options and the possibility of borrowing from Jewish capitalists.
• William I and Prime Minister Moltke discuss the implications of Albrecht von Roon's death and the need for a state funeral.
• William I considers potential successors to Roon's position, weighing their political acumen and military influence.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• William I visits London, but is snubbed by the British government, indicating their lack of interest in supporting Prussia in the upcoming war against Russia.
• The British Cabinet discusses their stance on the impending Prusso-Russian War, with Prime Minister Benjamin emphasizing the need to choose the side that best serves British interests.

Character Developments

• William I: He feels the coldness of the British welcome and understands that Britain will not support Prussia without significant benefits.
• Benjamin (British Prime Minister): He shows political acumen by prioritizing British interests and considering the potential outcomes of the war.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The balance of power between European nations is a central theme, with Britain seeking to maintain its dominance by supporting the right side in the conflict.
• Economic Interests: The British government's decisions are heavily influenced by economic factors, such as the potential risks and rewards of lending money to either side.

Character Interactions

• The British Cabinet members discuss and debate their stance on the war, with Benjamin ultimately deciding to sound out William I and assess the Prusso-Polish Federation's position before making a decision.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Prusso-Polish Federation seeks a loan of over a hundred million Pound Sterling from the British for the impending war against Russia.
• The British Foreign Office, led by Edward, is unwilling to provide the loan without the Prusso-Polish Federation's gold reserves as collateral, which would effectively cede monetary independence to Britain.
• The Prusso-Polish Federation's Foreign Minister, Friedman, is unwilling to accept the British terms, citing potential offense to Austria and a better offer from the Vienna Government.

Character Developments

• Edward (British Foreign Secretary): Maintains a polite but firm stance, representing Britain's interests and refusing to budge on the loan terms.
• Friedman (Prusso-Polish Federation Foreign Minister): Stands his ground, attempting to negotiate better terms but ultimately unable to secure a satisfactory deal.

Significant Themes

• Hegemony: The struggle for monetary and political hegemony between nations, with Britain seeking to assert its influence and the Prusso-Polish Federation trying to maintain its independence.
• Diplomacy and Negotiation: The complex dance of diplomacy, with each side attempting to gain the upper hand while maintaining a veneer of politeness.
• Economic Power: The importance of economic strength in international relations, with the Prusso-Polish Federation's lack of gold reserves putting it at a disadvantage.

Character Interactions

• Edward and Friedman: The tense negotiation between the British and Prusso-Polish Federation representatives, with Edward maintaining a strong stance and Friedman attempting to leverage other factors to improve the terms.
• Implicit Interactions: The Prusso-Polish Federation's potential offense to Austria and the Vienna Government's better offer are used as bargaining chips, highlighting the complex web of international relations and alliances.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Austria learns of the Anglo-Prussian negotiations through British leaks.
• The British are promoting closer Prusso-French relations, which Austria views with suspicion.
• Austria decides to support Russia in the Prusso-Russian War to counterbalance the growing influence of the Prusso-Polish Federation.
• Franz decides to provide loans to Russia, accepting gold and territorial collateral, despite Finance Minister Karl's objections.

Character Developments

• Franz, the Emperor of Austria, shows strategic thinking and a willingness to take risks to maintain Austria's position in Europe.
• Finance Minister Karl is cautious and concerned about Austria's financial stability, opposing Franz's decision to loan money to Russia.

Significant Themes

• The balance of power in Europe is a central theme, with Austria trying to maintain its position amidst shifting alliances.
• The importance of economic strength is highlighted, with Austria and Britain having an advantage over France due to their coal and industrial resources.
• The consequences of over-reliance on finance in France's economy are foreshadowed.

Character Interactions

• Franz consults with his ministers, including Foreign Minister Wessenberg and Finance Minister Karl, to discuss Austria's response to the changing European situation.
• Franz makes a decision despite Finance Minister Karl's objections, demonstrating his authority as the Emperor.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The international situation becomes clear: Anglo-Prussian relations warm, while Russia and Austria re-ally. France holds Europe's future.
• The Russian delegation arrives in Paris, seeking French support against the Prusso-Polish Federation.
• Napoleon IV meets with William I, discussing potential alliances and interests.

Character Developments

• Napoleon IV: Ambitious and strategic, he wants France to have younger brothers, not rivals. He's aware of the European powers' shared interest in preventing the rise of another strong power.
• Crown Prince Alexandrovich (Alexander III): He's disheartened by the French reception and avoids meeting William I, showing his pride and limited influence in Russian diplomacy.

Significant Themes

• Alliances and Power Balance: The European powers seek to maintain a balance of power, preventing any one nation from becoming too strong. This influences their diplomatic strategies and alliances.
• Trust and Collateral: In diplomatic negotiations, trust and collateral are crucial. The Tsarist Government's lack of trust in Britain and France, and vice versa, hinders their ability to secure support.
• Pride and Status: Both Alexandrovich and William I exhibit pride and are conscious of their status, influencing their diplomatic actions and interactions.

Character Interactions

• Napoleon IV and William I: Their meeting is harmonious, with both sides seeking to gain from the potential alliance. However, Napoleon IV is cautious and wants Prussia to defeat Russia first.
• Alexandrovich and William I: They avoid each other, showing their disdain and unwillingness to engage in direct confrontation.
• French and Prusso-Polish Federation Diplomats: They engage in tense negotiations, with the French side confident in their position and dismissive of the Prusso-Polish Federation's concerns about Austria.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jeffrey Friedman, the British Envoy, presents Dumbledore, the French Foreign Minister, with documents exaggerating Austria's threat to France.
• Dumbledore dismisses the documents, stating that France is not inferior to Austria and that Austria is France's "family affair."
• Dumbledore warns Friedman that the UK is also a potential rival to France.

Character Developments

• Dumbledore: Shows pride in France's strength and is unwilling to be provoked into conflict with Austria. He also reveals that the UK, France, and Austria are vested interests and fear new great powers.
• Jeffrey Friedman: Initially optimistic about provoking a conflict between France and Austria, but later realizes the dangers of continuing the war with Russia. He understands that the UK, France, and Austria will suppress the Prusso-Polish Federation after the war.

Significant Themes

• National pride and the fear of new great powers.
• The struggle for continental hegemony and colonial wealth.
• The inevitability of war due to conflicting interests.

Character Interactions

• Dumbledore and Jeffrey Friedman: Dumbledore dismisses Friedman's attempts to provoke a conflict with Austria and warns him about the UK's potential threat.
• Jeffrey Friedman and Lieutenant General McPhee: Friedman shares his concerns about the future after the war, while McPhee remains optimistic and focused on defeating Russia.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Dumbledore, a senior French government official, suspects Austria's intentions in allowing France to annex the Italian region.
• Russia and Austria engage in negotiations, with Russia offering territorial collateral and half of its gold reserves as security for a loan.
• Austria demands more collateral and guarantees, leading to intense negotiations.
• Russia and Austria sign the Russo-Austrian Trade Agreement, with Russia mortgaging territories and raising funds from Austria.
• Russia and Austria, along with the Nordic Federation, sign a Debt Guarantee Contract.

Character Developments

• Dumbledore demonstrates his strategic thinking and caution, weighing the pros and cons before taking action.
• Russian Ambassador Nikolayevich shows determination to secure the loan despite the heavy collateral demanded by Austria.
• Foreign Minister Wessenberg displays shrewd negotiation skills and a focus on Austria's interests.

Significant Themes

• Suspicion and Trust: Dumbledore's suspicion of Austria's intentions and the lack of trust between Russia and Austria during negotiations.
• Power Dynamics: The balance of power between France, Austria, and Russia, with each nation considering its own interests.
• Economic Hegemony: Austria's desire to gain monetary hegemony through Russia's gold reserves and the loan agreement.

Character Interactions

• Dumbledore and Friedman: Dumbledore's disapproval of Friedman's actions in driving a wedge between France and Austria without considering the consequences.
• Nikolayevich and Wessenberg: The tense negotiations between the Russian and Austrian representatives, with each side pushing for better terms.
• Russia, Austria, and the Nordic Federation: The three nations engage in a complex financial and political agreement, with each party seeking to maximize its gains.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Berlin Government exposes the Anglo-Prussian and Franco-Prussian debt agreements, escalating tensions.
• International loans are tied to political support, with Britain and France backing the Prusso-Polish Federation, and Austria and the Nordic Federation supporting the Russian Empire.
• The Prusso-Polish Federation secures a 100 million Divine Shield loan from the Berlin Government to bolster its war efforts.
• The Russian Empire declares war on the Prusso-Polish Federation, with both sides preparing for a large-scale conflict.

Character Developments

• Franz, the king of the Prusso-Polish Federation, remains confident and composed, following his planned script for the war.
• Alexander II, the Tsar of the Russian Empire, matures as a monarch, finding the favorable aspects of the situation and making strategic decisions.

Significant Themes

• The impact of international loans and political alliances on war preparations and morale.
• The influence of hatred and enmity on political decisions and actions.
• The importance of strategic planning and preparation in warfare.

Character Interactions

• Franz and his ministers discuss the war's progress and plans.
• Alexander II and his son, Crown Prince Alexandrovich, discuss the war's prospects and the conspiracy of Britain, France, and Austria.
• The Russian military leadership, including Minister of War Paladru Wald, reports to Alexander II on their war preparations.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Franz and his family are out for a countryside excursion when they receive news of the Prusso-Russian War.
• Franz returns to the palace and convenes a cabinet meeting to discuss the war.
• The Prusso-Polish Federation mobilizes all able-bodied men between 15 and 60 for the war.
• Franz suspects a secret Prusso-French pact aimed at Austria.
• Napoleon IV holds a banquet to celebrate the Prusso-Russian War, but also faces economic challenges due to the war's impact on the African Continent development plan.

Character Developments

• Franz remains calm and strategic in the face of the Prusso-Russian War, understanding its potential impact on Europe and the world.
• Napoleon IV is initially delighted by the war but soon faces economic concerns regarding the African Continent development plan.

Significant Themes

• The impact of war on economies and political structures.
• The struggle for power and influence among European nations.
• The importance of resources and capital for development.

Character Interactions

• Franz interacts with his cabinet, discussing the war and its implications.
• Napoleon IV interacts with his ministers, celebrating the war but also addressing economic concerns.
• Franz and Napoleon IV, as heads of state, react differently to the same event, highlighting their distinct priorities and challenges.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The British government is discussing the expansion of the army due to the ongoing Prusso-Russian War.
• The War Secretary, Fox, proposes expanding the army to deal with unforeseen circumstances, but the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Garfield, opposes it, arguing that the situation in Europe is still under control and that expanding the army would not change anything.
• The Prime Minister, Benjamin, agrees with Garfield, stating that Britain lacks the strength to contend for supremacy on the continent and that maintaining the balance is the best choice.
• Fox argues that the army needs to be expanded to deal with issues in the colonies, such as the plans to use force against Afghanistan and Persia. However, the First Lord of the Admiralty, John Vassil, interjects, stating that the marines can handle these missions and that the army should not be involved.

Character Developments

• Fox is determined to expand the army, showing his commitment to the army's dignity and effectiveness.
• Garfield is cautious about expanding the army, prioritizing financial concerns and the current stability in Europe.
• Benjamin is pragmatic, focusing on maintaining the balance of power in Europe and prioritizing diplomacy over military expansion.
• John Vassil is protective of the Royal Navy's interests, wanting to keep the army's influence minimal.

Significant Themes

• The balance of power in Europe and the global situation.
• The tension between the British Army and the Royal Navy.
• The impact of the Prusso-Russian War on global politics and trade.

Character Interactions

• Fox and Garfield clash over the army expansion proposal, with Fox defending the army's dignity and Garfield expressing financial concerns.
• Benjamin mediates the dispute, prioritizing diplomacy and maintaining the balance of power in Europe.
• John Vassil interjects to protect the Royal Navy's interests, downplaying the army's role in overseas expansion and domestic order.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Marshal Moltke arrives at the front to oversee the battle, finding the Prussian army stuck in a stalemate at Brest.
• The Prussian army's strategy to cut off the Dnieper River transport route is at risk due to the Russian army's stubborn defense and rapid reinforcement.
• Moltke orders the army to find alternative methods to achieve their strategic objective, including using small units to infiltrate and blow up the Dnieper River channel if necessary.

Character Developments

• Marshal Moltke demonstrates his strategic prowess and determination to win the war at any cost.
• General Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen shows concern for the feasibility of the current battle plan and suggests alternative strategies.

Significant Themes

• The importance of strategic flexibility and adaptability in warfare.
• The human cost of war and the pressure on soldiers to fight desperately.
• The political and diplomatic aspects of war, such as securing supply routes and alliance support.

Character Interactions

• Moltke and Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen discuss strategies and the challenges of the war in a private meeting.
• Moltke expresses his displeasure with the slow progress of the battle and pressures the officers to find a solution.
• The officers present at the meeting acknowledge their difficulties but remain determined to carry out their orders.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Russian army adopts a cautious strategy, focusing on defending key positions and fortifications while avoiding decisive battles.
• Franz and Albrecht discuss potential strategies against Russia, including a naval attack on Saint Petersburg, but deem it impractical due to internal politics and coordination issues.
• Franz learns about the British plans to intervene in the South American war, deciding to temporarily abandon their interests there to focus on the European situation.

Character Developments

• Franz demonstrates strategic thinking and a willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good.
• Albrecht shows understanding of military strategies and the political complexities within the Prusso-Polish Federation.

Significant Themes

• The balance between offense and defense in warfare.
• The struggle between army and navy interests within the Prusso-Polish Federation.
• The importance of focusing on core interests and making strategic sacrifices when necessary.

Character Interactions

• Franz and Albrecht engage in a strategic discussion, with Albrecht providing insights and Franz making the final decisions.
• Franz consults with his ministers, including Albrecht and Foreign Minister Wessenberg, to discuss international developments and make policy decisions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Battle of Kovel begins, with Major General Luke commanding the Prussian forces.
• The Russian army counterattacks and a brutal bayonet battle ensues.
• Luke realizes that the Russian army is deliberately luring them into attacking to wear them down.

Character Developments

• Major General Luke, initially confident in his resolve, experiences doubt and turmoil upon witnessing the brutal battle and remembering his fallen comrades.
• Luke acknowledges his human vulnerabilities and the cost of his rise through the ranks.

Significant Themes

• The brutal nature of war and its impact on soldiers.
• The human cost of military advancement and the sacrifices made by lower-ranking soldiers.
• The strategic use of attrition warfare by the Russian army.

Character Interactions

• Luke and Chief of Staff Pasqualino discuss the casualty reports and the Russian army's tactics.
• Major General Yaden-Ivanov and Major Fike discuss the Russian army's strategy and the high casualty rates.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A Prussian division bypasses Kamen and heads straight for Pinsk, sparking interest in Franz and his staff.
• The South American theater sees a turning point with the United Kingdom's navy entering the fray, blocking Peru and Bolivia's maritime routes.
• The British detain ships bound for Peru and Bolivia, including Austrian-registered ones, leading to diplomatic protests and public demonstrations.

Character Developments

• Franz shows interest in military strategy and enjoys the staff officers' debates.
• Friedrich demonstrates his aptitude for military strategy, impressing Franz.

Significant Themes

• The importance of luck in warfare.
• The influence of capitalists on international politics and war.
• The power dynamics between nations and the role of public opinion.

Character Interactions

• Franz interacts with his staff officers, enjoying their strategic debates.
• Franz and Friedrich discuss military strategy together.
• The capitalists and various nations pressure the British Government to lift the blockade on South American ships.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The British government shifts blame for the detained ships to Chile, causing international pressure.
• The Chilean government struggles to respond to the diplomatic protests from various countries, led by France and Austria.
• President Aníbal and Foreign Minister Domingo discuss strategies to handle the situation, deciding to try and split the diplomatic delegation and buy off key countries with offers of trade and aid.
• Meanwhile, the Russian army unexpectedly defeats a weakened Prussian force at Kamen, raising concerns about the Prussian army's true target.

Character Developments

• President Aníbal shows political acumen and willingness to compromise to protect Chile's interests.
• Foreign Minister Domingo demonstrates diplomatic prowess and understanding of international relations, advising President Aníbal on how to navigate the crisis.
• Lieutenant General Olivier Thornfield exhibits strategic thinking and quick decision-making, immediately recognizing the significance of the Prussian army's movements and alerting his superiors.

Significant Themes

• The law of the jungle in international relations, with countries acting in their own self-interest.
• The influence of capitalists and profit motives on government policies and actions.
• The importance of strategic thinking and adaptability in military and political contexts.

Character Interactions

• President Aníbal and Foreign Minister Domingo collaborate to find a solution to the diplomatic crisis, showcasing a productive working relationship.
• Lieutenant General Olivier Thornfield and his subordinates discuss the unexpected victory and the potential implications of the Prussian army's movements, demonstrating a chain of command that allows for quick decision-making and action.
• The interactions between countries, represented by their diplomatic delegations, highlight the competitive and self-serving nature of international relations.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Russian army's victory at Kamen is initially praised but later ignored due to bureaucratic negligence.
• The Prussian army's split forces strategy is revealed to be a ruse to draw out Russian troops from Brest.
• The Battle of Brest erupts, with the Russian army fighting desperately against the Prussian army's intense assault.
• The Russian high command orders troops from Kamen, including Olivier's forces, to reinforce Brest.

Character Developments

• Marshal Ivanov is furious about the bureaucratic mishandling of the telegram, leading to the delay in reinforcing Brest.
• Lieutenant General Olivier Thornfield is cautious and follows orders to reinforce Brest but expresses concern about the danger of sending only two regiments.

Significant Themes

• Bureaucratic inefficiency and corruption, leading to critical delays in military strategy.
• The brutal nature of modern warfare, with heavy casualties on both sides.
• The importance of strategic planning and adaptability in military campaigns.

Character Interactions

• Marshal Ivanov interacts with his aide-de-camp, expressing his anger and ordering the responsible official, Georgi, to be sent home.
• Lieutenant General Olivier Thornfield interacts with his chief of staff, Larsen, discussing the order to reinforce Brest and expressing caution about the mission.