"The balance of power in the German Territories is very likely to be broken," Joseph told Talleyrand. "Therefore, we must prevent Prussia from surrendering too quickly—at the very least, we cannot let them surrender on Austria's terms."
Talleyrand considered this. "Your Highness means that we should provide aid to Prussia?"
"We do not have surplus funds to squander in Prussia." Joseph glanced at him and shook his head. "On the contrary, we must support Austria with all our strength."
"Ah?" The Minister of Foreign Affairs thought he had misheard. "You mean Austria?"
"Exactly." Joseph said, "When you buy things, you bargain with merchants, do you not?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"If something costs ten Francs and you offer nine, the merchant will most likely consider it seriously. But if you insist on buying it for one Franc, he will certainly drive you away, perhaps even lose his temper."
Talleyrand unconsciously touched his nose. He really did often slash prices directly to one-tenth.
After Joseph had explained his plan, Talleyrand first nodded, then said somewhat uneasily, "Your Highness, if Prussia cannot withstand the pressure and truly agrees..."
Eman brought over Joseph's dinner, and Joseph leaned back to make room, waving a hand. "William III will certainly not accept such terms. And even if he does, the British will never agree."
He knew that although William III was indecisive, he was always extraordinarily resolute at critical moments.
Talleyrand had always placed great trust in the Crown Prince's judgment. He immediately bowed slightly. "I will depart for Vienna as soon as possible, Your Highness." Eman then set another dinner before Talleyrand—he had come to the military academy early to wait and report matters to the Crown Prince, so he certainly had not yet eaten dinner.
"Thank you very much." Talleyrand nodded to Eman.
Joseph