Viscount Montbéliard waited for the Crown Prince's rebuke, even prepared to be dismissed from his post.
Yet what he heard was, "You have done very well. Despite the shortage of workers, you still found a way to greatly increase production. After we win the war, I will consider awarding you a medal."
Montbéliard was both startled and delighted. "Y-You truly mean it? But these women..."
"They are great—just as great as every other worker here!"
Joseph deliberately raised his voice. "Every person who contributes to France, whether on the front lines or in a factory, whether poor or wealthy, whether man or woman, is a true hero!"
Everyone in the workshop turned to look his way, especially the female workers dressed in men's clothing and wearing felt hats.
Joseph looked at the woman who had fallen earlier. "Did you know that the Crown Princess Consort has opened a bakery in Paris as well? Every day, she goes there to knead dough or handle the money.
"You have absolutely no reason to feel ashamed of working here. Those who look down on you are the ones who ought to be ashamed.
"Many young women joined the army on campaigns years ago. At the Battlefield Hospital, they saved the lives of countless soldiers.
"And now, you are here making weapons for those soldiers to defeat the enemy.
"Every time you lift one of those guns, you drive another nail into the coffin meant for an enemy corpse. You, along with every worker here, have made an immense contribution to our motherland! My salute to you, madam!"
Kahn stood frozen, feeling that she had so much to say, yet unable to find any words.
The next moment, tears spilled uncontrollably from her eyes. Her whole body trembled slightly as she bent deeply toward