Talleyrand spread his hands and smiled. "But you will most likely not get the repair plant, because I am quite certain British Bonds will collapse."
Frederick was clearly somewhat disappointed, but he still nodded. "At least I will have France's friendship. That is enough."
Denmark ranked near the top among Europe's second-rate powers. Over the past few years, it had successively purchased seven or eight hundred thousand Pound Sterling worth of United Kingdom Government Bonds. Even if it sold only half, it would have no small impact on the United Kingdom's finances.
Though doing so would certainly offend the United Kingdom, France had previously elevated Denmark's international standing through the International Maritime Convention, and recently had Prussia return the occupied Schleswig-Holstein region to Denmark. He was therefore certain to lend this small assistance.
Besides, if British Bonds truly collapsed, selling some in advance could reduce Denmark's losses.
Talleyrand glanced sidelong at the Danish Regent's expression and put on a troubled look. "Actually, if you are willing to do me a small favor, I can try to persuade Earl Mirabeau to skip all assessment procedures and build the repair plant directly in Kiel."
Frederick's eyes immediately lit up. "Please, tell me."
"You see, the war between our country and Russia has not yet ended," Talleyrand said. "I must do something to contain Russia, so that I can account for myself before the Crown Prince."
At present, neither the United Kingdom nor Russia had reached any Ceasefire Agreement with France. Theoretically, they were still in a state of war.
Frederick frowned and shook his head. "You know that our country has a traditional friendship with Russia. I am afraid it would be difficult to make such a strategic shift."
Denmark needed Russia to balance the threat posed by its old rival, Sweden.