Cooperation

Talleyrand nodded in deep agreement. "Exactly, Grand Vizier. There will always be shameless scoundrels trying to disrupt our normal trade through war or intimidation."

He moved Melek Mehmed's hand aside and smiled. "However, in my experience, those who do evil will inevitably be plagued by misfortune. Perhaps their fleet will be swallowed by a storm just after passing through the Strait of Gibraltar."

"A storm? In the Mediterranean Sea?"

Talleyrand waved a hand. "Or perhaps they will encounter sea monsters. Who knows? But I believe the Mediterranean Sea's normal commerce will never be disrupted by the British."

Melek Mehmed stared intently at the lame man spouting "nonsense," yet he saw absolute confidence on that broad, pancake-like face.

"With all due respect, your fleet is still no match for the British."

"You will see." Talleyrand maintained his smile. "Even the arrogant British Navy will follow the rules of the Mediterranean Sea."

Melek Mehmed still shook his head slightly. "Even if what you say comes to pass, my country will be placed in an extremely unfavorable trade position. That is not what we wish for..."

His concerns were entirely warranted. Once Mediterranean shipping was monopolized by France, they could manipulate the prices of arriving goods at will, which would amount to controlling the lifeline of Ottoman maritime trade.

Talleyrand immediately said, "My dearest friend, you should not underestimate the friendship between our two nations.

"This brand-new steamship will not be operated by our country alone. It can be sold to you at any time."

Melek Mehmed's breathing immediately quickened. "Are you serious?"

"Of course. Our two countries have vast room for cooperation in the future." Talleyrand smiled warmly. "A thirty-two-meter steamship costs only three hundred thousand Akçe. That is quite a substantial discount."

Normally, one Franc could be exchanged for ten Akçe,