Weak Nations and Diplomacy

Franz II gripped his cane tightly and began pacing back and forth in agitation.

Austria's finances were already in a dreadful state. He had originally intended to take a huge bite out of Poland while Russia drew away the bulk of the Polish army, thereby solving his domestic problems.

But after fighting for several months, they had only barely occupied Sandomierz—and only the portion west of the San River. It amounted to roughly 80 percent of a single province.

The gains Austria had obtained were only slightly greater than the military expenses it had invested.

If Poland and Russia declared a ceasefire now, the troops on the Polish Eastern Front would soon be transferred to the West Line.

Würmser had been unable to chew through Kraków to begin with. After that, it would be even more hopeless.

He stopped pacing and said to Tugut, "I want to reinforce the front and capture Kraków as quickly as possible!"

Tugut lowered his head awkwardly to look at the tips of his shoes, then coughed lightly. "Ahem, Your Majesty, that would develop into a full-scale war with Poland... and military expenditures would be at least eight to ten times what they are now."

"What? That much?!"

Franz froze at once. After a moment, he asked hesitantly, "Then what do you suggest?"

Tugut raised his head again. "Your Majesty, Prussia, Russia, and Austria can negotiate a ceasefire with Poland as allies.

"Poland will face the combined pressure of the three countries, and only then can we secure our current gains to the greatest extent."

Franz II had no other ideas. After pretending to deliberate carefully for a moment, he nodded. "Then please contact Prussia and Russia as soon as possible."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Pozztan.

Sanssouci Palace.

William II waved his hand and shouted,