America's Little Calculation

In truth, Joseph had never expected the United States to actually honor the alliance treaty and declare war on the United Kingdom.

Leaving aside America's economic dependence on the United Kingdom—if war broke out, America itself would explode within three months—given America's meager fighting strength alone, if it truly entered the field as France's ally, France would probably have to split off troops to rescue it.

Therefore, as long as France could stabilize the United States as an important source of raw materials and a modest market for its goods, that was entirely acceptable.

Jefferson bowed slightly to Baron Foucard with excitement.

"Thank you for His Highness the Crown Prince's broad-mindedness and his understanding of America's difficult circumstances.

"Please rest assured that our country will strictly uphold the principle of neutrality..."

Baron Foucard immediately smiled.

"His Highness the Crown Prince has always hoped that America would remain prosperous and strong forever. So when it comes to trade revenues, you must not slacken in the slightest."

"Trade revenues?" Jefferson froze. "What do you mean?"

"Cane sugar," Foucard said. "You know how high sugar prices are right now. His Highness hopes that all sugar products resold through America will keep a close eye on market prices and not miss out on the profits that should be earned."

Jefferson understood at once. This was demanding that America not use cheap sugar to help the United Kingdom weather its sugar shortage—wasn't the so-called market price for sugar simply the price at the Paris Agricultural Products Futures Exchange?

He forced out a stiff smile.

"You see, with our country's small cane sugar output, we simply cannot affect the British market."

Foucard did not beat around the bush. He waved a hand.

"But the cane sugar your country purchases from the Caribbean Sea can do exactly