After finishing the discussion of Flemish independence, Joseph gave Fouche another instruction:
"There is another very important matter for the Intelligence Bureau to handle. Genoa will begin its new gubernatorial election in two months. It would be best if more parliamentarians close to our country were elected."
Fouche bowed slightly. "We still have some garrison troops in Genoa. This should not be difficult."
Joseph shook his head. "No. Before the election begins, withdraw all our troops. And throughout the entire election, there must not be any trace of our country's involvement.
"The Genoese must believe that the election result was a decision they made themselves."
"This..." Fouche furrowed his brow slightly, but still nodded. "Though it will be somewhat difficult, the family powers in Genoa are tangled and intertwined. We can begin from that angle."
"Very good." Joseph continued, "My minimum requirement is to end the Four Great Families' control over Parliament, establish an institution influenced by us to supervise Genoese bureaucrats, and have it written into their laws."
Fouche had previously participated in the formation of the Caribbean Nations' government and led operations influencing the United States presidential election, so he had ample experience in such matters.
After only a brief consideration, he laid out a general plan. Joseph basically approved after hearing it.
Seeing that the Crown Prince had no further business, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau was about to leave when he seemed to recall something. He stopped again and said, "Your Highness, there is also a small matter that concerns me. I believe it would be best to report it to you."
"Please, go ahead."
"It concerns Mr. John Sander, a senior engineer at the United Steam Engine Company," Fouche said. "Half a year ago, Matthew Bolton—the major shareholder of that British Steam Engine Company—secretly