At last, in the Anglo-Dutch War ten years ago, the British had defeated the Netherlands, an important member of the Armed Neutrality League, and taken it on as their little brother.
Then the British had pressed down Prussia as well.
And Sweden and Russia had happened to break out into war, draining their national strength enormously and leaving them in no mood to concern themselves with matters at sea.
By then, the Armed Neutrality League existed in name only.
It was precisely under these circumstances that the United Kingdom had been able to blockade France's maritime trade this time.
"This truly is an opportunity." Regent Frederick nodded. "The Armed Neutrality League is the Tsar's diplomatic treasure. She will certainly support this matter.
"The Netherlands has only just escaped British control, and with immense fiscal pressure at home, this is exactly when it needs to expand trade.
"My only concern is Sweden's choice."
Sweden had just fought a war with Russia and would very likely refuse any form of cooperation with Russia.
Schulenburg's tone brimmed with confidence. "Your Highness, I believe that as long as France can be persuaded to pressure Sweden, His Majesty Gustav III will most likely give it serious consideration.
"And reviving the Armed Neutrality League is exactly what France needs."
Bernstorff nodded in agreement. "France is now the country with the fastest-growing trade volume in Europe. Sweden's finances are in a very worrying state because of its war with Russia. It urgently needs trade with France."
Once he finished speaking, everyone in the room fell silent in unspoken accord.
Britain's blockade of France's coast had inflicted devastating losses upon Denmark, which depended entirely on maritime trade.
Denmark's major exports were seafood, grain, oils, and ship equipment.
Other than the last category, all of them were goods that