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Finishing your cigarillo, you head for the coach you’ve hired for tonight. Your decision upon arriving in the Netherlands was to first make contact with the Dutch government, and you started by sending a messenger to the Dutch national parliament.

Surprisingly enough, you received a reply within less than an hour, and from the Dutch king no less. He had been aware of the upcoming visit from the Japanese, and was apparently expecting your arrival for the past month. The letter also invited you and your staff to the royal palace, where he and his ministers would receive you this evening.

That was several hours ago, and now the reception is merely an hour away. You and your cadre enter the coach, with the general staff of the mission piling into a second and third carriage. The sun has set, and you stare at the gas lit streets as you pass through the city of Amsterdam. Even on this rather cool winter night, people are out enjoying themselves quite readily.

“An impressive city,” Sato remarks as the carriage trundles through the busy streets. “I never would have guessed this was what the Dutch homeland looked like.”

“Perhaps we should import their architecture to Edo, Major?” Keisuke raises an eyebrow as he puffs on a cigar. “A new European-inspired district would certainly draw attention to the new Shogun’s power.”

“Maybe so,” Sato chuckles. “Though, I think such a departure from tradition would scare some of the more traditional members of our society.”

“Oh my,” Nakajima points out the window.

Looking to where she’s pointing, you see a resplendent building towering nearby. As a matter of fact, your carriage is approaching it. Judging by the stately architecture and commanding presence, you estimate this must be the Amsterdam Palace. Certainly it is an impressive structure, likely the most imposing non-military structure you’ve seen so far. “That must be the palace,” Sato says calmly.

As the carriage pulls up, you prepare to step out and greet the reception.

>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.
>At the behest of certain members of the mission staff, you have allowed most of the officials to wear traditional Japanese clothes, with only you and your cadre opting for European-style formalwear. You hope that the wearing of traditional garments might engender a kind of curiosity and intrigue from the Dutch, which you can play to your favor.
>While military garb might be appropriate, you don’t want to come on too strong. Everyone has been instructed to dress in European-style formalwear appropriate for such gatherings. Such a wardrobe choice will undoubtedly make your mission staff seem more approachable.
>Write-in.

>>4230829
>>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.

>>4230829
>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.
Hello Zap, great to see you

>>4230829
>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.

>>4230829
>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.
Holy shit, I somehow missed the entire previous thread.

>>4230829
>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.

Aizu may be loser but she backstabbed by that anglophilic Satsuma cunt. She was loyal and honorable, the only wrong is that the shogun lost.

>>4230829
>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.

>>4230829

>You’ve decided to go dressed in your most resplendent dress uniforms. You want the Dutch king and his ministers to perceive you as a fellow civilized nation, and appearances go a long way in that respect.

God gas filled lamps on the streets sound terrifying.

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>>4232716
>God gas filled lamps on the streets sound terrifying.
Gaslights (typically coal-gas) were actually a common form of urban streetlights in the 19th Century, surprisingly enough. Eventually they even had acetylene-burning streetlights which sounds absolutely horrifying. Even more so, early car headlights used acetylene too.

Anyway, session will be tonight at 8PM Eastern.

>>4232837
That makes me feel even more fucking terrified then before!

Also its great too see ya Zap, looking forward too it.

>>4232837
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weSSRDr7wuk

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>>4232955
>triple magazine Henry
I NEED IT

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You look around at the members of your staff. As per your instructions, everyone in the delegation has dressed in their finest, with all military staff wearing their most resplendent dress uniforms. This includes you and your officers, whose black and gold uniforms cut a rather dashing swath as you exit the carriage.

You personally are wearing your pelisse, which has been so thoroughly reconditioned and laundered that you would never imagine it had seen battle. In addition, you wear the fur-lined cape that comes with it (mostly to keep out the cold of this late November night), as well as the fur cover for your kepi. Of course, you’ve instructed your officers to wear the decorations they received during the Choshu Campaign, and you wear yours as well. On your hip is your Blucher-pattern saber, whose polished steel scabbard contrasts starkly with your dark uniform. The other officers wear their sabers as well, and the effect is just as noticeable with them.

You are met by a cadre of Dutch officials, who quickly bring you into the reception hall of the palace. It is just as beautiful inside as out, with gilded statues and ornamentation everywhere. Bright lamps illuminate the hall with surprising vigor, allowing you to see everyone inside rather clearly. You and your men are guided through the crowds of statesmen and nobles, many of whom wear flamboyant military uniforms of their own. You feel many eyes running across your party as you stride through the hall behind your guide. The man finally brings you to a small group of people, cigar smoke hanging around them as they speak loudly in Dutch. It is a strange language, really; a bit like German, but notably different to your ears. The man guiding you speaks up, and a gentleman from the crowd turns to face you. He is perhaps in his late forties, with a wide face and a full beard. The man wears the uniform of a naval officer.

“Ah, welcome.” The man speaks in English with a booming voice, approaching you. “I understand you are with the Japanese delegation?” He extends a hand, which you shake.

“Yes sir,” you reply. “General Stockton.” Gesturing to your officers, you continue. “This is Major Sato, Major Nakajima,” you pause, gesturing to your technical superior. “And General Otori Keisuke.” They all bow, a gesture which he returns graciously.

“And I am King William of the Netherlands.” He smiles. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Ah, your highness,” you clear your throat. “I wasn’t aware I was speaking to royalty.”

“Ah, you flatter me, General.” He chuckles. “Say, do your men also speak English?”

“They do,” you reply.

“Ah, then my fair greetings to you all as well,” William smiles as your officers. He then raises an eyebrow, turning to you. “I was aware that a Japanese delegation was coming to Amsterdam, but I must admit, I was unsure as to why. This is unprecedented from the land of the Rising Sun.”

>”We seek to modernize the realm and gain friendly ties with nations throughout the world. Japan can be a hermit kingdom no longer.” (start with civic focus)
>”Japan is in need of military and financial assistance. A pretender is attempting to take control of the nation.” (start with martial focus)
>”As a man whose realm has had such long ties with Japan, it should be no surprise we would want to reach out diplomatically.” (start with political/diplomatic focus)
>Write-in.

>>4233299
>>”As a man whose realm has had such long ties with Japan, it should be no surprise we would want to reach out diplomatically.” (start with political/diplomatic focus)

>>4233296
>”As a man whose realm has had such long ties with Japan, it should be no surprise we would want to reach out diplomatically.” (start with political/diplomatic focus)

>>4233299
>”As a man whose realm has had such long ties with Japan, it should be no surprise we would want to reach out diplomatically.” (start with political/diplomatic focus)

>>4233299
>”As a man whose realm has had such long ties with Japan, it should be no surprise we would want to reach out diplomatically.” (start with political/diplomatic focus)

“As a king whose nation has had such longstanding diplomatic ties with Japan,” you begin. “I doubt it would come as too much of a surprise that we would reach out with a visit of goodwill.”

William chuckles, putting a hand on your shoulder. “Have you any experience as a statesman, General?”

You shrug modestly. “None whatsoever, your highness.”

This makes the king’s chuckle grow into a full laugh. “I see, then you have a promising career ahead of you, should you enter politics! That reply was one I would expect from a diplomat or minister, not a general.”

“Well,” you trail off. “It’s an accurate representation of our intent, your highness.”

“Ah true, true.” He nods. The king then brings you close, speaking in a low tone to not be heard above the din of the room itself. “But as a man who has done this sort of thing for over thirty years, I can tell you something important. No government ever visits another out of sheer goodwill.” He grins, giving you the look of someone who has uncovered a bluff and is pleased with themselves for it. “In politics, especially international politics, there is always an ulterior motive, General.” You feel his grip on your shoulder tighten, threateningly. There’s something about this man that doesn’t sit right with you.

>”I assure you, there is no ulterior motive.” (stick with your present angle)
>”Very well, we are here because Japan needs outside connections.” (explain Japan’s domestic troubles)
>”Your Highness, I am not fond of causing diplomatic incidents, but I am far less fond of people trying to intimidate me.” (get defensive)
>”Say, I’ve been here at least five minutes and no one has offered me a drink!” (change the subject)
>Write-in.

>>4233421
>>”Very well, we are here because Japan needs outside connections.” (explain Japan’s domestic troubles)

>>4233421
>”Very well, we are here because Japan needs outside connections.” (explain Japan’s domestic troubles)

>>4233421
>”Very well, we are here because Japan needs outside connections.” (explain Japan’s domestic troubles)

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You nod. “Very well. We’re here because Japan needs outside connections to survive.”

William raises an eyebrow. “I see, then things are as volatile as I’ve been told they are.”

“The Shogun is trying to modernize his country.” You grimace, unsure of how much you should say. “But there are subversives trying to take control of the nation. We estimate there may be a need to use military force to consolidate the realm.”

“A familiar dynamic,” the king says simply. “Many nations in Europe have had similar troubles in the past. Jumped-up French peasants rebelling against their superiors nearly lead to the ruination of Europe.”

Jumped-up peasants? You frown at the remark. “Regardless,” you say. “We need to gain support of modernized, industrial nations to ensure the security of the realm.”

“If I were the Shogun,” William says, seeming to have not listened to your statement. “I would have the ring-leaders detained and executed publicly, as a show of force.” You note a violence in his demeanor, as though he takes great joy in the thought of killing those who threaten him.

“Your Highness!” A voice calls from somewhere behind you. Turning, you see a bearded man approach. He wears a simple, black suit and has a serious demeanor about him.

“Ah, Count Julius,” William replies. “I do not remember summoning you here.”

“My apologies, sir,” he replies. “But there is an issue that requires your immediate attention, in the Army garrison at Haarlem. General van Rijk has requester your presence immediately.”

“I understand,” William says seriously. Turning to you, he speaks again. “We must continue our discussion later, General. Feel free to mingle with my courtiers until I return.”

As the king steps away, Count Julius approaches you. Taking a glance over his shoulder, he sighs. “I am so sorry, General. I had intended to get here before King William got a chance to speak with you.” He shakes your hand, nodding seriously as he does. “Julius van Zulyen, Prime Minister of the Netherlands. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Daniel Stockton,” you reply.

>”What was the King’s problem, anyway?” (ask about William’s eccentricity)
>”I heard the Netherlands was a constitutional monarchy. I assume that makes you the real man in charge?” (inquire about his authority)
>”Allow me to collect my officers. I’m sure they would like to meet you.” (take a moment to get away from anyone Dutch)
>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)
>”What’s going on in Haarlem?” (inquire about the situation William has left to solve)
>Write-in.

>>4233553
>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)

>>4233553
>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)

It seems undiplomatic to ask openly about the situation. Either he will make an explanation or we will discretely ask around.

>>4233553
>”I heard the Netherlands was a constitutional monarchy. I assume that makes you the real man in charge?” (inquire about his authority)

>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)
it seems more prudent for us to be calm, collected and VERY observant of what the hell is going on here, so that we may find the best way to proceed.

>>4233553
>>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)

>>4233553
>>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)

>>4233553
>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)

>>4233553
>”You seem stressed, sir. Shall we get some cigars and drinks?” (try to smooth things over)

Just got done installing a chest freezer in the garage, will be going out and getting meat and veggies to fill it here in a few minutes. Session maybe later tonight.

Also, if you live in the US, a bit of advice from a meatpacking worker: stock up on fresh meat if you've got the freezer space. Probably going to be more processing plants shutting down in the near future. Hopefully things will get better soon, but it never hurts to be prepared in case they don't.

>>4235533
Alright know and have been goobie, Retail worker here and we talk with truckers constantly.

“You seem stressed, sir.” Reaching into your pocket, you find the case of fine cigars you brought as a potential gift to statesmen you might meet. Producing two of the cigars, you offer one to the Prime Minister. “Cigar?”

The man’s eyes widen slightly as he takes one, nodding. “I would love one, General.” He pauses as you strike a match and light both yours and his. “I believe we have some cognac reserved for tonight,” he adds. “Allow me to fetch us a couple glasses.”

The Prime Minister steps away and you take the moment to walk over to your cadre, who have begun to disperse and talk with the other dignitaries. Finding Sato, you speak. “I seem to have found the Prime Minister,” you say.

“Ah, is that a man of importance to the Dutch realm?” Sato raises his eyebrow.

You nod. “If my research is correct, he has greater authority than the King.”

Sato’s eyes widen a bit. “A man with power over a king? Impressive. He must be quite the imposing commander of men.”

You shrug. “Well in this country, the government is made up of elected officials, save for the King.”

Sato looks taken aback at the idea of elected officials taking precedent over a king, but before either of you can say anything, the Prime Minister returns with two glasses of amber liquid. “Our cognac, General.”

“Thank you, Prime Minister,” you reply. Bringing the glass to your lips, you sip gently. The liquor is exquisite, barely burning at all.

Looking over, you see the Prime Minister has finished nearly half of his glass, sighing as he looks toward the door through which King William just departed. “Anyhow, it is good to make your acquaintance, General.”

>”If I’m not being too intrusive, is the King normally like that?” (ask about William III)
>”As Prime Minister, you likely have a great deal of control over foreign affairs, right?” (get straight to business)
>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)
>Write-in.

>>4239268
>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)

>>4239268
>>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)

begin with the small talk.

>>4239268
>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)

>>4239268
>>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)

>>4239278
Ditto

>>4239268
>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)

>>4239268
>”I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan. What sort of opinion do the Dutch public have of the Shogunate?” (inquire about the local populace)

“I understand the Dutch nation has quite the history of diplomatic relations with Japan,” you say. “What do your people think of us?”

The Prime Minister raises an eyebrow, sipping his brandy before replying. “Many of the Republic’s citizens have little knowledge of Japan. Yours is a far-away realm filled with mystery, from their perspective.”

“I see,” you nod.

“Though, I am curious.” Julius continues. “How did an American become a high-ranking member of the Japanese military government?”

You shrug. “Well I was a man with prior military experience willing to work for the Shogun.” Frowning, you puff on your cigar a bit. “The late Shogun was more than happy to reward me for my efforts in modernizing his armies.”

“Interesting.” Julius rubs his chin. “Then you must have some prior military experience.”

Nodding, you reply. “I was a light infantryman in the American Civil War. Skirmish tactics work quite well in Japan, it would seem.”

“Apparently so,” he replies. “I have read some information of your exploits. You first came to my attention after I acquired an American newspaper detailing the beach landing undertaken by your forces.” He switches conversation topics after another swig of brandy. “Judging by the state of hostilities within Japan, you must be here to garner support abroad, yes?”

You nod. “The realm needs to modernize, and the best way to do that is through close relations with foreign nations.”

“That may well be so,” the Prime Minister says simply. “In that case, what sort of relationship would the Japanese like to foster with the Netherlands?”

>”Ideally, we should like to set up an embassy here in Amsterdam.”
This would consume a substantial amount of monetary resources and potentially alienate other nations, but would guarantee a military alliance with the Netherlands, should they accept.

>”We would like to reach out to the Dutch Army for training and military aid.”
Though the Dutch Army is small, any additional tactical advisors and aid could prove useful. The Dutch would likely expect something in return, though.

>”Would it be possible to sign a treaty of industrial and commercial cooperation?”
Making use of Dutch investors and business contacts could bolster Japanese industry and strengthen the economy, making it harder for your adversaries to claim moral superiority as their people remain destitute while yours prosper. This could, however, chase away potential business from other nations.

>”We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government.”
Though it may seem a token gesture, gaining official recognition as the legitimate government of Japan could prove crucial in keeping foreign powers from helping the rebels, lest they incur the displeasure of the Dutch.

>Write-in.

>>4246148

>”We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government.”
Though it may seem a token gesture, gaining official recognition as the legitimate government of Japan could prove crucial in keeping foreign powers from helping the rebels, lest they incur the displeasure of the Dutch.


Remember we CAME here for official recognition

>>4246148

>>4246148
>>”We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government.”

>>4246183
>>”We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government.”
arg

>>4246148
>”Would it be possible to sign a treaty of industrial and commercial cooperation?”
>”We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government.”

>>4246148
>”Would it be possible to sign a treaty of industrial and commercial cooperation?”

>>4246148
>>”We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government.”

My main consideration is their relation with the UK, the other major player in the region during this period. The Dutch do have their Dutch East Indies holdings which would be vital for their possible supply of oil but they do cause friction with the brits during their aceh war which is coming up in abit.

“We wish to seek official recognition from the Dutch Government,” you say.

Julius frowns momentarily, adjusting his tie as he puffs on his cigar again. “A declaration of official recognition…” He trails off. “Such a declaration would require that we place an embassy in Japan. From my understanding, no other nation has a proper embassy there, only consulates.”

“That is correct,” you reply.

“Hmm,” Julius mutters. “That would make the Netherlands the first European nation to establish formalized relations with Japan. Certainly, it would be a risky proposition.”

“But it would mean unprecedented access to trade opportunities there,” you reply. “Plus, as Japan modernizes, we could prove a valuable friend in the future, particularly when it comes to the protection of Dutch assets in East Asia.”

“And what do you know of the Dutch interests in Asia?” Julius raises an eyebrow, testing you.

“I know of the Dutch East Indies, as well as the city of Batavia.” You cross your arms. “And I’m aware of the ever-expanding British presence in the area.” You pause. “At present, the British are no friends of Japan either. We share common interests as far as the Brits are concerned.”

Julius rubs his chin thoughtfully. “Those are fair points, General…” Frowning, he sips his brandy again before continuing. “Very well. The Japanese shall be formally recognized by the Dutch Government. I shall inform the Foreign Relations office tomorrow morning.”

“Excellent,” you say. Shaking his hand, you nod. “The people of Japan appreciate this gesture.”

“Hopefully it will lead to mutually beneficial relations,” Julius replies.

>Attempt to negotiate additional treaties with the Dutch Government. Though further negotiations run the risk of not being as successful, it never hurts to try.
>Be done with statecraft for the night. Spend the coming days gathering support from Holland’s non-government sectors.
>Write-in.

>>4246542
>Be done with statecraft for the night. Spend the coming days gathering support from Holland’s non-government sectors.

>>4246542
>>Be done with statecraft for the night. Spend the coming days gathering support from Holland’s non-government sectors.

>>4246542
>>Be done with statecraft for the night. Spend the coming days gathering support from Holland’s non-government sectors.

>>4246542
>>Be done with statecraft for the night. Spend the coming days gathering support from Holland’s non-government sectors.

>>4246542

> Tell Julius to fuck off, he's not your nigga anymore

>>4246542
>Be done with statecraft for the night. Spend the coming days gathering support from Holland’s non-government sectors.

>>4246542
Does Japan even have a proper currency right now? IIRC it was introduced after Meiji restoration.

>>4252280
As of 1866 there was a standard Shogunal currency, called Mon. However, its value is in freefall due to many domains issuing (and minting large quantities of) their own currency. Haha money printer go brrrr Presently the Foreign Missions are using gold bullion to make purchases for that exact purpose. As Japan has no centralized way of organizing currency and finances, the situation surrounding the Mon will likely get worse as time goes on.

To save the Japanese economy would likely require the banning of domain-specific currencies, but such a move could throw once-loyal domains into open revolt.

>>4252371
Okay, the plan:
>Advance woman rights in Japan
>Make shogun's sister the next shogun
>Marry her off to the Emperor
>Centralize power in this way
>Drown the rebellion in blood
>And the one after that
>Quickly industrialize Japan
>Profit

>>4252386
she's probably going to be dead by the time we go back, if she is right about that shadow shogun conspiration I mean, we kinda fucked up on the "please protect my sister as my dying wish" thing lol

>>4252620
Hopefully the Shinsengumi can protect her in our absence

>>4252386
>Doing half of these
lol

>>4252386
No.

>>4253118
>>4254130
Oh ye of little vision

You spend the rest of the night getting acquainted with the other Dutch statesmen, as well as generally enjoying the high-class luxuries provided to you. Soon, however, the night ends, and you all return to the hotel rented for you by Keisuke for the duration of your stay in Holland.

The next morning, you meet again with the Dutch Prime Minister to officiate the documents proclaiming Dutch recognition of the Shogunate’s legitimacy. Some photographs are taken, some hands shaken, and you soon are on your way back to the hotel once again. When you return to the hotel, you are forced to weigh your options regarding activities in the Netherlands. You’ll only be here for another week before traveling to Belgium, and your colleagues have brought a number of potential opportunities to your attention.

Firstly, you could consult with Dutch shipwrights regarding the procurement of ships for the Japanese Navy. Such a thing is not unheard of; in fact, the Dutch have long allowed other nations to purchase ships of both war and peace from their shipyards. You’ve been told that the Dutch are some of the best shipbuilders in the world, and have little reason to doubt it. You estimate that with the money you have earmarked for activities in Holland, you could purchase anywhere from one to five ships, depending on their size and function.

However, you’ve also been told there is a conglomerate of businessmen interested in investing in overseas endeavors. You know only that they have capital and are willing to fund, either partially or fully, industrial or agricultural ventures. Though you would need to carefully review the terms to any agreement, such capital would be vital in being able to industrialize the realm.

Additionally, there is a Dutch army captain by the name of Hauer, who is considered quite the expert in cutting-edge tactics and combat actions. You’ve heard that he would be, for a price, willing to move overseas with a contingent of advisors and begin training men immediately. Though the training you’ve given to your men has trickled down amongst the army, it has likely been diluted over time, and while it was cutting-edge training at the time, tactics often change very quickly.

Mulling over your options, you frown deeply. Any negotiations would take several days, and you would need at least two full days’ preparation before traveling to Belgium. As such, you really only have the time (and resources) to consider pursuing one of the options available to you.

>Consult local shipbuilders. Japan will need a navy eventually. Perhaps it would be best to get started early.
>Pursue industrial funding. Steel is the backbone of any modern nation, and it doesn’t grow on trees.
>Attempt to retain the services of a dedicated team of tactical advisors. If the army is to be expanded, it will be a waste without proper training.
>Write-in.

>>4254257
>>Pursue industrial funding. Steel is the backbone of any modern nation, and it doesn’t grow on trees.

Strong economy, strong country, strong military.

>>4254257
>Pursue industrial funding. Steel is the backbone of any modern nation, and it doesn’t grow on trees.
You can build ships with industry, but you can't build industry with ships

>>4254257
>Pursue industrial funding. Steel is the backbone of any modern nation, and it doesn’t grow on trees.

I really don't want us to have to start forging swords, bayonets and rifle parts out of rail road spikes or sundry goods alla WW2 officer swords should the conflict escalate. hell, if we even want railroads period we need to source steel in the first place.

In general I think that our priority should be securing raw resources. Stockton doen't know it, but if we can't acquire realiable sources of iron and oil, Japan will commit a lot of warcrimes then get nuked.

>>4254257
>>Pursue industrial funding. Steel is the backbone of any modern nation, and it doesn’t grow on trees.

>>4254257
>Pursue industrial funding. Steel is the backbone of any modern nation, and it doesn’t grow on trees.

>>4254257
Are we due to head to UK on this trip?

>>4254289
No, we’re staying to the mainland IIRC
Although I’d be interested in knowing how we’re going back to japan

>>4254257
>Attempt to retain the services of a dedicated team of tactical advisors. If the army is to be expanded, it will be a waste without proper training.