‘We’ve become a target in all Europe’s crosshairs: France has again got on its high horse, we’re a laughingstock in England and have the Prussians have wasted no time publicly casting doubt on our ability to control the situation. We cannot therefore tolerate the provinces most susceptible to secession, like this one, becoming powder kegs about to explode. This means that there will be no further riots to report, never mind acts of vandalism or even straightforward murders, like that of the French subject, of which I’ve today read the report. France is pressuring us and the Emperor is very concerned!’ Bellegarde explained.
‘The Emperor?’ asked Saurau. Metternich was quick to change the subject.
‘Oberleutnant ... Ziani, you are responsible for the case in question; have you any requ
