1916 Bavarian News

[Kaiser Kirk]

Now, brought to you only mostly dead, Miracle Max's Munich Madness...err news.

Just Jan - Feb for now.

The Leipzig Litterbug

January 16th
A signing ceremony today formalized the Treaty of Leipzig. The Treaty has been much debated this past week after it became public.

The Treaty structure is elaborate, but seems clear as to the duties and obligations of the signatories under various scenarios.

Foreign Minister E. Müller stated that "The Treaty is designed to give our Nation, nestled as we are among larger powers, greater surety. The Treaty also brings such to the other signatories.  We were quite careful to recollect the historical animosities that might give rise to unfortunate misunderstandings and cause undue alarm. To defuse this possibility the treaty is clear and solid, offering no offense to the peace.

The Munich Mercury

January 24th

FRANCE MOBILIZES

Two days ago representatives of the Bavarian government held secret press conferences to confer to reporters the news that France was considering at least a partial mobilization. France had shared their plans with the Bavarian government and clarified the intent was to provide forces for the growing conflict in Kolkata.  Reporters were instructed to withhold from publication until after the French announcement had occurred, which has now occur. 

The Government has provided this press release :
"The mobilization of a part of the French military is intended to allow the provision of troops to Kolkata.  The citizens of France are suffering grievously from the unrest in that portion of their realm, and the French government is now making the necessary fiscal sacrifice to devote ample forces to address the problem and bring solace to their lands.

There is little aid Bavaria can extend to France, but until the cessation of the conflict Bavarian firms shall not be allowed to accept orders from or export munitions and other war material to the Kingdom of Bahrat.

These matters do not directly concern Bavaria and there will be no change in the Heer's deployments. These matters do concern the East Sea Confederation, and Bavaria stands ready to fulfill her obligations should future events imperil ESC territories on the subcontinent."

The Stuttgart Scholar
February 2nd 1916

A lead engineer of M.A.N., Heinrich Fehlen, and his supervisor Abby Failure of M.A.N were executed today by military firing squad for high treason. The remaining members of his design team have been sentenced to variable prison sentences for complicity, negligence, and rank incompetence. 

Military auditors had discovered that Herr Fehlen had, with the cooperation and support of the others, embezzled hundreds of millions of Marks from high priority military research in internal combustion engines to develop large speedboats in a secret facility in Friedrichshafen. Herr Fehlen managed to create a 40 ton craft that was only slightly slower than a torpedo boat, but overall far less capable. The Navy has stated that they may at some point find a use for the craft, but will offer the design on the open market in an effort to recoup some of the losses.

The Munich Mercury
February 19, 1916.

A bank consortion forced the final closure of Otto-Flugzeugwerke today, marking it's reorganization into Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG (BFW). The new director, Herr Franz Josef Popp promises to pay a high degree of attention to quality and consistancy, to measures which have been lacking from Otto's works.

The Munich Mercury
February 25th, 1916

Father Friedrich Wetter, returned to Bavaria from the heathen hands of the barbarous Thuggees by the Grace of God and Gran Columbia, has agreed to serialize the tale of his ordeal in the wilds of Bahrat 

[Kaiser Kirk]

skipping past some news I have yet to post...because it's still in bullet form...
 
Mid July, King's council chambers, Munich.

Prime Minister G. von Hertling : Sire, there is a situation we feel it is advisable to brief you on, as at this time foreign policy direction is needed.

King Lugwig III : That French thing? I thought we were going to support the Duke's effort to support the Green Cross, see I do pay attention.

PM von Hertling : Um, yes Sire of course you do, but that's not the matter at hand.

King Lugwig III : Those border incursions by the Ukrainains after "saboteurs"?  I must say I take a dim view of the Ukrainian troops wandering over the border, and I

PM von Hertling *Clears throat*

King Lugwig III : *pause* The Nassau bit? I think the Captain acted quite reasonably, Iberia was not an active participant, and it allowed the crew to contact their families fastest, the delays in Accra were trivial...

<PM von Hertling slowly shakes his head>

King Lugwig III : Italia?

<PM von Hertling slowly shakes his head>

King Lugwig III : Not New Zion again?

<PM von Hertling slowly shakes his head>

King Lugwig III : The Americas?

<PM von Hertling slowly shakes his head>

King Lugwig III <vexed> : Well then out with it, don't let me babble on. I have an appointment for a shave this afternoon, and then I have to see a man about some hops, I have a dream of a new beer.  

PM von Hertling : Burma

King Lugwig III <perplexed> : Burma? I don't follow, what does that have to do with my shave? Or my hops and dreams?

PM von Hertling : Sire, the country....

<awkward pause>

King Lugwig III :  The country? As in the countryside where hops grow? I don't follow your meaning. My dear minister, if we are to talk of the verdant fields surrounding our fair realm, by all means do so, but I am an old man, and have better ways to fritter away my waning days than to sit in meetings dealing with obstinate ministers who will not come out and say what they wish to say !

Foreign Minister  E. Müller: If I may, Sire, Minister. The Kingdom of Burma, the one just east of French Kalcotta? There have been border skirmishes with the Reformist Republic of China which have escalated to a full scale invasion of the Kingdom of Burma.

King Lugwig III : <Walks to old Wall Map>  I don't see it here. 

 FM Müller :  Ah, Sire, that map still shows it as the Kingdom of Ava, an older usage. Most nations now have adopted the UKN practice.

King Lugwig III : I always wonder about these things. Why can't they have good Bavarian names? 

 FM Müller :  Well Sire, the seafaring nations were the ones who publicized the names, thus the UKN influence, and it's acceptance by all now.

King Lugwig III: Pity, do continue.  

 FM Müller :  We have received some diplomatic traffic relating to the matter. Having little intrinsic interest in the matter we have not committed to any course of action.

King Lugwig III : What is the nature of these messages, and from whom?

 FM Müller: The first was a generalized call for aid from the Kingdom of Burma, which was adamantly denying that the border incidents had been as serious as the Reformist Republic of China alleged provoked the RRC invasion. That was cabled on July 8th.

 The second was from the RRC, who's ambassador approached our ambassador with a message. It opens with a general note that Bavaria has nothing to gain getting involved, oh let me see, ah here it is, "There is nothing to gain by involving Bavaria in the Chinese-Burmese conflict. There is no right move in a war for national honor and pride, any action taken by Bavaria in the conflict could potentially upset either the RRC or Bengal, or in some cases, both. Please wisely stay neutral in the conflict."

King Lugwig III : Excuse me, the second half of that seemed to entail an "or else". Am I misunderstanding?

 FM Müller:  Sire, there are intrinsic language problems, it would make little sense for the RRC to deliberately antagonize our Kingdom.

King Lugwig III : Still, I am not amused.

 FM Müller :  Iberia attempted to mediate, which failed. The RRC demands were for rather excessive compensations, equivalent at current exchange rates to 66% of our annual budget, which is a great deal greater than the Kingdom of Burma.

King Lugwig III : I rather like Kingdom of Ava better. Sounds like a good place to be a gardner. Ava, gardener, sounds restful....

 FM Müller : ...Of course Sire. May I suggest that referring to the nation in that manner would confuse others?

King Lugwig III : I suppose so. Proceed.

 FM Müller:  There was then a request from Iberia to bestir to action on Burma's behalf. Iberia is promising to supply arms. This was followed by a more specific note regarding the provision of Gas Masks. The Hapsburgs are said to be committing for gas masks and legionaires. 

King Lugwig III : So, dear Jamie is taking the Burmese side. How long was it between the Border problems and the RRC invasion?

Prime Minister  G. von Hertling: Sire? I don't follow.

King Lugwig III :  I'm curious if the RRC mobilized before or after the purported border troubles.

 FM Müller :  I'm afraid I don't know sire. The timeline is unclear.

King Lugwig III : This map of Ava, it shows mountains and few roads or railroads along the border area. That would make it difficult for the RRC to sustain troops on the far side.

 FM Müller : The map does not show roads Sire.

King Lugwig III : Regardless, I doubt there is sufficient motor transport to make good use of them. Tell my Nephew that we will  provide some aeroplanes for scouting, I think that will be useful in that terrain. Check if they need people to set up an airstrip and coordinate the craft, or if the Avan, I mean Burmese can take care of that. Lastly I would like to see some of our Mountain troops dispatched there as observers. See if Iberia can get some of our young officers a berth with the Hapsburgers.

 FM Müller : But Sire, what about the RRC?

King Lugwig III : We are a very long way from the RRC.  They have more to loose from provoking us to more active involvement than by ignoring our participation. I believe the Navy wanted a base in Siam in the future, an//

Prime Minister  G. von Hertling: But Siam is a different country Sire !

King Lugwig III :  My dear minister, I am looking at the map. I am aware of which color denotes a boundary. I am merely musing that a base in Ava  may serve the same regional support role our navy wants as one Burma. Are we clear?

Prime Minister  G. von Hertling: Yes Sire.

FM Müller : Yes Sire

[The Rock Doctor]

Nice. 

[The Bushranger]

King Lugwig III :  My dear minister, I am looking at the map. I am aware of which color denotes a boundary.

Given the rest of the King's comments, guessing that he can't would seem to be a fair cop. :p

[Kaiser Kirk]

Yes but it's generally unwise to point out.  :)
Though part of it is I bolluxed that phrase, it was supposed to be a base in Ava would serve the same as one in Siam, not Burma...but it works.

[Kaiser Kirk]

...and back to the regularly scheduled news, which skips allot of foreign events...

The Trieste Tattletale
March 20th
Local industry welcomed the announcement today that the French have chosen to bequeath the  dockyards with additional orders. The large Mushroom order has nearly concluded, and has served as a great boon locally. Since Lugwig II came to the throne, Bavaria's welcoming of foreign orders, led by the substantial and welcome French orders, have kept foundries and dockyards busy.

The Munich Messenger
April 3th,
Mr. M. SEGITZ, Minister of of Commerce, Industry and Trade, who returned from the West African Coast this weekend, has reported presented to the government a trade treaty for consideration. There has been considerable official interest of late in an autonomous region locally ruled. The Principality of Accra rules the area of the former Ashkanite Kingdom, which was independent and sovereign state into the 1890s.

The Munich Messenger
April 4th.
Mr. M. SEGITZ, Minister of of Commerce, Industry and Trade announced today the ratification of a trade treaty.  The Treaty of Accra formalizes ties between this Kingdom and the Principality of Accra, as represented by the ruling prince of Accra, Takye Obilie.

In order to bring improvements to the former Ashakanite lands, the Kingdom of Bavaria will undertake investments sufficient to introduce advanced plantation techniques, develop roads, bridges, and riverine transportation, and allow for some initial processing of crops prior to export. In return, the Bavarian business interests will receive export taxes from the additional cargo exported. Cocoa is one possibility, and the climate is similar to rubber growing regions.  There are also to be  Infrastructure investments directed towards improved port facilities to allow docking, loading, and servicing of freighter traffic. 
The Principality will grant to Bavaria a 250 hectare area along the waterfront as an exclusive enclave. 

The Aquileia Advocate
April 24th
The Duchy of Friuli announced today that the Duchess is pregnant with child. Rumors have been floating about for months, but the Ducal house has been reticent regarding the reported rumors, leaving many to ruminate over the remarkable reasons for this. The child is expected this August.

The Munich Messenger
May 1st
Emperor Gaius of Italia has passed beyond the pearly gates. The great Emperor will be remembered for a rebirth of Italia, the forging of Peace with our Kingdom, and bringing the Papacy back to Rome. It is expected that luminaries of our kingdom shall sojourn to Rome to honor his passing and attend the funeral.  It is expected that the Emperor's successor, Marcus Aquila Camila , will confirmed by the Italian Senate after the Funeral.

The Aquileia Advocate
May 10th
Reports from an internal source are that the Mercantile offices have received notice that the Friuli flagged freighter Natisone has rescued the crew of the SS Peces Espadas of Gran Columbian Registry. Rumors are the vessel came to grief at the hands of the Confederates, which could be the first shots of a new war.

The Munich Messenger
May 15th
A sad day in Rome, as the Crowned heads and the common people came to honor the passing of their Emperor.

The Trieste Tattletale
May 20th.
Several freighters have finished loading engineers and diesel tractors for construction projects in Accra.  Several vessels have already departed bearing arms and soldiers to serve as military trainers for the Prince's forces.

Munich Messenger
June 16th
The Italian Senate opened debate today on the question of the Imperial succession. This comes as a surprise to many outsiders, who presumed that Marcus Aquila Camila would be the successor. The succession problem forcibly reminds many that such is a possibility here. While the Bavarian Crown is by ancient right would descend by right on Crown Prince Rupprecht, the Crown of the Kingdom of Greater Bavaria and Switzerland is subject to Kammer der Reichsräte confirmation of the putative heirs suitability, and theoretically the Electors could choose an alternative to submit. While this often occurred in the ancient days of the Holy Roman Empire, the Wittelsbach line holds a number of Electorships and serve as a focal point for the Kingdom.  Nomination of an alternative would be unlikely to find much favor, save as a guard against some malady.

The Aquileia Advocate
June 21st
The Duke presided today at the groundbreaking ceremonies for a Green Cross complex, including a state of the art hospital, and administrative services. The buildings are a gift from the Duke to the organization. The Duke has also argued successfully before the Reichsräte that the Bavarian government should take measures to alleviate the civilian suffering in Kolkatta. Those efforts have resulted in a sizable donation being given to the Green Cross to aid the brave French citizens suffering under Thuggee attacks.

(note: the funds for both are in HY2's report.
$3 to establish Green Cross Offices and hospitals in Friuli.
$5 donation to Green Cross Kolkatta fund. )

[The Rock Doctor]

May 13

A spokesman for the Colombian embassy in Bavaria expressed his nation's appreciation for the assistance rendered to the crew of the Peces Espadas by the Friuli steamer Natisone.  He noted that the incident would be fully investigated, and that the Gran Colombian government's current view is that the Confederate States of America is unlikely to be the culprit behind the incident.

[Kaiser Kirk]

Munich Messenger
July 13th
The turmoil in the far east continues to grow.  As if the suffering inflicted by the Thuggees on the French colony of Kolkatta was not enough, reports are that the Reformist Republic of China is preparing for war with the Kingdom of Burma, located between Bahrat and Siam.  Sources within the Foreign Ministry indicate that both Burma and RRC have communicated with the Government, the former asking for aide, the latter threatening repercussions if aide was given. The Kingdom of Burma has persisted as independent, although there is a growing relationship with Iberia.

Munich Messenger
July 15th
The previous reports of conflict between the KoB and RRC have been confirmed. The RRC declared war on July 6th, citing border provocations by the Kingdom of Burma. The RRC's forces have apparently been mobilized by some time, placing the Kingdom of Burma in a difficult situation as they have not mobilized. The Burmese apparently failed to realize that if they are to provoke a war, perhaps they should scout their borders and mobilize their army. A terrible oversight on their part. One should never provoke a war without making preparations for it.

The Foreign Ministry has confirmed that discussions are occurring regarding if, and what sort of aid Bavaria may send to accompany Iberian and Hapsburg forces.

Munich Messenger
July 20th
The Foreign Ministry has announced that Bavaria will respond to an friendly request and send aid to Burma. Two hundred volunteer pilots will be asked for from the Air Scouts, and two hundred aircraft and crews will be shipped to Rangoon.  To facilitate cooperation, the Hapsburgs have consented to enroll Bavarian officers in their Legion for temporary duty in Burma. Additional Pioneers will be sent with equipment suitable for construction of an airbase. These air scouts will aid Iberian, Hapsburg and Burmese forces until such a time as Burmese aviators and ground support is adequately trained.  A measure of this sort has been expected, as several freighters have been requested to delay loading in Friuli. These vessels will now be contracted to ship the aid.

Munich Messenger
July 26th

News from the Kingdom of the Netherlands is they have taken the task of peacemaker, inviting the parties to the spreading Asian war to Batavia, in the Netherlands East Indies. The Dutch being a neutral party to this conflict, and having much to gain from tranquil trade, they are well placed as an honest broker for the peace. The Queen's sterling reputation in these regards also reflects well on the efforts of Dutch diplomats in Batavia.

The Breslau Bugler
August 3rd

Telegraphed reports from border posts of smoke plumes rising from the direction of Kalinz late yesterday were confirmed by the glow on the horizon. Fires continued into this morning and Polish peasants have reportedly been apprehended attempting to flee over the border by sentries. 

A reporter for this paper interviewed some of the peasants and heard their tale of woe. Prince Ivan Vasilii Gagarin was believed to have ordered the abduction of a young girl he fancied for his bedchamber. The men sent to carry the girl away became involved in a scuffle with her father, a farrier, in which he was mortally struck. The Fathers funeral was on the 2nd, after which Ukrainian police attempted to disperse the mourners.  Ill aimed warning shots struck mourners, and a riot followed. The Gagarin manor and a portion of the city of Kalinz were set ablaze before the local regiment mobilized. Ukrainian cavalry is said to be scouring the countryside in search of participants, and have torched several uncooperative villages.

Generalfeldmarschall Felix Graf von Bothmer has ordered the 1st Armored Car brigade to assist in securing the border. 

The Aquileia Advocate
August 18th
There was much rejoicing among the people of Friuli today as their first native born heir in centuries was born in Udine this morning. The Duke and Duchess proudly announced the birth at 9:15am this morning, the child is a healthy baby boy and shall be named Gaius Luitpold Camilla in honor of his grandfathers. The child's uncle, Generalfeldmarschall Prince Rupprecht of Bavaria, was also in attendance. Reports are King Lugwig III will arrive next week to see his newest grandson.

[Borys]

The Habsburg Empress-Queen Yelena sent a silver spoon to Udine.

[Walter]

Knowing the Huns, the spoon is without a doubt covered with blood for good luck. :D

[Kaiser Kirk]

August 6th
Royal Council Chambers. Present are the King, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Finance Minister and War Minister (1)

FM Muller : Gentlemen, Sire, I appreciate the audience on such short notice, but I thought it imperative that we meet.  The Dutch have declared war.

King Lugwig III : I thought they were hosting the peace talks, now they have declared war? On whom, the RRC or Ava?

FM Muller : Uh, no Sire, on the Kingdom of Siam.

King Lugwig III : Oh well thats much better, I was concerned they were declaring war on Ava, which would make a hash out of that peace conference. Why would the Dutch be invading the Kingdom of Siam.

FM Muller : Well Sire, the breifing paper I sent round last week explained this matter. I suppose you did not read it?

King Lugwig III : Don't take that tone with me young man, you know very well that I have been quite busy with the details of the agricultural exposition, not to mention my own entries. I really think my Holstiens may take home the prize this year.

PM G. von Hertling  : I believe the rest of us are aware of the matter.

FM Muller : Well sire, it's about the Kra ithmus canal...

King Lugwig III :  There is no such thing !

FM Muller : Exactly

WM Gustav Ritter von Kahr : Now I'm confused, I thought the war was about the canal, but it's not there?

FM Muller : Exactly!. I am pleased you appreciate the situation.

Lugwig III : Herr Muller, if I said I was under the belief you were volunteering to clean the Royal Stables, would the phrase "Exactly" spring to your lips a third time?
FM Muller <looks discomforted> : Erm, No Sire.

PM G. von Hertling : Sire, it is simple. In 1908 the issue of the Kra Canal came up, the Dutch made a clear assertion that construction of the canal would be cause for war. Fast forward eight years, the Kingdom of Siam started seeking investors for the Canal project. Our nation was even approached, but we declined, far to distant for us to bother with. The Dutch publically asserted their objections and reminded nations of the 1908 conditional declaration. The Dutch privately asserted to us that this was in fact their intent, we indicated we had declined and so had no financial stake in these matters. The Dutch have now declared war and blockade as of yesterday.

King Lugwig III : And what does this mean for dear Jaimie?

PM G. von Hertling : I'm sorry Sire, I don't follow.

King Lugwig III : Pay attention, my nephew is involved in the Kingdom of Ava, how does this effect him?

PM G. von Hertling : I, I don't quite know sire, I suppose it will be somewhat inconvenient but not unduly so. The change in Dutch stance in the area should not effect the outcome of the Batavia talks, and Iberian vessels can detour around the war zone through the Sunda or Lombok straits.

King Lugwig III : Very good. So why are we here?

FM Muller : I was rather hoping for clarification on how to proceed. There are certain minimal obligations we incurred with the signing of the Leipzig pact. The reactions of neighboring European countries to this occurrence have been mixed, although the Hapsburgs statement is not a happy one.

King Lugwig III : Clarification? If there are obligations, we shall meet them. We shall be clear and concise that we honor our commitments. Have you not been paying attention to the events of the past several years? Should an alliance not be overtly resolute, third parties speculate as to weakness and possible opportunity.  Herr Muller, issue some succinct statement to remind the international community of our particular role in this.

FM Muller : Yes Sire, it shall be so.  On possibly related news, we have been warned (2) that the DKB is still seeking ways of regaining their lost lands, but they will need help on the continent to dislodge the ESC and ourselves. Should their be a conflict in Europe, we can expect to see them on the far side. Alliance between the DKB and Glorious France is unthinkable, the Ukraine is a mess, which leaves the Hapsburgs, whom already have links.  Further, the DKB may have been involved in the mystery border clashes between Burm, uh, Ava, and the RRC. This new incident creates a situation where our allies are engaged and the Hapsburgs may see fit to send their AFL into the fray.

PM G. von Hertling : The Dutch would certainly wish us to become more active at such a time and apply sanctions.

FM Muller : Agreed

King Lugwig III :  For such to come to pass would be most undesirable and would lead to unseemly tensions between our nations.

Still, I do no think overtly threating such would be of benefit, the Hapsburgs are a proud family and would take that poorly. At the same time, they are surely aware of our position and could easily satisfy their desire to intervene through many other means that would not cause an issue.

WM Gustav Ritter von Kahr : A precautionary mobilization would create a fierce image to dissuade those who might be tempted....

PM G. von Hertling : Nonsense, it would merely serve to alarm our neighbors for little gain. The normal summer activations shall be sufficient.

King Lugwig III : Agreed, a mobilization would be costly and possibly counterproductive. However, it is August and soldiers may take extended holiday, which would be inconvenient, the ready state should be raised to a weeks notice. 

Minister von Kahr, see that such matters are arranged, Minister Muller, issue an explicit statement that we will adhere to our treaty obligations in this matter. Instruct our Ambassadors to be firm and discrete. Respond promptly and clearly to any Diplomatic traffic on the matter. I trust your discretion on when to bother us with these matters.

Now, if there is nothing further, I have some matters to attend to before milking time.

(1) all such 'cabinet' meetings are of course not a matter of public record
(2) said warning was received well before the DKB entry into the Siam conflict. I've just been laggard typing this up.

Dispatched from Munich
August 6th
Foreign Minister Müller  issued a terse statement today stating
The Kingdom of Greater Bavaria and Schweiz recognizes the declaration of war delivered by the Netherlands yesterday to the Kingdom of Siam.  In addition to the Conditional Declaration issued in 1908, and reiterated in days past, numerous longstanding grievances were listed. Great Bavaria and Schweiz recognizes the state of war and stands ready to honor Article IV of the Treaty of Leipzig and meet any requests of the signatories under that article.

The Munich Messenger
August 18th
Reports of the Siamese War continue to trickle. The Netherlands has placed a strong blockade along the Siamese coast, and the Dutch divisions have made considerable progress on the ground. International talk centers on the blockade and concerns regarding it's implimentation. Further charges have been laid against Siam by the RRC that the ethnic Chinese minorities are maltreated, charges which have been reiterated by the Firanji government.

The report of the birth of the Friuli heir is above

The Munich Messenger
August 20th
The week long agricultural exposition came to a close today.  Attendance was significantly improved over previous years. His Majesty, King Lugwig III once again entered selected bovines and was honored that his prize Holstien took 4th place.
The King was present in his own personage, taking part in events by dispensing of the Childrens' awards.
King Lugwig III also used the occasion to announce the foundation and endowment of a College of Tropical Agriculture, to be located in the Principality of Accra.

The Munich Messenger
August 21st
The Senate of the Empire of Italia has confirmed it election of Armedo Ferdinando Camila as Emperor of all Italia.  House of Savoy has set a tentative date for the coronation of Armedo Ferdinando.  That date is to be the 1st of October 1916 and the Coronation will be held at Cathedral of San Giovanni in Latterno in Rome. The King's spokesman has confirmed that his majesty and selected great nobles will attend.

The Stuttgart Scholar
August 23rd
Several distinguished representatives of various mercantile and manufacturing concerns have departed today. They join compatriots already departed in a mission organized by the Ministry of Commerce to journey to the Great cities and fields of mighty Russia to ascertain the opportunities for mutual benefit are present with the infusion of Bavarian guldenmarks.

The Kattowice Kourier
August 28th
The increased presence along the border by Ukrainian troops this past week, combined with the closure of border stations has led to a flurry of rumors.  The dark smoke rising from the east yesterday morning likely signals the beginning of Ukrainian action against malcontents. Many citizens here fret for relatives across the border, and it is said Count Czartoryski will request Grand Duke Witten lodge a formal protest.

ooc: why do I have so much darn stuff in August. My notes didn't seem like much...

[Kaiser Kirk]

(Warning, long and boring, mainly thinking through the Bavarian position 'out loud' )

Private meeting,
King's Council Chambers
Sept 4th, 1916

FM Müller : Good Evening Gentlemen, I thank you for coming. The subject of course is that the  Brandenburgers have declared war on the Dutch.

King Lugwig III  : I prefer bratwurst to Brandenburger.

FM Müller : <chuckle> never gets old Sire.

PM G. Von Hertling :  Yes, I read as much in the morning paper.  So what does this mean in terms of our obligations?

FM Müller : Under Leipzig, this is still well outside of Europe, so it is merely one more country we owe the Dutch passive support against.  There is however the specter that this will expand to include the Hapsburgs. That conflict would be much more difficult to keep colonial, as there would be great temptations on the part of the Hapsburgs to raid Dutch Mediterranean trade.  That of course would trigger a ground war here in Europe.

King Lugwig III  : Jaimie has been most peeved at the Dutch.

FM Müller : Yes Sire, Iberia is one of several nations which have taken exception to the Dutch terms of blockade.  Iberia has taken a somewhat belligerent stance. The French have been more gracious about the matter. We have quietly received some inquiries and have pressed our allies to be publically more forthcoming as to the status of the blockade.

King Lugwig III  : They were not terribly accommodating when he extended his olive branch. I do not hold it against Iberia to grant the Dutch leeway on this matter, but I do not wish to see the blockade become an issue that leads to conflict between Iberia and ourselves.

FM Müller : Sire, These issues should resolve themselves shortly, as I believe the DKB involvement will result in the blockade being removed.

PM G. Von Hertling : Explain to me if the blockade was illegal or not, and the matter of the ESC involvement, for that matter why are some countries complaining about timelines?

FM Müller :  International law in these areas are a matter of custom and precedent. In our opinion, these activities have reasonable precedence.

In 1908 the Dutch delivered an ultimatum to the Kingdom of Siam regarding proceeding with the canal. This was a de facto Conditional Declaration of War.  As it happens, the Kingdom of Siam took heed and ceased efforts towards the canal until this year. The Siamese secretively sought foreign backers so the Dutch would be faced with antagonizing far more than just Siam.

King Lugwig III  :  Sneaking around in that manner just sticks in my kra.

FM Müller : uh, yes Sire. As I was saying the Dutch learned of this in some manner and considered their Condition to be met, and so declared war.  They then tossed in more old fluff to make it sound better. This appeared to most nations to be declaring based on old grievances, not a fresh violation of a standing Conditional Declaration, and so sacrificed much potential good will.  As this seemed a fresh Declaration, where a wait of 24 hours is traditional, rather than action on a Conditional Declaration, where that waiting period has already passed, the sudden hostilities seemed a breach of etiquette. The perception is far more important than the facts.

As for the blockade, this apparently sudden hostility, combined with garbled news reports and vague indications from the Dutch as to what actually was occurring, meant confusion over the bounds, the categories of contraband, the means of enforcement, and the fate of the merchants effected. Initial news reports seemed to indicate that merchants of many nations were being seized for unclear reasons. Indeed, a yacht out of Trieste was reported seized and I have not been able to find out what, if anything, she was carrying.

King Lugwig III  : I was not aware merchants used yachts. 

FM Müller : No Sire, they don't.  Yachts typically don't have room for worthwhile cargo. I presume the report was mistaken and it was some other type of vessel.

However, generally speaking the Dutch approach appears acceptable to my office, and most nations have not objected, but there are several, including France and Iberia, that have interests in the area and are more effected. Iberia is merely being the most vocal. The status of the Den Hague treaties in relation to the blockade, and various terms of historical blockades have been sources of consternation. There appear to be several differing ideas of what is acceptable. Mines are another difficulty, as they do not challenge or search vessels, nor do Subs in practice.

King Lugwig III  : Submersibles should be following the Cruiser rules, they are warships. I am of the opinion that mining ones own waters as a defense is tolerable, but if one can not control whom is struck, one should not be mining another nations waters. I would think there would be clear understanding of these matters.

FM Müller : It has been suggested to my office that an international conference on blockade laws be formed, and I think it is a splendid idea. One of the maritime powers not in the current war would be a reasonable choice, and I am hopeful of one being called in October.

PM G. Von Hertling : October ?  That will be about three months too late, but if there is a conference, it should serve as a pressure release valve on the situation.  Now explain about the ESC?

FM Müller : The Confederation seconded their cruiser squadron to the Dutch to fill out the blockade line, but did not declare war of their own on Siam. This is perfectly reasonable, as they were operating under the command and control of the Dutch Admiral.  No different than the Hapsburgs in Kolkatta, or the old Hessian regiments rented out to a foreign power.  The command and control establishes responsibility, they are a regularly established military force under Dutch command and thus a Dutch responsibility. Now I could see Letters of Marque being a source of contention in this day and age, but this was simply a matter of poor elucidation as to the nature of the arrangement.

PM G. Von Hertling :  I see. Where does that leave us in your opinion?

FM Müller :  I expect the blockade will be shattered, lowering the chance of conflict here in Europe. The Dutch will prevail in the Kingdom of Siam, presumably holding the country just north of the proposed canal and suing for peace. The Siamese will likely not agree, but in that country the Dutch can hold.

The Dutch-DKB war will have two stages, this initial stage, and then a second in two months when the Dutch, and possibly the ESC, European fleets arrive with reinforcements. This second stage may last a considerable time, although I would have to ask the Admiralty as to the likely victor. We will likely be asked to replace European forces sent to Asia. There will be a temptation for the DKB to try to draw the Hapsburgs in, which is quite possible. That would result in a war here in Europe.

PM G. Von Hertling : What exactly is our status in regards to the DKB ?

FM Müller : Technically the DKB does not recognize our nation, considering us rebels of some sort.  We recognize them, but due to their recalcitrance, have never formally resolved our conflict. We have the odd situation that we stopped actively fighting decades ago, but they at least still feel our two states are in conflict.  It will be interesting what choices they make when confronted by a Bavarian merchantman, I expect they will simply take it.

PM G. Von Hertling : If the DKB considers us already in conflict, I would agree. However that would mean our conflict predates the DKB-Hapsburg treaty and the Hapsburg-Bavarian treaty.

I think should it become necessary for us to engage more directly, it would be important to explicitly phrase it as a continuation of the existing conflict, not as a new declaration of war. This may circumvent the Hapsburg's participation.

King Lugwig III  :  I believe I understand, if they are the belligerents, the Hapsburgs may not be obliged to be so reckless as to engage in war ?

FM Müller : Perhaps, certainly the murky nature of affairs between Bavaria and the DKB would provide a suitable diplomatic reason for the Hapsburgs to decline to participate.  However, I need to refresh my recollection of that treaty, it was 1906. Several the Hapsburgs signed then had a 10 year limit, but I do not recollect if this did, or if it made a distinction regarding belligerency status. 

PM G. Von Hertling : I believe we should place the Heer on a higher alert level. No more than 48hrs leave for the first two teirs, and no more than 1 week holiday for the reserves. Inform the Garde Corps to be prepared for movement.  High Command should be directed to focus on updating timetables for the Hapsburg front, with consideration for movement of ESC troops.  Codes and Maps need updateing and preparation for release should conflict come. Perhaps some fresh aerial photo flights of the border areas...well our side.

King Lugwig III  : So be it. The French did us a courtesy when they mobilized for Kolkatta, return it and inform them of our enhanced alert status.

FM Müller : Should there be a more general advisory? Perhaps inform what merchants we have?

King Lugwig III  : No, we don't want to unduly alarm people, it is not like we are mobilizing, just taking precautions. Perhaps it would be a good time to allow Friuli to issue their own flag. I will be visiting my grandson later this week, and will discuss it then.

[Guinness]

FM Müller : It has been suggested to my office that an international conference on blockade laws be formed, and I think it is a splendid idea. One of the maritime powers not in the current war would be a reasonable choice, and I am hopeful of one being called in October.

The strange spectacle of CSA diplomats ducking en-masse under their desks can be observed almost simultaneously across diplomatic institutions worldwide...

(typed on my iPhone so excuse spelling)

[Desertfox]

King Lugwig III  :  I believe I understand, if they are the belligerents, the Hapsburgs may not be obliged to be so reckless as to engage in war ?

He obiously does not know "Blood..." Borys.

[Sachmle]

King Lugwig III  :  Sneaking around in that manner just sticks in my kra.

Punny, very punny!!  :D :D