In the halls of the Privy Council, Roberto Vincenzo Pes di Villamarina addresses his peers.
My lords,
I have been informed by the police authorities of Turin, that, during a public dicussion with a known radical Mazzini, an officer of the army of His Majesty, Lieutenant Colonel Vitali, has been advocating an aggressive war of conquest against Austria, France and other Italian states. Coming from a high-ranking soldier, it may create the illusion that such views are shared by the General Staff and even our Commander-in-Chief, His Majesty the King. You probably understand the diplomatic incident it can cause - and even be used against us by our enemies. I will not be suprised, if the Austrian Ambassador has already been informed about this episode and is preparing a complaint.
Morever, it severely violates the disciplinary rules, in accordance with which an officer must serve the Crown and the nation, fulfilling their bid, instead of participating in political discussions and trying to formulate policies by himself. I believe that we, the Privy Council, in order to prevent such happening in the future, should advise the King to reprimand this officer for his behaviour. Respecting the patriotic feelings of this gentleman, I beleive that he must be explained, that, in private capacity, he can voice any views that he likes, but, while he wears the epaulets, he must understand the grave responsibility and limitation of his office. In addition, I beliee that we should recommend the Monarch to issue an order to the forces establishing the strictly apolitical role of the military.
What would you say?
- Vincenzo Roberto Pes, Marquis di Villamarina, Leader of the Traditionalists