Co-operative Empire. An interactive AAR

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Excellent, a general it is.

OOC
Welcome we've just finished war with portugal

Sorry I didn't respond to your previous post to be honest I didn't notice it.

But Novare managed to spot it. Feel free to argue for troop increase military research or anything appropriate to your sector

 

[Ksim3000]

To His Right Honourable John Hanlon
Prime Minister of the British Empire

Dear Prime Minister Hanlon,

I congratulate you sir upon your victory of achieving the top spot of the empire. I am hopeful that you will succeed within your post and continue to serve the empire as others before you have done.

However, whilst I have been respectful to you, the insults I felt within your words at the debate have ingrained themselves into my heart and soul, thus I will not be forgetting for as long as i live. The humiliation and embarrasment will also be something i will never find within myself to forgive you, sir.

Do not think though I will be letting this go, Prime Minister. I have friends within the Tories and chances are, I could end up involving myself with the party and I will certainly not let you snuggle into the premiership easily.

Enjoy the victory over Portugal whilst it lasts, Hanlon. For stormy times rule ahead, I believe.

Yours Sincerely,

Sir James Kensington
Governor General for Australasia

OOC: I was thinking of perhaps, if it is possible, would it be alright if I became leader of the Tory Party and continue my serve to Australasia? Not much roleplaying to do with Australasia and I plan to turn Kensington into a rival with Hanlon, if Novare and naraiC are okay with that? Could be fun, now that we have the Labour Party under Nubbie in and besides, Novare makes an excellent debater.

Also, congratulations! Glad you got the post and welcome Nubbie! And thanks to the folks that voted for me, too. Appreciate it very much.

 

[Ksim3000]

To His Majesty's Government,

First and foremost, I would like to thank all of my supporters that voted for me and stood with me during our "trial of fire" against John Hanlon and his supporters. I congratulate them upon their victory and whilst I remain sceptical to now Prime Minister Hanlon's capabilities, I wish him luck with his victory.

However, do not understand this to be a defeat. Far from it, gentlemen, for I shall return and with a vegeance!

Anyway, now onto the present gatherings.

The now finished war with the Portuguese Emp-I mean "Kingdom", is now over and a success for the empire! However, at the loss of international prestige, it is debatable wether or not it was worthwhile wasting lives over a merchant selling guns and ammunition to a group of natives. I do hope that Sir O'Connell's foot is greatful.

Gentlemen, we face a problem, though. Should the empire over expand, it will become very difficult to maintain and thus become expensive. With the Portuguese colonies now added to the empire, this will indeed complicate expansion for future generations of politicians.

I would have just been content with Timor island, myself. It would have been cheaper in the long run to allow Portugal to run the rest of it's remaining colonial empire.

But....atleast the Portuguese still have their port in China, Port Macau. (OOC: I know it isn't added in Vicky but hey, can I they keep it, just for rp sakes?) Unless I am dutifully mistaken, however....

I am also aware the current plans for Australia will be to invest into the recently found gold mine. I am hoping this will attract adventurers and businessmen alike!

And I feel that I should be congratulated for my governorship of Australia. The Melbourne colony has now officially become recognised as a city. Marvellous news! This does show that civilisation can develop in the most remote parts of the empire!

I would like to also remind esteemed gentlemen that I would like direct influence over Timor colony, considering it's close proximity to the Australasia colonial boundaries.

Prime Minister Hanlon and other gentlemen, your thoughts and suggestions, please.

Sir James Kensington
Governor General for Australasia

 

[robou]

To the Governor of Australasia
RE The War with the Kingdom of Portugal
This is NOT a private letter

Sir, i find it very selfish of you to say that "you would have just been content with Timor island, myself" as you seem to be under the impression that these gains will not benefit us. Why do you think that only you should benefit from the Empires wars? Why should you, who were against the war and, who's troops played a minor role be the only person to be benefitted? I find this most odd. I admit that i am only a gruff old warrior but, do you fear that me, and Sir Dorian, would not run these colonies competently enough so that they would not profit the Empire? As far as i recall the late King and the Queen have both commended me on my running of South Africa. I have opened two Diamond mines, i have directed two of the Empires quickly conclusive wars and i do believe, sir, that is more than you can call for.
Do watch yourself, sir, or you may find youself in a tough situation with very few men beside you to help, and unless you reply is exellent and apoligeticly understanding then you will not be able to count me among those men.
I believe that is all there is to say

God Save the King
Sir Robert Thesiger
Governor-General of South Africa

 

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OOC Ksim if you want Sir James to take over the Tory party feel free. I'm not out to stand in anyones way when they have an interesting storyline or political dynamic.

 

[Novare_Res]

OOC: I thought it would be more interesting and realistic if we did my suggested method for the budget: 83% players vote in favor of the budget + 18.35% of people who are not voting Whigs in the game who would be against the tax raise means the budget would pass with an increment of a percentage: 50.67% because the Whigs would in theory vote against the tax increase. It adds to the roleplaying that the budget just barely passed...

OOC: KSim, I love the idea, I was going to suggest it, leader of the opposition party or something! Bring it on! I think it would be the Conservative party though... my mistake...

 

[unmerged(9599)]

OOC I like the news paper idea and Ive updated our member list on page 1 of course there is plenty of room for new members

 

[Freddan]

To Queen Victoria.

Her Majesty,

I am glad to hear about our success in the war against the Portuguese. I did not know that I was this famous but it makes me happy that I can serve the empire and protect our sea lanes.
I get to see so many different places commanding our great naval forces around the world and it’s even better to see our empire prosper and conquer new land.

I will gladly come to London.

Rule Britannia, rule the seas!

God Save the Queen
Rear-Admiral Noel Holland

 

[Freddan]

To John Hanlon

I have to congratulate you on winning the election, you’ve done a great job as chancellor and I am sure that you will do a great job as our new prime minister.

Rule Britannia, rule the seas!

God Save the Queen
Rear-Admiral Noel Holland

 

[General_Grant]

To John Hanlon

I wish you best of luck in your new fonctions at the post of prime minister, and would like to congrats you for your electoral victory.

I certainly beleive than you can handle much more this task than your predecessor. As General-Governor of Canada, I also hope you will have some interests in the colonial affairs.

God Save the Queen
Charles Grant,
General-Governor of Canada

 

[unmerged(70906)]

To: Prime Minister John Hanlon
Re: Successful Election

Congratulations on your victory in the election, Mr. Hanlon. I believe you will do a great job as PM, and I wish you the very best of luck.

Regards,

Dermot O'Connell
Governor-General of Ireland

God Save The Queen

 

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To: Governor-General Sir James Kensington of Australasia
Re: Recent war with Portugal
Letter not marked Private

Dear Sir James,

In reading your last letter to Her Majesty's Government, I came across a comment which i feel is unfair. In your later, you stated:

"The now finished war with the Portuguese Emp-I mean "Kingdom", is now over and a success for the empire! However, at the loss of international prestige, it is debatable wether or not it was worthwhile wasting lives over a merchant selling guns and ammunition to a group of natives. I do hope that Sir O'Connell's foot is greatful."

It was in no way a waste of lives. The war was to prove a point to anyone who would assist our enemies, this is the fate that awaits them. I feel we proved this to a great degree in our actions. Other nations will think twice before rendering assistance to our enemies. Is a sale of arms worth it, if it it shall bring the wrath of the Empire down upon them? I think not.

It would also seem, from the above quote, that you are blaming the war on me, "I do hope that Sir O'Connell's foot is greatful.". My injury did not cause this war, our desire to re-enforce the Empire's stance in the International Community caused this war. I am thankful that it is now over, with our point made and well proven.

In his last letter to you, Sir Robert Thesiger had said that he felt your comment regarding your acquisition of Timor was selfish. I agree with him completely. You "would have just been content with Timor island". Why should you, someone who was completely against the war from the start, receive any territory at all? Your armies played an incredibly minor role in this war. At this point I will say, I have all respect for all men of Her Majesty's Armies. They carried out their orders as expected of them, your men included. This letter is not about them, it is about you. You were against the war, yet you say such words. It is by Her Majesty's good will that you have any new territory at all! Speak no more words about your acquisition, be content with what you have.

Before I end this letter, I have but one more point to make. I find another part of your letter very much out of order, which is the following:

"And I feel that I should be congratulated for my governorship of Australia. The Melbourne colony has now officially become recognised as a city. Marvellous news!".

Here, you ask the Government for congratulations? You ask? You ask our beloved Queen for congratulations? Congratulations are given when it is seen fit to do so. If we, Her Majesty's staff, feel it is fit to commend you, we will do so. I cannot speak for Her Majesty herself, but I imagine that she would agree.

In my opinion, you have not done enough for this Empire to earn congratulations. An example of someone who has is the Governor-General of South Africa, Sir Robert Thesiger. He has led two wars, one of which was to free his own people from terror. I feel privileged that I was able to stand alongside him with my men and assist. He then planned the recent war on Portugal, and a brilliant plan it was. He has conducted himself brilliantly, both on the battlefield, and as leader of South Africa. He deserves congratulations for those feats, and he has received them. Granted, you have not been the leader of Australasia for as long as he has been leader of South Africa, but sir, do not dare ask for congratulations. You have done little in comparison. So i warn you now, Sir James, do not ask for congratulations.

The war is over now, be silent in your protest because it is falling on deaf ears. Concern yourself with the running of your lands, not with how you are seen by your fellow members of Her Majesty's staff.

As Sir Robert has said, Do watch yourself. Or you will soon find yourself without friends when they are most needed. It is with this that I end my letter, there is little else to be said

Dermot O'Connell
Governor-General of Ireland

God Save The Queen

 

[Novare_Res]

To Sir James Kensington,

You know I wouldn't want to claim the 'top spot,' as you say - I do believe that belongs to the Queen. I do Thank you good sir but I need no congratulations - it is you Sir who deserve congratulations, I was quite impressed with your performance and I apologize for disregarding your island. Bendigo now produces gold, the city of Melbourne is promising and your noble victory in Timor gave the Empire one of its few suppliers of tropical wood. I'm sure Her Majesty the Queen has already discussed the administration of Timor with you. Till we meet again, Governor.

God Save The Queen,
John Hanlon, First Lord of The Treasury, Chancellor of the Exchequer

 

[Novare_Res]

To Her Majesty's Government,

I thank you for your support, gentlemen, in electing me to the position of 'First Minister.' I also congratulate you on your quick and decisive victory over Portugal. Now, as usual, down to business.


RE: The Thesiger Plan,

Sir Robert, you're battle plans for the war were executed brilliantly, the Empire owes you a great deal of gratitude for your leadership, your courage and tactical genius. I'm sure Her Majesty the Queen will award you with some kind of honors. I am very happy to hear about the various discoveries of gold deposits in South Africa, this will hopefully attract immigrants and provide a hefty sum for Britain. Might I suggest that we expand those mines as soon as possible. Let me know if you need anything.​

RE: India, China,

Sir Dorian Russell, how are you, old chap? I am greatly relieved to hear about Stoddart and Connelly's release but I think this puts your 'forward policy' into question - the people's of Central Asia are nothing but a backward people. I'd go so much to argue that the tribal leaders of Africa are far more civilized then they are. Don't forget that throughout history all of the barbarians came from Central Asia, Genghis Khan, the Huns, and even the despicable Ottoman Empire. What is the situation with Punjab? You expressed concern? See I tell you that these people are a waste! I am also concerned over China - The Canton Trade Laws are killing our potential to tap further into an infinitely large market. The Chinese government won't even open negotiations and the recently increased illegalization of opium in their Empire is threatening its trade with us. They are sentencing native traffickers of the drug to death! I fear we may lose our valuable opium trade as no one in China will be left willing to trade with us. Seeing as your border is so close to China and the Company has more or less monopolized the trade, I want you to tell me what you can.​

RE: Canada,

Sir Charles Grant, I understand there are some problems arising in your colony - might I press you for a report on the situation and details regarding the Durham Report?​

RE: Foreign/Domestic Relations,

Viscount Palmertson, I want to work to rebuild relations with Portugal as quickly as possible and Netherlands as well. I want to find out what they are willing to trade for in exchange for assuming control of their trade post in Sekondi, if we claim that, we'll have a strong footing for expansion around the Gold Coast. Also, what in heaven's name is Sir Russell talking about? I understand their is some dissent amongst a handful of the Governor's regarding an exchange with yourself?​

God Save The Queen,
John Hanlon, First Lord of the Treasury, Chancellor of the Exchequer

 

[robou]

To John Hanlon
RE South Africa

Well i am only a servant of the crown and do my duty as such. You will be glad to hear that it was in fact diamonds found in my Colony, and i hope that the diamond i have sent to the Queen with this letter suffices to her expectations of this booming colony.
I hope i will diligently control this colony for the Empire for a long time yet.
God Save the Queen
Sir Robert

 

[robou]

To Viscount Palmerstone
RE Sekondi

Due to the "First Ministers" want for increased relations with Holland, i decided to press this issue on you now. The Dutch trading post of Sekondi must be traded for. Even i will not risk a war for a single province. Trade what ever you see fit to get thise province of the Dutch. This will secure our position on the Gold coast. West Africa's fate is in your hands Palmerstone. See fit that you do not fail me.

God Save the Queen
Sir Robert

 

[unmerged(57402)]

To Sir James Kensington, Governor-General for Australasia,

Sir, regarding your appalling attitude about the war against Portugal. Are you really not mature enough to respect the opinions and attitudes of a government that voted overwhelmingly in favour of this conflict? If you are really so naive as to believe that "Sir Dermot's foot" caused the war then I believe you are probably not fit to govern a colony as important as Australia- perhaps you would care for a more detailed depiction of the difficulties we at the Company have with the Portuguese on a daily basis, where they simply do not respect British authority. Then, I think, you might appreciate the many vital reasons that intelligent, well-informed men supported the war against the Portuguese, which was brought to an overwhelmingly successful question- thanks to the excellent planning and leadership of better men than you and by the courage and discipline of both Company and Crown troops.

If you are so desperate to bemoan and detract from the glory of our remarkable victory over the Portuguese, I suggest you cease all involvement in it. What right have you, who so hate and hated our campaign, to have any share of the spoils? I respectfully suggest, therefore, that you turn over control of the island of Timor to the Board of Control, and then you will be able to see exactly how the Company copes with the "burden" of new territories. If you indicate a wish to retain control of the island, then stop complaining about the war.

Really, I should have expected little better. Your pathetically bitter attitude on losing the election indicates a lack of maturation and I can only assume that you are simply not ready for a position of such high authority as that which you have somehow gained already. Your behaviour simply disgusts me.

God Save the Queen,

Sir Dorian Russell, Chief Executive of the East India Company

 

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To John Hanlon, First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer,

Sir, firstly, on behalf of the entire Board of Control and the whole Company, congratulations on your election to the post of Prime Minister. As you know, you were the Company's preferred candidate and we are glad to see that our opinion can still turn minds in London, and that an excellent man has been appointed for this vital position in the realm. I look forward to establishing an excellent relationship between the new Prime Minister and the East India Company!

Regarding your questions on our Central Asian policy. The release of Stoddart and Connelly is very happy and fortunate news. Believe me, worse has been known even in my time- such, as you say, is the nature of the savage magnates we are facing in Central Asia and the untouched regions of India. However, it is exactly for these reasons that I advocated- and will continue to advocate- a forward policy. We must bring these people under the wing of the Empire for the sake of civilisation and cultural enlightenment throughout the world. Both the Company and the British Empire are, it must be remembered, philanthropic organisms.

As regards Punjab, with Portugal excluded from Asia the problem is largely now subsident. We faced a situation where the Portuguese were encouraging the state's Maharaja to exclude and obstruct Company officials, but with Portuguese influence now broken, we may see them return to us out of necessity. It is unnecessary to fight a war when we can brow-beat them diplomatically, and I know that you- always with one eye on fiscal policy- will appreciate the savings that such an action will bring.

Finally, on the subject of the opium trade. The Company benefits hugely from the trade, particularly in China. If the Manchus really intend to squash it out, it will be an enormous loss to both the Company, and to Britain. I chaired a Board of Control meeting just yesterday on this question, and the Board agreed that we must face China with the sternest possible attitude. If it comes to intervention to preserve the existence of the trade, and thus war against the Chinese Empire, then war it must be. Regrettable, but I fear it there are no alternatives.

Congratulations again on your appointment (I can think of few better candidates for the job), best wishes for your tenure and with all hope for an excellent relationship between Company and Government!

God Save the Queen,

Sir Dorian Russell, Chief Executive of the East India Company

 

[Ksim3000]

To the respectful Sir Robert Thesiger
Governor General of the Cape Colony, British South Africa

Dear Sir Thesiger,

My apologies on the misunderstood point of my comment in regards to the war with Portugal. The comment that I made, "I would have just been content with Timor island, myself", I was referring to not acquiring Timor island myself but about the Empire's troops merely occupying Timor island "in protest" instead of confronting Portugal's entire empire!

Portugal would, in my opinion, have made a most excellent buffer empire, particulary in Africa, instead of being stripped of it's colonial holdings. That is the point I was trying to bring across but it seems to have been misinterpreted greatly but I do apologise for the wording. I should have been more direct.

In saying, however, I am still against the recent war but my idea was that the Timor island colony would be better directed by the Australasia colonial office rather than the empire directly. It would be much more efficient, especially in terms of defence, would you not agree, sir?

I commend you, though, Sir Thesiger, a man whom I do have great respect for. You, sir, are a tribute to the empire, as is Rear Admiral Noel Holland, in the success overall of both campaigns.

I do hope this little 'misunderstanding' will not upset relations between both of us. As gentlemen, I am sure we can put this aside?

Yours Sincerely,

Sir James Kensington
Governor General for Australasia

OOC: Sorry for the miswording of that, people. I did mean annexation of Timor island only in the roleplay and leaving Portugal with the rest of her claims. Kensington is a pretty pro-Portugal man. He remembers the Napoleonic Wars, obviously.

 

[Ksim3000]

To the respectful Sir Dermot O'Connell
Governor General for Ireland

Dear Sir O'Connell,

My apologies, as I have explained to Sir Robert Thesiger, for the misinterpretation of my wording in regards to the claim of Timor island. I was referring to His Majesty's government claiming Timor island as "making a stand" against the Portuguese crown, instead of robbing Portugal of her entire colonial empire. I should have been more direct and worded it better but do accept my apologies.

Anyway, in reference to my remark about your foot, do you not recall good sir but during the calls for war, the main calling was about "getting revenge on Portugal for your foot in your honour" rather than an insult to the empire. I do think, to count the lost lives of soldiers and sailors to defend your honour, sir, is generally down to your injury. Otherwise, Portugal would still have an empire!

Sir, I remember the British empire's support to Portugal during the war against 'Nappy' and I have always agreed to stand by Britain's longest ally, until now.

But instead, Britain is shamed by the community for it's actions. All because of your foot. So I hope I make that clear to you, sir.

I do not wish to fall out with you, Sir O'Connell, but that is unfortunetly the sad truth and there is no denying that. Do not try to pin the blame down on me, aswell!

In regards to my good running of the Melbourne colony, I was merely having a boast of my achievements, not asking for outright "thanks". Sir, I have not that low self esteem, I do assure you. Nothing wrong with a gentleman being proud of his achievements, now is there?

I hope you take care, Sir O'Connell. Do remember old boy that future historians will look back on this war instead of seeing tensions rising, instead the war will be blamed on your foot.

Yours Sincerely,

Sir James Kensington
Governor General for Australasia