After giving instructions regarding the "Optical Signal Tower," Sharp withdrew, while Joseph discussed the preparations for war with Bertier.
"You may have heard already, at the Stuttgart conference, the British openly accused France without any pretense.
"Given this trend, war could break out at any moment."
Bertier solemnly nodded, "Indeed, Your Highness. The General Staff has come to a similar conclusion and has been accelerating preparations."
"So, where does the General Staff believe the British will make their move?"
"First and foremost, there will be a full naval blockade," Bertier responded. "Our trade with America, the Far East, and even the Mediterranean coast will be severely affected.
"The situation will be more serious than during the Seven Years' War. And this time, the Dutch Fleet is very likely to come under British command."
Of course, in an era without radar, a so-called full blockade was impossible.