Chapter 133, The British Calculations

On May 20, 1874, the Tsarist Government declared war on Poland, and that afternoon, the Russian Army crossed the border and launched an attack on the Kingdom of Poland, sparking another Russo-Polish War.

Less than a week had elapsed between the onset of the Russo-Polish conflict and the outbreak of war. This efficiency shattered Franz's perception of the Tsarist Government.

The fruits of Alexander II's reforms were already evident in this efficiency. Based on the usual pace of the Tsarist Government, it would have taken months to carry out such actions.

The sudden Russo-Polish War caught many by surprise. Governments across Europe were unable to respond in time, and war had already erupted.

In London, Prime Minister Gelson was completely drained. He was occupied with the national elections on one hand and concerned with the shifting political situation in Europe on the other, even pushing the Irish issue to the back burner.