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Many smaller countries considered this offer seriously, even if it meant falling under the Englishmen's thumb, whether for the first time or a repeat of their history.

It was better to be alive, a vassal, than a dead, free country.

The Asian countries, big and small, displayed remarkable resilience, systematically refusing the offer almost immediately.

China, who was primarily responsible for colonizing almost all those countries at some point in time, was snickering under his breath.

Australia's prime minister, who the senator had half-thought would buckle immediately to the English prime minister, scoffed at his offer.

"As if we'd say yes to having you back in charge!" he spat.

"Almost every animal, insect, and plant on our continent tries to kill us already. We have been dealing with them alone up to now, and we will deal with this new threat as well," he growled.

"Well said," the senator complimented him.