British Attitude

The atmosphere in Greece thickened as the shadow of war loomed larger on the horizon. The British diplomatic note, sternly warning against any military action, cast a cold pallor over the newly formed Greek government's ambitious plans. Constantine, ever vigilant to the shifting currents of international relations, hastened to the Prime Minister's residence to grasp the unfolding situation.

Upon arrival, he found Delianes engrossed in a heated discussion with Chief of Staff Emanuel, poring over maps and military strategies. The British diplomatic note had disrupted their plans, injecting an unwelcome dose of reality into the fervor for war that had gripped the nation.

"Mr. Prime Minister, you should have received the British diplomatic note. What are your plans?" Constantine inquired urgently, recognizing the gravity of the situation.

In response, Delianes elucidated the strategic landscape, emphasizing the strengths and vulnerabilities of the neighboring nations. The Serbian army, with its numerical advantage and seasoned troops, posed a formidable threat. The Bulgarian army, although slightly outnumbered, remained a significant player. The precarious situation in Eastern Rumelia heightened the risks for both Bulgaria and the Ottoman Turks.

Constantine, well-versed in military matters, weighed the options carefully. The geopolitical significance of Eastern Rumelia, the historical context, and the delicate balance of power demanded a nuanced approach. His insights provided a sobering counterpoint to the prevailing enthusiasm for war.

"First of all, Serbia does have an advantage, but in war, the side without the advantage can still secure the final victory," Constantine opined, injecting a note of caution into the conversation.

He highlighted the myriad factors influencing the outcome of land warfare—morale, weaponry, troop numbers, leadership, terrain, and public support. In the volatile Balkans, where historical grievances and national aspirations intersected, the outcome was inherently uncertain.

"Moreover, we do not border the territory of Bulgaria, and the Macedonia region lies in between. Crossing that border could provoke the Ottoman Turks, escalating the conflict into a larger melee among the Balkan countries—a scenario the great powers are eager to avoid," Constantine continued.

The strategic insight revealed the complexity of the geopolitical chessboard. The Ottoman Turks, though currently retraining their army under German guidance, remained a wildcard in the unfolding drama.

However, Delianes, undeterred by these nuances, remained steadfast in his resolve. For him, the urgency of the moment and the perceived advantages in taking decisive action outweighed the risks. The prime minister's ambiguous response left Constantine disheartened, realizing the arduous path ahead.

As he exited the prime minister's residence, Constantine grappled with the weight of the impending decisions. The majority-driven fervor for war, fueled by nationalism and political machinations, clashed with his reasoned and cautious approach. The political landscape seemed fraught with obstacles, and the destiny of Greece hung in the balance.

Back at the Tatoi Palace, Constantine sought counsel from King George I. The dialogue echoed with the somber realities of political maneuvering and the constraints faced by a constitutional monarch. The delicate dance between monarchy and parliamentary politics was unfolding against a backdrop of impending conflict.

In a twist of fate, the British government, through Ambassador William White, delivered a stern warning to Constantinople and Athens. Any military action against Bulgaria would be deemed an act of hostility against the United Kingdom. The diplomatic note, a cold rebuke, resonated through the halls of power.

Constantine's last attempt to influence the course of events came in the form of a plea to his father, the king, to intervene as the supreme commander of the Greek army. However, the constitutional constraints and the specter of public backlash tied the king's hands, leaving him with a wry acknowledgment of the realities of the throne.

Amidst the complex interplay of international relations, the British Ambassador's visit provided a stark reminder of the consequences at stake. The British Empire's firm stance against Greek military mobilization underscored the gravity of the situation.

As the political currents swirled and tensions escalated, Constantine found himself navigating treacherous waters. The decisions ahead would not only shape the fate of Greece but also test the mettle of its leaders in the crucible of Balkan geopolitics.