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Message from Russia to England
Ivy, My Friend,
I suspect you may have been surprised by Mos-StP. Please rest assured
that I have no reason, nor intention of bouncing your Fleet out of Nwy. I
will send A StP-Fin this Fall, so that I can take Swe with support in 1902,
if Germany bounces me this Fall. Beyond that my northern plans depend
largely on what you three decide you're going to do. Informed sources tell
me that the bounce in Bur was pre-arranged, as was the bounce in Tri. It's
the middle of the night, and I don't have my glasses on, so I don't know of
anything else that needs to be said, but I did want you to know that the
move to StP was only made to ensure that Sweden joins the EEU as a
Russian protectorate. I'm going back to bed, now. 8-)
A Sleepy Nick.
Message from Austria to England
Of all the powers in a generally conservative 1901, you seem to
have come out the worst. While FG didn't actively attack you,
their bounce in Burgundy certainly appears to have been
pre-arranged. And the Russian move to St. Petersburg probably
threatens your Scandinavian influence, especially Norway.
If Germany doesn't bounce Sweden, you're almost certainly
facing at least an RG alliance, possibly FRG. But FRG is
probably bad for Germany in that he's a natural next target for
FR.
You can force Norway, of course, by using Nwg to support the
convoy there. But France will get 3 builds: Pic-Bel cannot be
stopped by Germany, and your Nth fleet has more important tasks
than interfering with Bel.
To me, at least, it seems an EG alliance is your only hope, and
it may not be easy for you to achieve.
Good luck.
Edna, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from England to Turkey
Most excellent Ali,
I wrote,
>I know of no plans by Germany to hinder Russia, and I will tell you that I
>have no intention of troubling Russia anytime soon.
Russia has annoyed me somewhat with the move to StP. Now I have to
consider supporting myself into Norway. To make that move, Russia must be
very confident of his security in the south. Too confident?
On another topic, do you know if the bounce in Trieste was arranged? I am
still assuming that you and Roberto are on very good terms.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Russia
Nicky,
> I suspect you may have been surprised by Mos-StP. Please rest assured
>that I have no reason, nor intention of bouncing your Fleet out of Nwy.
It did surprise me. Had you mentioned it in advance, I would have blessed
the move. As you see, it could have had no effect on my spring moves.
I am curious about your feelings on the EFG triangle. It is entirely
possible that it could resolve itself in any of the three possible
permutations. Under the assumption that I might actually have a choice in
the matter, do you care to express an opinion on the merits of EF vs. EG?
If you prefer FG I am sure that you will make that known to others.
My own mind is in a tizzy. EG remains appealing because France is
dangerous. Give him a head of steam and every country on earth will have
something to fear. EF is appealing because, as you put it, Germany "seems
to be an odd fish, all the way around." Will I ever be able to rely on him?
Italy, apparently, has taken himself out of the western picture.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Austria
>Of all the powers in a generally conservative 1901, you seem to
>have come out the worst.
Thanks for cheering me up.
>While FG didn't actively attack you,
>their bounce in Burgundy certainly appears to have been
>pre-arranged.
It was, and I knew about it.
>And the Russian move to St. Petersburg probably
>threatens your Scandinavian influence, especially Norway.
Yes, and this surprised me. I must at least consider forcing my way into
Norway now. That's something I didn't count on before.
>You can force Norway, of course, by using Nwg to support the
>convoy there. But France will get 3 builds: Pic-Bel cannot be
>stopped by Germany, and your Nth fleet has more important tasks
>than interfering with Bel.
A France with 3 builds is a France with a head of steam. And we can all
tell from the press this this France has to be a powerful player.
May I assume that the Trieste bounce was also arranged? Ditto for Black Sea?
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Italy
Good day, Roberto.
Lots of bounces. Lots of careful moves. The bounce in Burgundy was
arranged. So too, I think, the Black Sea. What about Trieste?
I hope it was arranged as well, because Russia seems to be very confident
of his security in the south. I would hate to see RT take Austria with
Italian help and then calmly keep marching westward over all our bodies.
Russia/Turkey is a real no/no.
I am curious about your feelings on the EFG triangle. It is entirely
possible that it could resolve itself in any of the three possible
permutations. Under the assumption that I might actually have a choice in
the matter, do you care to express an opinion on the merits of EF vs. EG?
If you prefer FG I am sure that you will make that known to others.
My own mind is in a tizzy. EG remains appealing because France is
dangerous. Give him a head of steam and every country on earth will have
something to fear. EF is appealing because Germany has yet to demonstrate
that he cares a whit about this game.
Care to comment?
Yours,
Ivy
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
All is calm in the Channel. No surprises either in Galicia, Tyrolia, Black
Sea, Trieste, etc. To the best of my knowledge, all bounces were arranged.
The Russian move to StP surprised me, but I don't think I should be overly
concerned. Prior to the move Nicky indicated he was very nervous about
being bounced in Sweden. A Smoke screen? If StP was really anti-English,
I probably will be the last to know.
We have several things to talk about. Start with Burgundy. What do I say
to Germany if he wants to hit Burgundy again? He expected you to cover
Burgundy with Paris as long as needed, so that it would remain hopeless for
him to get in there. I didn't bother to tell him that Paris was going to
Picardy. Now that Picardy is aimed at Belgium, and Marseilles is eyeing
Spain, Freddy will consider Burgundy. Especially so, since Tyrolia is
vacant. I can't just say, "no Freddy, don't go there. It doesn't fit with
EG plans." It might be best for me to say nothing, but Germany may ask me
a direct question. Well, I'll think about this. You too, please. I need
something plausible to say.
I would also appreciate your take on how you think the east is shaping up.
Russia's placing of two units in the north suggests that he is somewhat
confident of the south. I've also been under the impression that Turkey
and Italy hit it off fairly well. What I fear most is something like a
fast RIT crushing of Austria followed by a continued RT push.
Now, on to Belgium & Holland & possible builds. Let's see if I can offer a
few thoughts of my own without damaging our growing trust.
Bouncing Germany in Holland may be my least attractive option. It doesn't
even guarantee me a build, because Norway is not really 100% certain.
Also, I would rather not start our partnership with a 6-4 imbalance.
Earlier, we discussed possible Belgium neutrality but only gave it a word
or two. Bouncing in Belgium is still an option, but it is less than
imperative now, because Germany is no longer a threat to take Belgium.
Consider permitting me to go to Belgium with certain safeguards and/or
conditions attached. For example, you get Belgium once Belgium takes
Holland. Or, if I take Belgium now, then I don't build a fleet in London
or Yorkshire, or even postpone a build. I'm just thinking out loud right
now and am not sure just what is best for us.
More: England/France can get stuck against Germany, if Russia supports
Germany in the north. This suggests that we (separately) suggest that
Germany bounce Russia in Sweden in order to foster German/Russian
hostility? Yes? No?
Afterthought: should I actually encourage Germany to go for Burgundy and
you bounce it with Picardy? The advantage is that Freddy's obvious
alternative move to Ruhr permits him to build another army on your border
in Munich.
Yours,
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Good Freddy,
Not bad. Not bad. Bounces in Burgundy, Black Sea, and Trieste were
probably all arranged. Everyone is cautious.
Russia's move to StP was a bit unexpected. He may have northern ambitions,
and that is bad for both of us no matter what France attempts.
Furthermore, by sending a second unit to the north, Russia indicates a
certain amount of comfort with whatever he has arranged in the south. This
bears watching. Get it? "Bears!" At least he didn't march into Silesia.
I can either guarantee my entry into Norway or Belgium or send one unit in
each direction. It's interesting that France cannot cover Belgium,
Burgundy, and Spain with only two armies. I am almost certain that he will
take the sure thing in Spain. That leaves him guessing in Belgium and
Burgundy. Your thoughts?
You have two agressive moves to think about. Hitting Sweden and hitting
Burgundy. Do you think I should try to arrange a bounce in Belgium, so
that Burgundy would be open? Or let France think I am using both fleets in
Norway. It's true actually, both fleets in Norway is indeed a possibility.
I've got some guessing of my own to do.
You may get a good indication of the state of affairs between Russia,
Austria, Turkey, and Italy by seeing who, if any, encourages you to bounce
Russia in Sweden. Regardless of what you choose to do, this will be useful
information. I hope you feel free to pass on the info to me. The scariest
scenerio would be that none of them want the bounce. Russia would have too
many friends.
Get back to me asap. Hope you had a nice weekend.
Ivy
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 6&7 Results:
First, I wanted to wish everyone a very happy Bastille
Day. This being our national holiday, I have been busy
with festivities and have not been very communicative. I
apologize for that. But sometimes, the people are more
important than my neighbors in Europe. I even missed an
update on the Tour de France. Fittingly a Frenchman took
today's stage. Although he rides for a team in a
different country, we take pride in his accomplishment
all the same. This is his second stage and gives the
Turk's 20 points and a tie for first in the standings.
The prior stage was taking by Jaan Kirsipuu from AG2R.
He rides for none of our teams.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 0 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 0 points
Russia (Robobank): 10 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. Jens Voigt (C.A.) 29 hours, 51 minutes, 29 seconds
2. Laurent Jalabert (CSC/Tascali) @ 2:34
5. Igor G. Galdeano (ONC) @ 5:00
9. Christophe Moreau (FES) @ 5:20
15. Lance Armstrong (USP) @ 5:56
19. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 6:23
Current Leaders:
Yellow Jersey: Jens Voigt [50 points] - no one
Green Jersey: Erik Zabel [20 points] - Germany
Polkadot Jersey: Patrice Halgand [20 points] - no one
Message from France to England
Ivy:
I was very surprised to see the Russia move to St.
Petersburg. I have never heard it explained to be a move
against Germany. Perhaps it helps him get to Sweden.
But it can easily bounce you in Norway or set himself up
to move on Norway. This is especially true if Germany
allows him into Sweden. That would be three units on
Norway.
Before we get too serious about our talks on Belgium, let
me see what I can learn from Russia. I will write him
next.
-- Prince Boar
Message from England to Germany
Freddy,
Some afterthoughts.
(1) It's obvious that Russia's move threatens both of us. One thing that
we must be determined not to let happen is to permit France/Russia to pick
off one of us and then the other.
(2) Just so you know where I am coming from, let me say a word about your
next builds. It is conventional for England to demand that a German ally
not build a second fleet, and that often is the start of mistrust between
the two of them. For that is asking that Germany have little defense
against English treachery. By all means, feel free to build a second
fleet. Or two armies, if you wish. Use your judgment, based on the
situatian at the time. I do ask this though. If you do wish to build a
second fleet, please do so in Berlin with the initial intent of its
operating against Russia. It certainly will permit you to take Sweden.
Even in Berlin or the Baltic or Sweden, a reserve fleet makes it almost
impossible for England to hope for a successful attack on Germany.
(3) The more I think about it, the more I hope you bounce Russia. But its
your call; I do not wish to insist.
With respect,
Ivy
p.s. France opened the Belgium debate with a curt note saying he first
wanted to speak to Russia to see what he could learn. Aferwards he would
be willing to talk about Belgium. Not a word about anything else.
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
> > I suspect you may have been surprised by Mos-StP.
> It did surprise me. Had you mentioned it in advance, I would have blessed
> the move. As you see, it could have had no effect on my spring moves.
It was a last minute decision. The combination of your mentioning no
anti-Russian discussions in EG, and Austria saying that G hadn't expressed
any concern about Austria's health and welfare, put G firmly into the
unpredictable catagory, and I decided that the ability to support myself
into Swe might be necessary. Hopefully the decision won't come back
to bite me in my southern areas. 8-)
> I am curious about your feelings on the EFG triangle.
Obviously, if it takes a while to resolve itself, I will not be
displeased. 8-)
I seem to have better relations with you and Prince Boar, than I do with
Frederick, and if one of you allies with G, I'll be more than happy to help
you (or France) take Germany out once the other leg of the triangle is gone.
EF vs. G would either require a two-front war on my part, (which is
something I'd rather avoid for obvious reasons), or it would limit my
influence in the west, but I'll deal with that, if it occurs.
> My own mind is in a tizzy. EG remains appealing because France is
> dangerous. Give him a head of steam and every country on earth will have
> something to fear. EF is appealing because, as you put it, Germany "seems
> to be an odd fish, all the way around." Will I ever be able to rely on
him?
The other advantage of EG is, that if he turns out to be unreliable,
you'll
have my support and assistance in teaching him the true cost of
unreliability.
> Italy, apparently, has taken himself out of the western picture.
It does seem that way, though given the bounce in Trieste, A Ven could
head West in '02.
Your Friend,
Nick.
Message from Austria to England
>> Of all the powers in a generally conservative 1901, you seem to
>> have come out the worst.
>
> Thanks for cheering me up.
You're welcome.
> A France with 3 builds is a France with a head of steam. And we can all
> tell from the press this this France has to be a powerful player.
This is supposed to be a championship, and France is probably one of the top
seeds. If his press seemed poor, I'd think that was intentional anyway.
Of course, that doesn't reduce the threat the three-build France poses,
first to you, but in the long run to all of us. Austria-Hungary favors an
alliance between England and Germany to address the threat. And if Russia's
strength and northward moves are impeding that, then perhaps Austria-Hungary
should work to refocus his attention.
> May I assume that the Trieste bounce was also arranged? Ditto for Black Sea?
The Black Sea didn't surprise me, but I can't state for certain that it was
pre-arranged. Trieste was semi-arranged: Italy was encouraged to order
Ven-Tri, and I ordered Vie-Tri to keep it safe whether he moved that way or
not. As I suggested earlier, everybody was being very conservative.
Edna, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from England to Austria
Dearest Edna,
>Of course, that doesn't reduce the threat the three-build France poses,
>first to you, but in the long run to all of us. Austria-Hungary favors an
>alliance between England and Germany to address the threat. And if Russia's
>strength and northward moves are impeding that, then perhaps Austria-Hungary
>should work to refocus his attention.
Interesting. I was about to send you an e-mail along these lines, but you
raised the subject first. Russia may try a bounce in Norway, but a more
sophisticated approach would be Norway->Finland followed by a build in StP.
If that happens, I don't see how Germany and I can focus on France.
It would be wonderful if you and Turkey could frighten Russia in the south,
where he has left himself weak. Frighten him to death for all I care.
Is there anything I can do on the diplomatic front to aid you in such an
endeavor?
Most sincerely,
Ivy Wingo
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
I just looked a bit closer at the map, and saw that you are our only
hope to keep France from getting three builds. I hope that you will
convoy Yor-Bel to bounce Pic-Bel. This provides another, admittedly
unneeded, reason for me to not bounce Nwg-Nwy.
Nick.
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
> I just looked a bit closer at the map, and saw that you are our only
>hope to keep France from getting three builds. I hope that you will
>convoy Yor-Bel to bounce Pic-Bel. This provides another, admittedly
>unneeded, reason for me to not bounce Nwg-Nwy.
I was in the process of typing a letter to you when I received this latest
message. Here is what I had typed so far.
-------
>Hopefully the decision won't come back
>to bite me in my southern areas. 8-)
I've said to others that your move to StP indicates that you are fairly
confident of matters to your south. It may have considerable effect in the
north, though. The ultimate outcome of the EFG triangle is at stake. Of
course, it is not necessarily bad for Russia to be able to affect EFG.
Perhaps this was a very good move for you. 8-)
I have never seen England amount to anything without Norway. In Diplomacy,
Norway is part of England's homeland, and there is a certain amount of
pride at stake. I've given this a bit of thought, and have come to the
obvious conclusion that I must support myself into Norway no matter what
the consequences to my south.
-------
This, unfortunately, precludes a bounce in Belgium. It certainly precludes
a bounce in Holland. All those interesting things that the fleet in the
North Sea might have done have to be set aside.
If we truly care whether or not France gets Belgium, one had better try to
prevent it by diplomatic means. Surely, France must have some concern for
Burgundy. Let's hope that someone finds the right words to persuade him to
cover Burgundy with Picardy. If it turns out that he gets six units, not
all is lost for me. I have seen good EF alliances begin with a 6-4 split.
I have also seen six-center Frances cut down to size.
I suspect that you care less about this than I do. For you a France with
six units is permissible as long as Germany is his ally. If that is the
case, I do have one thought to offer for your consideration. Since I am
determined to be in Norway this turn, the move StP->Norway (or its absence)
will have purely symbolic value. The absense of such a move, even if you
have anti-English ideas, preserves the possibility of our friendship an
additional turn. Who knows what that turn can reveal?
I do not wish to imply that I believe you are wishing my downfall. Once I
saw an England bounced out of Norway and I swore that I would never let
that happen to me. Surely you can put yourself in my position with respect
to Norway, and appreciate the precaution that I must take. It doesn't
reflect on you or alter my sincere wishes that we both survive to be active
allies at the proper moment.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
I cannot remember ever passing on someone else's mail, but I am sorely
tempted to show you what Russia sent. I will restrain myself and
paraphrase. What he said seems to be incredibly honest, but
unintentionally revealing.
Essentially he said that he doesn't want an EF alliance. He prefers EG or
FG and would gladly help the winner against Germany afterwards. This just
has to be true, but I am astonished he would say it our loud in such an
undiplomatic manner. In other words he doesn't care a whit about you and
me as long as one of us is dead. It doesnt matter which of us dies. He
wants us to play gladiator in the arena for his pleasure.
Well, screw him. Let's see him get down in the dirt and risk his own neck.
This is not typical talk from me. [Good Old Doug, who has read so much of
my mail for so long now, knows that I don't normally talk or write this
way. But Good Old Doug can't permit himself to comment, unfortunately. It
just occurred to me that Good Old Doug could be shortened to GOD. How
appropriate!]
There. I feel better.
yours,
Ivy
Message [from Russia] to all
Tsar Nicholas,
I would like to bring your attention to a most serious problem facing our
fatherland. We are almost bankrupt. The agriculture minister is failing
in his duty to feed us, and our industry, while great, is backward
compared to the great European powers. We must take steps now to
secure a strong foundation for our future economic growth.
Russia more than any other country needs a proper economic foundation
for her national policy and culture. International competition does not
wait. If we do not take energetic and decisive measures so that in the
course of the next decades our industry will be able to satisfy the needs
of Russia and of the Asiatic countries which are---or should be---under
our influence, then the rapidly growing foreign industries will break
through our tariff barriers and establish themselves in our fatherland and
the Asiatic countries mentioned above. Our economic backwardness
may lead to political and cultural backwardness as well.
In order to modernize our industry and provide this secure foundation, I
propose that we undertake to greatly increase the breadth and scope of
our railroads. The presence of railroads, especially in the far reaches of
our interior provinces is vital to tying our economy together and reaching
our production goals. This railroad must stretch from St Petersburg, to
Moscow, to the ore fields of the Ukraine. It must reach from the
granaries of Warsaw to the farthest village in Siberia and the eastern
coast of our great country. Only with a strong, vibrant railroad, can we
unite our country and at the same time provide our military with the
transportation backbone needed to protect our national security from the
imperial powers of the west.
In this let us learn from the United States, whose Trans-continental
railroad has opened the vast expanses of territory purchased by Tomas
Jefferson. We have an even greater expanse of earth to unite, let it be
by rail!
In order to fund this effort, we will need capitol. I estimate that it
will take the resources of fourteen additional great cities such as
St. Petersburg to supply the vital expansion of our industry. Some of
this will come from the benefit of the railroad itself. Efficiency in
production and shipping will pick up some of the slack. However,
every effort must still be given to obtaining the resources of Europe for
our growth. Whether this be by trade or by conquest, I will leave for
you and our generals to decide. I beg of you not to let this matter drop.
If we do not obtain these resources, I fear that 100 years from now, our
country will be as backwards as it is today, while the great powers of the
west, and perhaps even the pitiful United States of America will have
passed us in all areas of greatness. I do not wish to see our fatherland
exploited by the European powers like they have Africa and the isles of
the sea.
I await your comments.
Respectfully,
Sergei Witte
Minster of Finance
Message from Germany to England
Ivy:
Just got back. I've only glanced over the press. Here's my first
impression. France and Russia want to work together.
Two bits of evidence.
There is no press from Russia to me.
France has sent one short piece. One paragraph discusses the current
moves. The other asks if I'm going to bounce Russia in Sweden.
I'll look this all over and get back with my recommendations tomorrow.
(It's late now)
Russia does threaten us both with his move to STP. And it draws both of
our attentions away from France. That Prince Boar sure is a sly one.
Fred II
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 8 Results:
Rabobank's Erik Dekker (RAB) sprinted to a wet and cold
stage victory Sunday in Pontarlier beating other
breakaway companions Stuart O'Grady (CA), fifth today,
will again wear the yellow leader's jersey. The main
peloton finished 35 minutes behind. Can the top
contenders make up that difference in the Mountains?
The Russian pick up their second stage and now join the
tie for the lead.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 0 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 0 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. Stuart O_Grady (C.A.) 34-hours 57-minutes 18-seconds
3. Bram De Groot (RAB) @ 21:16
11. Laurent Jalabert (CSC) @ 31:57
12. Bobby Julich (C.A.) @ 33:49
13. Igor G. Galdeano (ONC) @34:23
17. Christophe Moreau (FES) @ 34:43
24. Lance Armtrong (USP) @ 35:19
27. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 35:46
-- Prince Boar
Message from Russia to England
Ivy, Ivy, Ivy,
> >Hopefully the decision won't come back
> >to bite me in my southern areas. 8-)
>
> I've said to others that your move to StP indicates that you are fairly
> confident of matters to your south. It may have considerable effect in
the
> north, though. The ultimate outcome of the EFG triangle is at stake. Of
> course, it is not necessarily bad for Russia to be able to affect EFG.
> Perhaps this was a very good move for you. 8-)
>
> I have never seen England amount to anything without Norway. In
Diplomacy,
> Norway is part of England's homeland, and there is a certain amount of
> pride at stake. I've given this a bit of thought, and have come to the
> obvious conclusion that I must support myself into Norway no matter what
> the consequences to my south.
>
> -------
>
> This, unfortunately, precludes a bounce in Belgium. It certainly
precludes
> a bounce in Holland. All those interesting things that the fleet in the
> North Sea might have done have to be set aside.
>
> If we truly care whether or not France gets Belgium, one had better try to
> prevent it by diplomatic means. Surely, France must have some concern for
> Burgundy. Let's hope that someone finds the right words to persuade him
to
> cover Burgundy with Picardy. If it turns out that he gets six units, not
> all is lost for me. I have seen good EF alliances begin with a 6-4 split.
> I have also seen six-center Frances cut down to size.
>
> I suspect that you care less about this than I do. For you a France with
> six units is permissible as long as Germany is his ally. If that is the
> case, I do have one thought to offer for your consideration. Since I am
> determined to be in Norway this turn, the move StP->Norway (or its
absence)
> will have purely symbolic value. The absense of such a move, even if you
> have anti-English ideas, preserves the possibility of our friendship an
> additional turn. Who knows what that turn can reveal?
>
> I do not wish to imply that I believe you are wishing my downfall. Once I
> saw an England bounced out of Norway and I swore that I would never let
> that happen to me. Surely you can put yourself in my position with
respect
> to Norway, and appreciate the precaution that I must take. It doesn't
> reflect on you or alter my sincere wishes that we both survive to be
active
> allies at the proper moment.
>
>
> Most cordially,
> Ivy Wingo
>
>
>
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Message from France to England
ivy:
Sorry for my relative silence this weekend. It was a bus
one. I even was late in calling my mother, who had
surgery during the week. Bad, bad, son.
Thank you for telling me about your message from Russia.
I guess it is surprising that he would be arrogant to
tell you that. He has not sent me exactly the same
message but he is open about the fact that he feels
England is difficult to eliminate and would not be
against seeing you eliminated. I cannot say he is
actively advocating it, but it is easy to read between
the lines.
He say to me that he has no plans to deny you Norway
since you are taking it with a fleet. However, based on
the above, I wonder if he is being honest. If Germany
allows him Sweden, and he bounces you, he can go for
Norway. Perhaps worse would be for you to take Norway
with little backup (i.e. a fleet) and have him being in
Sweden, St. Petes, and Finland. You might be wise to put
your army there. If you did, I would move Picardy to
Burgundy, or at least attempt to do so.
Admittedly the other option is for you to move your army
to Belgium and move your fleet to Norway. It either
bounces or nets you a build. I am a bit nervous about
that, I must admit. Our relationship is growing strong
but it is still new. Would you be willing to compenstate
for your being in Belgium by allowing me a fleet in
Brest? It would not leave the coastline.
I will unfortunately be busy with work. I will check for
mail at lunchtime and will be available in the evening.
will you be available this evening to hash things out, if
necessary?
-- Prince Boar
Message from Russia to England
Sorry for the copy of your letter. I started to reply last night, and
decided
to save it until I had gotten some sleep, and my mail program sent it when
I logged in. In a nutshell:
We have good relations. I have good relations with France. I do not
trust Germany. I'm not sure whether you or France is more dangerous,
but letting France get six Centers in '01 is NOT something that I want to
see happen. It might invoke the early leader syndrome, but it could just
as easily lead to a French runaway. The MOST harm I can do to you
is bounce you from Nwy, IF you don't support the attack which you have
the ability to do. If I bounce you, and Germany bounces me, (and I have
no indication that he won't), then I won't be able to take Swe in '02, or
build in StP in '01, (not that I plan to, but I'd like to have the option
open
to me.) I'm moving StP - Fin, this Fall, and have already told France and
Austria that. I might lie to you, (though it would be dumb to do so at this
point), by why would I lie to everyone? The more evenly balanced the
West is, the better it is for me, so I'd much rather see 5-5-5, than 6-5-4,
or 6-5-3, and you've said from the beginning that you were taking Nwy
with a Fleet, and wanted to work with me, so I have no motivation
whatsoever to order StP-Nwy. Please, bounce France out of Belgium.
Sincerely,
Your Friend,
Nicky.
Message from England to Russia
>Ivy, Ivy, Ivy,
I love it! The perfect reply.
All the world is telling me to expect StP->Fin followed by a build in StP
followed by an assault on Norway.
Here is one way you can reassure me. Has it ever occured to you that if I
am in Norway, and Germany bounces you in Sweden, then I can escort you to
Sweden myself? Then we can mutually protect each other in Sweden and
Norway! If you hold in StP, that is the situation we would have, and by
your actions you would be reassuring me that you are not contemplating an
attack on Norway.
Perhaps your thoughts on this are, "why should I trust England, when by
moving to Finland I can guarantee Sweden myself?".
Exactly my point. You have just placed yourself in my position. It is not
necessary to trust Russia when I can guarantee Norway by myself.
Again. It's not lack of trust. It's just that the risk to me is too
great. Without Norway, England is nothing.
Most respectfully,
Ivy
Message from Russia to England
Briefly because I'm pressed for time.
> All the world is telling me to expect StP->Fin followed by a build in StP
> followed by an assault on Norway.
But why would I want to do that when I don't know how the west is
going to resolve itself? I may need that second build in the south, and
even if I don't, I could just as easily build F StP/SC and attack Ber/Den
as Nwy. If I agree to StP S Nwg - Nwy, will you convoy to Bel, and
support me into Swe in '02?
Nick.
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
>Sorry for the copy of your letter. I started to reply last night, and
>decided
>to save it until I had gotten some sleep, and my mail program sent it when
>I logged in.
Actually, I liked the "Ivy, Ivy, Ivy" message. I just responded to it.
There probably is nothing I can add that is constructive. Let's see:
> .. I do not trust Germany.
How could anyone? He is not around enough to give one confidence in him.
This is what is making it difficult to form an alliance with him. I am
certain that France feels the same way. This fact and this fact alone
tends to draw France and I a bit closer, even though I think we each would
rather see the other eliminated. Wacky, isn't it? I have no idea how the
EFG triangle will sort out. That's why I think your own actions in the
north may somehow determine matters. And, yes, I agree that the longer
that EFG remain murky, the better it is for the rest of the world.
Don't get me wrong. I am patient enough to be still giving Germany the
benefit of the doubt. He has been busy with family. But he better come
through for me fast.
>The MOST harm I can do to you is bounce you from Nwy,
Exactly. In other words, the most harm you can do is to kill me.
> If I bounce you, and Germany bounces me, (and I have
>no indication that he won't), then I won't be able to take Swe in '02,
Nor s Bot->Swe. It's simple.
>I'm moving StP - Fin, this Fall, and have already told France and
>Austria that. I might lie to you, (though it would be dumb to do so at this
>point), by why would I lie to everyone?
Nick, I believe you. I really believe you. I see about a 5% chance of
Russian deception resulting in a 3-center England. I see about a 50%
chance of Picardy->Belgium resulting in a 6-center France. I suspect it is
better to risk the latter and hope that a 5-5-4 results. 5-5-3 is so ugly
that I cannot contemplate it.
> Please, bounce France out of Belgium.
Cross your fingers. Judging from most recent correspondence, I think that
France is leaning toward Picardy->Burgundy. Wouldn't it be strange if no
one attempted Belgium in 1901?
Hang in there, Nick.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
Every time I send off a note to you, I discover another note from you waiting!
>> All the world is telling me to expect StP->Fin followed by a build in StP
>> followed by an assault on Norway.
>
> But why would I want to do that when I don't know how the west is
>going to resolve itself?
It's just an option for you, as you yourself admitted in the last note. I
confess that I hope that you run into a wee difficulty in the south and
need all your builds there. No one deserves a free ride! I'm sure not
getting a free ride. Been doing a lot of sweating the past few days. All
because of Finland. 8-)
>If I agree to StP S Nwg - Nwy, will you convoy to Bel, and
>support me into Swe in '02?
StP S Nwg - Nwy would be a wonderful gesture. I would support you into
Sweden in '02. Prior to that, with the promise of StP S Nwg - Nwy, I would
make special effort to get Germany to leave you alone. In my prior message
to him, I said Sweden was entirely his business, but I could easily alter
that stance. But sorry, I am still in no position to promise action in
Belgium this turn.
Ivy
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
>I even was late in calling my mother, who had
>surgery during the week.
I hope she is fine.
>Thank you for telling me about your message from Russia.
>I guess it is surprising that he would be arrogant to
>tell you that.
I over reacted a little.
>He say to me that he has no plans to deny you Norway
>since you are taking it with a fleet. However, based on
>the above, I wonder if he is being honest.
At the opening of the game I told Russia that I would take Norway with a
fleet in order to demonstrate good will. Generally Russia feels more
threatened with an Army in Norway. I wanted to take my chances within the
EFG triangle without outside interference. Obviously, I didn't get what I
wanted.
>If Germany
>allows him Sweden, and he bounces you, he can go for
>Norway. Perhaps worse would be for you to take Norway
>with little backup (i.e. a fleet) and have him being in
>Sweden, St. Petes, and Finland. You might be wise to put
>your army there. If you did, I would move Picardy to
>Burgundy, or at least attempt to do so.
I am leaning that way. The only difficulty is that an army in Norway will
guarantee a Russian build in StP, even if he wasn't going to do it
originally. If I am confident that Russia will build in StP no matter what
I do, then the army is the right decision.
>
>Admittedly the other option is for you to move your army
>to Belgium and move your fleet to Norway. It either
>bounces or nets you a build. I am a bit nervous about
>that, I must admit. Our relationship is growing strong
>but it is still new.
Understood. As you can imagine, I have spend a nervous weekend. Any move
I make this turn entails real risks, both tactical risks and risks to
friendships.
>Would you be willing to compenstate
>for your being in Belgium by allowing me a fleet in
>Brest? It would not leave the coastline.
I approve of a fleet in Brest unconditionally and meant to mention this
earlier. I am thinking back to the last time I was France. Building no
fleets is bad for France. Building a fleet in Marseilles this early
invites unwanted trouble in the south. [Unless, you actually want trouble
in the south. Build two fleets and go with a western triple. I am not
entirely serious, but I am still annoyed with Russia.]
>will you be available this evening to hash things out, if
>necessary?
I tend to be available from roughly 6 am eastern to about 6 pm eastern,
because my work is very flexible. I can work or not work at my own
pleasure. Nice huh! I am available from 6 pm eastern to 11 pm about 30%
of the time, and I never know in advance. My modem at home is driving me
insane. It works all day and then usually conks out in the evening or
anytime there is a thunderstorm within 100 miles. I cannot pin down the
problem. In a real emergency I can drive the three miles to work in the
evening to check my mail there.
Let me indulge myself a bit here. I want to quote an expert on
English/French relations, someone by the name of Ivy Wingo 8-). On day 2
in a very early exchange between us I wrote,
"Belgium. I don't care who gets it, but
I do care about the matter of balance that you mentioned earlier. I prefer
not to see a 6-center France, while I have only four. There are lots of
ways around this, but too much is unknown to know so soon what is best.
Will Italy be pounding at your door? Then you may need Belgium. Will
Russia be aiding Germany? Then I probably need Belgium. Will Russia be
attacking Germany? etc. etc. We can even trade Belgium back and forth to
sustain balance, if the the need arises."
Well, it seems that Italy is not at your door, but that Russia is heading
toward mine. If I do get Belgium, this year or next, I consider it to be
only an initial assignment. It can be handed back and forth a million
times as the need arises.
I say this year or next, because I may well support myself into Norway. I
am going crazy trying to make up my mind.
By the way, I have no idea what Germany is going to do, either in Sweden or
in Burgundy. He remains friendly, but there is that communication problem.
He sent me a three sentence "just got back" message with a promise of more
to come today. I am still waiting.
Cordially,
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Freddy,
>Russia does threaten us both with his move to STP. And it draws both of
>our attentions away from France. That Prince Boar sure is a sly one.
Yeah. I just don't know what he is after. He probably is courting all of
us -- you, me, Russia -- with the intent of pouncing whereever he spots a
weakness.
I have a tough decision. Do I double attack Norway to guarantee a build?
Do go for Norway and Belgium hoping for a build and a bounce? The former
risks a 6-center France. The latter risks a 3-center England. Who said
this would be easy?
There's not much time for talk today, but fortunately you and I don't need
to coordinate moves yet.
Ivy
Message from England to Turkey
Most excellent Ali,
I wish you well in the coming moves.
It is clear now that neither Germany nor I are fond of the Russian move in
the north. Austria has hinted that he and you may be able to get together
and take advantage of Russian weakness in the south. If that is your
pleasure, you certainly have my blessing. There is nothing that
England/Turkey wish for in common more than a weak Russia.
As always,
Ivy Wingo
Message from Russia to England
Ivy, Ivy, Ivy, (listen to me, will you? ;-)
> Every time I send off a note to you, I discover another note from you
waiting!
Stop and think about this situation from my perspective for a minute.
Would
I be devoting this many letters to trying to convince you to bounce France
if I
had any thought that I might for some reason order StP-Nwy? I'm trying so
hard that either I'm sincere, or you will devote your remaning existence in
'titleist' to injuring me for lying to you this way, and I see no reason to
make an
enemy of you, especially when I need you to counter-balance Prince Boar.
I'm honestly not sure whether you or Prince Boar has a higher JDPR, and
given that you're both most likely in the group of four 1700+ players, it
probably doesn't matter, but I have deduced that Prince Boar soloed in the
semi-finals, and I do know that France is statistically more likely to solo
than
England, so I have to view him as the biggest threat in the West.
> >> All the world is telling me to expect StP->Fin followed by a build in
StP
> >> followed by an assault on Norway.
> > But why would I want to do that when I don't know how the west is
> > going to resolve itself?
> It's just an option for you, as you yourself admitted in the last note.
I did? Obviously, it is an option from a technical perspective, but
there's
no strategic, or even tactical, reason to do it in 1902. At least, none
that I
can see.
> StP S Nwg - Nwy would be a wonderful gesture. I would support you
> into Sweden in '02. Prior to that, with the promise of StP S Nwg - Nwy,
> I would make special effort to get Germany to leave you alone. But sorry,
> I am still in no position to promise action in Belgium this turn.
As I see it, StP-Nwy makes no sense. It annoys you. It bounces,
leaving
the Army in StP, meaning I can't build there if I need to. It means I can't
support myself into Swe in S'02, if Germany bounces me this Fall. Given
that you have stated that you intend to support yourself into Nwy, the
bounce
wouldn't even keep you from building. I, therefore, have nothing to gain
from
StP-Nwy, so I won't order it. (Since I won't order StP-Nwy, you are now
free to order Yor-Nth-Bel, but you don't have to tell me that you're going
to
do so. 8-)
To address something you mentioned before, I don't see France ordering
Pic-Bur. He figures that Mos-StP means you have to support yourself to Nwy,
so Bel is open, and 3 builds is better than a bounce in Bur. Secondly, my
sources indicate that the bounce in Burgundy was prearranged, so Freddie is
unlikely to try it again. I'd call Pic-Bel at least a 75% chance, only a
decision
to avoid ELS, or a Convoy from Yor will stop it.
Your Friend,
Nicky.
Message from Russia to all
> Tour de France Stage 8 Results:
>
> Rabobank's Erik Dekker (RAB) sprinted to a wet and
> cold stage victory Sunday in Pontarlier beating other
> breakaway companions
Ah, the Dekker lad! He's from a good union family, you
know. They are the managing partners in the Black&Decker
tool company.
V. I. Lenin,
European Union Steward for Russia, (and Team Rabobank).
Message from England to Italy
Roberto,
How goes it?
The EFG situation is still all mixed up with the Russian surprise move to
Finland causing us all to figure out what it eventually means.
Let me know if you ever get a hankering to come west. Your wishes may
matter a lot to me as long as this situation is still fluid.
Ivy
Message [from France] to all
BG> Holey Openings Diploman, we final got things underway!
DM> Yes, Boy Gambit. The openings were extremely conservative. No one seemed
to want to annoy anyone else.
BG> Well, the Russia seemed to have some balls. He sent an army North, which
sure must annoy Ivy Wingo.
DM> I suppose you are right. Perhaps he is the only one willing to stick his
neck out.
BG> I like that. I think that it is a smart move. A bold move among
conservative ones can make the different and get him a leg up on the
competition.
DM> Or it can set him up for a fall. Only time will tell.
Message from Austria to England
> It would be wonderful if you and Turkey could frighten Russia in the south,
> where he has left himself weak. Frighten him to death for all I care.
>
> Is there anything I can do on the diplomatic front to aid you in such an
> endeavor?
Russia, perhaps, would be less distracting if he lacked the build to back
up StP-Fin. A bounce in Sweden would solve at least half of that problem.
As to the other half, I will discuss it with Turkey.
Edna, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Italy to Austria, England, France, Germany, Russia, and Turkey
Gentlemen,
I had an all-day presentation at work today. I will be in contact with
everybody tomorrow.
Roberto
Message from Germany to England
Ivy:
Funny how things shake out. One little Russian move and pretty much
everything falls into place.
Nobody has asked me to bounce Russia yet (From the SE corner) Nor have
I received any press from any of them. But there's time. It'll be
along soon I think.
With Russia taking an active part in the north, it almost ensures that
we ally. Because we both know that if one of us joins France right now
it'll only be a matter of time before we're toast also.
If you don't mind I'll make some observations. Ignore these all you
want.
.I have to bounce Russia. Although the MOS-STP is essentially an
anti-English move it's ultimately anti-German. I'm becoming surrounded.
I won't be long before the grip tightens.
.I am surprised that Russia hasn't at least opened the possibility of
getting me on his side by saying that his move is anti-English. He has
a credible avenue, if he were to build a fleet in STP NC. Perhaps he
knows that if he were to succeed in fighting a war with you, he'd really
have me surrounded.
.I think that you have to support yourself into Norway. Not building
right now will be a real disadvantage. It strikes me that this is more
important than bouncing France. Belgium will be very hard for him to
hold if we make a concerted effort for it.
.We need get Italy on unfriendly terms with France. If France builds
three, that might get his attention. If neither of us talks or acts
like we're going to oppose France (to Italy) that might also get him
worried.
.We need to have someone put pressure on Russia from the south. The
same strategy we employ for Italy might work there.
.I vote for attacking France after the builds. Both of us. Taking back
Belgium first. I am willing to support your army in.
.I would like to build a fleet in Berlin. Then take Sweden in the fall,
or protect myself from Russia.
If everything goes as planned we'll both get a build. Sweden and
Belgium.
Freddy
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 8 Results:
Russia's Serguei Ivanov (FAS) took stage 9 of the 2001
Tour de France in a classic solo effort. He barely held a
break away from the main pack at the finish line.
Tomorrow the riders will finish with a climb of the
legendary Alpe d'Huez and the standings should shake
up considerably.
This win for Fassa Bortolo gives Roberto his first
points. Congratulations.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 0 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 10 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1. Stuart O_Grady (C.A.) 38-hours 55-minutes 30-seconds
3. Bram De Groot (RAB) @ 21:16
11. Laurent Jalabert (CSC) @ 31:57
13. Igor G. Galdeano (ONC) @34:23
17. Christophe Moreau (FES) @ 34:43
23. Lance Armtrong (USP) @ 35:19
27. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 35:46
Tomorrow the Race Begins!
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to England
Ivy:
Thank you for your kind words for my mother. Yes she is
doing well.
I have finally heard from Germany. Although he is
basically saying little other than he is keep his cards
open. We need to encourage him to go after Russia. If
he would bounce Russia in Sweden and move Munich to
Silesia...that would be great. But I do not know if
Germany is prepared to be so bold. He talks about
waiting until next year to decide whom he should attack.
It may be words to lull me into complacency, if he
intends to attack me. What does he tell you?
I will send a possible plan for the next year and a half,
for us to discuss. The Dauphin is working out the
details and it will not be ready until tonight.
I am sorry to hear about your modem. I hope that this
Mr. Modem person will shape up. If not, you should fire
him and hire a more reliable communications officier.
I do appreciate your understanding concerning my need for
a balancing fleet. It actually is going a long way to
relieving my worry for your possible army in Belgium.
-- Prince Boar
Message from Italy to England
>
> Lots of bounces. Lots of careful moves. The bounce in Burgundy was
> arranged. So too, I think, the Black Sea. What about Trieste?
>
Trieste was indeed a pre-arranged bounce. I have no plans on attacking
Austria.
>
> I am curious about your feelings on the EFG triangle.
> do you care to express an opinion on the merits
> of EF vs. EG?
It would seem the most logical from a tactical point of view would be for EG
to develop. The Russian move to STP is obviously an aggressive move against
you forcing you to use all of your units merely to grab the one center that
belongs to you to begin with. Combine that with a +3 France, and I doubt it
would take much to convince Germany of the need to ally. Germany shouldn't
want to be between a RF alliance anymore that you would.
> Let me know if you ever get a hankering to come west.
> Your wishes may matter a lot to me as long as this
> situation is still fluid.
I will have to wait and see what France has to say. I am going to try to
convince him not to grab Belgium this fall since that would have the very
real chance of a 'stop-the-leader' crusade forming. He keeps babbling on
about equal growth and mutual defense so if he grabs Belgium I'm going to
have to ask for one of his centers to even out our strength or demand that I
get a couple of eastern centers before he gets a sniff at a seventh.
Without that, I'd be pretty much forced to campaign against him.
> EF is appealing because Germany has yet to demonstrate
> that he cares a whit about this game.
>
This could be a major problem. Hopefully, he's communicated some the last
few days. He hasn't sent me anything since the results arrived.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from England to Italy
Roberto,
Thank you.
Germany is beginning to come around a little with press. France, and now
Russia too, sends a lot. I am listening to everybody and trying to do a
little persuasion of my own. In the end, I will have to guess between
entering Norway with force or splitting my units toward Norway and Belgium.
Austria has written a couple of times to warn me of Russian action. He
seems to be afraid of Russia. Turkey says nothing on the subject. As
usual, I suppose, the world is watching for evidence of a Russia-Turkey
alliance.
Keep in touch.
Ivy Wingo
>Message from Italy to England in 'titleist':
>
>>
>> Lots of bounces. Lots of careful moves. The bounce in Burgundy was
>> arranged. So too, I think, the Black Sea. What about Trieste?
>>
>
>Trieste was indeed a pre-arranged bounce. I have no plans on attacking
>Austria.
>
>>
>> I am curious about your feelings on the EFG triangle.
>> do you care to express an opinion on the merits
>> of EF vs. EG?
>
>It would seem the most logical from a tactical point of view would be for EG
>to develop. The Russian move to STP is obviously an aggressive move against
>you forcing you to use all of your units merely to grab the one center that
>belongs to you to begin with. Combine that with a +3 France, and I doubt it
>would take much to convince Germany of the need to ally. Germany shouldn't
>want to be between a RF alliance anymore that you would.
>
>> Let me know if you ever get a hankering to come west.
>> Your wishes may matter a lot to me as long as this
>> situation is still fluid.
>
>I will have to wait and see what France has to say. I am going to try to
>convince him not to grab Belgium this fall since that would have the very
>real chance of a 'stop-the-leader' crusade forming. He keeps babbling on
>about equal growth and mutual defense so if he grabs Belgium I'm going to
>have to ask for one of his centers to even out our strength or demand that I
>get a couple of eastern centers before he gets a sniff at a seventh.
>Without that, I'd be pretty much forced to campaign against him.
>
>> EF is appealing because Germany has yet to demonstrate
>> that he cares a whit about this game.
>>
>
>This could be a major problem. Hopefully, he's communicated some the last
>few days. He hasn't sent me anything since the results arrived.
>
>Life is Beautiful,
>
>Roberto
Message from England to Germany
Noble Frederick,
Thank you for a most constructive message. We are really, really on the
same page.
> Nobody has asked me to bounce Russia yet (From the SE corner)
Austria has sent me a couple of messages, one of which asks me to ask you
to bounce Russia in Sweden. I'm surprised he hasn't contacted you
directly. Turkey has been totally silent on the subject. Everyone, of
course, is watching for evidence of a Russia-Turkey alliance.
>.I have to bounce Russia. Although the MOS-STP is essentially an
>anti-English move it's ultimately anti-German. I'm becoming surrounded.
>I won't be long before the grip tightens.
Again earlier, i think I said this had to be your decision. But I confess
it is what I want. Russia will have one fewer unit to work with next year.
With me in Norway and your proposed fleet in the Baltic, he may never be
able to take and hold Sweden.
My original proposal of German dominance in Scandinavia, while I sail to
the south, is still feasible as far as I am concerned. The only difference
is that Russia is placing more resources in the north than he might have.
I want someone to hit Russia in the south as well and have given such
suggestions to Austria and Turkey.
>.I think that you have to support yourself into Norway.
That's the direction I am leaning. At the same time I hope for a miracle
in Belgium. Will France really leave Belgium vacant? Surely he must have
at least some worry about Burgundy.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
Another thought just crossed my mind. If you're correct
that Pic-Bel is only a 50% likelihood, then with Yor-Nth-Bel,
Nwg-Nwy you have a 50% chance at two builds. I still don't
see how I would benefit by ordering StP-Nwy, and given a
choice between a low percentage chance of doing you harm, and
a guaranteed chance to secure Sweden, StP-Fin seems like a
no-brainer to me.
Your Friend,
Nick.
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
>I have finally heard from Germany.
Me too. He actually sent me a rather competent message. I suspect, based
on its contents, that he is really considering the bounce in Sweden. I
will encourage this.
>If he would bounce Russia in Sweden and move Munich to
>Silesia...that would be great.
My ideal outcome would be a bounce in Sweden followed by a Russian build in
Warsaw, instead of in StP. I can dream. As for Silesia, I don't have the
guts to suggest it. It's too much like saying, "Please turn your back on
me. Close your eyes. No peeking, now." In short, its such a bad move for
Germany, that he would be bound wonder why I would suggest it.
>What does he tell you?
Basically, he says, "let's kill Russia then turn on France."
Remember my message to you about what should I say if Germany asked advice
on Burgundy? He didn't mention it at all, and neither will I in my
response. However, if you think I should say something, I could. I'm
confident that I still have his ear.
>I will send a possible plan for the next year and a half,
>for us to discuss.
Not ten years?
>I do appreciate your understanding concerning my need for
>a balancing fleet. It actually is going a long way to
>relieving my worry for your possible army in Belgium.
Believe me, I am listening to your words (and Russia's) with great care.
I've got a critical choice to make here. Two units to Norway, or one?
Army to Norway? Fleet to Norway? Army to Belgium?
For what it is worth, Russia has sent me message after message begging me
to trust him and bounce you in Belgium.
I wanted this suspense to be over yesterday, one way or the other. This
delay has me on edge.
I heard from Italy. He didn't say much, but I gather that you are very
secure in the south.
Ivy
Message from England to Russia
Nicky,
I wish this suspense were over with yesterday.
Here is my thinking today.
If I were Russia, and _if_ I intended to harm England, I would first move
to Finland and then build in StP before attacking him. That way I could
have three units on Norway.
If I were England I would support myself into Norway and take no chances.
On a related matter, having privy to communications from Germany and
France, I might now up the odds of Belgium remaining vacant.
Do you wish to know which nations of the world are urging Germany to bounce
you in Sweden?
Ivy
> Another thought just crossed my mind. If you're correct
>that Pic-Bel is only a 50% likelihood, then with Yor-Nth-Bel,
>Nwg-Nwy you have a 50% chance at two builds. I still don't
>see how I would benefit by ordering StP-Nwy, and given a
>choice between a low percentage chance of doing you harm, and
>a guaranteed chance to secure Sweden, StP-Fin seems like a
>no-brainer to me.
>
>Your Friend,
>
>Nick.
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Sorry for the delay in my reply. Busy weekend and all that.
As you mentioned, Austria is indeed urging anti-Russian cooperation. I've a
sense that he and Italy are closer than he lets on; he claims the Tri attack
was genuine, but I think it smells of a pre-arranged standoff. I suspect
that Tamara is simply playing me and Italy off against each other.
Unfortunately, although Roberto seemed friendly at first, I have not heard
from him in a while. Be that as it may, at this time I am favourably
considering Austria's proposals.
How is your relationship with France? Rumor has it that France was pushing
hard for Russia's opening. Certainly if Russia's northern army forces your
hand in Norway, he's got a much better shot at Belgium. Russia has proposed
to DMZ the Black, but otherwise gives no hint of what he plans in the north.
Any idea how Germany might view AT cooperation against Russia? I would
think he would welcome a Russian demise if he can get in on it, but the
Austrian has some concerns that Germany might not favor the idea. I've
written to Germany on the matter, but I'd very much like your viewpoint as
well.
Hope to hear from you soon,
Ali Baba
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
> I wish this suspense were over with yesterday.
I understand.
> If I were Russia, and _if_ I intended to harm England, I would first
> move to Finland and then build in StP before attacking him. That
> way I could have three units on Norway.
I agree. If my intention was to attack you, you'd see F StP/NC this
winter, but you won't.
> If I were England I would support myself into Norway and take no
> chances.
This I don't understand. Even if you don't accept that I have no
intention or desire to attack you, you agree that the logical way for me to
do so is through StP-Fin, so why waste the support? If you think I have
it in for you, encourage Germany to bounce me, and order Nwg-Bar,
Nth C Yor-Nwy. (Note to self: Don't tell people how to attack Russia.8-)
Otherwise, go for the second build in Bel, or keep France from getting
three.
> On a related matter, having privy to communications from Germany and
> France, I might now up the odds of Belgium remaining vacant.
You don't believe me, but you believe them? 8-)
> Do you wish to know which nations of the world are urging Germany to
> bounce you in Sweden?
That sort of information is always appreciated.
Your Friend,
Nicky.
Message from Italy to England
> In the end, I will have to guess between
> entering Norway with force or splitting my units toward
> Norway and Belgium.
>
For what it's worth, Russia has indicated to me an unwillingness to have an
army stationed in STP come the winter. I believe him and do not think he
would bounce an unsupported move to Norway.
> Austria has written a couple of times to warn me of Russian
> action. He seems to be afraid of Russia.
I think he sees some easy Russian centers if you distract him in the north.
I doubt 'afraid' is the correct term. More likely, he has his greedy eye on
Moscow and Warsaw.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 10 Results:
In what was sure to be a legendary performance, two-time
defending Tour champion Lance Armstrong launched a
brilliant attack on the final ascent of the day--the
legendary Alpe d'Huez--and stomped to a stage win over
German Jan Ullrich by nearly 2-minutes. He earlier
bluffed his competitors into thinking that he was
struggling. He would make a good Diplomacy player, N'est
pas?
This win for US Postal Service gives Ivy his first
points. It seems that the wealthy is being spread
around. Next we need someone from Domo-Farm Frites to
take a stage. (Not to mention ONCE, they are typically
close.)
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 10 points
France (Festina): 10 points
Germany (Telekom): 20 points
Italy (Fassa Bortolo): 10 points
Russia (Robobank): 20 points
Turkey (CSC): 20 points
Doug (O.N.C.E.): 0 points
Selected Standings:
1 François Simon (BJR)45 hours, 34 minutes, 9 seconds
4 Lance Armstrong (USP) @20.07
5 Joseba Beloki (ONC) @21.42
6 Christophe Moreau (FES) @22.21
7 Jan Ullrich (TEL) @22.41
14 Laurent Jalabert (CSC) @28.06
29 Bobby Julich (C.A.) @42.07
Message from France to England
Ivy:
>Basically, he says, "let's kill Russia then turn on
>France."
Pretty standard stuff really.
I did suggest a move to Silesia as an option, since
Germany asked, but did not press it. I basically laid
out some options and then said that I was sure that he
would make the best move.
>Remember my message to you about what should I say if
>Germany asked advice on Burgundy?
Well, I have decided not to mention Burgundy at all. We
may want me to make it to Burgundy. I prefer to simply
ignore it and play dumb later. If he mentions it, just
reply that it sounds like a good way to ensure a war with
France. Is that wise while he is unsure about Russia? I
guess discourage it, but do not be obvious.
>>I will send a possible plan for the next year and a
>>half, for us to discuss.
>Not ten years?
OK, conquer Germany, Conquer Russia, Expanding into
Austria and Italy. As Turkey is dying, we battle for the
victory. How is that?
Actually The Dauphin tells me 1-2 years is the most
reasonable time frame for plans. It allows some longer
term thinking, but is short enough that there is a chance
that it could occur, or at least with slight
modifications. We fully expect to modify the plan each
year according to changing circumstances.
This possible plan is predicated on our decision to hit
Germany and try to get Russia on board. There is risk
for each of us, but nothing is gained without risk. One
must trust someone. I have chosen to trust you and
assume the reverse is true.
Fall 01:
Yor -> Bel
Nwg -> Nor
Pic -> Bur
Mar -> Spa
MAO -> Por
Winter 01:
A Par
F Bre
F Lon
F Edi if Nor succeeds
Spring 01:
Bel s Bur -> Ruh
Nth -> Hel
Bre -> Pic
Par -> Bur
Lon -> Nth
Edi -> Nwg
Spa -> Gas
Nor s A Fin -> Swe?
Fall 01:
Bur/Pic -> Bel
Bel -> Hol
Nwg& Nor hold Norway
Bel -> Hol
Certainly there are many ifs here. For it to work I
would have to convince Germany that I am coming after
you. The fleet in Brest may help that. You could
complain about it. I would have to explain away the move
to Burgundy. You might have to help by irritating
Germany a bit, otherwise Germany could stall many of my
moves and hence stall our joint efforts. We can deal
with those situations when they occur.
It is just a starting plan. Tell me your thoughts.
I realize that you may prefer to put your army in Norway.
If you make that choice, I may instead take Belgium, but
waive that third build. It would at least get an army in
a better spot and challenge Germany for Belgium in the
fall. The plan would be similar except that I would
already be in Belgium and be supporting you to Holland.
It is just a matter of how much you trust Russia. If you
do move your army to Norway, you simply have to tell
Russia that his move to St. Petes was too much of a
threat to you and you had to assume the worst. Now that
he proved himself, you will glad help him take Sweden,
etc. and move the army this year. (to holland would be
the spot)
>For what it is worth, Russia has sent me message after
>message begging me to trust him and bounce you in
>Belgium.
He offers little, but asks you a lot. Perhaps he wants
you to get no builds?
>I heard from Italy. He didn't say much, but I gather
>that you are very secure in the south.
A bit less secure as I am in the North (you), but not too
bad.
-- Prince Boar
Message from England to Turkey
Esteemed Ali Baba,
>As you mentioned, Austria is indeed urging anti-Russian cooperation. I've a
>sense that he and Italy are closer than he lets on; he claims the Tri attack
>was genuine, but I think it smells of a pre-arranged standoff. I suspect
>that Tamara is simply playing me and Italy off against each other.
Tamara! Austria uses different women for different nations, based on the
first letter of that nation. He sends Edna to talk to me.
I do believe that Austria is sincere in his desire to go for Russia. At
least it is consistent with action that he urges me to take. I gather that
he has been after German help also.
>Unfortunately, although Roberto seemed friendly at first, I have not heard
>from him in a while. Be that as it may, at this time I am favourably
>considering Austria's proposals.
I can't read Italy's intentions. He did express some interest in heading
west in an earlier correspondence, but I really don't hear from him enough
to know.
>How is your relationship with France?
It's good. My relationship with Germany is good. I think France and
Germany talk a lot also. Something wrong here. One of us will be in for a
rude surprise fairly soon.
>Any idea how Germany might view AT cooperation against Russia?
At least in the beginning I'm pretty sure Germany would like it. He
doesn't want to worry abourt Russia at his back while dealing with the
France/England/Germany triangle.
That's the world as I see it.
Now, what moves should I make? 8-)
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Italy
Good Roberto,
>For what it's worth, Russia has indicated to me an unwillingness to have an
>army stationed in STP come the winter. I believe him and do not think he
>would bounce an unsupported move to Norway.
I tend to believe him also. The point is that it probably doesn't matter
whether I believe him or not. I can take Norwegian matters into my own
hands this fall and then sit back and see whether or not he builds in StP.
The downside is Belgium. I am trying to use diplomatic means to keep
France out of Belgium.
Good luck,
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Russia
Dear Nicky,
>If you think I have
>it in for you, encourage Germany to bounce me, and order Nwg-Bar,
>Nth C Yor-Nwy.
No, I have no intention of doing this. If you reread my earliest mail to
you, you will see that I was trying to initiate peace and neutrality in the
north. That's still in my best interest.
>> On a related matter, having privy to communications from Germany and
>> France, I might now up the odds of Belgium remaining vacant.
>
> You don't believe me, but you believe them? 8-)
I see the smiley. But of course I was referring to a hunch, not a belief
when I referred to odds.
>> Do you wish to know which nations of the world are urging Germany to
>> bounce you in Sweden?
>
> That sort of information is always appreciated.
I thought you would never ask. I know of four countries who _say_ they
want Germany to bounce you in Sweden. However, since that would be a pro
England bounce by Germany, it is entirely possible that some of these four
are just pretending to be on my good side. They could be saying something
entirely different to Germany. It is probably best that I not name the
countries. Sorry for the tease.
I have had exactly one decent piece of mail from germany since the last
move. We seem to be on good terms, but it is hard to build confidence when
you don't speak often. It appears he is at least considering a bounce in
Sweden. On the other hand, he gave no clue about what he might do in
Burgundy.
Most cordially,
Ivy
Message from England to France
>>Remember my message to you about what should I say if
>>Germany asked advice on Burgundy?
>Well, I have decided not to mention Burgundy at all. We
>may want me to make it to Burgundy. I prefer to simply
>ignore it and play dumb later. If he mentions it, just
>reply that it sounds like a good way to ensure a war with
>France. Is that wise while he is unsure about Russia? I
>guess discourage it, but do not be obvious.
Looks like it will never come up. Germany sent me one thoughtful message
the other day. The rest is silence.
>>Not ten years?
>OK, conquer Germany, Conquer Russia, Expanding into
>Austria and Italy. As Turkey is dying, we battle for the
>victory. How is that?
Yes, yawn. This is so easy. It's like tic-tac-toe. One gets bored so quickly.
>This possible plan is predicated on our decision to hit
>Germany and try to get Russia on board. There is risk
>for each of us, but nothing is gained without risk. One
>must trust someone. I have chosen to trust you and
>assume the reverse is true.
I will never forget the words of a friend who introduced me to Diplomacy,
FTF, some years ago. He said, "You've got to trust SOMEONE." He was
right. I learned a second valuable lesson in my second e-mail game
somewhat later. But that's another story. I've added a third principle of
my own. If you ask at the end of this adventure, I will tell you what #2 &
#3 are. But it all starts with building trust.
>Fall 01:
>Yor -> Bel
>Nwg -> Nor
>Pic -> Bur
>Mar -> Spa
>MAO -> Por
>
>Winter 01:
>A Par
>F Bre
>F Lon
>F Edi if Nor succeeds
This is one of the possibilities that I am considering. I am also thinking
of Yor -> Nor, possibly with support. That would leave Belgium open for
another year.
>Spring 01:
>Bel s Bur -> Ruh
>Nth -> Hel
>Bre -> Pic
>Par -> Bur
>Lon -> Nth
>Edi -> Nwg
>Spa -> Gas
>Nor s A Fin -> Swe?
>
>Fall 01:
>Bur/Pic -> Bel
>Bel -> Hol
>Nwg& Nor hold Norway
>Bel -> Hol
A bit much for my wee brain. I just want to wake up alive on Thursday
morning and take it from there.
>
>Certainly there are many ifs here. For it to work I
>would have to convince Germany that I am coming after
>you. The fleet in Brest may help that. You could
>complain about it. I would have to explain away the move
>to Burgundy. You might have to help by irritating
>Germany a bit, otherwise Germany could stall many of my
>moves and hence stall our joint efforts. We can deal
>with those situations when they occur.
>
>It is just a starting plan. Tell me your thoughts.
It all seems reasonable. Only German/Russian coordination would be a
problem. Which is why that Sweden bounce means so much.
>I realize that you may prefer to put your army in Norway.
> If you make that choice, I may instead take Belgium, but
>waive that third build. It would at least get an army in
>a better spot and challenge Germany for Belgium in the
>fall.
This doesn't work for me, good Prince. I am facing possible units in
Sweden, Finland, and StP after the build, while the Mediterranean is quiet.
If I do take Belgium, and the Russian threat magically vanishes [bounce in
Sweden, trouble in SE Europe] then Belgium can easily be reassigned
according to revised needs.
>The plan would be similar except that I would
>already be in Belgium and be supporting you to Holland.
>It is just a matter of how much you trust Russia. If you
>do move your army to Norway, you simply have to tell
>Russia that his move to St. Petes was too much of a
>threat to you and you had to assume the worst. Now that
>he proved himself, you will glad help him take Sweden,
>etc. and move the army this year. (to holland would be
>the spot)
I am indeed considering putting the army in Norway.
>>For what it is worth, Russia has sent me message after
>>message begging me to trust him and bounce you in
>>Belgium.
I have had about as many messages from Russia this season as messages from
all others combined. All beg, literally beg, me to bounce you in Belgium.
He is really, really trying. It all goes back to him wanting one of us
dead.
*****
My sister is visiting and I have been preoccupied these past two days.
When I did try to diplome last night my modem wouldn't work.
*****
Ivy
Message from Italy to England
> I can take Norwegian matters into my own
> hands this fall and then sit back and see whether or not he
> builds in StP.
There is a nasty rumor floating around that AT may team up to prevent a
Russian build in STP. Should Germany bounce Russia in Sweden, Russia may
not even have a chance to build in STP.
> The downside is Belgium. I am trying to use diplomatic means to keep
> France out of Belgium.
>
Last I heard from France, if he tries for Belgium, he'd waive the subsequent
build (ie: he wouldn't build in MAR). However, he sounded like he wasn't
even sure if he'd even try for it so maybe your voice is being heard.
Regardless, I wish you the best of luck this coming fall.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from France to England
Ivy:
I just want to make certain that things are clear. I did
not quite follow part of your message.
If you put your army in Norway, you do not want me to
take Belgium? Is that correct? I did not follow why
that would not work for you. Perhaps I typed something
wrong that I did not catch?
I would prefer one of us have an army in Belgium. It
seems a strong position than Burgundy and would take a
whole lot less explaining. However if you have a good
reason for leaving it open, please help me understand.
I also want to avoid any misunderstandings.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to England
Ivy:
The Dauphin wanted to know if the sister visiting you is
the same one that would win the date with him if your
Tour de France team, USPS, receives the most points?
He even went on to ask some question things about if she
is cute, available and some things that I am too
embarassed to repeat. Let's just ignore these questions.
I hope that you enjoy your visit with your sister and the
threat of a date with the Dauphin does not drive her into
leaving too soon.
-- Prince Boar
Message from England to France
Prince Boar,
>If you put your army in Norway, you do not want me to
>take Belgium? Is that correct?
Yes, that was what I meant. But I hope it is the tactical consideration of
an army in Belgium that concerns you and not the balance of our forces.
In more detail now: Of four outcomes -- bounce in Belgium, England gets
Belgium, France gets Belgium, neither attempts Belgium -- I thought we had
agreed that only one -- France gets Belgium -- would make one of us
unhappy, namely me. You know the reasons. I don't want a 6-center France
on one side of me while I had to face a posssible major Russian attack on
Norway.
>I would prefer one of us have an army in Belgium. It
>seems a strong position than Burgundy and would take a
>whole lot less explaining.
This part was indeed a misunderstanding. I thought that an English army in
Belgium, as opposed to a fleet, was less desirous to you because of your
concerns for your own security. Thus I thought you might welcome my army
in Norway. Besides, I thought, an army in Norway is immediately backed up
by two English fleets and can withstand a triple attack by Russia.
What I didn't consider was the need for an army in Belgium in order to work
against Ruhr in 1902. That's where your forward thinking for 1902 has to
be considered.
>However if you have a good
>reason for leaving it open, please help me understand.
Return now to the four Belgium outcomes mentioned above. It's not that I
prefer to leave Belgium open, it's merely that I assumed that that was one
of three acceptible possibilities.
If you infer from all of this that I haven't decided whether to
double-attack Norway or split my fleets between Norway and Belgium, you are
correct. This decision is driving me crazy. I really hated that two-day
postponement. I wanted to get this behind me, one way or another.
********
My sister is married, but I know the practices of the dauphin and his ilk.
She is not to be trifled with. Just to be sure, I rushed her out of town
about an hour ago to a secure, but undisclosed, site in Massachusetts,
where she shall remain in hiding until perhaps Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from France to England
Ivy:
I understand the preference of France for an English
fleet in Belgium rather than an army. However, I have
chosen to trust you, therefore I will accept the things
that the Dauphin tells me make tactical sense. An army
is better than a fleet. If it English, then we are
prepare to trust that English army. We will want to see
it head East, but for now we accept it.
If you will not take Belgium, then I wanted my army
there. I will not press this to the point of breaking
our alliance however. It is a just matter of flexibility
for the future. The best situation is armies in both
Belgium and Burgundy. But if that is not the case,
Belgium is better than Burgundy.
Is your concern for a 6 Supply Center France or a 6 Unit
France? My waiving a build could easily create a 5 Unit
France.
I still prefer the plan that I sent. If you get Belgium
and bounce in Norway, you still have 4 centers. This
does weaken your position against Russia, admittedly.
But it puts you on the high ground with him. You
attempted the fleet as promised. Perhaps that would help
convince Russia to side with us against Germany.
However, I think that he would go with whatever situation
happens: EF vs. G or FG vs. E. Therefore we propose the
attack on Germany during the builds and he will probably
go for it.
I tentatively have orders in for Pic -> Bur. I wait upon
your decision. Since it is primarily your risk, I wait
for you to decide upon two things.
1) Will you go to Belgium?
2) If not, will you allow me there on condition that I
waive my build.
-- Prince Boar
Message from England to France
Good Prince Boar,
>If you will not take Belgium, then I wanted my army
>there. I will not press this to the point of breaking
>our alliance however. It is a just matter of flexibility
>for the future. The best situation is armies in both
>Belgium and Burgundy. But if that is not the case,
>Belgium is better than Burgundy.
You urge a decision. Let it be Yorkshire->Belgium.
>Is your concern for a 6 Supply Center France or a 6 Unit
>France? My waiving a build could easily create a 5 Unit
>France.
A 3-center Russian north triggered the concern. If Russia makes the more
conventional opening with three units to the south, then England only needs
four units at the start of 1902. More than that is greedy. I have always
felt that it is least disturbing to the world at large for Germany to get
Belgium and an early six centers. Speaking objectively, five is usually too
many for England, and six is too many for France. Deviant behavior by
Russia or Italy can upset that formula, however, and that is what has
happened.
Ivy
Message from France to England
Ivy:
Thanks for the note. I will be out tonight, but will
check for messages late, just in case you change your
mind. Even if you do and I do not get the message, I
will still be going to Burgundy. No significant harm
done.
Best of luck to us.
-- Prince Boar
PS: Congratulations on the second stage win.
Message from France to England
Ivy:
It appears that I will be bouncing with Germany. He just
*informed* me that he is moving there.
If I had not chosen my preference for an ally already, it
would have been obvious. Who needs one who uses last
minute coercion without discussion.
-- Prince Boar
Message from England to France
>It appears that I will be bouncing with Germany. He just
>*informed* me that he is moving there.
But he doesn't inform me -- his proclaimed ally!
Ivy
Austria: Fleet Albania → Greece
Austria: Army Serbia SUPPORT Turkish Army Bulgaria → Rumania
Austria: Army Vienna → Galicia
England: Fleet North Sea CONVOY Army Yorkshire → Belgium
England: Fleet Norwegian Sea → Norway
England: Army Yorkshire → North Sea → Belgium
France: Army Marseilles → Spain
France: Fleet Mid-Atlantic Ocean → Portugal
France: Army Picardy → Burgundy (*bounce*)
Germany: Fleet Denmark → Sweden (*bounce*)
Germany: Army Kiel → Holland
Germany: Army Munich → Burgundy (*bounce*)
Italy: Army Apulia → Ionian Sea → Tunis
Italy: Fleet Ionian Sea CONVOY Army Apulia → Tunis
Italy: Army Venice → Tyrolia
Russia: Fleet Gulf of Bothnia → Sweden (*bounce*)
Russia: Fleet Sevastopol → Rumania (*bounce*)
Russia: Army St Petersburg → Finland
Russia: Army Ukraine SUPPORT Fleet Sevastopol → Rumania
Turkey: Fleet Ankara → Black Sea
Turkey: Army Bulgaria → Rumania (*bounce*)
Turkey: Army Constantinople → Bulgaria (*bounce*)
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