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Message from Austria to Turkey
Not only was I correct about Ven-Tri, but also about Russia's northern
opening. An army in Armenia would be so useful now :-). But I do
understand being loathe to make oneself a solitary target.
I also notice that France's fears were not unfounded; Mun-Bur is quite
aggressive in a full press game. But the northern opening may serve its
purpose for a little while, and keep England from helping out against
France. While our attack on Russia may free England, our attack on
Italy will also free France, so I don't think we need to worry about
too-quick settlement of the western triangle.
Our tactical advisors urge Ser s Bul-Rum, bouncing Russia. If we can
also get Germany to bounce him in Sweden, he'll have no builds, and fall
quickly. I still worry that if Germany suspects we plan to take out
Russia quickly, he'll not cooperate; while Germany doesn't want a strong
Russia, he also needs some Russia lest Austria-Hungary overrun him while
his forces are still committed westward.
Have I overlooked anything important?
Tamara, 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 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 Turkey
Ali Baba:
A nice start for you. Russia sent a unit North, hence
you have less worries than you might. There is currently
no one in Rumania, therefore you can afford to move
Ankara to Constantinople, if you so please. I suppose
that you would still have Smyrna covered, so that does
not buy you anything. Perhaps taking the Black Sea is
stronger. I am sure that you will do the smartest thing.
Are you worried about the strong display of trust between
Russia and Austria (no one moved to Galicia)?
-- Prince Boar
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 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 Turkey
Ali,
I'll be supporting myself into Rum, obviously. Shall we DMZ Bla? If
so, I'll order
Sev S Ukr - Rum. Do you think the bounce in Tri was pre-arranged? The west
is
such a mess that I decided I had to open north to protect my interests
there. Please
let me know what you're thinking.
Czar Nicholas II.
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 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 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 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 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 Turkey to Russia
Czar Nicholas,
Sorry for the delay in my reply. Busy weekend.
> I'll be supporting myself into Rum, obviously. Shall we DMZ Bla? If
> so, I'll order
> Sev S Ukr - Rum.
Yes, I think the DMZ works best for this turn. That way I can shuffle my
fleet & army to get it out into the water.
> Do you think the bounce in Tri was pre-arranged? The west
> is
> such a mess that I decided I had to open north to protect my interests
> there. Please
> let me know what you're thinking.
Austria claims it wasn't a pre-arranged bounce. Italy has said nothing on
the matter yet. I also wondered the same thing about the bounce in Bur, any
take on that? I certainly understand your needs to protect Russian
interests in the north. If the AI war is genuine, we should still do well
in the south.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
> Not only was I correct about Ven-Tri, but also about Russia's northern
> opening. An army in Armenia would be so useful now :-). But I do
> understand being loathe to make oneself a solitary target.
Indeed. Perhaps you could send a prepresentative from your excellent
intelligence network to train Turkish agents. You did seem to hit things
quite on the money. And thanks for your understanding on Arm, I just felt
it was too big a risk to take alone.
> I also notice that France's fears were not unfounded; Mun-Bur is quite
> aggressive in a full press game. But the northern opening may serve its
> purpose for a little while, and keep England from helping out against
> France. While our attack on Russia may free England, our attack on
> Italy will also free France, so I don't think we need to worry about
> too-quick settlement of the western triangle.
Russia's northern opening is good news for us both. As for the bounce in
Bur, I can't rule out the possibility that it was pre-arranged to keep
everyone guessing. It's clear why France was so bent on getting Russia to
move Mos north; it greatly improves his chance of picking up Belgium. I
think we'd both be wise to keep a sharp eye on France.
> Our tactical advisors urge Ser s Bul-Rum, bouncing Russia. If we can
> also get Germany to bounce him in Sweden, he'll have no builds, and fall
> quickly. I still worry that if Germany suspects we plan to take out
> Russia quickly, he'll not cooperate; while Germany doesn't want a strong
> Russia, he also needs some Russia lest Austria-Hungary overrun him while
> his forces are still committed westward.
If you're agreeable to Ser S Bul-Rum, then I gratefully accept. Please let
me know one way or the other, and please be honest; I don't want to rely on
support that turns out not to be there. But if you'll support it, then I'll
be glad to order Bul-Rum, Ank-Bla. This coordination of efforts would go a
long way in cementing AT relations and building our mutual trust.
Germany has not written me since the moves. England has, and he implies
that both he and Germany are upset with the Russian opening. If the FG
conflict in France is genuine, then it would be natural for them to combine
their forces against Russia as well. I will be writing them both to inquire
further on the matter, and will report when I can learn more.
> Have I overlooked anything important?
The only other question I have is what to do about Italy. If he is hostile,
are you ready to commit to fighting both him and Russia at the same time?
Do you still favor the plan of hitting Russia first? Please let me know.
Looking forward to your reply,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Still hoping from a reply from you. I was greatly encouraged by our early
dialogues, and am sorry to see you going silent. I hope that it does not
indicate Italian ill-will for Turkey.
Austria is encouraging me to attack Russia. I am prepared to do so, and my
plan is to build an army subsequently, though I'll have to sell it to
Austria. Obviously, I'm counting a great deal on the fact that you and I
will be able to build on our early goodwill. If this is not the case, then
I hope you'll do the honorable thing and be up front about it. If you have
any concern, please voice it so I can respond.
I was surprised to see your attack on Trieste, after my warning of Austria's
plans for A Vie. Can you tell me, was the bounce pre-arranged? Austria is
claiming that it was not, but rather that it was a genuine attack. I
suspect Austria is simply playing us off of each other, which of course
makes me very nervous about taking him up on anti-Russian offers.
Anyway, if you want an ally who won't work against you behind your back,
then I hope you'll write at your earliest convenience. I very much look
forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Ali Baba
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 Turkey to Germany
Frederick,
Well, some interesting things going on in the west. England is not best
pleased by Russia's opening. How is Germany's position regarding Russia?
Austria is proposing that I join him against the Bear, and naturally Germany
plays a crucial role in the matter. I'd be very grateful if you could share
your thoughts on whether or not to let Russia into Sweden.
I'm also hoping you might share your impressions of the Austrian himself.
He seems sincere enough about wanting Russia dead, but I'm not sure he's
being entirely straight with me. Can you pass on any tidbit of what you
think Austria's true intentions might be?
I hope all is well, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to France
Prince Boar,
> A nice start for you. Russia sent a unit North, hence
> you have less worries than you might. There is currently
> no one in Rumania, therefore you can afford to move
> Ankara to Constantinople, if you so please. I suppose
> that you would still have Smyrna covered, so that does
> not buy you anything. Perhaps taking the Black Sea is
> stronger. I am sure that you will do the smartest thing.
Indeed, getting Turkish fleets into the water is always a tricky business.
I've not yet figured out an easy way to do it.
> Are you worried about the strong display of trust between
> Russia and Austria (no one moved to Galicia)?
Yes, it is a concern. Russia no doubt has cause to believe that both
Austria and Turkey are friendly. It's difficult to say which of us he might
ultimately choose as an ally. Austria is saying his bounce with Italy was
not pre-arranged. What is your take? Also, can you reveal whether your
bounce in Bur was pre-arranged?
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Italy to Turkey
Was just warming my pen up when I received your message. It was I who
requested the deadline extension as I have very little time to spend with my
family (and thus the weekend is not usually the best time for me to be
sending Diplomacy related emails) and I had an all-day presentation on
Monday. Those Monday deadlines are going to be rough for me but I'll figure
out a way to manage.
>
> Still hoping from a reply from you. I was greatly encouraged
> by our early
> dialogues, and am sorry to see you going silent. I hope that
> it does not
> indicate Italian ill-will for Turkey.
>
Absolutely not. Rest assured, Italy holds no ill-will to Turkey. We see
you as an excellent developing ally. We believe the Russian has the
potential of being weakened both in the north and in the south and, given
the fact that I will most likely have a strong French neighbor to the west,
I would much prefer a strong land-based Turkey than a strong land-based
Austria to my east.
> Austria is encouraging me to attack Russia. I am prepared to
> do so,
Austria has mentioned to me that he has offered you support from Bul-Rum in
order to prevent a Russian build. In combination with a move into the Black
Sea, this would put you in an excellent position against Russia.
> and my plan is to build an army subsequently, though I'll
> have to sell it to Austria.
I would tell him that it's going to move to Armenia with support from your
fleet. Depending on what France builds, you could add that you're not too
worried about Italy since he can't wander too far east with all those French
fleets to worry about. Of course, if France builds armies as well, that
argument would need to be deleted or at least modified somewhat.
>
> I was surprised to see your attack on Trieste, after my
> warning of Austria's plans for A Vie. Can you tell me,
> was the bounce pre-arranged? Austria is
> claiming that it was not, but rather that it was a genuine
> attack.
>
It was a pre-arranged bounce at his request. If he tells you differently,
he is lying.
Now, on to some new business.
Austria is suggesting that I convoy Apu-Tun and carry thru with a Lepanto
attack. I'm actually looking for your blessing for this move. What!??
Allow me. Austria's argument goes that, by convoying, the Ionean fleet is a
tempo closer to the Turkish waters and there is no sense in losing the tempo
we gained with the Black Sea bounce. It makes perfect sense. Of course,
the Ionean fleet also borders the Austrian held territory of Greece and the
Austrian waters of the Adriatic. It just might be possible to set Austria
up for a fall in both Trieste and Greece next year. It would be a gamble on
your part but, like you, I've gotten a lot of press detailing some "behind
the back" talk regarding Austria. I don't much trust him long-term.
Regarding your response to Austria and Rumania, you would seem to have
several options 1) accept his offer and make the move hoping he follows thru
and Russia indeed doesn't gain the build, 2) say thanks but no thanks in
which case he supports himself to Greece but Russia gains Rumania, or 3)
accept his offer but then move to Greece in hopes he follows thru and wastes
a Serbian order. A lot depends on how genuine you think his offer is. From
talking with him, I think he is genuinely interested in limiting Russian
growth for what that's worth.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to Turkey
Ali Baba,
> Yes, I think the DMZ works best for this turn.
Ok. The other option I thought of was Sev-Bla, Con-Smy,
B F Con, followed by Con S Ank-Bla, Disband RF Bla, but
that leaves me with an unsupported attack on Rum, and
possibly no builds.
> Austria claims it wasn't a pre-arranged bounce. Italy has said nothing on
> the matter yet. I also wondered the same thing about the bounce in Bur,
> any take on that?
Given Par-Pic, and the fact that France hasn't screamed about Mun-Bur,
it does look like an arranged bounce to me. I wonder about Tri, though.
Ven-Tri, Rom-Apu looks more like a Key Lepanto than an Austrian
attack by Italy. Even if we assume that the results of the semi-finals
followed
our JDPR's, and our Preference lists were "standard" that still means
Austria and Italy have JDPRs around 1300, and I wouldn't expect someone
of that level to launch a half-hearted attack in S1901M. Beware the
Lepanto,
my friend, I think Austria's telling you, (and me), tales.
> I certainly understand your needs to protect Russian interests in the
north.
What, if anything, are you hearing from our Western friends?
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
Good to hear from you! Thanks for your quick reply.
> Was just warming my pen up when I received your message. It was I who
> requested the deadline extension as I have very little time to spend with
my
> family (and thus the weekend is not usually the best time for me to be
> sending Diplomacy related emails) and I had an all-day presentation on
> Monday. Those Monday deadlines are going to be rough for me but I'll
figure
> out a way to manage.
I'm in the same boat; weekends are tough for me to diplome. So, we'll have
to both be cognizant of this going forward, and get as much done as we can
on weekdays.
> Absolutely not. Rest assured, Italy holds no ill-will to Turkey. We see
> you as an excellent developing ally. We believe the Russian has the
> potential of being weakened both in the north and in the south and, given
> the fact that I will most likely have a strong French neighbor to the
west,
> I would much prefer a strong land-based Turkey than a strong land-based
> Austria to my east.
Thank you. I am much encouraged. Indeed, I am prepared to convince you of
my trustworthiness as an ally, and it is my sincere hope that I will have
much opportunity to do so.
> Austria has mentioned to me that he has offered you support from Bul-Rum
in
> order to prevent a Russian build. In combination with a move into the
Black
> Sea, this would put you in an excellent position against Russia.
That is what I am thinking. The crucial bit is whether or not Austria
carries through. If he's mentioned it to you, then perhaps he'll really
order the move. Any diplomatic efforts on your part to convince him to do
so (or to warn me if he chooses not to) would be much appreciated. The best
scenario would be if he really gives me the support, in which case he may be
compelled to carry through against Russia.
> I would tell him that it's going to move to Armenia with support from your
> fleet. Depending on what France builds, you could add that you're not too
> worried about Italy since he can't wander too far east with all those
French
> fleets to worry about. Of course, if France builds armies as well, that
> argument would need to be deleted or at least modified somewhat.
Indeed, again this matches my thinking. Once I've genuinely attacked
Russia, Austria will likely believe he's got me well in hand... especially
if he continues to believe he's successfully playing you and me off against
each other. By the way, rumor has it that it was France who was really
urging the Russian northern opening. It gives France a better shot at
Belgium in the short term, and a better position overall in the long term.
I think you'd be wise to keep a sharp eye on France.
> It was a pre-arranged bounce at his request. If he tells you differently,
> he is lying.
Hm, I re-read my mail from him, and he doesn't actually say it wasn't
prearranged. But the implication is clear. In any event, it's obvious he's
trying to mislead me; which I guess is ok as long as it stays so
transparent. Thank you for your honesty; I will not be letting on to
Austria that I'm wise to it.
> Austria is suggesting that I convoy Apu-Tun and carry thru with a Lepanto
> attack. I'm actually looking for your blessing for this move. What!??
> Allow me. Austria's argument goes that, by convoying, the Ionean fleet is
a
> tempo closer to the Turkish waters and there is no sense in losing the
tempo
> we gained with the Black Sea bounce. It makes perfect sense. Of course,
> the Ionean fleet also borders the Austrian held territory of Greece and
the
> Austrian waters of the Adriatic. It just might be possible to set Austria
> up for a fall in both Trieste and Greece next year. It would be a gamble
on
> your part but, like you, I've gotten a lot of press detailing some "behind
> the back" talk regarding Austria. I don't much trust him long-term.
I had pretty well expected the convoy this turn, it's really the only
sensible thing for you to do. Following that with a fleet build in Naples,
though, would make me very nervous I must admit. Now, if you were to order
Ion-Adr, Nap-Ion next spring then it would all be worth it. But such a
thing would certainly require some nerves from my perspective. Was this
what you were planning for the build?
> Regarding your response to Austria and Rumania, you would seem to have
> several options 1) accept his offer and make the move hoping he follows
thru
> and Russia indeed doesn't gain the build, 2) say thanks but no thanks in
> which case he supports himself to Greece but Russia gains Rumania, or 3)
> accept his offer but then move to Greece in hopes he follows thru and
wastes
> a Serbian order. A lot depends on how genuine you think his offer is.
From
> talking with him, I think he is genuinely interested in limiting Russian
> growth for what that's worth.
Yes, I feel confident he's genuinely interested in hurting Russia. However,
it also seems clear that he feels that way about all his neighbors, not just
Russia. In any case, I'm inclined to go along with his proposal, if the
offer is real. I don't really favor attacking Greece, since beyond limiting
Austria's builds it doesn't really accomplish anything. I'd rather fan the
flames of A/R hostility if at all possible.
One other possibility that at least bears mentioning, which is a
double-cross of Austria. If Austria orders Ser S Bul-Rum, then I could
easily support your army convoy to Greece this turn. This would likely spur
A/R conflict, since Austria's betrayal of Russia will have been revealed.
And, it will net you Greece. It will allow Russia the build for Rum, but
that would probably only serve to increase his confidence that matters in
the south are in hand. This would alleviate my need to worry about Leponto,
and you can easily pick up Tunis in '02. Of course, it depends wholly on
our ability to determine whether or not Austria has actually ordered support
for Bul-Rum.
Otherwise, I'd be looking to Italy to launch a real assault on Austria,
probably starting next spring. If you prefer this option, then I hope
you'll write with your thoughts on what you'll build this year.
What do you think? I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Regards,
Ali Baba
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 Turkey to Russia
Czar Nicholas,
> Ok. The other option I thought of was Sev-Bla, Con-Smy,
> B F Con, followed by Con S Ank-Bla, Disband RF Bla, but
> that leaves me with an unsupported attack on Rum, and
> possibly no builds.
That would also be detrimental to my getting fleets out to the west. I
think the DMZ works better.
> Given Par-Pic, and the fact that France hasn't screamed about Mun-Bur,
> it does look like an arranged bounce to me. I wonder about Tri, though.
> Ven-Tri, Rom-Apu looks more like a Key Lepanto than an Austrian
> attack by Italy. Even if we assume that the results of the semi-finals
> followed
> our JDPR's, and our Preference lists were "standard" that still means
> Austria and Italy have JDPRs around 1300, and I wouldn't expect someone
> of that level to launch a half-hearted attack in S1901M. Beware the
> Lepanto,
> my friend, I think Austria's telling you, (and me), tales.
Thanks, it seems a well-founded warning. Austria seems to be mostly
concerned with playing his neighbors off against each other. My impression
is that he's much more friendly with Italy than he's letting on.
By the way, Austria has suggested he would order Ser S Bul-Rum. I have
promised him nothing, but I'm playing along with it in hopes he'll make an
explicit commitment on the matter. If he does, then it would be a golden
opportunity to bounce him him Greece. In any case we'd both be well-advised
to regard Austria with suspicion. I'll let you know if and when I hear more
from him. Until then, watch your back.
> What, if anything, are you hearing from our Western friends?
Pretty much nothing of any consequence. England is unhappy with your Mos
order, but you don't have to be Fellini to figure that out. Germany hasn't
written since the move results, and France, as usual, is being coy as hell.
What about you, any word on whether Germany will contest Sweden?
Ali Baba
Message from Russia to Turkey
> Austria seems to be mostly concerned with playing his neighbors off
> against each other. My impression is that he's much more friendly
> with Italy than he's letting on.
Yes, he wanted to bounce in Gal, as well, no doubt hoping to paint
me as the invading Russian, but I opted for Ukr in hopes that Germany
would let me have Swe if I was nice to Austria.
> Austria has suggested he would order Ser S Bul-Rum. If he does,
> then it would be a golden opportunity to bounce him him Greece.
Yes, and it's a free move for you anyway, since Bul is safe even if
it moves. He does seem to be playing both sides against the middle.
> What about you, any word on whether Germany will contest Sweden?
No, nothing from Germany, yet, though England claims to have heard
from him.
Nick.
Message from France to Turkey
Ali Baba
>Russia no doubt has cause to believe that both
>Austria and Turkey are friendly. It's difficult to
>say which of us he might ultimately choose as an ally.
Yes, Russia appears to be in great position. Friends
everywhere and strong possibilities. We will have to
watch him to make certain that he does not interfere
without our plans for the two-way draw. :-)
>Austria is saying his bounce with Italy was not
>pre-arranged. What is your take? Also, can
>you reveal whether your bounce in Bur was
>pre-arranged?
I will not tell you lies that you are not going to
believe anyway. The bounce in Burgundy was equivalent to
the bounce in the Black Sea. As for Trieste, I believe
that it was pre-arranged. At least I have sensed no fall
out. You would be wise to get some fleets into the
Mediterranean, just in case. But there is the Black Sea
just beckoning. What will you do? :-)
-- Prince Boar
Message from Italy to Turkey
> Any diplomatic efforts on your part to convince him to do so (or to
> warn me if he chooses not to) would be much appreciated.
I'll do my part. He has yet to answer my press I sent him earlier today.
This will have a bearing on a later part of this letter as well.
> The best scenario would be if he really gives me the support, in which
> case he may be compelled to carry through against Russia.
I'm not sure he'd have any other choice. What's he going to tell Russia?
That Ali Baba is a scoundrel and moved to prevent you from a build? Doesn't
make a whole lot of sense.
> By the way, rumor has it that it was France who was really
> urging the Russian northern opening. It gives France a better shot at
> Belgium in the short term, and a better position overall in the long >
term.
And you heard this rumor where? I haven't told anybody, but England made a
small Freudian slip. He sent a message shortly after the moves arrived. It
was just a friendly everybody made conservative moves type message. Just
keeping in touch. Oh, and if you can help me figure out why Russia moved to
*FIN* I'd appreciate it. [emphasis mine] Well, Russia hadn't quite gotten
to Finland yet. This tells me that Ivy knew what Russia was going to do.
He might not have approved of it, but he knew about it.
> I think you'd be wise to keep a sharp eye on France.
Believe me, I have radar and sonar in place specifically to spot French
units. Alarms will go off if something funny were to happen.
> I had pretty well expected the convoy this turn, it's really the only
> sensible thing for you to do. Following that with a fleet build in
> Naples, though, would make me very nervous I must admit. Was this
> what you were planning for the build?
Just like the convoy is really the only sensible move to make, I think a
fleet in Naples is really the only sensible build. Building a fleet is
obvious. That matches any agreements I have with other powers. I am to
become a sea power. Fleet in Rome doesn't help the front line all that much
and fleet in Venice doesn't hide the fact that I'd be moving to the
Adriatic. Unless there is something I'm missing, then yes I would be
planning on building a fleet in Naples. I'm sure that wouldn't surprise
anybody.
> Yes, I feel confident he's genuinely interested in hurting Russia.
> However, it also seems clear that he feels that way about all his > >
neighbors, not just Russia.
lol! Now that I think about it, he really hasn't offered me anything
concrete. He's expecting me to position myself to convoy to Syria which of
course takes up 3/4 of my arsenal. Leaves him free to do pretty much
whatever he wants.
> I don't really favor attacking Greece, since beyond limiting
> Austria's builds it doesn't really accomplish anything. I'd rather fan
> the flames of A/R hostility if at all possible.
Agreed.
> One other possibility that at least bears mentioning, which is a
> double-cross of Austria. If Austria orders Ser S Bul-Rum, then I could
> easily support your army convoy to Greece this turn.
Let me think about this. A lot depends on what Austria replies. I asked
him if we were still going to bounce in Trieste. If I'm fairly confident
that I can take Trieste as well and that Austria will order the support, I'd
seriously consider your offer.
My idea of a stab, and this would obviously be a stab, is not to take a
single center. The victim needs to be damaged to the point that retaliation
is minimized.
I'll let you know prior to the deadline.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
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 Austria to Turkey
> If you're agreeable to Ser S Bul-Rum, then I gratefully accept.
> Please let me know one way or the other, and please be honest; I don't
> want to rely on support that turns out not to be there.
I am ordering Ser s Bul-Rum, with this message. I am only a little
nervous, which seems to me the right level of anxiety: if I'm completely
comfortable, I'm not taking enough risks.
Tamara, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
> > By the way, rumor has it that it was France who was really
> > urging the Russian northern opening. It gives France a better shot at
> > Belgium in the short term, and a better position overall in the long >
> term.
>
> And you heard this rumor where?
Austria, naturally. But it seems to fit. France seems to be dying for word
of which way I'm going to jump; but he's not yet actually come out and
suggested a course of action.
> I haven't told anybody, but England made a
> small Freudian slip. He sent a message shortly after the moves arrived.
It
> was just a friendly everybody made conservative moves type message. Just
> keeping in touch. Oh, and if you can help me figure out why Russia moved
to
> *FIN* I'd appreciate it. [emphasis mine] Well, Russia hadn't quite
gotten
> to Finland yet. This tells me that Ivy knew what Russia was going to do.
> He might not have approved of it, but he knew about it.
Very interesting. Russia strikes me as one who plays his cards close to the
vest, so I find it surprising that England would have had foreknowledge
unless he heard it from the source. I can't for the life of me imagine how
such a thing could be in England's advantage, however, so I believe
England's sentiment is genuinely anti-Russian.
> Just like the convoy is really the only sensible move to make, I think a
> fleet in Naples is really the only sensible build. Building a fleet is
> obvious. That matches any agreements I have with other powers. I am to
> become a sea power. Fleet in Rome doesn't help the front line all that
much
> and fleet in Venice doesn't hide the fact that I'd be moving to the
> Adriatic. Unless there is something I'm missing, then yes I would be
> planning on building a fleet in Naples. I'm sure that wouldn't surprise
> anybody.
Well I wouldn't say it's necessarily the only sensible thing, but I do see
your point. Of course it depends on your final decision on the fall moves
(more on that below).
> > One other possibility that at least bears mentioning, which is a
> > double-cross of Austria. If Austria orders Ser S Bul-Rum, then I could
> > easily support your army convoy to Greece this turn.
>
> Let me think about this. A lot depends on what Austria replies. I asked
> him if we were still going to bounce in Trieste. If I'm fairly confident
> that I can take Trieste as well and that Austria will order the support,
I'd
> seriously consider your offer.
Have you had any replies? Austria has confirmed to me that he's ordering
the support, and I will reply that I'm taking him up on it. Indeed, those
are my orders at present. But if we believe he'll order the support, then I
favor the Greece maneuver. Others are aware of Austria's anti-Russian
proposals, so he surely knows he'll lose a lot of credibility if he doesn't
follow through. And I could easily sell my support of your attack to
Russia. If Austria can be persuaded to move to Gal at the same time, you
and I would be in the catbird seat.
> My idea of a stab, and this would obviously be a stab, is not to take a
> single center. The victim needs to be damaged to the point that
retaliation
> is minimized.
Agreed. I think there's a good chance the Greece ploy would work well. I
would build an army, and would almost certainly attack Russia in '02. Once
you're committed against Austria, I'll definitely feel a lot better about F
Nap and the Leponto situation. I will query Austria about his thoughts on
Gal.
Anyway, I please write as soon as you can. I look forward to your reply!
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
> I am ordering Ser s Bul-Rum, with this message. I am only a little
> nervous, which seems to me the right level of anxiety: if I'm completely
> comfortable, I'm not taking enough risks.
Heh heh. I find the only times I'm completely comfortable are the ones
where I've overlooked something important. In any case, you won't regret it
in this case; I've ordered the attacks on Rum and Bla, and I look forward to
an anti-Russian campaign.
England is all for anti-Russian participation, and he predicts that Germany
would be on board as well, at least at first. I've not heard from Germany
himself however; have you?
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Germany
Frederick,
Just writing to touch base. To recap, Austria has proposed an anti-Russian
campaign. As you might imagine, I'm most eager to learn your views on the
matter. I'll certainly understand if you cannot give me any details of your
plans, but any hint at all would be welcome.
I look foward to hearing from you at your earliest opportunity.
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to Austria
Tamara,
I don't know why I forgot to mention this before. Any luck working things
out with Italy? He's never indicated to me any plan to attack you, so I
hope you're ok there. Anyway, I was wondering if you'll be able to attack
Galicia? If you can, it would make a world of difference.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Italy to Turkey
>
> Have you had any replies? Austria has confirmed to me that
> he's ordering the support, and I will reply that I'm taking
> him up on it.
Yes, I heard from Austria this afternoon. I'm not 100% sure. He used
phrases like "I'm inclined to take the risk" and "I'd lean toward". Very
vague. Nothing definite. My two cents, he'll order the support. But I
wouldn't be surprised to see him take the safe route and support himself
into Greece hoping that you'll order the move to Rum and create a RT
conflict.
> But if we believe he'll order the support, then I
> favor the Greece maneuver.
If you don't mind, I'd prefer to wait until next year before attacking
Austria. I'm very interested in how many units France will end up with and
what he builds. I'd hate to lose Austria's friendship and have France pile
on the fleets at the same time. If France builds what he says he's going to
build (ie: not in MAR) then I'll feel much more comfortable with an Austrian
attack.
I completely understand if you do not go thru with Bul-Rum and risk Russian
ire.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Germany to Turkey
Ali:
I still haven't decided whether to bounce Russia in Sweden. It makes
sense, but he's offering some conditions if I don't. I think that you
can guess what those terms are. There's no way that I'd want to see
Russian builds in the north.
Fred
Message from Turkey to Germany
Freddy,
> I still haven't decided whether to bounce Russia in Sweden. It makes
> sense, but he's offering some conditions if I don't. I think that you
> can guess what those terms are. There's no way that I'd want to see
> Russian builds in the north.
Understood. Keep in mind that if Austria keeps his word, and you bounce
Sweden, Russia may have no builds at all. Just food for thought.
Ali
Message from Turkey to Italy
Roberto,
I understand your position. I am going through with it. I can only hope
that when the dust clears, you'll be my ally instead of launching Austria's
Leponto.
Best of luck in the result
Ali Baba
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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