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Message [from Germany] to all
Ye Ha Buckeroos.
We have.
AI vs RT
and
EG vs F
Least it looks that way to me. Other opinions are welcome.
The Phantom (knows)
Message from England to Germany
Freddy,
Ah, yes! yes!
We are allies in deed now, not just in words. Thank you very much.
France made the moves that he designed as part of his anti-German plan. He
asked to get into the Channel so he could support Pic->Bel in the fall,
while I was supposed to take Holland. He said he would hold in Portugal so
as not to threaten me and would rush to the German border with the Paris
army.
Get prepared for lots of sugary sweet talk from France. Be polite to him,
but treat him as you would any tele-marketer. He will remain very, very
dangerous until he loses his first center. We will have to work together
carefully.
I don't mind the Kiel s Holland. Perfectly reasonable insurance.
Sweden is a cakewalk for you.
Let's catch our breaths and design our next moves.
Faithfully yours,
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
This situation is all my responsibility.
Nothing you ever said to me provoked my moves. Your diplomacy was a model
of perfection. However, even before we "met" I was wishing and planning
for an EG alliance against what I was certain would be a French player of
the very highest level.
I had essentially given up on this plan a long time ago, and had internally
made my peace with an EF alliance, when Freddy came out of his shell and
sent me three messages on Saturday. I reverted to my original plan on
Sunday.
I know that I made a very risky gamble and that EF would have been much
safer and easier in the short run.
Your defenses are strong and your rear is secure. This could be a
difficult struggle.
Cordially,
Ivy
Message from France to England
Ivy:
I believe that you made the wrong choice. Germany would
have collasped quickly. I will not do so. There will be
a time, probably sooner than you realize, that you would
have wished that you stuck with the more reliable and
reasonable ally. Germany will tend to dictate and be a
bit abrasive while I would have been willing to
compromise and work things out.
It kind of silly actually to think that I am more
dangerous than Germany is. If you think about the
tournament, the players who did well in the first round
were ganged up on in the first round. I expect that they
did manage to struggle into this game. Hence they are in
powers like Germany, Italy, and Austria, perhaps England
and Russia. The Players who did well in the second round
were probably played by powers who eeked into the second
round. Therefore people playing Germany and Austria
probably did very well in two games (first round),
whereas the people playing France and Turkey did well in
only one game (second round). Who is really more
dangerous? In the end aren't we all.
There is still time to come to your senses.
I am not bitter, it is just a game. But it is always
disapointing when the choices seem to be made for reasons
outside the game. I too started the game thinking that I
wanted an FG to eliminate England. But I forced myself
to make the choice based on the playing styles and
situation, not my original choice without any
information.
Just so you know, it will be a long time before you get a
French center. Given a choice, I will defend against the
one who betrayed me the most. A very common reaction for
people, n'est pas?
-- Prince Boar
Message from England to France
Good Prince,
>I believe that you made the wrong choice. Germany would
>have collasped quickly. I will not do so.
Agreed. England/France would have made rapid progress.
>Who is really more
>dangerous? In the end aren't we all.
Yes, and I prefered to face the greatest danger in the beginning instead of
in the end. That was part of my reasoning.
>But it is always
>disapointing when the choices seem to be made for reasons
>outside the game.
This I must kindly deny. Had this not been a tournament with a history,
but just another game, I still would have quickly concluded that you were
the most able player in "titlest." Having reached this conclusion, I faced
the common dilemma, is it better to work with the strongest player or to
conspire against the strongest player. I put this question to player who
faced this choice in my last game and he replied, "do both." He allied
himself with the strongest player, but didn't survive.
>Just so you know, it will be a long time before you get a
>French center. Given a choice, I will defend against the
>one who betrayed me the most.
Yes. I have been in that position a number of times. The first person to
harm you is placed in a special category.
I know I don't have to say this -- I'm very certain that I don't -- but I
retain the greatest respect for the person behind the Prince Boar mask. In
a similar instance, I still exchange friendly e-mails with an individual
who did me permanent harm in one of the preliminary games. He is not in
this final.
Ivy
Message from England to Russia
Nicky,
Extend my wishes to your wife. Tell her she is still a little more
important than Diplomacy. I don't know about your wife, but mine accepts
this harmless hobby. I am careful not to over do it though.
I am reminded that one year ago I took my wife, my mother, and my father to
the emergency room (*separately*!) all within one 24 hour period. They are
fine now.
You can imagine how reieved I was when I was permitted to remain neutral in
Scandinavia. Neither you nor Germany asked explicitly for support in
Sweden. Had Germany asked, I don't know what I would have done. If I
refused, I would have lost him as an ally. Perhaps plan B, Norway->Skag,
would have been resurrected.
Norway must now drift out to sea. Germany, obviously, is going to take
Sweden. StP is safe from me. In fact, I think your best move is to put the
fleet in StP and negiotate with Germany for peace in Scandinavia. I can
help with this.
Best wishes,
Ivy Wingo
Message from France to England
Ivy:
Thanks for the note. Be honest, it was really the Trey
Wingo thing that set you against me? :-)
>>Who is really more
>>dangerous? In the end aren't we all.
>Yes, and I prefered to face the greatest danger in the
>beginning instead of in the end. That was part of
>my reasoning.
Ah, but you misunderstood me. My point was that I do not
believe that anyone of us is truly more dangerous than
any other. We are all pretty good players, we had to be
in order to get here. So how can you really say that
Germany is less dangerous than I.
>>But it is always
>>disapointing when the choices seem to be made for
>>reasons outside the game.
>This I must kindly deny. Had this not been a
>tournament with a history, but just another game, I
>still would have quickly concluded that you were
>the most able player in "titlest."
Perhaps. But I still cannot shake the feeling that I was
doomed before the game even began. You wanted an EG and
I had a very very uphill battle to prevent it. I started
working for the FG, but was willing to change my mind. I
guess that means you are just the better player, being
able to change my mind on it while I could not change
yours.
>Having reached this conclusion, I faced
>the common dilemma, is it better to work with the
>strongest player or to
>conspire against the strongest player.
If I put aside the notion that there really is no
strongest player and assume that you are correct, then
this is a difficult philosophical question. I believe
that we discussed it at the beginning of the game. In a
game with random players of mixed skill, then perhaps it
is a wise strategy to go after the strongest. In a game
with all skilled players you run a terrible risk that a
second group of the best players from the other end of
the board will instead choose to team up and dominate.
My opinion is the opposite of yours, I chose to seek out
the strongest ally that I could find. I liked my chances
getting to the mid game and end game with that plan. I
figured that I had the best chance at the win. It would
at least be a great challenge at the end, hence a lot of
fun. Why get stuck in mediocraty when there was a chance
at greatness?
In this game, I think that you are setting yourself up
for a draw at best. Together we could have worked as a
well oiled machine and dominated the board. Perhaps one
would have stabbed the other at mid-game and became the
dominate power. But as things stand now I think that
Austria and Italy will dominate the board and one will
emerge as the dominate power. Or perhaps they will stick
together and you will be the third power in a three-way
draw? I know that my speculations are a stretch at this
point. But how long can Turkey and Russia hold up? Not
long. I will be fighting you still when they come
looking for a piece of the action.
I may respect your style and abilities, but if you
persist in your course of action I must do everything
that I can to make you pay for it.
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to England
Ivy:
One last things. I just thought I would let you know
that Germany spent quite a bit of effort warning me about
your likely attack and trying to get me to attack you. I
am sure that does not surprise you. We all try to gain
subtle advantages on even out allies by pointing our
victims at them. The humorous thing is that I was not
doing that to you. I actively worked at getting Russia
to let you have Norway. I was trying to point Germany at
Russia and leave him open for you.
Since my plan was to side with you and dominate the
board, our joint success was critical. So your success
was equally important to mine. That is the only
way to dominate in a group of very good powers. Perhaps
I am a fool, but that was the type of ally you would have
had until at least the mid-game.
Cheers old chap,
Xavier Boar, Prince until the bitter end
Message from France to England
Ivy:
I notice that you can still take Holland if you wish to
do so. It is not too late to change your mind as major
harm has not yet been done.
-- Prince Boar
Message [from Austria] to all
BG> Holey Rubbergundy Diploman, they bounced again!
DM> Yes Boy Gambit, both Germany and France seem to be more afraid of the other occupying Burgundy than wanting to occupy it themselfs.
BG> Are there any alliances yet?
DM> There's an RT, an EG, and an AI.
BG> Oh! France has no ally?
DM> That would appear to be correct, Boy Gambit.
BG> You mentioned RT? You mean, Russia and Turkey?
DM> Correct again, Boy Gambit.
BG> But the other powers will never permit that. Everyone knows the RT alliance is far too powerful. And didn't Russia open against England?
DM> The other powers seem to be encouraging it. Look, both Saint Petersburg and Sweden were left for Russia.
BG> Wow! So the other powers are afraid of AI!
DM> I don't think so Boy Gambit. Do you have another idea?
BG> Sorry, Diploman. I just don't understand it.
DM> Consider, Boy Gambit, what happens when England and Germany attack France.
BG> Don't they win, Diploman?
DM> Indeed, Boy Gambit. But who gets the southern French centers?
BG> Oh! Italy gets most of them.
DM> Unless?
BG> Unless Italy has to fight in the East! Wow, Diploman, this game is really complicated! So England and Germany are promoting the RT alliance so
they don't have to share the spoils in France?
DM> It certainly looks that way, Boy Gambit.
Message from England to Italy
Good Roberto,
We now seem to have additional facts at our disposal!
>BG> Unless Italy has to fight in the East! Wow, Diploman, this game is
>really complicated! So England and Germany are promoting the RT alliance
>so
>they don't have to share the spoils in France?
>
>DM> It certainly looks that way, Boy Gambit.
Amusing! But I think you know that I would like nothing more than your
participation in southern France. You even have a spare army in Tyrolia.
[I suspect the author of the BG/DM dialogs to be none other than Prince
Boar himself.]
Ivy Wingo
Message [from France] to all
BG> Holey Impostors Diploman, someone is trying to steal our gig!
DM> Yes Boy Gambit, when you become popular there always will be copy cats. At
least they cannot duplicate our nifty outfits.
BG> I bet they even wear underwear under their leotards!
DM> Uh hum, there is no need to reveal all our secrets.
BG> They do not even know that our role is to bring the betrayers to justice!
DM> Yes, they have other motives. Turning to our responsibilities, the obvious
targets are those that appear to be the winners. England and Germany obviously
betrayed France. Although the alliance were not yet obvious so it may be hasty
to call it a betrayal.
BG> But there must have been some lies told, and we are after those dirty
scoundrels as well!
DM> Certainly. It seems likely that Italy lied to and betrayed Turkey. At
least Russia seemed to keep his word based on the support for Rumania. Austria
is always under suspicion due to his actions last year.
GB> There seems to be too many betrayers out there for us to handle alone.
Perhaps we should team up with those Copy Cats.
DM> Perhaps we will, Boy Gambit. I just hope that they are not too furry. I
have allergies.
Message from England to Austria
Dear Edna,
>France's reason isn't mysterious; he wants Russia to survive as his
>potential ally against either E or G, or both.
That was so clear. Even while courting my friendship, France was adamant
that I not harm Russia.
>I urge you to at least support Den-Swe, which certainly would promote EG
>amity,
Your wish, Edna, was my command. Germany preferred to take Sweden in the
manner that we just witnessed. If necessary, I would have assisted him in
the fall. Now it won't be necessary.
You and Italy appear to have a clear upper hand against RT. Selfishly, I
hope you run into some modest difficulty, for goodness knows it will take
quite a few moves before we can wrest a single center from France.
It is much too early to assume that EG will prevail, that AI will prevail,
and that it will be EG vs AI in the end. So much can happen. Please,
let's maintain good will between us, for one never knows when fate will mix
the deck.
Good luck.
Most cordially,
Ivy Wingo
Message from Turkey to all
I usually have to chuckle when someone broadcasts a sad lament of betrayal,
as if betrayal isn't a part of Diplomacy, generally including a quote from
some private press which proves the dastardliness of the traitor beyond a
shadow of doubt. So I will not quote Italy's promise not to move into
eastern waters if I built an army, nor his warning to me that Austria would
move to Aeg, in the same breath he asked for support for Tun-Gre. The
leponto threat was clearly there, so more fool me for believing any of it.
No, I'm not here to scold Roberto, but to congratulate him. Over the years
I've generally been able to tell when someone is being straight with me and
when they're yanking my chain. I can usually smell a lark a mile away, let
alone a bald-faced lie. But you had me fooled, hook line and sinker. My
hat's off to you for your uncanny ability to simulate sincerity.
And to the rest of you, yes at last the RT has been revealed! Lock up your
daughters and hide the vodka, the Juggernaut is about to sweep the land!
The noble Turks pray to Allah for vengeance as they send another generation
of brave lads off to die in battle.
Sincerely,
Ali Baba
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
It seems that I have chosen poorly in the south. I really believed
Roberto's promises to attack Austria. Indeed, I think Italian prospects
would have been better had he gone with me; as it is he'll likely have an
Austrian behemoth for a neighbor. I'm sure he knows what he's doing.
Obviously, any plans I might have had to attack Russia have been scrapped.
I will be fighting for survival, and I don't expect it to be a long fight.
In retrospect, I'm not sure what I really could have done differently, since
I still do not believe Russia would have gone along with an RT in '01.
Perhaps it is my abrasive personality. In any case I look forward to
reading the juicy details when the game is over.
I realize that England has its own priorities, and propping up Russia may
not be among them. Who knows, perhaps in an EG vs AI end game, you'll be in
good position to take out Germany and come out ahead. My money's on Austria
in that scenario, though. I'm sitting here trying to think of a compelling
reason why England ought to switch sides and support France, but to be
honest my real motivation is that I'd love it if France could hit the
Italian, and if Russia could gain English support for Sweden. Very
self-serving ends, those. Ah well, perhaps I just don't have the energy
today.
In any case, you're off to a strong start. Best of luck to you as things
unfold, and do stay in touch.
Regards,
Ali Baba
Message from Austria to England
> You and Italy appear to have a clear upper hand against RT. Selfishly, I
> hope you run into some modest difficulty, for goodness knows it will take
> quite a few moves before we can wrest a single center from France.
Actually, Italy and I will beat up Turkey, and when he is substantially
reduced, Italy will stab me in a move coordinated with Russia. The
elimination of Austria-Hungary and Turkey will free Italy to send his
fleets west to pick up the Iberian centers left available by France's
disintegration under the EG pressure. Russia won't have time to rebuild
his northern naval force, and will hit Germany with English help, and an
EIR draw will result. I just can't predict which of you will have the
most centers for the VG championship :-)
Actually, if it does end up as EG vs AI, you and I are the two powers
likely to have the least direct conflict.
Edna, for Austria-Hungary, by the grace of Archduke Ferdinand
Message from Italy to England
>
> Amusing! But I think you know that I would like nothing more
> than your participation in southern France. You even have a
> spare army in Tyrolia.
>
I'll get there as fast as I can. I've got a little Turkey gravy that
spilled that I have to mop up first though.
Roberto
Message from Russia to England and Germany
Gentlemen,
I, obviously, realize that Germany can take Sweden, if he so chooses,
but I ask you both to consider whether doing so at this point makes the
most sense. While the broadcasts proclaim the Juggernaut, the RT
alliance is clearly one of desperation, which will need a fair measure of
luck this Fall to hold its own against AI. Allowing me to take Swe has
several advantages for you both. If I guess correctly in the south, it will
give me a build to throw at Austria, which will likely stagnate the East,
and give you the time you need to eliminate France. It will also limit
your common front, and reduce the possibility of a stab, while giving
France a reason to remain in contact with me, which may allow me to
provide you with useful intelligence. I hope you will consider the wisdom
of this course.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
> Extend my wishes to your wife.
Thanks, I will.
> one year ago I took my wife, my mother, and my father to
> the emergency room (*separately*!) all within one 24 hour period.
Hmm, I seem to recall hearing this story... (Of course, I don't
remember
who from...8-)
> You can imagine how reieved I was when I was permitted to remain
> neutral in Scandinavia.
The Austrian Ambassador continued to lie (badly) to me, so it became
clear that the Convoy to Lvn was necessary to defend Mos/War.
> Norway must now drift out to sea. Germany, obviously, is going to take
> Sweden. StP is safe from me. In fact, I think your best move is to put
the
> fleet in StP and negiotate with Germany for peace in Scandinavia. I can
> help with this.
I urge to support, at least verbally, my claim to Sweden. GF Den,
GF Swe, is not healthy for England, particularly if EF Nwy is headed
for the North Atlantic, and I do need the build more than Germany
does. You can always claim you'd feel better keeping the alliance
balanced in terms of Centers if possible. Of course, down the road
RF Swe would be available to assist when the time comes to stab
Germany. 8-)
Your hopeful friend,
Nicky.
Message from Russia to all
> Broadcast message from Turkey in 'titleist':
> I usually have to chuckle when someone broadcasts a sad lament of
betrayal,
> as if betrayal isn't a part of Diplomacy, generally including a quote from
> some private press which proves the dastardliness of the traitor beyond a
> shadow of doubt. So I will not quote Italy's promise not to move into
> eastern waters if I built an army, nor his warning to me that Austria
would
> move to Aeg, in the same breath he asked for support for Tun-Gre. The
> leponto threat was clearly there, so more fool me for believing any of it.
> No, I'm not here to scold Roberto, but to congratulate him.
While this might be interpreted as criticizm of the St. Petersburg
Pravda's
report of Archduke Ferdinand's breaking of the Galician DMZ, let me assure
the leaders of Europe that after intense questioning, the Foreign Ministry
official who leaked the treaty to "Pravda" indicated that he did so, not
because
he was distressed by Austria-Hungary's betrayal of trust, but rather because
he was disgusted by the lame and obviously insincere manner in which the
Austrian Ambassador attempted to claim that move was necessary for
Austrian self-defense.
> And to the rest of you, yes at last the RT has been revealed! Lock up
your
> daughters and hide the vodka, the Juggernaut is about to sweep the land!
Could somebody hand me a broom? 8-)
Nick.
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 16 Results:
German Jens Voight outmuscled and outdueled Australian
Brad McGee for a win today, adding a stage win to Credit
Agricole's excellent Tour so far. It looks like I picked
the wrong French team. Morceau (the winner of the
prologue) had dropped out. No one receives points in our
game.
The overall standings near the top did not change. There
was a late crash in the pack that knocked five riders out
of the race with injuries. How disappointing to make it
so far and then not finish due to an injury. They can
sit at the side lines and dream of what could have been.
It looks like Armstrong will win the Tour. Therefore it
seems almost certain that England will win our little
game. The Dauphin is currently planning where to take
his sister. His first priority, get some decent food in
her. She must be tired of that English rot. Then some
wine. Then some more wine .....
Is this English win in our game a prelude to a bigger
win? Time will tell.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 30 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. Lance Armstrong (USP)
2. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 5:05
3. Andrei Kivilev (COF) @ 5:13
4. Joseba Beloki (ONC)@ 6:33
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to all
Ali:
>No, I'm not here to scold Roberto, but to congratulate
>him. You had me fooled, hook line and sinker. My
>hat's off to you for your uncanny ability to simulate
>sincerity.
I feel your pain. Ivy can give him a run for his money
in that department. Perhaps they can form a club. Then
they can play Turkey and France next game and we can all
gang up on them :-)
>the Juggernaut is about to sweep the land!
Don't you mean the JuggerNOT. :-)
-- Prince Boar
Message from France to England
Wingo:
It has become obvious to France that we have no
diplomatic opportunities with England. Our situation has
been revealed as a purely military one. Therefore
Prince Boar has been discharged as the Ambassador to
England. His services are no longer useful. If the
situation changes at some future date, you may request
his reinstatement.
If you have communications with France, you will direct
them to me.
Because my brother is sentimental and he is kin, I have
allowed him a short note to you (enclosed below).
Le DAUPHIN
======================
Ivy:
I regret the decision made by my brother. I can argue
with him, but ultimately he holds the mantle of power, so
he must be obeyed. I hope for a time when we may
continue our conversations.
I do wish you the best personally, although I am deeply
disappointed with the choices made by your country.
Your friend,
Xavier
================================
Personal note.
In regard to your decision to go after the strongest ally
right at the beginning. I do not know if you were just
feeding me a line to justify your actions and make me
feel a little better. It is good diplomacy and obviously
you are a very good player. On the chance that you were
being sincere about your choice to never side with the
strongest opponent, I truly recommend that you try it
some time. In my previous game I had such an alliance
that lasted for more than half the game. I so enjoyed
working with a competent ally in a true spirit of
cooperation. Sure we were careful; it was not a carebear
relationship. But together we accomplished so much more
than we each could have done alone. It was nice not to
have to do everything yourself. Your ally could be
counted on to mold situations as well. It was probably
one, if not the, most enjoyable situations I have found
in this game of diplomacy. Give it some thought for the
future. It is obvious a dead issue for this game.
Regards,
The person behind Prince Boar.
Message from Germany to England, France, Italy, and Russia
Gentlemen:
Please excuse my silence yesterday and today. There are 38 new
emails waiting for me today. And I haven't answered yesterday's yet.
But have no fear I'll be up to date shortly, and I'll respond to
everyone.
The good news is that I'm putting events that have been taking up my
time behind me continuously, and nothing is being added to the front
end. Last night was our big quarterly ski club meeting. Since I'm the
president, it's probably a good thing that I go. And of course I have
to socialize with the members afterwards. Wouldn't be right not to.
(No more ski club trouble for 3 months now)
BTW being in a ski club doesn't give away anything in a gunboat game.
I've heard that the biggest ski clubs are in Miami and Houston. Maybe
that's where I am.
Fredd
Message from England to Italy
Good Roberto,
>I'll get there as fast as I can. I've got a little Turkey gravy that
>spilled that I have to mop up first though.
Ah, yes.
Do give some thought to long range strategic considerations. Once any
Austria has a head of steam its solo opportunities are tremendous. So many
centers lie within easy reach. For starters, I assume you have made it
clear that Austria must never build a fleet.
The other problem with the Italian side of an AI alliance is that Italy is
so strung out across the Mediterranean. You will have to defend your
Turkish territory and your homeland while trying to pick up French centers
in the west. This is a nightmare. Austria, however, remains very compact.
The good news for you is that AI will progress faster than EG. But please,
be very careful with Austria. Never let him get the upper hand.
There is always the possibility of Tyr-Trieste, Ion-adr, & eas-ion !! Give
all those spectators some first-rate entertainment.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
>While the broadcasts proclaim the Juggernaut, the RT
>alliance is clearly one of desperation, which will need a fair measure of
>luck this Fall to hold its own against AI.
This is clear. In this instance the world has more to fear from AI than
from RT.
>Allowing me to take Swe has
>several advantages for you both.
For me, yes. For Germany? I will see what I can do, but I am not overly
optimistic.
>If I guess correctly in the south, it will
>give me a build to throw at Austria, which will likely stagnate the East,
>and give you the time you need to eliminate France.
It is going to be difficult to persuade Germany that you have room to throw
three armies at Austria. Where would you put the third army? In Moscow?
Then what would Livonia do?
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Master and Russia
Nick,
>> Extend my wishes to your wife.
>
> Thanks, I will.
>
>> one year ago I took my wife, my mother, and my father to
>> the emergency room (*separately*!) all within one 24 hour period.
>
> Hmm, I seem to recall hearing this story... (Of course, I don't
>remember
>who from...8-)
A slip. I apologize to you and to the master. Actually, I can't even
figure out in which of my three prior games I might have said this. I
don't doubt that I did, since it was a rather traumatic time for me.
Ivy
Message from England to France
Mr. Dolphin
You seem to be a leaner, meaner, fishier version of your good brother.
Please give him my regards.
Mr. Wingo
>================================
>Personal note.
>
>In regard to your decision to go after the strongest ally
>right at the beginning.
Less than a decision. I made it my first option. And I failed. Just read
the Italian/German/English correspondence when this is all over.
[Since even EOG statements are often self-serving and less than honest, I
can't wait to read the actual press this time. Or maybe there will be too
much.]
Then I tried to give the possibilities EF & EG equal weight, but the early
German correspondence was hopeless. I resigned myself to an EF alliance
even though I was afraid of you.
>On the chance that you were
>being sincere about your choice to never side with the
>strongest opponent, I truly recommend that you try it
>some time.
Oh, I certaily have, and with good results. If I used the word "never,"
that was simply a mistake. I have used all kinds of stategies in all kinds
of games.
As recently as Saturday morning I was still moving my wooden pieces around
trying to see how the EF campaign would go. Last minute correspondence
received from Germany, Italy, and Russia gave me pause (omitting lots of
details here). Finally I changed my mind.
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>It seems that I have chosen poorly in the south. I really believed
>Roberto's promises to attack Austria.
There is always Tyr-vie; ion-adr, eas-ion possible for Italy this turn.
How one gets him to do this is another matter. I think I will point out to
him the weakness of Italy with respect to Austria when it comes to solo
possibilities.
>I realize that England has its own priorities, and propping up Russia may
>not be among them. Who knows, perhaps in an EG vs AI end game, you'll be in
>good position to take out Germany and come out ahead. My money's on Austria
>in that scenario, though.
Mine too.
>I'm sitting here trying to think of a compelling
>reason why England ought to switch sides and support France
No, there is no good reason at present.
>In any case, you're off to a strong start. Best of luck to you as things
>unfold, and do stay in touch.
Thanks,
Ivy
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
> >If I guess correctly in the south, it will
> >give me a build to throw at Austria,
>It is going to be difficult to persuade Germany that
>you have room to throw three armies at Austria. Where would you put the
>third army? In Moscow?
>Then what would Livonia do?
Sev-Arm, Bla S Mos-StP, Lvn-Mos, or Rum & War S Mos-Ukr,
Lvn-Mos both come to mind.
Nick.
Message from England to Germany
Good Freddy,
I have had a chance to look at the position, and I think our moves are
fairly simple.
I intend
Nwy->Nwg
Eng->Iri
Lon s Nth->Eng
Bel s Mun->Bur
This time, though, we cannot prevent France from getting to Burgundy.
I assume you will try something like
Bal s Den->Swe
Hol s Kie->Ruh
Mun->Bur
Let me know if you would rather try something a little different.
Using Denmark to take Sweden has several huge advantages. It keeps Russia
out of the Baltic. It would be nasty if he got there. In conjunction with
my vacating of the North Sea it creates a large neutral zone between
us. It better positions you for an attack on StP.
I now fear Austria most of all. He is in a wonderful position to have a
shot at a solo down the road. But as much as I would like to see a
stronger Russia to help Turkey, I would much rather see you with a new army
to strengthen your rear. Also, if we let Russia Sweden, what is going to
protect the empty Norway?
Your ally,
Ivy
p.s. I have received SIX or SEVEN e-mails from France. You too, I
suppose. Give him credit for trying, but I cannot be sweet-talked into a
grave error.
Message from France to England
Wingo:
Please do not waste my time with useless messages calling
me a fish or making jokes. If you have business to
attend to, I am more than willing to make the necessary
time. Otherwise, save yourself for the night clubs.
I suggest that you desist from attacking France. Holland
is much easier to take and coupled with Belgium you will
be near the point where you will almost certainly be
impossible to eliminate. Collect Scandinavia and a 8
center England will be in the end game. Any fool can see
that this is your best course of action.
Le DAUPHIN
Message from England to France
I sincerely apologize. I did not mean to offend.
Ivy Wingo
Message from Italy to England and Germany
My reporters are out and about collecting nominations for the 1902 Titleist
awards. They've uncovered some noteworthy nominations including 'Nwy-Stp'
and 'Bal s Den-Swe'. Exactly how accurate are these nominations?
Van Lingle Mungo
Message from England to Italy
Mr. Mungo,
Now that I have an official partner, I must be more careful about comments
on policy. State secrets, ya know.
However, it just so happens that I have not heard from Germany since the
last moves, so there are no state secrets! Thats right, Germany has not
written. I should have known what I was getting into.
So, I will say this. It is unlikely that I will attempt Norway-StP. Can
you tell me why I should consider this? Doesn't it just make Austria's job
easier?
As for Sweden, I fully expect German to take Sweden.
I am very serious, Roberto (now I address Roberto, not Mungo), when I say
that Austria is in a very commanding position and as his ally you have the
primary responsibility of keeping him in check.
Ivy Wingo
>
>Message from Italy to England and Germany in 'titleist':
>
>My reporters are out and about collecting nominations for the 1902 Titleist
>awards. They've uncovered some noteworthy nominations including 'Nwy-Stp'
>and 'Bal s Den-Swe'. Exactly how accurate are these nominations?
>
>Van Lingle Mungo
Message from Italy to England
> It is unlikely that I will attempt Norway-StP. Can
> you tell me why I should consider this? Doesn't it just make
> Austria's job easier?
>
No and yes respectively. I would encourage you not to take STP this fall.
> As for Sweden, I fully expect German to take Sweden.
>
As do I. I see no reason why Germany would not. The question is, which
unit moves and which supports?
However, if you and Germany were interested in slowly down Austria, letting
Russia into Sweden (and not taking STP) would be a good thing, no?
> I am very serious, Roberto (now I address Roberto, not
> Mungo), when I say that Austria is in a very commanding
> position and as his ally you have the
> primary responsibility of keeping him in check.
>
I understand and realize that you will keep reminding me of this fact. I
will do my best to fulfill your wishes and keep Austria in check.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
Any word from Fredd, or the East?
Nick.
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
8:30 Thursday evening. No word from Freddy since the moves. The person I
selected for my ally.
What have I done?
The Boar is quite upset with me and he is probably right.
Ivy
>Ivy,
>
> Any word from Fredd, or the East?
>
>Nick.
Message from England to Italy
Roberto,
> > As for Sweden, I fully expect German to take Sweden.
> >
>
>As do I. I see no reason why Germany would not. The question is, which
>unit moves and which supports?
If I were Germany I would never enter Sweden from Baltic. A Russian fleet
in the Baltic would be a huge headache. Why take the chance?
>However, if you and Germany were interested in slowly down Austria, letting
>Russia into Sweden (and not taking STP) would be a good thing, no?
This is probably too much to ask of Freddy.
Yeah, Freddy. The one I selected for my ally. He has not written since
the last moves. Unthinkable. What have I done?
The Boar is quite upset with me and he is probably right.
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Fred,
I don't expect to be able to check my e-mail again this evening.
I miss your friendly voice. Hope all is well with you.
Ivy
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
> 8:30 Thursday evening. No word from Freddy since the moves.
>The person I selected for my ally.
If it's any consolation, I haven't heard from him either, though
Boar claims he's said that he has claimed Swe. (I suspect that's
to encourage me to retreat to StP, though.)
> What have I done?
Umm, made a mistake?
> The Boar is quite upset with me and he is probably right.
Well, there is the Nwy S GoB-Swe, Nth S Bel-Hol, Eng-Bel,
followed by much groveling option. You've done France no real
harm, so he's likely to accept the upturn in his fortunes with good
graces. I'll certainly lobby on your behalf.
Your Friend,
Nicky.
Message from Germany to England
Ivy:
Lots to talk about.
#1 would be my lack of being timely with my mail. I would imagine that
it's disturbing. I know there have been times when the shoe is on the
other foot that it's gotten under my skin. Well hopefully the amount of
mail will diminish now. Previous to our making the moves that we said
we would, it was best to keep on everyone's good side. Now I can
concentrate on a little more.
BG> Unless Italy has to fight in the East! Wow, Diploman, this game >is
really complicated! So England and
>Germany are promoting the RT alliance so they don't have to share the >spoils in France?
Actually no. I expect you to pick up the spoils of France. And I will
be attacking Sweden this turn. From the Baltic. I'll build an army if
I get it.
I asked Doug for a day extension. If he doesn't give it, then I'll be
late. I'll enter orders about 18 hours after the current deadline. I'll
be checking my mail twice between now and then.
I've read all the emails. Now it's time to reply. I too have 6 or 7
emails from France. No wonder I'm slow in responding.
I think that I'll hold Munich this time. Make sure Italy isn't being
cute. Like you said it won't work anyway.
BAL - SWE as stated above.
KIE will either support HOL or move to RUH. ;-)
HOL will support BEL or KIE - RUH
I see your point about moving DEN away from the NTH. But I don't think
that we have that level of trust yet between us where I'll leave a
center open to you on a fall move. If everything goes as planned I'll
move SWE - BOT and DEN - BAL next spring and commence an attack on STP.
Course there will be a Russian fleet to contend with.
I see our relationship as being built successfully. We're moving step by
step now. I can get a build this turn. You can thwart that. But I do
promise to build an army with it. In Berlin. then that army will move
east. I don't think that you'll feel threatened by that. I can't see
myself building again next year. But perhaps the year after. We have to
work on getting you some builds.
Looking over the board, France will be a tough nut to crack. You'll
need three fleets to break into the MAO. I see that you can't do that
until next fall. We really won't be able to push through on land. But
we'll have to take Burgundy. And since you only have one army I'll have
to take it.
All in all we need to discuss balancing our builds better. I can
see that I'm going to be out in front of you. I don't want to do that
as it'll unbalance our alliance. I'm going to have two fleets and an
army on Russia soon. With that I can break through. At the same time
you'll be slugging it out with France, while I'm the one who will be
leading the charge into France. MAR will be exposed to me for sure.
What would you like to happen in the next two years? It'll be that
long before you can take Brest. I'm thinking that maybe we shouldn't
push into BUR. I don't like the idea of me being in BUR and threatening
to start taking French units. I think that will make you very
suspicious, and the chances of you attacking me go way up. All before
France loses a piece. That's a recipe for disaster.
Fredd
Message from France to England
Wingo:
There is no need to apologize. Your insults mean nothing
to me really. I know whom and what I am.
I do not want you to think that France refuses to
communicate with you. However, you have made it very
clear
that you will not consider siding with France. I will
show you that you made the wrong choice. By the way,
some
ally that you got there. It is just a matter of time
before he lets you down. A moment that I will cherish.
Perhaps I waste my breath, but there is still time for
you to take Holland. Yes, France will be set back from
where
we could have been. But we would still choose to
cautiously work with you. If a very slow elimination and
the
eventual transfer of much of our territory to Italy is
our other option, then why wouldn't we.
If it is Prince Boar that causes your cowardly heart so
much fear, I would be happy to lock him in the Bastille
and
throw away the key. I would handle all the negotiations
in the same manner which I deal with you. Do not worry
about him, he would glad sacrifice his freedom for the
good of France.
Le DAUPHIN
Message from France to all
Tour de France Stage 17 Results:
Aside from a stab by the Germans (Jan Ullrich's team runs
over lance Armstong) it is apparent that England will win
out TdF game. Barring injury, Lance Armstrong will
certainly hold on to the Yellow Jersey. The only
interesting
battle is for the Green Jersey (sprinters points).
O'Grady leads Zabel by 11 points, but has lost a point
each day.
They are awarded based on the first so many riders to
cross the finish line and at some intermediate places.
That
race may come down to the final sprint into Paris.
Serge Baguet won today's stage. No points were awarded
in our game.
Official Tally:
Austria (Domo-Farm Frites): 0 points
England (USPS): 30 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. Lance Armstrong (USP)
2. Jan Ullrich (TEL) @ 5:05
3. Andrei Kivilev (COF) @ 5:13
4. Joseba Beloki (ONC)@ 6:33
-- Prince Boar
Message from Germany to England
So what's the time gap between the first message that I sent tonight
and this one? I'm sending something to you first and last. Without
getting up. No wonder I take days off.
Now I know everything. When I responded before I hadn't really looked
at the board, or read all the other press.
My plans have changed. Although not much. There is a huge threat in
the southeast. AI have Turkey by the balls. Italy could stab Austria
this turn, but I'm betting against it. He could never count on Turkey to
let him keep SMY. Nope it looks like Turkey is done for. Then
Russia. And this should all move quickly. In fact I'd say that we'll
see an Italian fleet move west after the next build. He won't need it in
the east.
It means that we have to move quickly, plus a few other things. When I
was writing my last letter I was planning on running over Russia as soon
as possible. I see myself as working to help him out now. (after I take
SWE) At least for a year. Then I'll grab STP. It does mean that I'll be
slowed in taking centers in the east. That'll be good for our balance.
I see things shaping up like this. We can't stop AI from taking out
Turkey. I can slow them down from overrunning Russia. (I think that
I'll have to send two armies east.) The trouble is if they get too
powerful too fast. We'll never recover.
We have to get through France soon.
I believe that it's time that I trusted you totally. (At least for a
turn or two. ;-) We have to get moving. If the North Sea is open and
unthreatened we can do all sorts of things. Therefore I'm going to
take your advice and support DEN - SWE. And I'm going to go to RUHR.
This will leave me open to a stab from you in HOL or DEN, but not both.
Plus I'll definitely get SWE, so even if you stab I won't have to
disband.
After this turn, since you won't have anything in the North Sea, I can
swing HOL to RUH, and two of my armies can go to fight the Hun. (or am
I the Hun? Shouldn't the Hun be in Hungary?)
What do you think?
Fredd
Message [from Austria] to all
While I was one of those who received a "late" notice, my orders are in.
If I have an error flag, this message is to clear it.
Message from France to England
Wingo:
Hmm, someone is late. I wonder who that could possibly
be? Perhaps that ally that you need to count on?
Since there is currently no reason to discuss alliances,
I will spend the time doing what I love, talking tactics.
Image what would have happened if you had stayed with our
plan. We would have had the following:
Armies in Ruhr, Picardy, Burdungy, and Paris.
Fleets in the Bight, North Sea, London, Norway and the
Channel. (as well as a Russian one in GoB)
Germany would have had a Fleets in Denmark and Baltic,
armies in Munich, Holland, and Kiel.
We would have had so many options. Certainly there would
have been a guessing game between Kiel, Munich, and
Holland. But Germany could not have covered them all and
unless he guessed perfectly he would have lost one. I
even liked an option where you took Holland by Fleet and
moved London to the North Sea. Kiel would have fallen
even quicker with fleets in Hel, Hol, and Nth, as well as
an army in Ruhr. But there were also other options.
The Fleet in the Channel could have moved out this
turn and not waited. Russia would have likely been in
Sweden this turn to help you with Denmark and been very
grateful.
Now you are stuck trying to guess right just to make
progress, not take any center. And you have to worry
about my invading your homeland if you mess up.
Le DAUPHIN
Message from Germany to England
Ivy:
Yes that's me who is late. I'm off to work. I'm planning on turning
my orders in later tonight. So if there's anything that you'd like to
discuss I can read one message before turning in my orders. And if I
really need to reply I'll be late another day. I imagine that I have
sufficient points to survive.
My orders are still similar to the below
MUN hold
KIE - RUH
DEN - SWE
Fredd
Message from France to England
Wingo:
So Germany is late and is admittedly
waiting to turn in orders until he is ready.
If there was any chance at an alliance
with you I would proposed banding
together to punish such behavior.
What a spot to be in, having two
powers needing to work with you so much
that you can be obnoxious and get
away with it.
Le DAUPHIN
Message from Russia to England and France
Gentlemen,
Well, the good news is that Fredd is finally
talking. The bad news is that he seems to lack the
foresight to realize that if he takes Sweden,
instead of letting me have it, the RT defense
against AI is likely to rapidly collapse, and the
extra Army will do him no good, even if he sends
it East. I've laid it out for him in every way I
can think of, but he still seems determined to take
Swe. Ah well, I wish you both luck.
Sincerely,
Czar Nicholas II.
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
I suppose that Nwy S GoB-Swe, Nth-Den would
still get me Sweden, but I can't envision you
issuing those orders.
Nick.
Message from England to Master
Although Germany is my ally (some choice I made), I wonder if it is
appropriate for you to make some comment about the propriety of diploming
after the deadline when one doesn't have orders in.
Allen
Message from England to France
Dauphin,
>There is no need to apologize. Your insults mean nothing
>to me really.
But I did not intend to insult. The humor was lame and, under the
circumstances, inappropriate.
>However, you have made it very clear
>that you will not consider siding with France.
Yeah, that's where we are right now.
I try to maintain the possibility of reversing course if circumstances
change. Especially if some third party threatens to run away from a game.
Once I proxied all my units to my game-long enemy so that he could stop
someone else from winning.
>By the way, some ally that you got there.
I think you will get some satisfaction from knowing that Germany did not
send me any note after the last set of moves until after 11pm last night.
8-)
Concerning your second note on what could have been:
>Russia would have likely been in
>Sweden this turn to help you with Denmark and been very
>grateful.
That was SO important to me! Russia refused! I had asked you about
Norway->StP, and you asked me not to do it. I accepted that, even though I
worried about your motivation for keeping Russia strong. I accepted that.
But when I offered to help Russia into Sweden in exchange for him helping
me into Denmark, he declined. He said he thought he should have Denmark
also. I couldn't believe it.
Water over the dam. I am going to try sticking with Germany and see how it
goes.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Russia
> I suppose that Nwy S GoB-Swe, Nth-Den would
>still get me Sweden,
Not if Germany attacks Sweden from Denmark. Then it would bounce.
Before the spring move, I offered you Sweden in the spring in exchange for
Denmark in the fall. You declined, saying that you would prefer to have
Denmark also, and that had a gigantic effect on my decision to go with
Germany as an ally.
I know you were in a tricky situation at the time. Accepting my offer would
have meant that you could not have convoyed the army to Livonia. Tough
choice. Consequently, I was left with a tough choice also.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to Germany
Freddy,
I have changed back again. Once again it is Lon s North Sea->Channel. We
can talk about this later. If together we think the army in Holland is
needed in the east, at that time we can move London->Nth Sea to do the job.
With this change, and with North sea now open, I sure hope you can get Kiel
into Ruhr.
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Fred,
Fast note. 3:30 pm.
I got up at 5am glanced at the e-mail and had to dash out of the house
(long story). When I got back this afternoon, I had internet trouble for
two hours.
I changed one move. London-Channel instead of North Sea to Channel. I
will change again if you ask me to. North Sea can support Belgium, freeing
your Holland army to do anything. I wouldn't dare grab one of your centers
with North Sea, because France would pee his pants with glee and I would
get crushed between the two of you. Anyway, Channel->Irish Sea is proof
enough that I am at deep war with France. He will be in Mao, but my fleet
from Norway will be in Norwegian Sea and in another turn I will have three
on two in the Atlantic.
Again, if you prefer I do it the other way, let me know.
I'll have more time after 4pm and will write again.
Ivy Wingo
>Ivy:
> Yes that's me who is late. I'm off to work. I'm planning on turning
>my orders in later tonight. So if there's anything that you'd like to
>discuss I can read one message before turning in my orders. And if I
>really need to reply I'll be late another day. I imagine that I have
>sufficient points to survive.
>
>My orders are still similar to the below
>MUN hold
>KIE - RUH
>DEN - SWE
>
>
>Fredd
Message from Germany to England
Ivy:
I would prefer that you move Nth - ENG. I don't want to leave DEN open
if you're in the North Sea. Plus I can move Holland down to Ruhr if
it's open.
Strategically I believe it would be a bad idea for you to attack me
now. But stranger things have happened.
If we disengage on this front both of us can go on to bigger better
things.
What do you think about the threat in the east? AI
Fredd
Austria: Fleet Aegean Sea SUPPORT Italian Army Tunis → Smyrna
Austria: Army Budapest SUPPORT Army Serbia
Austria: Army Galicia SUPPORT Army Ukraine → Warsaw (*dislodged*)
Austria: Army Serbia HOLD
Austria: Army Ukraine → Warsaw
England: Army Belgium SUPPORT German Army Munich → Burgundy (*void*)
England: Fleet English Channel → Irish Sea
England: Fleet London SUPPORT Fleet North Sea → English Channel
England: Fleet North Sea → English Channel
England: Fleet Norway → Norwegian Sea
France: Fleet Brest SUPPORT Fleet Portugal → Mid-Atlantic Ocean
France: Army Gascony SUPPORT Army Paris → Burgundy
France: Army Paris → Burgundy
France: Army Picardy → Belgium (*bounce*)
France: Fleet Portugal → Mid-Atlantic Ocean
Germany: Fleet Baltic Sea SUPPORT Fleet Denmark → Sweden
Germany: Fleet Denmark → Sweden
Germany: Army Holland → Ruhr
Germany: Army Kiel → Munich
Germany: Army Munich → Bohemia
Italy: Fleet Eastern Mediterranean CONVOY Army Tunis → Smyrna
Italy: Fleet Ionian Sea CONVOY Army Tunis → Smyrna
Italy: Army Tunis → Ionian Sea → Eastern Mediterranean → Smyrna
Italy: Army Tyrolia HOLD
Russia: Fleet Gulf of Bothnia → Sweden (*bounce*)
Russia: Army Livonia → Moscow
Russia: Fleet Sevastopol SUPPORT Turkish Army Rumania
Russia: Army Warsaw → Galicia
Turkey: Fleet Black Sea SUPPORT Army Rumania
Turkey: Army Bulgaria → Greece
Turkey: Army Rumania SUPPORT Russian Army Warsaw → Galicia
Turkey: Army Smyrna HOLD (*dislodged*)
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