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Message from Germany to England
> France: Builds a fleet in Marseilles.
Good to see that I'm not always wrong. Although I don't understand it.
Fredd
Message from England to Germany
Fredd,
>> France: Builds a fleet in Marseilles.
>
>Good to see that I'm not always wrong. Although I don't understand it.
I guess we just don't understand how to play Diplomacy. I never gave this
build a chance.
Actually, after a week of silence, I got an e-mail from Italy yesterday.
He, too, predicted the fleet build, and said to expect Por s Mar->Spa.
According to Italy, France's strategy is to discourage me by seeming to
hand all the opportunities to you. Apparently, I am supposed to become
frustrated and change sides.
Italy also wanted Austria to eliminate his fleet, and I thought Austria
would certainly do that. By keeping the fleet, Austria prevents Italy from
moving Ionian to the west.
More good news. With Paris unoccupied, I can force Channel into Picardy
and Nth into the Channel without your help. So I won't have to beg. 8-)
More, after I get a good look at the position.
Ivy
Message from England to Italy
Good Roberto,
I seem to be totally ignorant in the ways of Diplomacy. How did I ever
make the final round?
Never in a million years did I think France would build a fleet. Although
I gave it much less thought, I was confident that Austria would destroy
his.
Taking the latter first, Austria's decision looks like a complete "give-up"
move designed only to harass you. By keeping the fleet, Austria occupies
your Ionian fleet for one more year. Frankly, I don't think this makes any
difference to anything in the long run.
Back to France, where you were completely correct and I was wrong. You
either have better diplomacy sense than I do or better information. I
don't wish to put you on the spot again by asking your intentions -- at
least for now. We apparently can't get you Spain immediately anyway. I do
wish to repeat my suggestion that, no matter what you deem best in the
short run, our interests are best served in the long run by not practicing
deception for short term gains. Our potential for working together is
considerable.
Once I asked you how you were going to restrain Austria. Question: how are
you going to contain Turkey? I know, I know, how am I going to contain
Germany? Both Turkey and Germany have better control over the alliances
than we do. This year they have the opportunity to surge ahead
independently, or they can restrain themselves and maintain equality with a
partner. That's what I would do, but then I am not them.
I still think that the sooner we rid ourselves of France, the sooner we can
come to grips with Germany & Turkey.
Cordially,
Ivy
Message from Russia to England
Ivy, My Friend,
Roberto indicates that he's planning to support
France this year while he finishes off Austria. I
suppose he could be lying, but I don't see why he
would. France's Fleet build is a clear indication
that he intends to defend against you, even it that
means sacrificing Centers to Germany. Austria's
moronic disband is a clear signal that he hopes to
see me eliminated before he is, though why he would
feel that way, I don't understand. The combination
of these facts means that IF you're lucky, AND you
get support from Germany, you'll get one build from
France this year, while Germany gains two or three.
On the other hand, by stabbing Germany this
Spring, you can gain two Centers while Germany, at
best, remains at six Centers, and more likely loses
one or two. Next year, Italy is likely to attack
France, leaving you free to expand in Germany without
fear of a resurgent France, and I'll still be around
to harass Germany in the East, and stir up trouble
between Italy and Turkey. Please let me know what
you're thinking, since, if you're going to continue
your attack on France, I have to write Germany and
play up the threat of EF Nth, while if you're going
to attack Germany, I'll want to focus on IA Ven.
Still Struggling,
Nick.
Message from Italy to England
>
> I seem to be totally ignorant in the ways of Diplomacy. How
> did I ever make the final round?
>
Better to be lucky than good I guess. :)
> Never in a million years did I think France would build a
> fleet.
When I saw the disband, I immediately assumed a fleet in Marseilles was on
the way. Neither you nor Germany had a build so there was no reason to keep
either of you guessing.
> Although I gave it much less thought, I was confident
> that Austria would destroy his.
>
As was I. The Austrian disband caught me by surprise but, as I look at the
map, I think this was the best possible disband for Italy. The Aegean fleet
causes more concern for Turkey than I and Trieste is much more easily
defended now. I'm pleased with the results of the winter.
> Taking the latter first, Austria's decision looks like a
> complete "give-up" move designed only to harass you. By
> keeping the fleet, Austria occupies your Ionian fleet for
> one more year. Frankly, I don't think this makes any
> difference to anything in the long run.
>
Here's my take on the Austrian disband. Most Diplomacy players direct their
attention/defense at the last person who stabbed them. In this case, I
think Turkey stabbed Austria in the fall. Austria was probably expecting
Turkish support into Trieste and didn't get it. It's clear Austria's
disband favors Italy more than Turkey and the only reason for that would be
if Austria was more upset at Turkey than me.
> I don't wish to put you on the spot again by asking your
> intentions -- at least for now. We apparently can't get
> you Spain immediately anyway.
Doubtful and I don't want to try until it's guaranteed and I have the
ability to defend the center with my own units. It's not that I distrust
you but I prefer to take and defend centers with my own units without having
to rely on outside help. It's very nerve racking to wonder if Turkey will
order Ser s Tri or Ser s Vie-Tri.
I suppose it goes back to the adage I talked about above, Diplomacy players
are most mad at the last player to stab them. Currently, you are the last
player to stab France. As Italy, there is no real reason for me to change
that at least until Austria is eliminated and I need to find another place
of growth.
> I do wish to repeat my suggestion that, no matter what
> you deem best in the short run, our interests are best
> served in the long run by not practicing deception for
> short term gains. Our potential for working together is
> considerable.
>
I agree. Thus, I am informing you that, at least for this spring, I will
use my Western Med fleet as France desires. I will reevaluate the position
in the fall. Had Austria disbanded his fleet and allowed me to move another
fleet west, I think I would have felt more secure in attacking France this
year. So, hopefully next year, I will be in a position where I feel
comfortable in beginning our active participation against France.
>
> Question: how are you going to contain Turkey?
>
I'm hoping Germany will worry about containing Turkey. :)
> I know, how am I going to contain Germany? Both Turkey
> and Germany have better control over the alliances
> than we do. This year they have the opportunity to surge ahead
> independently, or they can restrain themselves and maintain
> equality with a partner.
>
Prior to the disbands, Turkey and I had planned (hoped) to each take 1 from
Austria - BUD->Italy and SEV->Turkey. Turkey and I are both proponents of
maintaining equality with a partner. However, of the 4 major powers, you're
currently the only one without 6 centers. Thus, I'm secretly hoping that
you reach 6 this year as I suspect Germany will acquire STP for his 7th.
With German assistance, I think it's possible. He'd have some explaining to
do if he didn't help you.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
> Roberto indicates that he's planning to support
>France this year while he finishes off Austria. I
>suppose he could be lying, but I don't see why he
>would.
He's clearly not lying, since he told me the same thing. The
French/Italian relationship has been very, very strong since the beginning.
That's one reason why I have been very reluctant to turn my back on France
and go after Germany.
I think France intended from the beginning of this game to go north. It is
what he will do now given the opportunity.
> Austria's
>moronic disband is a clear signal that he hopes to
>see me eliminated before he is,
A puzzlement. That disband only serves to speed Austria's demise.
>The combination
>of these facts means that IF you're lucky, AND you
>get support from Germany, you'll get one build from
>France this year, while Germany gains two or three.
Yes, I will be lucky to get even one center. I don't think Germany will
get more than StP. Unfortunately, I have no way of preventing your loss of
StP. Germany will take that no matter what I do.
>if you're going to continue
>your attack on France, I have to write Germany and
>play up the threat of EF Nth
I am still leaning that way. If I ever change my mind, I doubt that I
would advertise it. Please don't tell Germany about the North Sea. He
hasn't even noticed it. 8-)
Cordially,
Ivy
Message from England to Italy
Good Roberto,
>Here's my take on the Austrian disband. Most Diplomacy players direct their
>attention/defense at the last person who stabbed them.
It's a very emotional thing, as you surely know. I think that the defense
is usually directed at the one who most hurt the cause and sent one on a
losing spiral. For example, I expect that should France die as a result of
the current position, he will always defend against me.
> It's very nerve racking to wonder if Turkey will
>order Ser s Tri or Ser s Vie-Tri.
Turkey will remain on your side until he picks up Sevastopol and Moscow.
Then he will charge west. If you have picked up Vienna and Budapest, you
may be able to restrain him. Germany will be a wild card in this. I can't
quite envision what German strength will be like in a year or two. Anyway,
I do believe that Turkey will work with you for at least one more year.
My biggest fear is that Germany will unite with France and crush me, before
France is weakened. It troubles me a little that Turkey and Germany have a
potential stalemate line between them that they can use should they throw
in together.
> I am informing you that, at least for this spring, I will
>use my Western Med fleet as France desires. I will reevaluate the position
>in the fall.
This is what I had been expecting. It is what the whole world has been
telling me. Of course, I trust that you will contain your support of
France to your side of Gibralter. I have pledged to respect that boundary
and I hope you do too. Please do not support any action in the Mid
Atlantic.
>Prior to the disbands, Turkey and I had planned (hoped) to each take 1 from
>Austria - BUD->Italy and SEV->Turkey. Turkey and I are both proponents of
>maintaining equality with a partner. However, of the 4 major powers, you're
>currently the only one without 6 centers. Thus, I'm secretly hoping that
>you reach 6 this year
I have a chance, although it is not a certainty. Please note that your
secret hope is incompatible with my loss of MAO. 8-)
Good luck.
Most cordially,
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Dear Fredd,
Here is what I learned from Italy, whose honesty in this matter is almost
certain.
(1) His western fleet will be at the disposal of France
(2) He is supposed to get Budapest while Turkey picks up Sevastopol
>From the former, I expect an immediate assault on the Mid-Atlantic.
>From the latter, I think that TI will hold together this year and perhaps a
little longer. They will be at 7-7 after this year. One can speculate
that Turkey and Italy then intend to split Moscow and Vienna and go to 8-8.
After that, my crystal ball (bought second hand from the estate of Neville
Chamberlain) is cloudy. Surely, Turkey has to hit Italy eventually.
*******
I understand the importance of my not knowing your moves this turn. That
has been made clear. But I do want you to know my moves. Unless you
instruct otherwise, I think I need to do the following:
Bel supp Eng->Pic
Nth->Eng
Mao->Bre
Nao-Mao
This should get me in Picardy and clear the North Atlantic, even with no
support from you. Unfortunately, I think I will lose Mao.
******
My comments on StP. Take it immediately with Bot supp Liv->StP. This
seems to be the right thing to do, even if you suspect my motives. Russia
knows that StP is doomed and he might get cute with his fleet. If he moves
to Finland, then you cannot protect Sweden and take StP at the same time.
Also, by taking StP with Livonia, Bot can stay behind and keep an eye on
Sweden in case that horrible Englishman proves trecherous.
******
OK. Here is where I lay out my "dream moves" -- moves that would be made by
a well-oiled, trusting partnership. Hey, this is Diplomacy, so I can
always suggest! 8-) I do not necessarily expect a reply on this.
Nao s Mao
Eng->Bre [these two moves save the Mao & cut support for Pic]
Bel->Pic
Nth->Bel [gets Nth out of your hair, provided:
Bur s Bel->Pic [There's the rub!!]
I don't know what you would otherwise do with Burgundy, but there is so
much to gain here for so little risk. With these moves, we can be 7-6 in
the fall. I am not so sure that we can afford to wait a year. Won't
France be in the Mid-Atlantic by then? If you want to play it safe and
wait a year, you might be better off by throwing in with France and taking
me out. Perhaps am missing something.
********
Anyway, as of now, my moves are as mentioned above. Not the dream moves,
but the moves first mentioned that get me out of Nth without help from
Burgundy.
Most cordially,
Ivy
Message from Italy to England
>
> Please do not support any action in the Mid Atlantic.
>
France has yet to request an order so I don't know what he has in mind;
however, I told him I don't want to support action in the MAO since I really
don't want to 'force' a retreat to North Africa and then be 'forced' to
defend Tunis.
If I had to guess, he's going to ask me to support Mar-Spa/sc so that he can
use Portugal against the MAO either supporting Brest there or moving there
itself. I would be hard-pressed to deny that request and still maintain any
friendly relations with the Prince. If you want any accurate info down the
road about French moves, I suspect it would come from me so keeping him on
my good side is good for the both of us.
Life is Beautiful,
Roberto
Message from England to Italy
Roberto,
>If I had to guess, he's going to ask me to support Mar-Spa/sc so that he can
>use Portugal against the MAO either supporting Brest there or moving there
>itself. I would be hard-pressed to deny that request
This is perfectly fine with me. By the way, I doubt that Germany will ever
try for Marseilles.
Ivy
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
>He's clearly not lying, since he told me the same thing. The
>French/Italian relationship has been very, very strong since the beginning.
>That's one reason why I have been very reluctant to turn my back on France
>and go after Germany. I think France intended from the beginning of this
>game to go north. It is
>what he will do now given the opportunity.
Once Austria's gone, (this year), that Italian
support is almost certain to turn aggressive, though.
I don't believe France will be able to move North.
>That disband only serves to speed Austria's demise.
The only explanation I can come up with is he's
hoping that Turkey will grow faster, and stab Italy.
>I don't think Germany will get more than StP.
It obviously depends on my moves, and France's
but I've made a commitment to destroy the Austrian
Army in Sev this Spring, so War is at risk, and I
expect that France will defend Bre and Iberia,
risking Par or Mar, so three for Germany is possible.
>Unfortunately, I have no way of preventing your loss of
>of StP. Germany will take that no matter what I do.
True, but Nth-Den, StP-Fin, followed by Den S Fin-Swe
balances it nicely, and forces him to pull back from
StP and War.
>I am still leaning that way. If I ever change my mind, I doubt that I
>would advertise it.
I'm not suggesting that you leak your plans to
me, but rather proposing an alliance against Germany.
Work with me against him, and you'll get two builds
this year, and I'll use my influence with Italy and
France to encourage IF conflict.
>Please don't tell Germany about the North Sea. He hasn't even noticed it.
>8-)
If you're not willing to work with me against
him, I have to play up the threat your position
poses to him to delay his attack on me. Given the
choice, I'd much rather work with you, though.
Your Friend,
Nick.
Message from Germany to England
> According to Italy, France's strategy is to discourage me by
> seeming to hand all the opportunities to you. Apparently,
> I am supposed to become frustrated and change sides.
I was thinking along the same lines. (after I saw the build)
Although I doubt if it's to frustrate you. He's trying to get you to
attack me, by getting you to believe that I have the opportunity to grow
much faster than you do. This is actually true. The error of this
strategy will be revealed with my move. Although now that Vienna is
open I might have to rething one of the moves that I phased in.
Fredd
Message from Germany to England
If Italy gets BUD and Turkey gets SEV, who gets VIE? I think it's more
likely that Turkey will get BUD and SEV. Giving Turkey two builds next
time. That's when he might try to make nice with me and attack ITaly.
I'm afraid that I still can't help you from BUR. I want to be a man of
my word. I said that I'd have to make covering moves if you went to
NTH. So now I'd better make them or the value of my word is lessened.
PLus I don't want to give you the idea that I'll leave myself open to a
stab, down the road.
Fredd
Message from France to England
Wingo:
I guess that this is the moment of truth. I will have a
difficult time, but I do have a reasonable chance at
denying you a build. I have not had great luck so far,
but perhaps I am due, n'est pas?
Le DAUPHIN
Message from England to France
>I guess that this is the moment of truth. I will have a
>difficult time, but I do have a reasonable chance at
>denying you a build. I have not had great luck so far,
>but perhaps I am due, n'est pas?
You are doing quite well, my friend. The whole world knows that you have
the French fleet at your disposal.
In spite of this, I can draw up a sequence of moves that guarantees me a
French center this year. Germany will not make those moves, unfortunately.
So it looks like you are winning where it counts the most -- on the
diplomatic front. I congratulate you.
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Fredd,
> Although now that Vienna is open I might have to rething one of the moves
>that I phased in.
Perhaps you may want to consider some additional information. Russia, who
is trying very hard to get me to attack you, has revealed that he is
committed to the destruction of the Austrian army at Sevastopol this
spring. I think this is reliable information. If so, it implies the
following moves.
War->Mos
Gal->Ukr
These in conjunction with Bla s Rum->Sev, Ser->Bud, and Bul->Rum.
Makes perfectly good sense. Russia hates Austria. Also, the War->Mos move
does give Russia a 50-50 chance up north. If he is in Moscow and Finland
(yes, he intends to go there) after the spring, and you are in Bot & StP,
it becomes a guessing game.
Anyway, all of this suggests to me that you consider Pru->War & Boh->Sil
this spring. Then you pick up at least one and have a 50-50 shot at two
centers.
> I want to be a man of my word.
Fair enough. Your word also includes a committment to a balanced alliance.
My word too. Does that mean that you will give me Holland on loan if you
gain one or two units and a French center is denied to me?
Your friend and ally,
Ivy
p.s. Russia makes a grave threat if I refuse to agree to attack you. He
threatens to tell you about the dangers of my fleet in the North Sea. I
begged him not to do this, because you have not noticed it yet. 8-)
Message from France to England
Wingo:
>You are doing quite well
An overstatement, I am sure.
>The whole world knows that you have
>the French fleet at your disposal.
So you notice? :-) Take it as a statement of where my
priorities will be on defense.
>Germany will not make those moves, unfortunately.
>So it looks like you are winning where it counts the
>most -- on the diplomatic front. I congratulate you.
I doubt it is because of anything that Prince Boar is
doing. France = Oil, Germany = Water
France must be benefiting from something between you and
Germany. Not that it is that much of a benefit.
Do you notice that Italy is poised to grow more.
Certainly he will soon have a couple of more fleet over
to help around Iberia. This may allow you to
someday split France with him. But do you really gain
from that? A center or two and the Mediterranean
completely sealed off to you unless Turkey one day opens
it up for you. In that senario you get a couple more
French centers but Turkey gets Italy and the Balkans.
Germany will seal off Russia and be large and dangerous.
Where will you go for growth?
France seems to be important to you as a means for
preventing that senario. We also have that new fleet in
the south that could be useful. Go get your centers
elsewhere and then we can talk.
Le DAUPHIN
Message from England to Master
O master,
I will be out of town from noon tomorrow (Thursday) until late on Sunday.
If I have a retreat after the spring move I will easily handle it on
Thursday morning.
This is a request that the fall move due-date be postponed until Tuesday.
Allen
Message from Germany to England
>
> Fair enough. Your word also includes a committment to a balanced alliance.
> My word too. Does that mean that you will give me Holland on loan if you
> gain one or two units and a French center is denied to me?
Still does. In fact I had written that down on my last press, but then
erased it. No sense in making promises all the time that I might not
need to keep.
>
> p.s. Russia makes a grave threat if I refuse to agree to attack you. He
> threatens to tell you about the dangers of my fleet in the North Sea. I
> begged him not to do this, because you have not noticed it yet. 8-)
Nick actually did send a note. ;-)
Message from France to all
Spring 1904 Symposium on Philosophy, Europe and
Everything.
- by Prince Xavier Boar
[This is Stuart Scott here. Surprisingly I did not lose
my job. I think that the brothers are too busy trying to
defend France to worry about me. They definitely could
use a better middle linebacker, that guy in Burgundy
folded like a freshly dried bath towel. Maybe they
should try to trade for Ray Lewis.]
[Let's role the clip on the uncensored parts of Prince
Boar's speech.]
Countrymen, life in France remains hard. The English and
the Germans continue to press our borders. With horror
we witnessed the deaths of some brave lads in Burgundy.
The Dauphin tells me that their sacrifice was necessary
and will not go in vain, but it was a tragedy
nonetheless. The Dauphin and I will continue to do
everything we can to turn back the English fleets and
slow down, if we can, the German armies.
We do welcome the arrival of the Italian fleet. Its
presence may allow us to hold out for as long as
possible.
[Was the disaster in Burgundy really a sacrifice for that
new fleet or are they just trying to cover up their
blunder? He mentioned some private stuff to give the
French people hope. Hope that he will stop talking that
is! Here is his customary pedantic philosophy portion.
Hey, alliteration. I have to find a way to use that one
on SportsCenter. Boomer will be so jealous.]
Philosophy
Today's lecture is on the topic of doubt and will feature
a great French philosopher, Rene Descartes. Descartes is
best know for his classic conclusion: Cogito ergo sum, or
in French: Je pense donc je suis. For the benefit of our
English speaking brethren: I think, therefore I exist.
The Dauphin likes to modify this philosophy to: I fight
therefore I exist. But the important part of this
philosophy is that Descartes arrived at it from a
foundation of doubt.
Descartes sought a method for seeing the truth of things
based on reason alone. He suspended belief in everything
he learned from childhood, doubted everything, as a
deliberate strategy toward certainty. My failure to
France was not starting for this same location. I should
have doubted the existence of an English alliance until
there was proof to support it. I put France at risk by
being blinded by faith without certainty. But no more.
The Dauphin and I pledge to continue to defend France as
if she will continue to be invaded by England and German.
No matter what the words we are hearing, we shall wait
for proof.
I am sure that many of you have noticed the Italian fleet
off our borders and recall my earlier words welcoming
them. You must be thinking, but you have not proof of
their intentions. I admit it is true. Only can a real
necessity or benefit allow us to risk trust without
proof. Therefore we must trust the Italian intentions.
[I think therefore I am, an interesting philosophy. I
know many a lineman who doesn't really think. I wonder
if they exist? If a Quarterbacks simply refuse to
believe in the existence of that 300 pound lineman, would
the bull pass right through him? Of course if he is
wrong, he will have plenty of time in a hospital bed to
ponder his philosophies.]
[Well, that is all folks. Until next year, if there is a
next year for France. I wish the Dauphin good luck. I
like coming to France. Where else do the women
continually kiss you on the cheeks whenever you walk into
the room?
Really, where else do they do that? I want to know. I
have some vacation time coming and need to plan a trip
somewhere!
Stuart]
Message from Master to England
Understood! I'll move the fall movement deadline to Tuesday evening.
Doug
Message [from France] to all
BG> Holey Baloney Diploman, the French sure are taking some pot shots at the
English. They do not seem to need our services.
DM> Boy Gambit, our role is to expose the betrayers in the world, it is up to
the powers to decide how to handle those betrayals. Perhaps the French are
just a bunch of whiners!
BG> Was that whiners or "winers"? They drink a lot of wine, get it?
DM> Yes, ahem. It is sure nice to be back in action now that everyone is back
from vacation.
BG> Why were we so silent? It was boring watching all those reruns on cable!
DM> Well Boy Gambit, we do not want to broadcast during known absences. By a
process of elimination our identities would be revealed.
BG> Holey Brainwaves Diploman, you certainly are smart. I never thought of
that.
DM> We have missed a bit of action during our silence. The blood was barely dry
on the knife and the Italian promptly stuck it in the back of the Austrian.
BG> Yes, they certainly are active. Who will be the next one to feel his knife?
The French?
DM> We shall see Boy Gambit, we will watch Boy Gambit. Anything else strike
you as being naughty.
BG> Well, I can't help but wonder if the Germans really invited the English back
into the North Sea. Was that a betrayal Diploman?
DM> We are currently investigating that one. It is up in the air pending
further information.
BG> The Germans may not have much to complain about. The Russia move to
Livonia last spring suggests that they expected something else from the Germans.
DM> Good point Boy Gambit. You grow in awareness each day.
BG> Holey Flattery Diploman, you embarrass me.
Message from Russia to all
"St. Petersburg Pravda"
January, 1904
"Labor Unrest Worsens"
The work stoppages which have plagued the nation
since Production losses were anounced in 1902 have
worsened due to the flat economic results in 1903.
The employment crisis in Sevastopol, that was brought
about by the decommisioning of the Southern Fleet,
has been exacerbated by the garrisoning of the
Austrian 1st Calavry there last Fall. Czar Nicholas
has pledged that the Austrian 1st Cavalry will be
destroyed this Spring, and their horses slaughtered
to feed the residents of Sevastopol who were uprooted
from their homes last Fall. The Bolsheviks, always
the most radical memebers of the Union movement are
demanding a rethinking of the underlying unionization
strategy, and threatening revolution if there demands
are not met. There are rumors that the Czar's
personal guard are keeping the Royal Yacht, the
Standart, fully stocked, and prepared to leave port
at a moment's notice.
Message from England to Germany
Fredd,
My moves are in. You know what they are:
England: Army Belgium SUPPORT Fleet English Channel -> Picardy.
England: Fleet North Atlantic Ocean -> Mid-Atlantic Ocean.
England: Fleet English Channel -> Picardy.
England: Fleet North Sea -> English Channel.
England: Fleet Mid-Atlantic Ocean -> Brest.
Highest priority is removing the North Sea.
Consequently, lowest priority is defending Mid-Atlantic Ocean.
I will check the mail tonight in case you have any last minute advice.
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Haven't heard from you in a bit. Hope all is well on your end.
The word I'm getting from Italy is that he will support France "until the
Austrian fleet has been dealt with". It is my sincere hope that Austria will
be eliminated this year, and if so it will give Roberto greater flexibility
where France is concerned. As I understand it, he will not support France to
MAO, for fear of an English forward retreat to NAf. So, my guess offhand is
WMS S Mar-Spa/sc, but that's just a guess.
For myself, my moves will come as no surprise to anybody. I'll be attempting
to advance my position so as to have a say in the disposition of Sev and Rum,
and will attempt to take one or the other this year. Which one has yet to be
determined, and will depend largely on what Germany does.
How are things with you and Germany, were you able to iron out the disposition
of F Nth? I'm not asking you to tell me what Nth has planned, but if you
could give me some indication as to whether you think Germany will continue
anti-Russian efforts or not, it would be greatly appreciated.
Regards,
Ali
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
Have you come to a decision about Nth-Den? I ask because if
you're going to do it, and are willing to order Den S Fin-Swe in the
Fall, I'll move to Fin. If you're not going to move Nth-Den, I'll
have to consider other possibilities.
Thanks,
Nick.
Message [from France] to all
>I think, therefore I exist.
On an evening such as this,
It's hard to believe that I exist
- Bare Naked Ladies
>Czar Nicholas
>has pledged that the Austrian 1st Cavalry will be
>destroyed this Spring, and their horses slaughtered
>to feed the residents of Sevastopol who were uprooted
>from their homes last Fall.
I heartily suggest that you choose the tail end of the horse. Everyone
knows that it is the best part. We enjoy it so much we often act like
one.
- Buck Naked Gentlemen
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>Haven't heard from you in a bit. Hope all is well on your end.
Sorry 'bout that. Is it well? I'm not sure.
>The word I'm getting from Italy is that he will support France "until the
>Austrian fleet has been dealt with". It is my sincere hope that Austria will
>be eliminated this year, and if so it will give Roberto greater flexibility
>where France is concerned. As I understand it, he will not support France to
>MAO, for fear of an English forward retreat to NAf. So, my guess offhand is
>WMS S Mar-Spa/sc, but that's just a guess.
This is the worst kept secret of the game. Even Italy has told me this much.
>For myself, my moves will come as no surprise to anybody. I'll be attempting
>to advance my position so as to have a say in the disposition of Sev and Rum,
>and will attempt to take one or the other this year. Which one has yet to be
>determined, and will depend largely on what Germany does.
Uh, you already own Rumania. Did you mean Budapest?
>How are things with you and Germany, were you able to iron out the disposition
>of F Nth? I'm not asking you to tell me what Nth has planned, but if you
>could give me some indication as to whether you think Germany will continue
>anti-Russian efforts or not, it would be greatly appreciated.
My guess is that Germany will continue his anti-Russian efforts. Only a
guess, because from the beginning of the game Germany has never disclosed
his eastern moves to me in advance.
It has been difficult to work out a North Sea move that pleases both
Germany and me. It is easy to find moves that would displease him. The
North Sea will be moving. That's the most I can say for now.
Good luck,
Ivy
Message from England to Russia
Nick,
> Have you come to a decision about Nth-Den?
Yes, I entered my moves a few hours ago. For various reasons, I think it
best that I not say what my moves are. Information has been flowing around
Europe much too easily. For example, everyone knows that the Italian fleet
is at France's disposal. Even Italy has had to confirm that.
I can say that I have no idea what moves Germany will make on his eastern
front. From the beginning of the game he has declined to reveal eastern
moves to me.
Cordially,
Ivy
Message from Italy to England
France has requested Wes s Bre-Mao. I refused and he asked me to reconsider
as "defense of France is based on this move". I find myself between a rock
and a hard place - not wanting to support action in the MAO but also not
wanting to tip off France to my fleets true intention. Do you have a
suggestion of what I can tell France?
Roberto
Message [from Turkey] to all
DATELINE: CONSTANTINOPLE
The official Turkish news agency announced today
that Sultan Suleiman, the Turkish ceremonial head
of state, is dead. The circumstances surrounding
the Sultan's death were not immediately made public.
Several witnesses to the elaborate state funeral
claim that the corpse on display, while bearing a
resemblance to the Sultan, was not actually that of
Suleiman himself.
The surprise announcement comes at a time when
the Turkish countryside is being ravaged by civil
war, and amidst growing concern about the mental
stability of Ali Baba, who continues to hold power
under the declaration of martial law following
last year's riots. Baba has been seen in public
muttering about how his "voices" will guide his
hand in military affairs, and several top generals
within the Turkish armed forces have either been
placed under house arrest or have fled the country.
Baba's personal security forces continue to
control the capital city, despite growing public
opinion against him. Though most Turks have been
hard-hit by rampant inflation as a result of the
war, Baba has repeatedly imposed harsh new taxes
to fund his military machine. The plight of the
Turkish peasants, many of whom are starving, stands
in sharp contrast to the lavish parties that have
frequently been held for top Italian officials.
Meanwhile, accusations of rampant corruption
within Baba's government are widespread. Many of
Baba's relatives and political supporters have been
installed in Turkey's recently-nationalized ship-
building industry, and are reportedly receiving
lucrative paychecks despite the fact that Turkish
shipyards have been mothballed for years.
Disturbing reports have also reached the city
that rival warlords have begun fighting openly
throughout the Turkish countryside. In one such
outbreak in Ankara, Baba's forces moved in to
observe but did nothing to resolve the conflict.
As the warring factions fought each other to a
standstill, it appeared that Baba was content to
let both sides demolish each other. Once the
bloodshed had ended, soldiers from both sides were
quickly conscripted into a new regular army unit.
Although Baba claims that the new force will be
used to help "liberate" southern Russia from its
Austrian occupation forces, outside observers have
noted that the commanders, chosen personally by
Baba, are generally believed to be responsible for
most of the pillaging, looting and other atrocities
committed during the Ankara conflict. In addition,
sources in Vienna now claim that European leaders
are closer than ever to charging Baba himself with
crimes against humanity.
Message from England to Italy
>France has requested Wes s Bre-Mao. ... Do you have a
>suggestion of what I can tell France?
I was afraid this would happen.
You've got to do what you think is best for you in the long run, even
though it will make someone unhappy. Neither an unhappy France nor an
unhappy England will be in any position to take retribution for a long
time. Well, my fleet in North Africa would be a nuissance, but it wouldn't
be fatal.
You might say that, while you are willing to anger England by taking a
pro-French stand, a mid-Atlantic action that completely ruined the EG
attack would distress Germany as well. While you have no love whatsoever
for Germany, you are not ready to provoke him. You have been making "nice
talk" to Germany as insurance against Turkish treachery. You would like to
see a little longer cooperation from Turkey and gain at least one more army
yourself before irritating Germany. Perhaps saying that Germany explicitly
asked you not to go beyond Gibralter would be overdoing it.
There is also that problem of my retreat to North Africa. You are not
ready to handle that until the Austrian fleet is gone. If England is in
North Africa, you have no convenient way to protect Tunis and keep Austria
out of the Ionian. It can be done, but it would really mess up your
position and make you even more vulnerable to Turkey.
That's the best I can do.
Good luck,
Ivy
Message from Italy to England
I must admit, you are a good diplomat!
All of what you say is actually true. I will do my best to ease France's
unhappiness. Rest assured, I will not support action in the MAO.
Thank you for your thoughts.
Roberto
Message from England to Italy
Roberto,
>Rest assured, I will not support action in the MAO.
Thank you. I am aware that this is a major decision on your part.
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
Thanks for your reply.
I have the sense that the tone of your recent presses have been somewhat cool
lately. Moreso than earlier in the game, at any rate. As you know, I'm
looking to England as a long-term ally. So, if I've done something to offend,
I hope you will tell me so that I might correct my error.
Sincerely,
Ali
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>I have the sense that the tone of your recent presses have been somewhat cool
>lately. Moreso than earlier in the game, at any rate. As you know, I'm
>looking to England as a long-term ally. So, if I've done something to offend,
>I hope you will tell me so that I might correct my error.
No, you have done nothing to offend.
It's interesting that you picked up on this, because I have felt lately
that my notes were inadequate. I think I have been committing the gravest
sin in Diplomacy. I have been dull.
My excuses: you and I have no moves to coordinate; I have been bogged down
in very difficult and, I fear, unprofitable discussions with Germany; my
occupation is somewhat seasonal and its pace is picking up; I am preparing
to leave town for three days.
It is mostly Germany that is on my mind, though. We are having some
difficulties. I am trying to manage our relationship so that he and I
remain balanced. This is tough.
Anyway, if I have no future, then there is little use in worrying about how
to coordinate that future with Turkey.
Wish me luck.
Ivy
Message from England to Germany
Fredd,
Here is what I expect France to do. Pic->Par & Bre s Por->Mao. The latter
move will not have the support of Italy, though.
My moves will result in my gaining Picardy, but I will also lose Mid-Atlantic.
Any chance that you would approve of Nao s Mao? This essentially
guarantees that I keep Mao. The possible downside is that without
Mao->Bre, there would be a slight risk that Channel->Picardy could fail.
Never fear, **I will not change my moves** unless I hear from you at the
last minute.
Ivy
Message from Turkey to England
Ivy,
I'm glad to get your response. I was worried that your attitude toward me
had shifted, and my relationship with you is among the most important to me.
I wouldn't worry too much about your future. Much of my long-term thinking
lately has been focused on how to keep an E/I/T end game from turning into
the classic north/south stalemate line, with England holding all of the
north. ;^)
I think the worst-case scenario for you is that Germany either turns around
and works against you, or that he sticks with your alliance and becomes too
large. In the first scenario, it will almost certainly mean E/I cooperation
in France. If the second, then everybody and his brother will jump on
Germany to beat him back down. Germany seems to be the power most prone to
"early leader syndrome", and I've seen many a powerful Kaiser brought to his
knees for just this reason.
In any case, I certainly understand that we have no immediate moves to
coordinate. Still, I've always believed that when considering a long-term
ally, it's good too keep goals in sync not only for the immediate turn, but
also in terms of how to guide events over the next several years.
I'm sure we both know that Roberto wants French centers, and will surely try
to manipulate France into moving so as to be exposed to Italian attack.
Once that happens, it's impossible to say how France will react. In any
case, assuming that France is eliminated, Italy will then have the choice of
gallavanting off into the Atlantic, in which case he leaves himself exposed
to sudden Turkish fleet builds (which I dearly want to build ASAP), or he
attacks me outright, in which case he risks war on both fronts and you
holding all the cards in the north.
Unless something dramatic happens, we're headed for an E/G/I/T-dominated
mid-game, which I expect (hope) to resolve into an E/I/T end-game. And now
we're back to how to accomplish it without you having the lion's share of
the north!
Of course anything can happen. Mostly I'm sitting here fretting about my
choices for the turn, as I often do, so I guess I'm rambling a bit. Thanks
for your reassurance, and best of luck to you in the result.
Ali
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
>Unless something dramatic happens, we're headed for an E/G/I/T-dominated
>mid-game, which I expect (hope) to resolve into an E/I/T end-game.
Sounds like heaven.
>And now we're back to how to accomplish it without you having the lion's
>share of the north!
But Ali, how does E/G/I/T become E/I/T, especially when G is at 7 or 8 or 9
centers? Answer: EI&T have to team up and take out Germany. And that
leaves both Italian and Turkish units on "my" side of the classic east/west
stalemate line.
So my dilemma and your dilemma are the same. How do I get you back on your
side of the stalemate line in the northeast while you gobble up Italy?
Also, how do I help you gobble up Italy without crossing over to your side
of the stalemate line in the Mediterrean?
I want these problems! I would give anything to have these problems! Just
get us there and we will work on them together! 8-)
More seriously, how do we get Italy to work against Germany, when Italy can
see from a mile away that he is likely to be caught between us afterwards?
If we get there, and our problems are not resolvable, we always have the
14-14-6 option. The two 14s would be declared co-champs under Doug's
rules. The spectators deserve something bloodier than this, but at lease
we need to keep all options open.
Ivy
Message from England to all
>Diplomacy game 'titleist' is waiting for some power's orders.
>Diplomacy game 'titleist' is waiting for some power's orders.
>Diplomacy game 'titleist' is waiting for some power's orders.
What is this? A novice game?
Message from Germany to England
I was wondering why you didn't support MAO with NAO. That's ok with me.
Oops the moves just processed. Actually they didn't. It's not me.
Fredd
Message [from Germany] to all
His royal majesty King Frederick XXXVILLMCMMM would like to add to the
outstanding press reports originating in other neighboring countries.
We have good beer.
Our girls are cute, and wear short skirts.
Yes indeedy
Tah
Message from Russia to England
>Message from England to Russia in 'titleist':
> > Have you come to a decision about Nth-Den?
>I think it best that I not say what my moves are.
That makes it difficult for me to work with you.
If you were attacking Germany, I'd have every reason
to NOT say anything about it to anyone, so I must
conclude that you intend to keep beating your head
against the wall in France.
>Information has been flowing around Europe much too easily. For example,
>everyone knows that the Italian fleet
>is at France's disposal. Even Italy has had to confirm that.
Yes, I told you that too, though I did not reveal my
source, or sources. For that matter, I asked Italy to let
you know, so that you would not delude yourself into
thinking that continuing to attack France was a viable
option.
>I can say that I have no idea what moves Germany will make on his eastern
>front.
He's taking StP, and pulling his Armies back to
defend against your stab. (This is speculation on my
part, but it's based on available intel sources.) I
regret that you don't trust me enough to work with me.
Sincerely,
Nick.
Message from England to all
>What is this? A novice game?
Oops. That was supposed to be a gray broadcast.
The jury is instructed to disregard ...
Message from England to Germany
Fredd,
I will be out of town from about noon today through Sunday evening. Please
mind the store.
Ivy
Message from England to France
Dauphin,
I will be out of town from about noon today through Sunday evening.
Ivy
Message from England to Italy
Roberto,
I will be out of town from about noon today through Sunday evening. Please
mind the store.
Ivy
Message from England to Turkey
Ali,
I will be out of town from about noon today through Sunday evening. Please
mind the store.
Ivy
Message from England to Russia
Dear Nick,
>If you were attacking Germany, I'd have every reason
>to NOT say anything about it to anyone, so I must
>conclude that you intend to keep beating your head
>against the wall in France.
You are right. I am guilty of careless, shoddy diplomacy. I am trying to
hang onto the EF allliance another year, and I was too cowardly to say that
to you directly. Sorry, you deserve bettter.
> I regret that you don't trust me enough to work with me.
Now the shoe is on the other foot. This is false, for you know that the
issue is not trust. It is obvious that you could be trusted if I attacked
Germany.
No, it is not a matter of trust at all. It is just that, intelligently or
stupidly, I have concluded that it is in my best long term interest to
"beat my head" against the French wall one more time.
I will be out of town from noon today until Sunday evening. It's
frustrating not to have the results.
Ivy Wingo
Message from England to all
I am off to visit my citizens in Aquitaine. Be back Sunday evening.
Ivy
Message from France to all
>Diplomacy game 'titleist' is waiting for some
>power's orders.
What the???????
I have at least a half dozen reply messages from the
Judge in my mail box that say:
>: Judge: USIN Game: Titleist Variant: Standard Gunboat
>: Deadline: S1904M Thu Aug 23 2001 04:30:00 +0000
I am late because I specifically planned for a thursday
deadline. I checked several times on Wednesday to verify
that I had a Thursday deadline. The judge went down Wed
evening and when it came up the deadline was suddenly Wed
and not Thur!!
Did anyone esle notice this?
What is going on??
Can we reset the deadline for tonight?
I was up most the night with work and just crawled out of
bed, blurry-eye to find this mess.
France
Message from Russia to England
Ivy,
> >I conclude that you intend to keep beating your >head against the wall
>in France.
>
>You are right. I am guilty of careless, shoddy diplomacy.
I wouldn't call it so, particularly considering
Pravda's leak of the Galician DMZ agreement in 1901.
>I am trying to hang onto the EF (typo of EG, I assume) alliance another
>year, and I was too cowardly to say that to you directly. Sorry, you
>deserve better.
Hmm, Nth-Hol? Seems unlikely. Nth-Nwy-Swe,
or Nth-Nwy-StP/NC with support from the German Navy
perhaps?
> > I regret that you don't trust me enough to work with me.
>This is false, for you know that the issue is not trust.
Your unwillingness to tell me what you were doing
with F Nth implied a lack of trust.
>I have concluded that it is in my best interest to
>"beat my head" against the French wall one more time.
This suggests that Germany is offering you a Center
this year, or has committed to getting you Bre this Fall.
Interesting. It might just work, if you can trust him.
EF Nth seems to have eroded his trust in you, though.
Can you grow as fast by attacking France, as he can
attacking France and Russia? Switching sides now gives
you my help against Germany, and Italy keeping France
busy in the South. It still seems like the better choice
for England, to me.
>It's frustrating not to have the results.
My Fleet order went in with my first letter to you.
(I was unable to check mail last night.) Hopefully, the
results will be in before you leave.
Your Friend,
Nick.
Message [from Russia] to all
>Broadcast message from France in 'titleist':
>
> >Diplomacy game 'titleist' is waiting for some
> >power's orders.
>What the???????
>
>I have at least a half dozen reply messages from the
>Judge in my mail box that say:
> >: Judge: USIN Game: Titleist Variant: Standard Gunboat
> >: Deadline: S1904M Thu Aug 23 2001 04:30:00 +0000
>I am late because I specifically planned for a thursday
>deadline. What is going on??
04:30 +0000 Thursday is 11:30 pm Wednesday Eastern time.
Perhaps you should update your registration and set your
timezone.
Message from Master to all
The F1903B orders processed at 00:24:44 on Aug 21. The new deadline
was set for 23:30:00 on Aug 22, in accordance with the 47 hour deadlines.
Everyone's moves are due, please submit them with promptly.
Doug
Message from France to all
My link to my e-mail is down.
I am sneaking this message out a different way.
I have not seen any mail since I sent my last broadcast
I hope it will be fixed this afternoon.
Otherwise I will be out of touch until
I get home tonight.
France
Message from France to all
OK, I got connected to my e-mail. I am sending in orders
with this message. Sorry for the delay.
Can someone give the idiot's guide explanation for this:
>04:30 +0000 Thursday is 11:30 pm Wednesday Eastern time.
>Perhaps you should update your registration and set your
>timezone.
Do you mean the registration with the judge? Or is there
something on my computer that I need to do.
I have never noticed this difference before. It might be
something between home and work.
Thanks,
France
Austria: Fleet Aegean Sea → Bulgaria (south coast) (*bounce*)
Austria: Army Budapest → Rumania (*bounce*)
Austria: Army Sevastopol → Moscow (*bounce, destroyed*)
England: Army Belgium SUPPORT Fleet English Channel → Picardy
England: Fleet English Channel → Picardy
England: Fleet Mid-Atlantic Ocean HOLD
England: Fleet North Atlantic Ocean SUPPORT Fleet Mid-Atlantic Ocean
England: Fleet North Sea → English Channel (*bounce*)
France: Fleet Brest → English Channel (*bounce*)
France: Army Gascony → Burgundy
France: Fleet Marseilles → Spain (south coast)
France: Army Picardy SUPPORT German Army Burgundy → Belgium (*void, dislodged*)
France: Fleet Portugal → Mid-Atlantic Ocean (*bounce*)
Germany: Army Bohemia → Silesia
Germany: Army Burgundy → Ruhr
Germany: Fleet Gulf of Bothnia SUPPORT Army Prussia → Livonia
Germany: Fleet Livonia → Baltic Sea
Germany: Army Prussia → Livonia
Germany: Army Ruhr → Kiel
Italy: Army Albania → Trieste
Italy: Fleet Greece HOLD
Italy: Fleet Ionian Sea SUPPORT Fleet Greece
Italy: Army Trieste → Vienna
Italy: Army Venice → Tyrolia
Italy: Fleet Western Mediterranean SUPPORT French Fleet Marseilles → Spain (south coast)
Russia: Army Galicia → Ukraine
Russia: Fleet St Petersburg (south coast) CONVOY English Army Belgium → Berlin
Russia: Army Warsaw → Moscow (*bounce*)
Turkey: Army Ankara → Armenia
Turkey: Fleet Black Sea SUPPORT Army Rumania → Sevastopol
Turkey: Army Bulgaria → Rumania (*bounce*)
Turkey: Army Rumania → Sevastopol
Turkey: Army Serbia → Budapest (*bounce*)
Turkey: Army Smyrna → Constantinople
|