If there is anything that deserves the most attention in Europe recently, it must be the dispute between Italy and the Ottomans. Faced with disputes involving neighboring countries, Bulgaria is extremely concerned about it, because it is very important to Bulgaria.
The same is true for Stefan Stambolov, the Prime Minister of Bulgaria. But today, this hard-working Prime Minister did not go to the Prime Minister's Office to work. Instead, he used the excuse that he was a little tired to rest at home for a day.
Bulgarian officials didn't think much about the Prime Minister taking a break. No one is made of a machine and can keep working as long as power is added.
But this time, Prime Minister Stambolov's rest was fake, because a very important guest came to his residence, and because of the guest's arrival, he carefully chose to take a day off as a cover-up.
Which guest is so important that Stambolov, as Prime Minister, needs to cover for him?
Accompanied by Italian Ambassador to Bulgaria Toledo, the guest once again came to the Prime Minister's home.
"Hello, Mr. Mayer."
This time Stambolov could not be mistaken, and then he greeted Ambassador Toledo again.
After saying hello, both sides sat down, which also announced the beginning of the negotiation.
"I didn't expect Mr. Mayer to be so hidden. I didn't notice it during my last visit."
Faced with Stambolov's words, Mayer said with a hint of apology. "I'm sorry, because the relationship is so important, I have to do this. I also hope that Prime Minister Stambolov will not blame him. Now
I would like to solemnly introduce myself as Italy’s secret envoy Yassini Meyer.”
"So what is the mission of the special envoy?"
"Find allies who can help each other."
Although he had speculated before, Mayer's answer still made Stambolov feel a little excited. He was very clear about the current dispute between Italy and the Ottomans. Italy was obviously seeking trouble. Since
If Italy dares to do this, it means that it has been prepared for a long time. And this time the Italians found Bulgaria, it must be about this matter. Sure enough, his guess was right.
"I wonder if your country thinks our country can become an ally?"
Faced with the words of the Bulgarian Prime Minister in front of him, Mayer smiled and said. "This requires whether our two countries can reach a consensus."
Mayer's words make it obvious that whether cooperation can be achieved this time depends on whether the two countries can reach an agreement. Of course, Stambolov also knows that Italy is currently in a strong position in the negotiations between the two countries, which is also related to the two countries.
This can be seen in terms of status, national strength and other aspects.
Even so, Stambolov was not in a hurry. Since the Italians found Bulgaria, it meant that he must have something that the other party liked.
Without letting him wait any longer, he heard Mayer continue. "Ottoman is an opponent to both of our countries. I wonder if you agree with this statement?"
Although Stambolov is currently implementing a pro-Ottoman policy? But he also knows that this is just a stopgap measure for Bulgaria. If it were not to block Russian pressure? Who would get close to this man who dominates the Bulgarians?
A century-old country.
Do you know that the Greater Bulgaria claimed by Bulgaria includes all of Macedonia and most of Thrace? Do you want Bulgaria to give up its dream? Even God comes.
"Yes, Osman is a strong opponent for us."
At this time, Stambolov had already forgotten the Bulgarian friendship he preached, because he knew that the Italians would definitely pay generous rewards to win over Bulgaria.
Sure enough, he was right? After hearing his words, the Italian envoy Mayer continued. "Since we have a common enemy, then we can cooperate sincerely to make the Ottomans stop their arrogance.
Pay the price. I wonder if Prime Minister Stambolov recognizes this?”
Facing Mayer's question? Stambolov nodded and answered. "About this? I agree very much. But the Bulgarian people also agree that they must see something practical. Mr. Mayer, you know
Let me say what I said."
It’s obvious that Stambolov is also a master who doesn’t like rabbits. He wants to see the conditions in Italy first. Isn’t it to blame him for being stingy? Unlike Italy, Bulgaria has a small family. What if it turns out to be against the Ottoman Empire this time?
If it cannot get enough benefits, Bulgaria's situation will be even more difficult? So it is normal to be cautious.
Faced with Stambolov's little thoughts, Mayer didn't care. Instead, he took out a map of the Balkans and spread it out in front of the three of them.
"How many areas can be taken? It depends on the scale of your country's troop contribution? If your country can send 100,000 troops, then our country can help your country obtain North Macedonia. Of course, if the troop dispatch can reach 150,000, then Central Macedonia,
It’s not impossible to fight for your country.”
Mayer's words made Stambolov breathe heavier, because this condition is really generous. You must know that Bulgaria currently only has an area of more than 90,000 square kilometers, and the northern Macedonia region alone has more than 15,000 square kilometers.
square kilometers, if Central Macedonia is included, it will be enough to reach 30,000 square kilometers.
Of course, you have to be obedient. What Mayer said about striving for it means that you may not be able to get it. Of course, you can’t get it all. You can also share it in half. This will not only expand Bulgaria’s territory by one-third,
It can also enhance Bulgaria’s national strength.
Of course, if you want to get such a huge return, this will also mean that Bulgaria needs to use all its strength. Currently, Bulgaria only has 3.3 million people. To mobilize 150,000 people to participate in the war, this will mean that Bulgaria needs a nationwide mobilization. Because it will send 150,000 troops.
This is just a mandatory requirement. In addition, Bulgaria still needs to leave people to protect its homeland.
In addition, in terms of logistics, transportation and other aspects, Bulgaria has basically mobilized the entire country. Of course, it is necessary to receive such a return for such a large effort.
Although Stambolov was very satisfied with the conditions offered by the Italians, people's desires are endless, so he still wanted to fight for it. "Your country's reward for sending 150,000 troops to Bulgaria is a bit vague.
, which is difficult for our country to accept."
It is obvious that Prime Minister Stambolov hopes to get Central Macedonia.
Faced with the appetite of the Bulgarians, Mayer smiled slightly and said, "I'm sorry, this is the biggest reward our country can give. Considering your country's reputation for being brave and good at fighting in the Balkans, that's why you gave so much.
If your country is not satisfied, then we will consider other options. You must know that there are many people who want to benefit from the Ottomans."
"Our country has considered it carefully. Your suggestions are very pertinent and our country is very satisfied."
Faced with Mayer's verbal threat, Stambolov immediately changed his attitude 180 degrees because he did not dare to gamble. As far as he knew, there were not many people eyeing the Ottoman territory.
Hungary, Serbia, Greece, Montenegro (Montenegro) all have ideas about Ottoman territory.
As long as Italy offers similar conditions, other countries except Austria-Hungary will take the lead. How dare he take the gamble? If Italy turns around and leaves, he will become Bulgaria's eternal sinner.
Well, the conditions offered by Italy this time are indeed very generous. People in Italy are not unfamiliar with this, and they have criticized it, because it seems to show Italy's generosity.
It's just that these people don't dare to say it, because it is the wise King Carlo who made this plan. Why His Majesty Carlo wants to offer such a generous reward depends on what he thinks. But no matter how you think about it, this
It does not affect Carlo's status at all. Of course, there are other ways in this, only Carlo knows.
However, thanks to His Majesty Carlo's decision, Mayer had enough confidence to make Bulgaria obey, otherwise he would find someone else.
That's why Stambolov immediately retracted what he said after testing it, not daring to make any mistakes.
Now that Stambolov agreed, the next step is to talk about the issue of Bulgaria sending troops.
Mayer pointed at the map and said.
"According to our country's plan, our country will launch a landing operation in the Albanian region to attract the Ottoman army. At that time, your country will send troops to penetrate directly into the Macedonian area behind them. After annihilating them, your and our armies will threaten Istanbul.
, to get the Ottoman Empire to accept our terms."
The plan mentioned by Mayer is the basic plan made by the Italian Army to fight in the Balkans. Of course, this includes Bulgaria. In addition, the Italian Army has also made corresponding combat plans that include Greece, Serbia and other countries participating in the war.
So Italy doesn't have to be Bulgaria, any other country can do it. It's just that it will be faster to defeat the Ottoman army if it involves Bulgaria.
After hearing Mayer's plan, Stambolov looked at the map thoughtfully. It was obvious at first glance that this plan was about surprise. Of course, he had to admit that this battle plan was very good. If he were Osman
When people were fighting against the Italian army, they were suddenly attacked from behind, and the outcome was already doomed.
Since the plan was good, there was nothing to hesitate about, and Stambolov immediately planned to agree. However, he suddenly thought about something, and when he wanted to agree, he swallowed it again.
"Special Envoy Meyer, your plan is perfect, and our country is very willing to join. However, our country has a little difficulty, and I hope to get your help."
The Bulgarian Prime Minister suddenly came up with something. Mayer was not impatient at all. He asked politely. "Prime Minister Stambolov, what is it? If our country can help you, you might as well go directly."
explain."
In response to Mayer's inquiry, Stambolov immediately spoke. "It's like this. Our country is somewhat deficient in armaments. If we want to mobilize 150,000 troops to join the war, we need some help from your country."
Mayer did not reject Stambolov's idea of asking Italy to provide some equipment, because helping Bulgaria at this time was helping Italy.
"Please rest assured, Prime Minister, our country will not be stingy with its allies. I wonder how much armament your country wants?"
Facing Mayer's inquiry, Stambolov revealed a figure. "Our country needs weapons and equipment for 80,000 people, because currently our country can only equip 100,000 people with weapons in stock."
"What?"
After hearing Stambolov's words, Mayer screamed in surprise. Because equipping 80,000 people with weapons is not a small amount. If Italy takes out so many, it will definitely affect its domestic war preparations.
Seeing Mayer's surprised expression, Stambolov didn't want to do this either. It's just that Bulgaria can only come up with equipment to arm 100,000 people. If there are more, it will only be a muzzle-loading gun that can be used to press the warehouse. This thing
It certainly cannot be used against the Ottoman army.
"I'm sorry, I also know that our country's request is a bit excessive, but our country's equipment gap is too large, so we can only ask for it from your country."
Faced with Stambolov's almost pleading gesture, Mayer thought for a while and replied, "I need to send a telegram to Rome. I believe that our country will give your country a batch of weapons. As for how much it is needed,
Rome decides. You ask for too much, and I can’t make the decision at all.”
According to Mayer, Stambolov also knew that this matter was not easy to decide. "It doesn't matter, we can wait, but our country does not want to change the previously negotiated conditions."
"Don't worry about this. As long as your country does not refuse, we are unanimous in dealing with the Ottomans."
Then the two skipped the topic of ordnance and talked about how to command, communicate, and coordinate with E. With the idea of cutting flesh from Osman, they quickly reached a consensus on this proposal.
The talks between the two parties lasted until late at night, and finally they basically reached an agreement.
After the negotiation was concluded, Mayer and Ambassador Toledo rushed back to the embassy overnight.
As soon as he returned to the embassy, he sent the Bulgarians' request for ordnance back to Rome.
Then they each dragged their tired bodies back to the room and waited for Rome's reply.
While they were waiting for news from Rome, a negotiated agreement was also sent back to Rome. Yes, in addition to Bulgaria, Italy also found an ally, Montenegro.
Don’t be surprised that Italy found the Montenegrins as allies. Although this small country of less than 10,000 square kilometers looks small, its people have a deep-seated hatred of the Ottomans. The country was originally a **** country, and the king was
The Catholic bishop, who combined political and religious power, transformed into a secular state after 1851.
From a religious point of view, the Montenegrins are very unfriendly to the Ottomans. In addition, it is also the only country in the Balkans that has not been conquered by the Ottomans. Although it occupies a difficult terrain, it is one of the reasons why it is brave and good at fighting the Ottomans.
In addition, I would like to say that every time Montenegro fights against the Ottomans, it will benefit. Its territory has expanded from less than 2,000 square kilometers at the beginning to nearly 10,000 square kilometers now. It gives people a feeling of being invincible.
The little strong feeling.
This time, Italy attracted the Montenegrins because of their hatred of the Ottomans and let them play a vanguard role.
So why would Monte Negro be unwilling to accept Italy's olive branch? His monarch, Grand Duke Nicholas I, even negotiated terms with Italy as soon as possible. So Monte Negro also went to Italy.
Chariot.
With Bulgaria and Montenegro, Italy is at least as strong as the Ottoman Empire in terms of military strength in the Balkans. Coupled with factors such as equipment, training, and morale, it can be said that Italy has already had the upper hand.
Next, we need the performance of the two countries on the battlefield.
