Chapter 31: Chapter 31, Measures

Metternich's proposal was as if never spoken, for except for his supporters, it was as if no one else had heard it.

At this time, abolishing the serfdom system also involved risks, and should it be mishandled, the local Nobility could rise in revolt.

Since ancient times, it has been easy to cut others' flesh but difficult to cut one's own.

Moreover, to restore market confidence, simply abolishing serfdom was not enough. A series of noble privileges must be canceled, and perhaps even land distribution would become necessary, for otherwise where would the serfs get their purchasing power?

Only by abolishing a series of restrictions that impede economic development and further reducing the cost of merchandise circulation to unleash a larger market could one escape the economic crisis.

Such large concessions were unlikely to be effective even if they were agreed upon by the few, as the Nobility class would never agree.