Chapter 353: Chapter 353: Director of Logistics Williams
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Johnson and Hardy spent over two hours chatting in the office. Eventually, Johnson stood up and said, "It's time for some exercise. The doctor advised me to walk more for my cardiovascular health. Hardy, care to join me?"
"Of course," Hardy replied, readily agreeing.
The two men made their way to the South Lawn of the White House. This expansive back garden, covering about 100 acres, was famous as the site where U.S. Presidents often met foreign heads of state and held press conferences.
As they walked, their conversation shifted from Japan to Hong Kong. Johnson, aware of Hardy's significant investments in Hong Kong, asked, "How are things in Hong Kong? I've read some reports, but they don't give a clear picture."
"You asked the right person," Hardy replied. "I visited Hong Kong before returning to the U.S. and met with Governor Grantham. Recently, the British issued a statement acknowledging that the situation has stabilized. Life is returning to normal, and my investments have not only been preserved but are also increasing in value."
Johnson, however, did not seem pleased. "That's not what I wanted to hear. The British abandoned the strategy we discussed for a little short-term gain."
Since World War II, the United States had risen as the world's leading power, while Britain had lost much of its former influence. This shift had led to frequent differences and conflicts between the two nations, particularly over their respective interests.
"The rapid collapse of British overseas colonies also bears the shadow of American influence," Johnson added, acknowledging the complex relationship.
Hardy responded, "With Britain's colonial empire crumbling, they're struggling to maintain control over distant territories. They're spread too thin to manage the situation effectively."
"In an effort to secure the Malacca Strait, I established a security base in Southeast Asia. My contacts tell me that Malaya is experiencing significant unrest, involving various ethnic groups, and the British are struggling to contain it."
Johnson nodded. "I've seen the reports. The situation involves Malays, Indians, and Chinese populations. We're particularly concerned about the spread of communist influence, which could trigger major upheaval."
Hardy then casually suggested, "There's a simple way to address the issues in that region."
"Oh? What do you propose?" Johnson asked, intrigued.
"Partition," Hardy replied. "Many British colonies have become dominions. The same approach could work here. Most people just want stability. If you provide a stable environment, they'll naturally settle down."
"A democratic society in the East could also serve as a model."
Hardy understood that future changes would face resistance from various forces, with the Southeast Asian Chinese community suffering the most. Establishing an independent state with normal rights would be a good solution.
Johnson pondered Hardy's suggestion, finding it appealing. The British might resist giving up their interests until the last moment, but dominion status would be a compromise. While nominally part of the UK, these territories would no longer offer any real benefits to Britain.
For the United States, this was advantageous. A weakened British Empire would eventually be forced to rely more on American support.
Johnson was particularly drawn to the idea of a "democratic template."
"Hardy, with your base in the region and your status as a British baron, you're in a unique position to influence this situation," Johnson remarked.
Hardy quickly deflected, "Me? No, no, no. I have enough on my plate managing my businesses. I took control of the Cayman Islands for business purposes, not to govern."
Johnson persisted, "Your background makes you the perfect candidate for this. I'll support you, both politically and militarily, if needed. Southeast Asia is vast, with more opportunities than Hong Kong."
Hardy pretended to consider it, then reluctantly agreed, "Well, I'll keep an eye on it. You know I'm not really into politics."
Inwardly, Hardy was pleased. With Johnson's backing, any future endeavors in Southeast Asia would have the U.S. government's blessing, eliminating doubts and resistance.
That evening, Johnson invited Hardy to dinner at the White House. There, Hardy met the President's wife, Beth Truman. The First Lady held Hardy in high regard, knowing he had been a sincere supporter of her husband during his election campaign.
At dinner, Hardy skillfully steered the conversation away from politics, focusing instead on lighter topics like TV shows, new plays, cosmetics, and fashion. The atmosphere was lively and pleasant.
As Hardy prepared to leave, the First Lady and President Truman escorted him to the door. The First Lady even invited Hardy to visit again, promising to cook for him herself next time.
...
A few days later, the Pentagon issued an order appointing Major General Williams as the Acting Director of the U.S. Army Logistics Administration. He was to oversee all affairs of the Logistics Administration until Lieutenant General Jason recovered.
However, most people understood that Jason's return was unlikely. The "acting" title was more of a formality, and it was expected that Williams would soon be confirmed as the official director of the Logistics Bureau.
Congratulations poured in for Williams on his promotion.
Hardy flew in from Las Vegas to Fort Bevor, Virginia, to see Williams. When they met, Williams embraced Hardy warmly.
"Thank you, Hardy. I owe this to you," Williams said gratefully.
Hardy shook his head. "No, you were the right choice for the job."
The two men found a secluded spot, where they enjoyed drinks and continued their conversation. Williams confided, "Hardy, in a few days, I'm planning to reform the logistics supplier system, opening it up to more private capital."
"The current system is overly complex, making it difficult to manage. It would be much simpler and more efficient if we had three or four suppliers, like your chain stores. We place an order, and you handle the customization and delivery."
Williams continued, "There's also the matter of transporting supplies to overseas military bases, something you mentioned to me before. The logistics department currently maintains its own transportation system, which is costly and inefficient. I'm considering outsourcing some of that transportation to private companies."
Hardy raised his glass and smiled. "General, have you heard of my Cayman Islands?"
"I read about it in the Global Times," Williams replied. "They said there's no tax there. Is that true?"
"Absolutely," Hardy confirmed. "There's no corporate tax, no personal income tax, no inheritance tax. The seven major consortiums have established over 5,000 companies there, along with several financial institutions. Transactions are secure and private."
Hardy leaned in closer, lowering his voice. "I've set up a company there myself, and all of the six million from the logistics equipment sales is in a Wells Fargo Bank account in the Cayman Islands."
Williams's breath quickened at the thought. Managing billions in public funds had never tempted him, but this six million was entirely his.
Hardy continued, "You can set up a company there too, perhaps under your wife or child's name. I can help you invest that money."
"Imagine owning a share in the Hardy supermarket chain or Hardy Shipping Company. Even a small percentage would be extremely valuable in the future."
Williams's eyes gleamed with excitement. He had full faith in Hardy's business acumen and believed that their future collaboration with the U.S. Logistics Bureau would be incredibly profitable.
"How about using my son's name?" Williams suggested.
"That would work perfectly," Hardy agreed, smiling.
The finer details could be worked out later, but Hardy understood that successful business was all about sharing the benefits. It was a delicate balance, but by ensuring his partners also profited, Hardy knew he could maintain long-term success.
...
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