Chương 64: A Delicate Balance
Moltke knew he had to find a suitable reason to reject Oscar's proposal. Failure to do so could not only expose him to public scrutiny but also draw suspicion from key figures within the military. Worse, should this matter reach Kaiser Wilhelm II's ears, the consequences could be catastrophic.
Kaiser Wilhelm II had no tolerance for a Chief of Staff who placed personal loyalties above national interests. To act in a way that betrayed the army or diminished Germany's position simply to appease Crown Prince Wilhelm would be unacceptable. Yet, Moltke understood the stakes clearly: Oscar's growing influence had to be curtailed. With the navy already firmly in his corner, any substantial shift of the army's loyalty toward Oscar could destabilize the delicate balance of power and jeopardize Wilhelm's position as the Crown Prince.
"Your Highness," Moltke began, forcing an air of regret into his voice, "this is indeed a remarkable product, one that could revolutionize military logistics. However, the army simply has no funds to make such purchases. Germany faces threats on both fronts, and the current situation demands that every pfennig of our military budget be allocated toward strengthening our defenses. As it stands, the army's budget is already insufficient to meet our critical needs. Purchasing motorcycles, no matter how beneficial, is simply out of the question."
Moltke's explanation, though reasonable on the surface, was a carefully crafted smokescreen. The chronic underfunding of the army was a well-known fact, yet it served as a convenient shield to block Oscar's initiative. The navy's newfound financial flexibility, made possible by royal family loans and Oscar's personal contributions, had already caused quiet grumblings among the army's leadership. Moltke's aim was not only to dismiss the proposal but to sow seeds of division between Oscar and the army's top brass.
Stealing a glance at Oscar, Moltke felt a flicker of satisfaction. Seeing the prince's composed demeanor falter, even momentarily, was a small victory in his eyes. Still, Moltke couldn't ignore the nagging truth: if Oscar were to succeed the throne, his sharp intellect and innovative strategies would likely outshine Crown Prince Wilhelm's leadership. While this might be a boon for Germany, it posed a direct threat to Moltke's own political survival. Having aligned himself with Crown Prince Wilhelm early on, he was now too deeply entrenched to switch loyalties. The only path forward was to obstruct Oscar's progress at every turn.
"His Royal Highness," Moltke pressed on, his tone turning more calculated, "if I may be so bold, I hope Your Highness can donate a batch of motorcycles to the army. After all, Your Highness has already donated a battleship to the navy—a colossal gift worth fifty million marks! Surely Your Highness wouldn't favor one branch of the military over the other."
The room fell silent as Moltke's words sank in. The suggestion was a calculated jab, designed to stir discontent among the gathered generals. It was no secret that Oscar's substantial support for the navy had caused quiet resentment within the army. Moltke's remarks were aimed at amplifying that sentiment, painting Oscar as partial and indifferent to the army's plight.
Oscar frowned inwardly, his mind racing. Moltke's thinly veiled hostility was evident, but what puzzled him was its intensity. He had always acted in Germany's best interests, striving to enhance its military capabilities. Why, then, was Moltke so intent on opposing him? Was it mere loyalty to Crown Prince Wilhelm, or was there more to this animosity?
Realizing the importance of maintaining unity, Oscar composed himself and smiled. "Your Excellency, Chief of the General Staff, of course, I hold the army in the highest regard. The unification of the German Empire and its current international stature are thanks to the unparalleled strength of the army. It is only fitting that the army receives the support it needs to maintain this legacy."
Oscar paused, letting his words settle before continuing, "Since the army is currently facing financial difficulties, I am personally willing to donate 10,000 two-wheeled military motorcycles and 10,000 three-wheeled military motorcycles. Combined, their value exceeds fifty million marks. However, I must insist that this donation remains confidential. Public knowledge of such a contribution could negatively impact my overseas business ventures."
The room erupted into applause. Army generals, some of whom had harbored doubts about Oscar's intentions, were visibly moved by his generosity. Even those who had been critical of his naval support now viewed him in a more favorable light.
Moltke, however, was less impressed. Though outwardly composed, he couldn't suppress his inner frustration. "This man," he thought bitterly, "has resources beyond comprehension. To part with fifty million marks so easily… truly, he is a genius in the business world. But his influence is becoming too great."
Field Marshal von Falkenhayn stepped forward, his expression one of genuine gratitude. "Your Royal Highness, on behalf of the army, I thank you for your unwavering support. Your contributions will undoubtedly enhance our operational efficiency."
Oscar inclined his head graciously. "As a prince of the German Empire, it is my duty to ensure that both the army and the navy are prepared to defend our nation. While the navy faces significant challenges abroad, the army's unparalleled strength ensures that we remain a dominant power on land. Together, they form the backbone of our empire's security."
The generals nodded in agreement, their pride evident. Oscar's words resonated deeply, reaffirming their belief in the superiority of the German Army. For a brief moment, the room was united in shared purpose.
Yet Moltke remained on edge. Despite the applause and smiles, he recognized the deeper implications of Oscar's actions. Each act of generosity, each display of competence, brought Oscar closer to overshadowing Crown Prince Wilhelm. And while the generals might celebrate today's victory, Moltke knew the real battle for Germany's future had only just begun.
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