章節 312: Chapter 312 :The Amethyst Incident and the Future of Hong Kong: A Strategic Perspective
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"This is ABC Hong Kong Radio with an important update. The British frigate 'Amethyst' was shelled on the Yangtze River. The ship's bridge was hit, causing severe damage to the hull.
"Reports indicate that 17 people were killed and over 20 were seriously injured. Both the captain and the first officer sustained serious injuries."
Hardy's Global Times has a significant presence with reporters stationed both inland and in the north, providing unbiased and thorough coverage. Among these reporters is Snow, who has met with many senior northern leaders.
The news of the Amethyst incident sent shockwaves through Hong Kong. Few anticipated that the North would attack a British warship and inflict such heavy casualties.
For the first time, people recognized the North's boldness and determination. They were unafraid of the British.
Just hours later, ABC Radio reported that the 'Companion' was sent to the scene to assist but was also attacked by artillery from the shore. The 'Companion' suffered casualties—10 killed and 12 wounded—before being abandoned. The 'Amethyst' managed to flee to Jiangyin.
The situation was grim.
Some initially thought the Amethyst shelling was a misunderstanding or a brief conflict, but the attack on the 'Companion' made it clear that this was no trivial matter. The North was resolute and unyielding.
The news elicited mixed reactions in Hong Kong. Some felt relieved, while others were anxious. The North's willingness to confront the British indicated a strong resolve.
As a result, many hesitant to sell their assets acted quickly, fearing they might lose everything.
The Global Times and ABC Radio also reported the incident in the UK, the US, and Europe, causing significant shock. Americans and Europeans, who previously underestimated China, now recognized its resolve to challenge the West.
In the UK, an emergency cabinet meeting was convened in response to the ongoing situation with the 'Amethyst,' which still held over a hundred British soldiers. Discussions focused on how to address the shelling incident.
Feeling embarrassed, the British decided to send the heavy cruisers 'London' and the 'Black Swan' frigate to rescue the stranded 'Amethyst.' However, both ships sustained injuries, with over 30 casualties, and were forced to retreat, leaving the 'Amethyst' still aground.
This news spread rapidly across the country, Europe, and America.
Many observers noted the North's resilience.
The Global Times and ABC Radio provided detailed updates, amplifying the anxiety in Hong Kong. Reports of the cruisers being repelled only intensified the fear on the island.
Tension grew as daily updates described the advancing northern troops and the occupation of new cities. People saw headlines each morning about new breaches and the army's progress, which heightened their sense of urgency. By night, the radio reports detailed losses and speculated on the likelihood of an imminent advance toward Hong Kong. Analysts discussed the possibility of an attack on the city, concluding that the North's determination was strong and the likelihood of taking Hong Kong was high.
Fears about how the North might govern, including potential public ownership and asset confiscation, led many capitalists to sell their assets hastily. The property market became flooded with sale listings, and prices continued to plummet.
Despite the declining prices, few buyers emerged due to the looming danger. The Hardy Group became the primary purchaser of assets, with many seeking to sell quickly at drastically reduced prices. Hardy capitalized on the situation, acquiring properties at a fraction of their former value.
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Han Yezhen returned one day and approached Hardy, saying, "I'm going to see Grandpa today, and he mentioned wanting to see you."
Hardy was surprised.
Mr. Situ had been in Hong Kong, and Hardy was aware that they hadn't yet met. Hardy also knew that Mr. Situ supported the North and had engaged in significant business with them, though he hadn't been involved in their personal matters.
"Did your grandpa mention anything specific?" Hardy asked.
"No, he just wants to have a talk with you," Han Yezhen replied.
"Alright, I've always wanted to meet him. This seems like a good opportunity," Hardy said.
Han Yezhen smiled.
At Mr. Situ's apartment, Han Yezhen and Hardy walked into the courtyard, where Mr. Situ was seated at a table making tea. Han Yezhen introduced Hardy, "Grandpa, this is Hardy."
"I've heard of Mr. Situ," Hardy greeted in Chinese.
Mr. Situ looked at Hardy and smiled. "Please, sit down. I've just made some Biluochun, this year's Mingqian new tea. Do you enjoy tea?"
"I do," Hardy replied.
Mr. Situ smiled and gestured for them to sit. As Han Yezhen took over the tea-making, Mr. Situ asked Hardy, "I've noticed your company has been acquiring many properties in Hong Kong. While others are selling off their assets and fleeing to the UK or the US, you continue to invest. Why is that? Do you believe the British can hold Hong Kong?"
Hardy shook his head.
"If it depended solely on the British, Hong Kong would not stand a chance," he said.
"Then do you think the Americans will intervene?"
"No, the Americans are unlikely to get involved."
"What gives you such confidence? I know you have business dealings with the North. Do you think they will spare your property because of these dealings?"
"Whether they do or not, I understand their political stance. It's a matter of principle," Hardy explained.
Mr. Situ was intrigued. "So, what makes you confident enough to continue investing in Hong Kong?"
Hardy paused and then said, "It's clear that the North will prevail because that's what the people want. Against millions of troops, the British cannot hold Hong Kong. Even with increased troops and international pressure, the shelling of the Amethyst demonstrates that the North is ready for conflict."
"Retaking Hong Kong is not difficult. The British forces cannot stop them. In fact, simply cutting off water, electricity, and food supplies for a few weeks would lead to Hong Kong's downfall. However, if the leaders are wise, they will recognize the strategic benefits of leaving Hong Kong."
"Holding Hong Kong may seem minor, but it can serve as a crucial channel for communication with the outside world. If the North establishes a government, it will face international blockades and isolation. Hong Kong could be the only bridge for external communication."
"Additionally, leaving Hong Kong could improve relations with the UK. After World War II, the US emerged as the dominant global power, replacing the British Empire. The UK, though aging, still holds significant influence. By ceding Hong Kong, it could secure political leverage and support from the UK."
"In summary, I believe the advantages of leaving Hong Kong far outweigh the disadvantages."
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