Eventual Events

First, on the Frankszonia blog, I've updated the lists and profiles of folks who are supporting the Elector versus Gallia inside Frankszonia.

About this time,Baron Wiffen Fhartz von Inkblot zu Grossen and General Braunschweiger should show up in the Germanian headquarters seeking an audience with the Elector and the duke of Hesse Seewald.

Also, while Gen. Broglie and the Intendant Bastille are in conference, they are interrrupted by a commotion. An officer barges into the room with a sergeant and an old Moustache. The enlisted men's uniforms are spattered with blood.

"Report!" barks Broglie.
"Sire" the officer salutes clumsily, "there's been an poison attempt. These clods killed the poisoner before we could question him."
"Pour Certament!" exlaims Bastille.
"No! No!" the Moustache pleads.
"Sire!" the sergeant complains, "we caught him in the act of dosing the officer's mess kettle. We took him alive in spite of his struggles, but as we were forcing him into the hall, his blood suddenly spurted all over us. None of my men had so much as drawn a bayonet!"
"This note was found upon the assasin, my Lords," the officer contiued.
Gen. Broglie takes the scrap and reads, "Die Reine geffallen am der Main."

Bastille chokes for a moment as he wonders, is this the hand of the infamous Stille Fhartz or another nefarious bit of Frankszonian politics?

Meanwhile, the Hurtshog with his main forces is almost a day's march to the northwest, approaching Ginnheim. They hope to disperse the concentration of Resistance, Cheezers, and Hang Overians who are in an entrenched camp in the woods near Russelheim.

Draft Report on Battle of Seifreidsburg

Battle of Seifriedsburg, The Battle Itself:
(This Post will be Edited with Pictures in the upcoming days)

Key locales / reference points:
Salzugnen , Fulda, Gemunden am Main,
Wurzburg (Wurstinburgers), Frankfurt (Frankszonia)

Schonau, Ascheroth, Weyersfeld, Hollrich, Seifriedsburg, Reichenbuch



*{Initial comment: I had set up the battle using the 24 figure/battalion adaptation of Koenig’s Krieg, but set up the battle on a table better scaled for the 12 figure / battalion. Alas, I overlooked this until I’d already set out most of the figures. Hence, instead of the maneuvering which I had expected, the game decayed into a slug fest series of frontal assaults. Obviously, the original orbat provided the Hesse-Seewald forces with totally inadequate artillery, so I effectively doubled (again) the power of the Hesse Seewald battery and converted the whole thing into a great collection of howitzers. As the game developed, I was at first afraid that even this had been inadequate, but about turn four, this adaptation finally worked as expected).

FRANKSZONIA DEPLOYS:

As the drums beat “Alarm!” and “Assemble,” the forces under V. Ballpark’s command fall in.
In the fog shrouded, wooded valley below them, vague figures can be seen forming into battle lines. More troops can be seen debauching from Ascheroth and approaching the bridge between Ascheroth and the Seifreidsburg plateau. The mist rumbles with the competing drum rhythms of the various forces gathering for the looming battle.

Along the crest of the plateau with its cleared fields
*(the yellow zone in the pictures – the cleared fields along the Wursburg road are represented by tan),
Ballpark has constructed lines of chevaux au frise. The east side of the table is dominated by the fields along the Wursburg road and the village of Ascheroth. The Seewald attack is based on Ascheroth, from which it moves down across a stream (bridged on the road from Ascheroth to Seifriedsburg and the road from Weyersfeld to Seifriedsburg) into the scrubby pastureland and woods on the slopes leading up to Seifriedsburg.


Coming up to Seifriedsburg from Schonau, a road climbs the steep canyon walls on the north side of a gulch. The stream which forms this gulch rises from a spring on the very eastern edge of the plateau (the green band through the plateau). On the western side, this gulch is bridged, but on the eastern side it is almost an insignificant feature
*(only forming a one move delay and also halves the melee value of a unit).
The plateau itself forms a good passage through the tree covered ridges and bluffs arising above the river... so is flanked by higher, wooded hills. Another road, however, does lead south from Seifreidsburg to Reichenbuch, which is another high flat, fielded site and is the designated rally point for von Ballpark’s command.


Brigadier Rosenschnauz, in spite of his hangover, rushes the infantry regiment “Chicken” into position on the forward edge of the plateau. His light artillery is posted on the left flank to obtain an oblique field across the front of the advanced under Lt. Oberst Sanders.
L’comte Hottatrot, assembling his kit with the aid of the attractive daughter of the local mayor with whom he had been quartered, positioned his battalion in column about fifty yards behind the center on the north side of the stream. He advanced his 12 pounder artillery into the stream to cover the gap between the two battalions of Chicken.
Col. Bombalier also sent a battery of 12 pdrs. to join them there to provide a concentration of fire down the straight road leading up the plateau.
V. Ballpark detached the half battalion of V. Kamps Jaegers to advance down into the woods to the right of I.R. Chicken in order to cover the road from Weyersburg. This was the route on which he expected a cavalry force to join him.
Col. Bombalier also took command of all the howitzers present and placed them in battery behind Intendant Chicken’s battalion. He also positioned his own light artillery on the right flank of Chicken’s battalion where it could support either Int. Chicken or cover the road from Weyersburg, a decision which would have key results in the following battle.

Observing that most of the guns were massed around Intendant Chicken, Brig. Rosenschnauz decides that he will post his headache, which already feels as if it has endured bombardment, behind Lt. Col. Sanders battalion. Again, this decision, taken more from the bottle than the map, proved key in the development of the battle.


Meanwhile, Le Sorbet drew up the 1st battalion of the 4th Laura Anns as the second line position behind Lt. Col. Sanders. The 2nd battalion was posted on the road leading from Schonau. Brig. Duplicite posted himself on the right flank of the 1st battalion in order to create a swift response. The Grenadiers, however, were posted on a second line of chevaux au frise covering the south side of Seifriedsburg and the route to Reichenbuch.

As the fog thins, Brig. Maudelin can be seen climbing the steep road from Schonau with the L’Lagalle Dragoons. He seems to be swaying side to side, fortunately in rhythm with the many twists in the road. Furthermore, the Falsie Hussars can be seen approaching from Weyersfeld. The other cavalry regiments are left to guard the defiles. On the low ground below the Chicken regiment, Low German oaths explode through the fog as the Feldwebels align their troops.
*(Another note: The Hesse-Seewald / Germanian forces in this encounter will often be represented by red-coated figures painted for the Britischerwurst / Hungover forces).

THE SEEWALD RISES

Before dawn, Lt. Gen. Klompen had briefed his generals and their brigadiers. “Diese Frankszonian baurengraben are az if zey haf something to prove behaving. Und(t) dey scramble diese hillen up like zum goats! Aber, Now dey moosden zu fight standen! Vor, if dey move again, dhen, ve schall upon dere Gen. Chevert like blitz und dhunder gefallen! Achtung, Meinen Herren! Diesen Morgen, shall ein Kampf bevore Gotterdamerung haben vir!! Alle Commanden, vorward Harch!”

Upon his signal being passed quietly forward, Oberst Rothheisen leads his grenadiers in a swift dash across the bridge, driving off the Frankszonian pickets without firing a shot. However, as they flee up the road, the Frankszonian soldiers shot wildly into the fog, and alert the battalions bivouacked above them. Rothheisen’s grenadiers push into the scrubby, sloping pastures as a skirmish line to cover the crossing the rest of General v. Rottenbeck;s infantry.
The same fog which conceals their advance and deployment, however, also deprives their massed howitzer batteries from firing any advance bombardment.

V. Rottenbeck, who has been secretly conspiring to undermine Klompen so that Rottenbeck could take over the lucrative Klompen regiment – and whose resentment of Klompen is increased because that Klompen regiment is marching first under Klompen’s orders – decides to insult his commander by ordering the Klompen regiment to deploy to the left of the road and Infantry Regiment Rosenblum to the right. This will prove to be an ironic decision ...
Then, as Brigadier Funft begins to lead his regiments over the bridge, Brig. Fungamungus rides forward and orders Rothheisen’s grenadiers to concentrate into an assault column and the entire brigade Fungamungus begins to advance. Unfortunately, there is only room in the scrubby pastures to set a battalion in line on either side of the road up the hill. So each Regiment sends forth its first battallion while the Grenadiers remain in an assault column as the third battalion of the assault and Rottenbeck opens a fifth.

KA-BOOM

Abruptly, the wind shifts and the fog streams away! Many linguistic variations of “offal of hogs (and other livestock)!” sound in the valley! The Frankszonian guns immediately begin to fire upon the Hessian grenadiers ... the roundshot bounces beyond into the first battalion of I.R. Klompen. Fungamungus shouts the charge, and the Hessians advance.
The Klompen regiment suddenly begins to take fire from more batteries and from the jaegers in the woods on their flank. Even as the first battalion begins to shred and to fall back, the second battalion swings towards the woods to disperse the jaegers. Meanwhile, the first battalion of I.R. Rosenblum clambers up the slope into the barricades before Lt. Oberst Sanders. The combination of Frankszonian musketry and grape shot, however, forces their retirement.
At the same time, the Rothheisen Grenadiers bravely rush straight at the 12 lbrs, in the middle of the Frankszonian line. Even though they sustain horrible casualties, the heroic soldiers seize the guns and scatter the gunners!

Meanwhile, General Klompen has moved to the howitzer battery to try to get their fire ranged on the Frankszonian position. As he galloped out of Ascheroth, his alert eye spots the movement of the Falsie Hussars and Brig. FitzAle to the south. Seeing that they are committed to crossing their bridge and uniting with the Frankszonians on the plateau, Klompen orders Brig. Gruener to capture that bridge and to attack the Frankszonians along the Weyersfeld road (much of the rest of Gen Pferdkopf’s cavalry has already marched south along the Wursburg road to cover that flank from a possible counter attack from Gemunden.


In the storm of action on the hillside, Fungamungus drives the 2nd bat. Rosenblum up to support the grenadiers’ amazing success on the road. Rottenbeck is distracted by the complete disintegration of the coveted Klompen regiment (the remnants of the 1st bat are clustered by the stream bank while the 2nd bat. happily settles down in the leafy underbrush ... out of site, out of mind, out of anybody’s line of fire). Brig. Funft deploys his commands methodically in the original position that Fungamungus had used: I.R. Trinken on the right and I.R. Drunker to the left.
At the top of the hill, Gen. Hottatrot sees the Hessian grenadiers directly in front of him, and orders his battalion to counter attack. His precision drilled veterans unleash practiced volleys as they advance and quickly overwhelm the surviving grenadiers. The musketry of Sander’s battalion holds the Rosenblum battalion at the barriers, and Fungamungus knows that they must be withdrawn before that battalion is decimated as well.

SMOG OF BATTLE

Now both commanders are beginning to hope for victory. Ballpark has seen two assaults repulsed, and the third attack, led by Brig. Funft, does not seem to have any greater chance of success. Gen. v. Klompen, on the other hand, observes that his infantry is continuing to stream across the bridge and attack the Frankszonian line intrepidly. Furthermore, he can watch the Falsie Hussars continue to file into Seifreidsburg, leaving the Weyersfeld road open for his dragoons. Moreover, the howitzers are finally beginning to bring fire upon Seifriedsburg. Though the impact of the howitzers on the Frankszonian line is not yet serious, the primary Frankszonian battery has been clearly eliminated (Hottatrot orders the withdrawal of what equipment could be salvaged).



In a few minutes, v. Ballpark , Rosenschnauz, and Hottatrot cheer as the first battalions of Funft’s assault are driven back, even though they had managed to break through the barriers at some points. Moreover, as Brig. Gruener ordered his Strumgen Dragoons to dash across the apparently undefended bridge, the lead squadron is suddenly exterminated by jaeger rifles firing from ambush!
Angrily, Gen. v. Klompen shouts across the stream and orders Rottenbeck to stop fooling around! The remnants of the 1st bat / Klompen are sent to join Rosenblum who is forming a composite battalion, and Rottenbeck is order to take the 2nd bat/Klompen under command and to capture the Weyersfeld road bridge, “Schnell! Sie fharten, rotten, SchweinHunde Dumpkopf! Verstehen Sie?!?”
In order to conceal the importance of this move and to keep v. Ballpark’s attention, Klompen orders Funft to commit the rest of his battalions.


STAND IN THE BREACH! (or, Pull Up Your Trousers!)

As Rottenbeck rides into the forest, the old sergeants of 2nd Klompen are already getting their men up and moving. They’ve discovered that the leafy vines have a very irritating, tridentine nature (okay, so I’m guessing that Germany has poison ivy too ... it seems dang near universal over here in the States). Once again, the forest shadows are further darkened by the acrid smoke and rattled by the musketry of the opposing forces. Observing this, Brig. Gruener orders the Teufelbond Dragoons to renew the charge across the bridge while he rallies the Strumgen squadrons. The v. Kamp Jaegers, outnumbered and struck from two sides, quickly flee across the Weyersfeld road and up the wooded ridges beyond.


Carrying out the order to pin the Frankszonian forces in place, Gen Funft urges his battalions into the assault, and Fungamungus is able to contribute a battalion to the attack as well. They urge their men forward, claiming that the Frankszonian line is clearly weakening. Their rather fatuous reassurances, however, are surprisingly confirmed when an extraordinarily accurate discharge of the Hessian howitzers shatters Oberst Chicken’s battalion! Cheering, I.R. Drunker streams through the barriers onto the plateau! Sander’s battalion is barely able to hold, thanks to the aid of the attached battery and the direct participation of both v. Ballpark and Rosenschnauz. For a moment, it seems that the Gallian forces are broken!
At the moment of their exaltation, however, the Drunker regiment receives direct fire from the howitzers and guns of the Gallian right wing. The same time, L’Comte Hottatrot turns his battalion and, firing into the flank of the momentarily disordered Drunker soldiers. Once again, the Hessian formations stumble back down the hill.

TURNING ON THE GRILL

Now the forces of Gen. Googlen are beginning to form for the assault. Reformed battalions are pulled together from the prior assaults by Fungamungus and Funft, and some of them are joined by a battalion of Fingerlein Fusiliers. The Teufelbond Dragoons form a column and gallop up the hill against the flank of Hottatrot’s battalion. By now, Seifreidsburg behind Hottatrot is in flames.

Once again, Bombalier’s howitzers and Sanders light guns join with the musketry of the infantry to halt the Hessian infantry battalions. The Hessian dragoons, however, with great elan charge uphill towards the light artillery battery Suddenly, the dragoons are swept by case shot from the light artillery, from a battery of 12 lbrs. which was posted with the Gallian grenadiers, and the musketry of those Grenadiers. Since Brig. Gruener was still with the Strumgen dragoons, bringing them across the bridge. the Teufelbond goes to the devil and breaks back down the hill.


Gen. Klompen, however, sees the flames from Seifreidsburg and, knowing that he still has fresh battalions and other forces approaching, orders that the assault be constantly renewed.

Once again, Gen. Rottenbeck is ordered to take control of the 2nd Klompens and is directed to advance on the left. By now, another battalion of dragoons and squadrons of cuirassiers are also across the stream. A major reshuffle begins, as battalions are maneuvered at the foot of the hill.

The reorganized bits of Brigs. Fungamungus and Funft are brought to the north of the road as the right wing. The Grenadiers, backed by cuirassiers, form an assault column on the road, and Fingerlein’s Fusiliers line up with 2nd Klompens on the left. Brig. Gruener permits the Teufelbond Dragoons to flee down the road and across the bridge, and reforms the Sturmgen Dragoons at the foot of the hill.

Observing the enemy regrouping into ever larger formations, v. Ballpark warns Gen. Sorbet that the time for their plan to first fall back to the town itself is approaching. He orders the light artillery and howitzers to be limbered and moved back into the town to be repositioned. Gen. Sorbet in turn, alerts his brigadiers and hastens to rally the remnants of Col Chicken’s battalion. As he is known to them from the Battle of Bad Tannes, he is able to get them to post themselves between the burning houses on the eastern edge of town to cover the withdrawal of Hottatrot’s battalion. At the same time, he orders the Falsie Hussars to advance on the right to a position from which they can charge any force coming up the Weyersfeld road. Maudelin deploys l’Lagalle’s dragoons to cover the open fields behind Rosenschnauz


THE TIDE SPILLS OVER

Riding forward from his position by the howitzers to the bridge, Gen. Klompen orders a trumpeter to clear the way over the bridge through the Turkies inf. reg.

Unfortunately, Fungamungus, Funft, and Googlen all interpret this as the signal for a general advance. So in a mix of columns trailing beside the battalions formed in line, they begin to hack their way back through the now much raveled scrub. The Feldwebels scream themselves hoarse over the drum and howitzer fire to keep some alignment as their men work through the shrubs and over or around the wrecks of the previous assaults.

Abruptly, a great shout arises from the Hessian line as the Gallian artillery falls silent and the standards of the Frankszonians disappear from the barriers at the crest of the plateau! Everyone, even Gen. Rottenbeck, scrambles forward cheering. The Seewald howitzers fall silent as their battalions finally climb into the target area.


Meanwhile, Brig. Rosenschnauz and Lt. Oberst Sanders, in a prepracticed maneuver, file around the flank of the 4th Laura Anns and march towards the Seifreidsburg square via the town bridge. On the Gallian right flank, however, the withdrawing howitzers block the routes through the flaming houses, and for a vital moment, d’Hottatrot is caught between swarms of Hessians and burning houses. The Grenadiers V. Hesse swarm up the road and into the creek on Hottatrot’s left. The Fingerlein Fusiliers are breaking through the barricades, 2nd Klompen is breaking out in ... uh ... out of the woods on his right, and the Strumgen Dragoons are trotting up the hill beyond them.


FINGERS IN THE EARS ...uh ... DIKE

Now the Gallian gallantry is tested to the utmost. Brig. Duplicite flings Col. Phule into the flank of the Hessian Grenadiers and brings Col. Dummass up in line to delay the forces clambering over the barriers. Still, The Hessians are able to drive three battalions through the smoke of Col. Dummass’ old battalion. On the right flank, the Gallian light artillery chooses to continue firing in hopes of delaying the Fusiliers advance, but are overrun by 2nd Klompen.

At this moment, the Jaegers v. Kamp hear Brig. Hottatrot shouting encouragement to his men (his line battalion literally with their backs to a burning wall), and emerge in time to fire on the flank of the Strumgen Dragoons. Even as Brig. Gruener tries to keep them trotting forward, the Falsie Hussars thunder around the woods and crash into his force. Behind them, the Grenadiers fire into 2nd Klompen with case shot from their 12 lbrs.

Then, before the Hessians can close with Col. Dummass, Brig. Maudelin, rolls into the Hessian flank! For a confused moment, the Hessians recoil back through the barriers. Gen Klompen pushes through the confusion with the Lieb Garde Cuirassiers and I.R. Turkies in an attempt to renew the advance, but it is too late. The Gallians have fired the houses on the north of the creek to deprive the Hessians of their cover and have pulled safely back over the bridge. The Count d’Hottatrot is able to join the remnants of Chicken’s first battalion, and the howitzer battery is redeploying while the Frankszonian light artillery sets up at the end of the bridge.



The TIDE RECEDES


Brig Maudelin pulls back into the ravine leading down to Schonau ... any attempt to pursue him will run into many roadblocks, ambushes, and be under fire from Aschenroth as well. All the Hessian Cuirassiers can accomplish is to disuade him from bursting back up the hill into the battle. The Grenadiers and Fusiliers under Brig. Google refuse to assault the new Gallian redoubt.. Even worse, the I.;R. v. Klompen is highly irritated and is clustering with itching ... uh ... itchy fingers below the plateau crest. Meanwhile, there are reports of more Gallian cavalry approaching on the Weyersfeld road.

Von Klompen clomps around the hill top angrily attempting to reorganize, but he knows that only the arrival of further Hessian forces will enable him to advance. Moreover, a quick dash up into the hills by Gen. Chevert could leave Klompen facing a much larger Gallian force. At least, his current position would be as hard for the Gallians to force as their position is for him. Meanwhile, he awaits the arrival of another corps of Germanians, who could choose to push on to Wurzburg instead of reinforcing him.

POSTLUDE

Caualties:
Leaders:
Frankszonian / Gallian:
Rosenschnauz receives another wound in his ample flesh, but Intendant Chicken has been seriously injured by shrapnel. The I.R. Chicken will be reorganized as the Col. Sanders / Chicken Regiment.
Van Kamp has taken a sword cut above his right ear, apparently this is also not serious, and he remained in command of his troops.
Brig. Maudelin seems to have suffered a breakdown over his failure to drive the Hessians from the hill and was sent weeping on leave.

Hesse-Seewald:
Gen. Rottenbeck is suffering a severe rash and has been sent north to the sea for a cure.
Col. Rosenblum was hit several times and is hospitalized in serious condition.
Oberst Rotheisen fell at the great battery, he was captured and died before he could be taken to the surgeons.
Brig. Gruener was injured and captured along with the regimental colors.

Guns:
Frankszonia has lost 2 12 lbrs and 1 Howitzer.
Gallia has lost 2 12 lbrs and 4 light artillery.

Personnel:
Frankszonia / Gallia:
I/R Chicken: nearly 50%
1st Hottatrot: 40%
Jaegers V. Kamp 30%
L’Lagalle Dragoons, @ 25 men
Col.Phule’s bat. 25%
Col. Dummass: 15%

Hesse-Seewald / Germania / Hungover
I.R. Klompen 75% (about half the casualties medical leave for severe rashes and poison bites).
I.R. Rosenblum 60%
I.R. Trinken and I.R. Drunker; 30%
Rothesien Grenadiers: 90%
Sturmgen Dragoons: 60%
Teufelbond Dragoons: 40%
Fingerlein Fusils: 30%
Grenadiers v. Hesse: 45%

Battle Honors:
Units:
Frankszonia:
*(a ribbon for each unit)
Gallia:
*4th Laura Anns
Hesse-Seewald:
*I.R. Rosenblum
*Rotheisen Dragoons (post humurously)
*I.R. Fingerlein Fusiliers
Individuals:
Frankszonia:
*Brigadiers Rosenschnauz and d’Hottatrot,
*Lt. Oberst Sanders to Oberst Sanders
Gallia:
*Brig. DuPlicite
*Col. Bombalier
Hesse-Seewald:
*Oberst Rotheisen (posthumorously)
*Brig. Fungamungus to Maj. General
*Oberst Rosenblum to Brigadier

Situation In Germania: 17 August 1757 (2007

On: Emperor vs Elector
"Situation In Germania: 17 August 1757 (2007)"

Scene: Intendant Bastille's Office, Gallian Magazine and Citadel, Frankfurt Am Main
Date: 17 August 1757 (2007)
--------------------------
Narrator: Outside the familiar window overlooking the parade and now completed new jail, Bastille hears the clip clops of a rider come near and then stop below. A dispatch rider has arrived with news. Boots resound on the steps, stop, voices are heard outside the closed door followed by knocks.

Guard: Excuse me M. l' Intendant Bastille, but a dispatch rider, a very high officer, has arrived from Lt. General Chevert begging an audience this instant, if you please. [Bastille nods as a dusty eye patched Lt. Colonel of the Royal des Carabiniers enters. He is none other than....]

Lt. Col. Enigma: "Ah, mon ami. I arrive with vexing news."

Bastille: "Well, before that, please sit and refresh yourself with some cool wine and Germanian partridge. Allow me to pour you some Chevert. All is from Gallia to soothe the palate and digestion."

Enigma: "Oui, there is nothing better. I desire that above all things." [Minutes pass in small talk and companionable eating eventually followed by.]

Bastille: "I believe I may know your news but will not steal your thunder. I take it something is amiss?"

Enigma: "The Kings Army suffered a dreadful rebuff at Salzungen at the hands of Der Erbprinz of Hesse-Seewald. Though things looked very good especially on our right where my Carabiniers dashed into the enemy rear causing mayhem and destruction everywhere, we were eventually repulsed and scattered. Had we but had one more regiment! Well. The rest of the army was defeated in detail. I never saw such a thing. I escaped near a farm and only a day later found myself at the General's headquarters."

Bastille: "I heard rumors somewhat to that effect. What is next, pray tell?"

Enigma: "Lt. General Chevert has returned south to the fortress of Gemünden from whence he marched to engage Der Erbprinz. There he is recovering and restoring the Army and forming a line of battle with his flank resting on the fortress. It is his intention unless ordered to the contrary to offer one more battle there should Der Erbprinz follow up his victory. We do not yet know if he is coming south. Perhaps not with the situation at Minden looming."

Bastille: "Good. This will protect the right flank of Frankfurt Am Main. Meanwhile to the northwest Marshall de Broglie followed up his June victory at Gütersloh and is now fencing with the Britannians commanded by the Marquis of Granby who holds Minden. Now may I offer some cake and another glass?"

Narrator: Thus dear reader, we find Gallian Lt. Gen. Chevert returned to Fortress Gemünden and Marshall de Broglie near Minden. What will happen next? Will Der Erbprinz march south from Salzungen to Gemünden to engage Chevert? Will he march to aid Granby at Minden leaving behind a corps of obervation to watch Chevert? Will de Broglie strike Granby sooner or later? Or will something else occur? Time and circumstance will reveal all. Oh and Bastille is now considering filling the new jail, named after himself, with certain vexing elements in and about the city. Well, that's what he built it for, didn't he? Adieu.
---------------------------

posted by Gallia at 10:29 AM on Aug 17, 2007

Frankfurter said...

From Gen. Meyer
to: Gen. Intendent Bastille

I have word of a major setback to the corps of Gen. Chevert.
Hopefully, the three battalions of Frankszonians did their duty in a commendable manner ...
how badly were they hit?
Should they be consolidated?
Should the Hurtshog conduct a new recruitment drive or simply pass along some companies from the Nidda forces?
Could you assign some Gallian sub officers and sergeants to drill the militia companies and the three companies of the Reichs Armee here should they be required?

Your Servant,
Gen. Meyer

The letter is delivered by a tall, dark skinned American Indian dressed as a German noble, Lord Moosehunter. He requests a private audience with the Intendant. As the aides and servants retire:

Moosehunter: My Lord, the Hungover forces in the Russel Wald have begun to concentrate. They still appear chronically short of horses, but have enough to move their guns for sure. They can't act offensively, however, till next week at the earliest. Should we request the Imperial brigade across the Main to cross now or let them wait till after the festivities?

Bastille (with irritation): There are sufficient Gallian forces here to accomplish the taks.

Moosehunter (nods): Until Gen. Chevert calls them forward. This local rabble is hardly as dangerous as the Hesse-Seewald professionals!
The Hurtshog has too much invested in Gallian victory right now.

Bastille: And by his declaration, it is my decision, no?

Moosehunter (nodding again): That is correct. Moving on to another matter, our Herr Eberhard Kunegunde: Master of the Secret Police, has been alerted that you may have a list for him?
Do you have any that require ... ah ... delivery ... before tomorrow's festivities?

Bastille: I will consider this.

Moosehunter: Also, the Hurtshog has a personal request.

Bastille (irritated again): Yes?

Moosehunter: You have doubtless prepared for the swift security and withdrawal of the visting Gallian nobles. He would appreciate it if the Princess Stuftliana and the Urpprinz and their necessary party be considered as well. The doctors assure us that they are hardy enough for the rigors of such a journey, and Gallian hosting of their persons should offer significant advantages to both Gallia and the family Fahrtz.

Bastille (surprised): This is a major matter. I'm not sure ...

Moosehunter (reassuringly): We should have at least until Tuesday to act, and perhaps a more ceremonial departure with suitable carriages or by ship as would be appropriate for an exchange of state visits would be more suitable.

Bastille: and more obvious a target!

Moosehunter: ah, yes, speaking of which, we are placing some companies of the Porcelain Dragoons at your disposal over the weekend ... these men were originally Bavarians and their regard for Gallia is solid. The Hurtshog feels that such might be better suited for suppressing any incidents during the festivities than a purely Gallian force and unlikely to be susceptible to the blandishments of our mutual enemies.

Bastille: I'd have to put them under Gallian lieutenants to ensure their coordination.

Lord Moosehunter: We can drink to that! (offers a flask)

Bastille: Perhaps, you'd prefer some Cheveret?

Lord Moosehunter (devoutly, while returning the flask to his coat): I would be honored, m'Lord.

August 17, 2007 11:53 AM

Gallia said...

Narrator: Later that same day an Aide de Camp arrived from Lt. Gen. de Poyanne by the name of Lieutenant Christien. The gentle reader may recall, and if he does not, this kind reminder should suffice, that the aforementioned Lt. General has been posted near Frankfurt Am Main for a month with some 25,000 Gallian soldiers of all arms. It is about their sudden activities described in the dispatch for Monsieur l'Intendant de Bastille about which we are about to lean as we read:
-------------
Mon trés cher l'Intendant Bastille, I have the honour to report that my corps stole a march during the previous two nights using legerdemain arriving at the Russel Wald per our plan. At sunup my 25,000 men were arrayed in such a way as to prevent the escape of most rebel forces mobilizing there.

Calling for their surrender resulted in honorable refusal as expected. Thereupon I ordered the attack. In an hour the rebels were captured and dispersed. Considerable stores of munitions and food were also taken.

I thought the above plan practicable given the sad news of Lt. Gen. Chevert's battle at Salzungen. Removal of the foe in our rear area seemed to be the sound plan to better protect our interests.

On the morrow I intend to march into Frankfurt Am Main and encamp in the usual place. If it would please you Monsieur I offer a military procession through the streets of the city not unlike the style of the ancient Romans to impress elements still vexing us into submission or at least retreat. I have upwards of 8,376 dispiritied prisoners who will accompany the procession but who will not be allowed in the city.

Awaiting your pleasure with my news I am now riding for the city as I remain,

Votre Obeissant Serviteur,
Lt. Gen. de Poyanne
Gallian Corps d'Armée

August 17, 2007 2:35 PM
Gallia said...

Narrator: The dispatch from de Poyanne has enlivend M. de Bastille into a rare smile. He immediately sends Lt. Chistien back to the Gallian general with this note.
----------------
Mon trés cher Lt. Gen de Poyanne,
I beg to ask you will accept my sincere congratulations about your coup in the Russel Wald. Moreover, with confusions everywhere here in Frankfurt Am Main I am obliged by duty to say your arrival here on the morrow is propitious and vitally needed. A procession through the streets en-route to your encampment in the usual place will surely impress everyone - friend, foe and fencesitter alike.
I approve it heartily and also thank the Lt. General for disallowing the prisoners to enter the city though a few might do wonders.

After the repulse of M. de Chevert at Salzungen, your reinforcement of my garrison will undoubtedly quell any mischief planned by disaffected elements remaining here.

May your fortune continue Monsieur as I remain a most grateful and
Obeissant Serviteur,
M.de Bastille
Gallian Intendant
In The Citadel
and Gallian Magazine at
Frankfurt Am Main

PS If you bring along the rebel foodstuffs, I am sure the royal family here would be obliged to deliver same to loyal solders in our service since their digestions handle the sausages and the like better than we.

August 17, 2007 2:48 PM
Gallia said...

Narrator: Meanwhile at Fortress Gemünden (east of Frankfurt Am Main) Lt. General Chevert has been reassembling and reorganizing his Corps d'Armée.
--------------
Chevert Thinking Aloud:

The men are still coming in from the vexing affair at Salzungen. Let me see....

The fortress of Gemünden on my flank is secure enough with the reconstituted if battered battalions from the battle. Should Der Erbprinz arrive, I mean them to stay inside as a thorn in his plans.

The main road to the north and Salzungen is blocked by the unengaged Frakzonians. Will they hold? I doubt it but perhaps they will do their duty as an advanced screen. I do not intend that they do more than slow Der Erbprinz to give us time in the rear to be more ready. Their officers know their duty, but do their soldiers?

To the rear we have two lines of infantry and cavalry resting and recovering. Another week or two should suffice to repair their morale and circumstances.

Plus there is de Poyanne with his 25,000 near Franfurt Am Main - a useful reinforcement if I am pressed.

Narrator: We are now left with the following summary to wit:

1. Chevert is recovering at Fortress Gemünden east of Frankfurt Am Main.

2. Lt. Gen. de Poyanne, unbeknownst to Chevert has scored a coup against rebel elements in the Russel Wald and is now upon his march to encamp in Frankfurt Am Main.

3. l'Intendant Bastille is in near euphoria, well, euphoria for him anyway, with de Poyanne's imminent arrival.

4. Marshal de Broglie far to the north is covering the Britannian Marquis of Granby.

5. Where is Der Erbprinz?

6. What of the Masquerade? Doubtless Bastille and de Poyanne will collaborate to make it a peaceful affair. We hear Bastille has arranged for triple pay for the garrison to search out vexing troublemakers on the day of the Masquerade.

7. Have we heard nothing from Lady Diana Pettygree and her particular friend Lady Cherish Masquerade.

8. And Lt. Col. Enigma, the eye patched, scared and severe faced officer of the Royal des Carabiniers. Methinks dear reader he has ties to the Gallian ______, but I cannot say what.

Adieu.

August 17, 2007 3:11 PM
Frankfurter said...

An assurance to Gallia:

The three battalions sent to Gen. Chevert under Graf v. Ballpark are quite reliable. The Graf himself is a brave and hardy soul with a sound record. I.R. Chicken is a tested formation which withstood crossfire, gallantly advancing between enemy formations in order to cover the advance of the Black Skirts. The Battalion d'Hottatrot is also a tested unit which now has a reputation for aggressive initiative to uphold.

While I'm a tad upset that you beat me to the punch (I had enough figures to game out the Russel Wald scenario after I'd written up the Masquerade ...) the Hurtshog will be ecstatic at the news. By themselves, the rural nobles aren't really that much of a threat ... and can be readily quelled after the masquerade.

As for round up during the festivities, I was working on a scenario of an urban riot / uprising (because of the refusal to hire Frankfurter laborers)... I'd rather not complicate my story line for the masquerade with it ... and the Frankfurter secret police already have a nice selection of "usual suspects" they intend to deliver between the masquerade and the departure of the Ladies ...
who have been receiving many visits from the happy couple with their baby ....

By the way, will those troops be arriving Friday or Saturday? There are some royal progresses through town scheduled for that day, and coordination and even better, participation with them would enhance the occasion ....
:)
Arthur

August 18, 2007 10:33 AM

The Grand Parade

Le Grande Parade
(Die Grosse Marche)

Detachments from:
From Right:
Frankszonian forces:
* The Cellulite Cursers, Cuirassiers 400
* Hillary's Hussies: Hussars 350
* Reiters, Cuirassiers 350
* The Porcelain Regt, dragoons 400
Infantry:
** Der Zeizme Bundt Guard (* IR Summer Guard,(300) * IR Grinderdiers (600), )
* IR Black Kilts (600)
* IR Phaulie’s Fusils (1200)
* 2nd bat IR Hottatrot (300)
Militia:
** Nathan's Nationals
Militia infantry: The Guild Companies, the Nordfeld regiment, and the Sudfeld regt.
Militia cavalry: The Wurst Brat Dragoons.
1000?
(Note, the militia seems quite under strength, especially the Nordfeld and Sudfeld regiments. The Militia still incorporates pike companies. Some of these men even appear to be carrying matchlocks, as well).
Artillery and Engineers special units.
* The Bombed Kennedy's (600)
{The Intendant and his officers will notice that, unlike the antique artillery they found in Frankfurt, this unit is equipped with pieces of the latest design – I’ve got to use AWI pieces with my plastics, okay? – including 4 siege guns, a battery of howitzers, about a dozen 12 pounders and two dozen 6 pounders, Granny Loomis is riding in an open carriage at their head}.

Total strength of reliables present: 3,800 ...
Total forces in unreliable units present: 1,700

(Not present because currently deployed away from Frankfurt)
Along the Nidda River, etc.
* Hiese Hunde Hussies (400)
* Vinny's Vincibles (240)
* IR Braunsbienz, (600)
* IR Foot Longs, (600)
With the Corps Chevert
** Colonel Chickens Brigade (@1200)
* 1st Battalion, IR Hottatrot (@600)

Gallian Forces:
* De Saxe Uhlans: 120 guarding Pettygree and Masquerade now housed here within the Citadel.
* Militia Grenadiers: 480, in the citadel itself, the guards you saw here.
* Brigade Flanders: Three battalions: 1,952 hommes.
* Brigade Provence: Four battalions: 2,323 hommes here in Frankfurt Am Main.
* Artillerie: 8 Battalion Pieces.
* Brigade Auvergne: Two battalions: 1,200 hommes (regulars).
* Saxe-Raschstein Chevaulegers von Rutowski: 400 hommes.
* Artillerie: 1 Battalion Piece.

Total in Frankfurt: 6,475, does not count de Poyanne’s corps.

Now Just North Of The City:
L’Corps de Armée de Lt. Gen. de Poyanne is not far away. He has some 25,000 hommes and twenty pieces of ordnance.

General Nathan is among the notables on the dias with the Hurtshog and the Intendant.
He has informed Intendant Bastille that the Hurtshog considers * Hillary's Hussies: Hussars 350
* Reiters, Cuirassiers 350 and the Militia units as all unreliable against the noble / Hamburger plot ... also, the IR Foot Longs are not trusted.. Also, IR Foot Longs, to the west of town are considered to have too many officers related to the plotting nobles. The Duke intends to order all of these to the south to Offenbach in the expedition “to protect Offenbach.” He will send Vinny’s Vincibles with them, and Once they know their orders are specifically to Offenbach and against Stagonia, however, there will be sentiment among the troops to stand steady on that assignment. This, however, will entail a dangerous passage of potentially hostile troops through Frankfurt. The Duke hopes that sufficient Gallian “guides” will be assigned to these forces to prevent any unpleasantness.

During the speech segment of the review, the Hurtshog denounces the vile plotting of the Hamburgers and Stagonians to despoil Frankfurt and her friends, the Soweiter League. He reads, with suitably acidic commentary, the note given to the Soweiter League. Reliable men posted throughout the unit give the appropriate shouts of anger and resolution and cheer when the Hurtshog declaims: “We shall stand steadfast against these threats and preserve the ancient privileges and autonomy of Frankfurt!”

Then he proclaims the Divine Providence of the presence of Gallian forces between Frankfurt and the Hamburger contagion. “Given that the main effort of resisting this subtle, underhanded sneak attack will fall upon them, we are elevating the Gallian Intendent to Lt. General of Frankszonia so that he and his staff can most efficiently direct our defense in this crisis!”
There is a smattering of extremely polite applause to this, as a strange conveyance is wheeled onto the field. It is a fancifully carved and painted large wooden rocking horse! Gen. Nathan whispers that the rockers conceal an ingenious suspension to provide a comfortable ride. Obviously the rider would sit head and shoulders above even the escorting team of cuirassiers! The Hurtshog continues, “As is traditional, we hereby install the General Bastille upon his mount of command!” As cheerful Frankszonian officers urge the General up onto the contrivance (there is also an ingenious little ladder to enable one to mount it), the Frankzonian forces are led in the ceremonial three “Huzzahs!” A section of the Summer Sage Guards forms up in rigid attention, and after presenting arms, assumes a position to protect the Intendant.

Then General Hottatrot and Oberst Rosenschnauz are brought forward.
The Marquis Hottatrot, leaning on two grenadiers, is awarded the Order of the Grilled Wiener for his initiative and bravery at the Battle of Bad Tannes ... his persistance even when seriously wounded is also mentioned. Then the color party of the 2nd Battalion of IR Hottatrot is ordered forward as representative of the regiment and presented with a red ribbon for the Battle of Bad Tannes.
The rotund Oberst Rosenschnauz is formally promoted to Brigadier in recognition of his steadfastness when literally between enemy fires, again in spite of his wounds, leading his battalion in holding its ground until the Cellulite Cursers and the Black Skirts could deploy and force the foe to fold.
As the infantry regiment Chicken is in the field with Gen. Chevert, Hauptman Sanders is given the red ribbon for the Battle of Bad Tannes for their unit.
After further huzzahs, and a speech by General Bastille, the parade proceeds to its conclusion ....

A Brief Synopsis:

A Brief Synopsis:

(Apologies if any of the mentioned powers are misspelled ... I’m offline at the moment due to the backwoods network I have to rely upon!)
At the instigation of the nefarious Marquis Roquefort, famous centers of cheese production such as Limburg and Munster had attempted to dominate the market for sausages which incorporated any cheese ... and “to encourage” all forms of sausage to include cheese as an ingredient. Vienna had exploited this disorder by ordering all non-cheese containing sausages, brats, wurst, and frankfurters to be classified as “Wieners” and under Wiener oversight.

Under these conditions, an highly unusual alliance had formed between the Frankfurter Bundt led by Frankszonia with Hungover and Hamburger. Bad zu Wurst, Wurstenburg, and similar stadts were being drawn into the conflict. Most of the fighting had occurred in Hesse Darmstadt and the Duchy of Nasau ... which of course highly alarmed Hesse-Fedora, Hesse-Homburg, Hesse-Inglestadt, and Hesse-Seewald. Due to the shifting allegiances of the emigre Jacobites following Broderick Woad, the Count of Hiccup, in his Black Skirts Brigade, the fighting had been indecisive (actually, my beloved but uncannily lucky with dice wife uses Woad as her command figure ... so the army which he commanded tended to win whenever there were equal odds ... the figure is a cuirassier casualty figure ... the guy is riding while grasping a sword stuck into his side).

At this point, the brewing discontent between Hesse-Seewald, an ally of Germania, and Gallia, whose king had kinfolk threatened by Hesse-Seewald ambitions (okay, that’s the party line, satisfied, m’Lord Bastille?) invaded. In its opening move, the relatively minor Duchy of Frankszonia, with most of its troops north of the Tann Hills is overrun and occupied. The Hurtshog Fahrtz dashed back to Frankfurt on Plain (which the froggies, with their snide ethnic bigotry about food call Frankfurt am Main ... don’t worry, m’Lord Intendant; an obligatory nod to national prejudices here) to protest.
To his dismay, the Hurtshog found Frankfurt occupied by powerful corps of Gallians under Gen. Chevert, who was rapidly establishing a depot for Gallia within Frankfurt’s walls. While the French gave him a formal apology for their abrupt invasion, they were scrounging for everything of military value which the Frankszonians couldn’t hide first. Further, their only movement of forces out of Frankfurt involved massive battles with Hesse-Seewald and its allies (reference the two battles of Fulda displayed in the folders at the Yahoo group, SocDaisy).

The Hurtzhog is quite pragmatic about the affair, and after sneaking an explanation and a sincere apology to his much admired military mentors and child hood friends in Germanian service, proceeded to collaborate with the Gallians. While he succeeded in obtaining their assistance in a few of his local ambitions (see the Battle of Bad Tannes in Frankszonia.blogspot.com), his attempt to dominate the supply market for the depot backfired. A cabal of war profiteers, acting through the notorious Minister of Trade, “Cut-me-own-throat” Dilbert, provided a plethora of distinctly sub-standard provisions while diverting the better Gallian products to their own projects.

When this racket reached unreal levels, the Hurtshog exposed it and attempted to intervene. This triggered an attempted coup by the Guild Syndics. Though the Hurtshog was easily victorious, driving Dilbert and his confederates into exile, the French became sufficiently alarmed to transfer their enforcer, the Intendant Bastille, to Frankfurt in order to secure the depot while their armies took the field in the new season. Provoked by this insult, many officers and their friends who had previously been closely connected with Germanian military circles mutinied and led what followers they could into Hesse-Seewald. With the compliance of the Hurtshog, however, the Intendant seemed able to stabilize affairs.

Meanwhile, the Hurtshog and his exotic wife had celebrated their recent union by engendering little Graf Honker, a Ducal heir! They had joyously acted on a suggestion of Gen. Chevert and scheduled a Masquerade, to which they had invited the illustrious Gallian ladies, Pettygree and Masquerade. The fete’ seemed promising for establishing relations with Gallia on a more positive level. Just as the international celebrities were assembling, however, a much more serious crisis has erupted!

When the Cheese War was suspended by the greater Gallia / Seewald conflict, the Hurtshog had sent his erstwhile allies from Hungover / Hamburg away for their safety. Secretly, however, the Hungover / Hamburg forces had hidden in a forested area to the west of Frankszonia and had managed to unite with their erstwhile foes, the Cheddar Guild Brigades. Hamburg had always had a rivalry with Frankfurt. Now, encouraged by the failure of Gen. Chevert to break through the Fulda Gap and the discontent in Frankszonia, they had begun plotting with certain Frankzonian nobles and the Guild Syndics to overthrow the Hurtshog and to seize the Gallian Depot!

With the excitement and the glittering opportunity of the presence of the many notables attending the Masquerade, they have accelerated their efforts and inadvertently exposed their machinations to both the Gallian and Frankszonian agents. Having just crushed two actions against his throne, the Hurtshog is dismayed by this new resistance, and no longer can fully trust his army. Consequently, he has appealed to the Intendant to make the affair more obviously into part of the Gallian / Seewald conflict, and thus dampen the domestic disruption.

Meanwhile, the Frankszonia court hastens to establish favorable contacts with the Gallian notables gathering for the fete. Frankszonia is aware that the Intendant, almost paranoid about the murky Frankszonia situation, desires to send the whole packing on the instant. Further, he is quite disconcerted by being suddenly made the commander of the Frankszonian forces in their current state of disarray.

Even as the Ducal council confers with the Intendant Bastille and the harried ladies of the court attempt to begin negotiations with Ladies Pettygree and Masquerade, even more alarming news arrives! Stagonia, much despised for its frequent involvements in brigandry, fraudulent schemes, and other interference with honest trade, has issued an ultimatum to the Soweiter League of minor states. Since some of the League members lie in what Frankszonia considers its sphere of influence, Frankszonia has lodged a stern protest with Stagonia.

Now the Ducal court seems to be sitting on the cork of a rapidly fizzing champagne. How can it survive this volatile brew? Treason couples with a secret gathering of foreign foes almost within its walls, Gallian imperiousness threatens the time honored freedom of the city, unscrupulous neighbors are threatening valued trading partners, and furthermore, the Imperial divisions just south of the Main which had been intervening in the l’Affair Cheezer have yet to openly declare their intentions or to gather with their proclaimed allies, the Gallians.

Can the Intendant gather enough French forces before the Hungover expedition strikes?
Will the Imperials assist Frankfurter against either Stagonia or its internal foes?
Will the Intendant summarily dismiss the gathered notables “for their safety” before the court ladies can complete their intrigues?
How will the Frankszonian emigres and defectors be received by Germania and Hesse - Seewald?
Who is the mysterious lady who has recently appeared in Frankfurt?
What is much feared “M’Lady” doing?

Stay tuned to this station .....

Arthur,. scribe to the Hurtshog Stanken Fahrtz von Frankszonia ...

The Resistance Brews, Act II, scene 1

The Resistance Brews
Act two:
Scene 1: Street before Ducal residence in city ...
Personna:

Frankszonians:
Lt. Gen. Oscar Meyer
Brig. Nathan
Lady Rosenschnauz
M. Gen. Ziegfeldt von Phaulie
Francios l'Marquise de Hottatrot
Guiles, Count l'Beauphaup
Oberst Pfennighalter
Herr Eberhard Kunegunde
Lord Moose Hunter
Page in service of L’Beauphaup
Various Burgomeisters

Gallians:
l'Intendant Bastille: Managing Gallian interests in the city, a tough master
Sgt. Dumas: Bastille's assistant.
Lt. Gardier: Presumably the commander of the de Saxe Uhlans guarding Lady Pettygree
Lt. Col. Enigma: A high ranking officer of the Royal des Carabiniers and something else.

also:
Graf von Fusche de Bergerwart

A troop of the Porcelain Dragoons is drawn up beside the residence, the grenadiers guarding the doors are not in their usual formal poses but are standing at the ready, their muskets at high port.
Carriages are dropping off various well dressed men ...
A troop of Gallian cavalry trots into the area followed by several well mounted Gallian officers.
As the officers dismount, a young page, elaborate dressed and made-up boy, runs down the steps to meet them.

Page: My Lord Bastille! If you would please be so good as to accompany me sir?
Bastille: If it is necessary.
Page: My lord, the Count Beauphaup, has instructed me to see to your needs and to guide you about the palace, my Lord.
Bastille: (going into the palace with the page and his officers) And where is the good Count?
Page: he is helping the Marquise de Hottatrot into the council chamber, my Lord. The Marquis is not yet recovered from his wound.

The party enters into a series of side rooms and comes upon the Hurtzhog and his aides.

Hurtzhog: I am very glad to see you’ve come, my Lord.
Bastille: We are very curious as to the nature of this urgent meeting, your Grace.
Hurtzhog: Ah, yes.... well ... now that you are here, the briefing can begin.
Shall we go in, my Lord? (offers his arm)
Bastille: (remaining at attention does not take the arm) very well, your Grace.
Hurtzhog: (obviously upset at this curt refusal) very good. (turns and raps on another door)
The door is opened from the other side, and the page strides forward into a large room filled with people seated in various ornate chairs near a large table covered with papers.

Page: His Grace Stanken, Hurtzhog von Frankszonia and his Honor, the Intendent Bastille!
(All stand as the ducal party and Gallian officers enter. The Duke leads the Gallian party to the large table ... among the papers, Bastille might notice a rough draft of the plans for the jail).

Hurtzhog: Gentlemen! Before we undertake the serious business of today, I wish to present m’Lord, the Intendent Bastille. We believe that his interests and ours are very closely entwined in this matter.
Crowd: polite murmers ....
Hurtzhog: Richard?
(one of the present grandees, a robust, middle aged man, steps forward)
M’Lord Bastille, may I present the Graf von Fusche de Bergerwart? Richard, the Intendent Bastille.
(They nod curtly to each other across the table).
Hurtzhog: Gentlemen, let us be seated. von Fusche has important matters which he wishes with you to share.
(All others sit down again).

V. Fusche: Gentlemen, yesterday my company of dragoons intercepted a large wagon train. It was for Ficksnore headed, but we have for the trade of that scoundrel, Dilbert, been alert; and one of my officers noted that an agent of Muckiethaler was with the wagons. That agent, unfortunately, evaded capture. The nature of the wagon train itself, however, was most alarming.
(pause while sipping from a wine glass)

Barrels labeled as spices contained gunpowder
(some exclamations from the crowd, neither Hurtzhog nor Bastille changes expression).

Cases labeled “cast iron curios” contained cannon balls or shells.
(More muttering)
Bales labeled “festival bunting” consisted of good coat cloth, dyed in the red of Hungover and Albion.

Burgomeister: Treason!
Others: Caught red handed ... or clothed!
(Bastille notices that a very plump general whose arm is in a sling and another officer, however, confer quietly together. They obviously expected something like this from their mutual nodding)

V. Fusche: It was the nature of the wagons themselves which was most intriguing.
Fhartz: Jah?
V. Fusche: we found that the wagon boxes had been built over and to conceal caissons and limbers. There were enough for two full batteries of 12 pounders!
(Bastille notices that the Hurtzhog gives an angry twitch at this).


Hurtzhog: Thank you, Richard. Now I ask General Meyer to share with you some analysis.

Gen. Meyer: Danke. Gentlemen, these supplies were diversions from those ordered when the Gallian hosts first approached us. The fact that they have been diverted means that our other magazines may possibly also be taken by traitors. The question to be faced is, will this seizure cause them to accelerate or to delay their plans?
The Plump General (Rosenschnauz): (laughing) Hardly! the wives of these lords would kill them if the masquerade is interrupted!! My wife’s connections on that score are very sure!

An austerely dressed burgomeister shakes his head.
Eberhard: General, as much as I esteem your wife, the so called “resistance” is being manipulated from abroad.
A plainly dressed, swarthy, and very tall man rises in the back,
Moose Hunter: (thick accent) The presence of the red cloth confirms what General Rosenschnauz and I already deduced, my lords. This affair is probably being guided by the Hamburger bund.
(Expressions of surprise from many).

Rosenschnauz: Before the Gallian Seewald affair broke into open warfare, you may a brigade of Hungover troops recall that was sent to us against the interruptions of our trade by Limburger. I believe that they did not return to Hungover when we withdrew into the Tann Hills at the arrival of the Gallian hordes, but went into hiding in the forests near Russelheim.

Moose Hunter: They appear to have been reinforced to nearly divisional size. Hence the red cloth.

Gen. Meyer: (alarmed) If we were to try to take a pre-emptive strike on Koenigsberg, they would smash our left!
(Other officers confer in an agitated state).

Hurtzhog: There is other information as well, gentlemen, please.
(The crowd quiets but continues to show agitation)

Hurtzhog: First of all, we happen to know that the Hungover forces, whatever their size, are extremely short of horses and other draft animals. Thanks to the aide of Intendant Bastille, we’ve made a fairly good sweep of useful livestock and brought it under Gallian guard. Secondarily, the rebel forces are rarely battalion size, thus they must converge and organize in Koenigsberg before commencing any operations towards Frankfurt. Third, we’ve managed to disperse several good Hussar squadrons into the country side to provide an alarm should they accelerate their maneuvers.
(the crowd begins to quiet).

Hurtzhog: Now here is where the Gallian presence becomes important. M’Lord Bastille, these men are mostly Protestant adherents to Germania or currently Hesse-Seewald. Given the strength and closeness of Gallian arms as well as their disorganized state, we had not been too alarmed. Tbey’ve called us Gallian puppets, but you know well that we’ve managed to maintain more than a little autonomy so far.
Now, however, the presence of foreign regulars can only mean that some sort of attempt against the depot here is the true target. Our most reliable infantry is already with Gen. Chevert in the field. Due to the civil complications, we can rely upon most of the cavalry but only about four battalions of our infantry.
The documents discovered with these wagons implies that our enemies intended to concentrate on Ficksnore, which is much closer to Frankfurt than Koenigsberg.
We believe that we have three weeks to prepare, however.
Further, since this plot will obviously require Gallian power to thwart, we have gathered our more effective leaders presently in Frankfurt and place them and their forces entirely at your disposal.
(There are some mutters of protest, but the Hurtzhog silences them).
For family reasons, I must withhold the Sage Guard and a few squadrons of Cuirassiers. Until the time of action, however, they have been instructed to obey your orders for the safety of the great ladies coming to the masquerade.

Eberhard: My Lord, the Duke’s decision to hold the masquerade is a sound one ... among other things, it guarantees that several of the rebel leaders will not muster until afterwards ... by which time we will be able to intercept them, and by which time I hope that adequate accommodations may be available to ... ah ... entertain them?

Brig. Nathan: If we can make the battle to seem more a Hungover / Gallian event than some ersatz “free Frankfurt” uprising, pacification will be much easier, and the unrest in the troops much more easily cured.

Gen. Meyer: So, m’Lord, the first question has to be .... do we march on Russelheim right away, or wait until you and unfortunately the enemy can get all your pieces on the board?

(All turn towards the Intendant).