The Count of Florida Blanca frowned and said, "Your Royal Highness, regarding the issue of North America, our country will find ways to respond. But Louisiana is also an interest crucial to us."
Joseph nodded, "Indeed, it is very important.
"You should know the Americans' westward strategy. Once they break through the Mississippi River line of defense, they will rapidly expand westward, from Texas to Tamaulipas, and even to Mexico."
The expressions of the Spanish dignitaries instantly became solemn.
The Crown Prince of France was right. West of Louisiana, there is no place to mount a defense if the Americans continue their westward advance, all the way to the Madre Mountains.
And that is the empire's economic heart—Mexico's gold and silver mines support over sixty percent of Spain's fiscal revenue. If it falls, Spain would collapse instantly.
The Count of Florida Blanca and Campos exchanged looks full of hesitation.
