The President of the Swiss Parliament did not find the remarks offensive; instead, he smiled warmly and said, "Count Geselan, as you can see, if this railway can be completed, it will greatly boost trade across Switzerland..."
Geselan appeared somewhat impatient and slightly raised his voice, "Mr. President, our country's radicals are instigating civil unrest, and the city guards urgently need this money to quell the disturbances. This is a decision of the Congress, please understand."
Oberhozer paused awkwardly for two seconds, then had to nod and say, "Though it's regrettable, we will respect the decision of the State Congress."
He flipped through the documents in his hand, "The Geneva Republic previously provided supplies valued at 350,000 francs. This money will be allocated to you by the end of next month."
