Everything was not Shire's intention, but Albert I's deliberate actions.
He received the telegram appointing the Allied commander almost at the same time as Shire.
At that time, he was enjoying afternoon tea with Colonel Eden in the manor while enthusiastically discussing the cooperation between "Saint-Étienne" and "FN" arsenals.
"God, why didn't I think of this." Albert I excitedly popped open a bottle of champagne and personally poured a glass for Colonel Eden: "I should have facilitated the cooperation between these two arsenals earlier, fortunately, they reached a willingness to cooperate on their own."
Colonel Eden stood up in astonishment to accept the wine, expressed his thanks, and then agreed: "Yes, this not only deepens Shire's interests in Belgium but also further enhances our military equipment."
"Further enhancement of equipment?" Albert I froze while holding the wine bottle.
