Bourbon Palace, the parliament is mired in a tug-of-war with evenly matched forces.
In the past, one side usually had an overwhelming advantage in the parliamentary debates.
Now, with Clemenceau and Shire standing together, even the side led by Briand, representing the interests of major capitalists, struggled to maintain their advantage.
This situation compelled Briand, who typically avoided parliamentary conflicts, to step forward and take charge.
"Gentlemen," Briand called out anxiously to the assembly below:
"I understand that you have your points, and General Gallieni's views in the newspapers are also sound."
"Undoubtedly, the military's request is beneficial to the war effort, and I do not deny that."
"However, do you remember the motto of the Third Republic: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity."
"It is precisely we, the parliament and the system, who ensure these values."
"If we compromise on this today, it might bring some advantages to us in the war."
