Chapter 437: Chapter 437 Belgium is a country, not a road
July 21st is Belgium’s National Day. Eighty-five years ago, Belgium declared independence on this day, with Prince Leopold elected as the first king.
Though the war has yet to end, Albert I still went to Brussels to hold a military parade.
This parade was unusual; it did not feature pristine military uniforms and equipment. The participating troops were guerrilla forces commanded by Colonel Eden.
The soldiers wore an assortment of clothes and carried rifles from various countries - British, French, and even German.
Additionally, the Third Tank Regiment stationed in Brussels sent a dozen tanks and armored vehicles to represent France in the parade.
As soon as they marched onto the street, they were met with cheers from people on both sides of the road, waving frantically at the troops or holding up Belgian flags and shouting.
Albert I stood atop one of the armored vehicles, holding onto it and waving at the people with eyes full of excitement and joy.
The parade squad advanced slowly amid the deafening cheers from the crowd, eventually stopping at the Grand Place in Brussels, where Albert I’s armored vehicle drove to the center and halted.
(The picture above shows the Grand Place in Brussels, built in the 12th century. Although not large in area, it is the venue for important Belgian events.)
Albert I paused for a moment, waiting for the surrounding cheers to gradually subside, then loudly declared to those around him: "Indomitable Belgians, I am delighted that National Day can still be celebrated in Brussels this year!"
The crowd erupted in cheers.
Once the surroundings quieted down, Albert I continued:
"Last year at this time, the Germans asked if we would allow their army to pass through, claiming it would be ’harmless passage’."
"My reply was: Belgium is a country, not a pathway!"
The cheer around grew louder, as people vociferously agreed with Albert I’s response.
"I told them we would pledge to defend our dignity at all costs, repelling each attack from other powers with our strength!"
"If we must turn into dust, then let us turn into dust gloriously."
"But at no time will Belgium ever surrender!"
People were ecstatic. What Albert I recounted truly reflected Belgium during this period. From Germany’s initiation of war last August until nearly a year now, many had pondered a question:
"Is Belgium’s effort worthwhile?"
"What is the significance of this endeavor?"
"Does a small country truly need to engage in the conflict of large nations?"
...
Albert I provided a powerful response: Only through unyielding resistance can Belgium become a thorn, even if it’s a small one, but capable of pricking the enemy attempting to invade, causing them to hesitate.
This is the helplessness of a small country, but also the only thing they can do.
Albert I didn’t use excessive words to thank Britain and France. He knew that Belgium had already paid its dues and done enough in the war, not owing anything to Britain or France.
But he did mention one person: "I thank Shire for his contribution to Belgium. This is the second time he has defeated the Germans in Antwerp, thwarting them in the same place twice!"
People burst into laughter.
"He is my friend, and a friend of Belgium."
"He didn’t come this time because he is still fighting the Germans in Antwerp."
"He has brought safety, freedom, and great victory to Belgium!"
"Thus, I proudly announce that Shire will be made a Count, a title to be passed down through generations!"
The crowd cheered loudly, seemingly rejoicing for Shire, with many shouting:
"He deserves such honor!"
"We support him, he saved Belgium!"
"Belgium welcomes Shire!"
...
Shire was somewhat bewildered upon hearing that he had become a "Count."
He knew the title held no real significance; it was more of an honor. Yet, it meant Shire would be integrated into the Belgian nobility, which could offer some benefits in interpersonal relations and business dealings.
Recalling yesterday when Albert I mentioned selling a piece of Antwerp land to Shire at a low price, Shire felt it was a seal and a title, a sense of tying Shire to Antwerp.
Shire was not mistaken.
Though Belgium was heading towards victory, Albert I was still uneasy.
Belgium is just a small country with a total population of less than 7 million, but it is sandwiched among several major powers: Britain to the north across the ocean, France to the west, and Germany to the east.
(Note: The total population of Belgium in 1900 was 6.13 million. For reference: Modern Hong Kong has a population of 7.47 million.)
If the major powers maintain peace, it would be fine, but if they enter a state of war, Belgium unfortunately becomes the focal point of their tug-of-war.
Last year, the Germans invaded; today, the French have driven the Germans out. What if next year the Germans defeat the French again?
Will Belgium be endlessly embroiled in conflict?
Albert I expressed this worry to Colonel Eden, who confidently replied: "Your Majesty, with Shire here, you never need to worry about the Germans coming back again."
Albert I nodded: "Yes, I believe that. But the premise is ’with Shire here.’"
Colonel Eden looked puzzled at Albert I.
Albert I sighed: "Not all French armies are commanded by Shire, Colonel. Not every unit is Shire’s unit. We have all seen that other French armies are not that good."
Colonel Eden suddenly understood and nodded in agreement.
Not to mention distant examples, there is Fuxu’s 9th Army nearby.
Shire’s troops shot through the German defenses from Combray all the way to Antwerp. If there wasn’t the ocean ahead, Colonel Eden believed they could have continued advancing with ease.
But Fuxu’s 9th Army, the elite forces of the Northern Army Group, even with Fuxu himself hailed as France’s ’Military God,’ remained stuck in Mons, unable to move, ultimately requiring Shire’s troops to return and assist.
So, is the important factor really French troops?
Or is it Shire and his troops?
Colonel Eden believed in the latter.
After pondering for a moment, Colonel Eden suggested: "Your Majesty, I think we should keep Shire in Belgium."
"Do you think I haven’t tried?" Albert I smiled and shook his head: "When he was still a lieutenant, I hoped he could lead the Belgian army, but he resolutely refused!"
Albert I’s smile was somewhat bitter.
Facts proved Shire was right: He could become a French general, and foreseeably soon could reach the pinnacle of the French military. Why would he let himself be constrained by a small country like Belgium?
Colonel Eden hesitated for a moment, then suggested: "Your Majesty, as a French general, he might not agree to lead Belgium. But as a capitalist, I think he cannot refuse the benefits Belgium can offer him."
"What?" Albert I looked at Colonel Eden in surprise, not expecting Colonel Eden to have such tricks.