"May our indestructible friendship last forever!"
Jerome Bonaparte immediately raised his glass to invite Lionel Rothschild.
"For friendship!" Lionel Rothschild also raised his glass with a feigned smile. He was unsure if spending 500,000 francs to buy a tenuous future was worth it, but investing in one more person gave him a greater chance to overthrow his uncle's hopes.
500,000 francs was not a significant expense for Lionel Rothschild, even though the Rothschild Clan had indeed lost some money in this revolution. However, he firmly believed that once the crisis was weathered, the family's lost fortunes would soon return to them. Those who attempted to squeeze the Rothschilds into bankruptcy would pay a heavy price.
"Your Highness, I must clarify in advance: the 500,000 francs is solely for your campaign funds. If I discover you are using this money for non-campaign purposes, I have the right to freeze all your funds!" Lionel Rothschild proclaimed with both courtesy and firmness.
Based on his understanding of the Bonaparte Clan, if he did not impose usage restrictions on this investment, the funds would quickly be distributed as rewards to subordinates. The generous Bonaparte would not hesitate to curry favor with subordinates by sharing gifts. Lionel, on the other hand, had no interest in being lavish with someone else's money.
At the same time, Lionel Rothschild had to admit that this was the only way the Bonaparte Clan could win people over. Without sufficient financial nourishment, even the most loyal subordinates might harbor thoughts of betrayal.
Lionel Rothschild was convinced that so-called loyalty was merely a matter of not having enough incentives for betrayal.
"Hmm?" Jerome Bonaparte gave a wry smile as his little scheme was evidently seen through by the man in front of him.
However, in the capacity of a politician about to run for election, sometimes facade was not so important.
"Baron Lionel, I think we can choose a deeper cooperation!" Jerome Bonaparte continued, thick-skinned, to Lionel Rothschild: "I think the position of Minister of Finance should be occupied by a capable and resourceful person, especially someone like you!"
Though Lionel Rothschild knew Jerome Bonaparte was merely dealing in empty promises, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement.
The position of Finance Minister in France was one of the most lucrative posts in all of France and even across Europe.
If he could secure the position, he could leverage his power to seek benefit, possibly doubling the wealth of the Rothschild Clan.
Of course, Lionel Rothschild only pondered for a few seconds. As a "world banker," the Rothschild Clan was not confined to doing business in France. Delving too deeply into the politics of one country would only provoke resentment from both that country and others.
For a "responsible" world banker, this was absolutely unacceptable.
"I have no interest in the position of Finance Minister!" Lionel Rothschild decisively declined Jerome Bonaparte's "olive branch."
"That's truly a pity!" Jerome Bonaparte appeared regretful, realizing he couldn't persuade his financial backer further.
"However, I can lend you another one million privately, at an interest rate of 1.5%!" Lionel Rothschild continued.
"My God, Baron! You're nothing short of a vampire!" Jerome Bonaparte exaggeratedly remarked to Lionel Rothschild: "At an interest rate of 1.5%, you'd rather I jump into the waters of the Thames River!"
A monthly interest rate of 1.5% meant an 18% annual interest rate, implying that if Jerome Bonaparte failed to be elected, he would have to consider jumping down from the top of Paris.
Sometimes, being in debt was more terrifying than death!
"Your Highness, currently, in Europe, only the Rothschild Bank can lend you one million francs!" Lionel Rothschild retorted: "Moreover, once you ascend the French throne, can the Rothschild Clan still demand from you?"
Jerome Bonaparte feigned a few seconds of deep contemplation, gritted his teeth, and said, "Fine! I accept your terms!"
"A wise choice!" Lionel Rothschild smiled.
However, Jerome's next condition wiped the smile off Lionel Rothschild's face.
"However, I require the use of certificates issued by the Bank of England. The Bank of France's certificates are nearing bankruptcy!" Jerome Bonaparte spread his hands helplessly: "I might be taking over a problematic mess."
"The French Government is already actively mobilizing!" Lionel Rothschild's hopes to deal in Bank of France certificates crumbled.
"God! Their so-called stabilization is merely to forcibly stop the French from exchanging currency through administrative orders, only damaging France's credibility!" Jerome Bonaparte exaggeratedly responded.
In reality, the Bank of France's currency suspension had not lasted long. However, the high discount exchange rates from before could not be maintained for a long time, and the certificates faced devaluation during this period.
Lionel wanted Jerome to take over the devaluing certificates, which was simply wishful thinking.
"Of course, it will be the Bank of England's!" Unable to deceive Jerome Bonaparte, Lionel Rothschild had to extinguish his little scheme.
Amidst a facade of "joyful conversation," Jerome Bonaparte and Lionel Rothschild made an indescribable deal.
Nonetheless, there was a slight sense of regret in both their hearts.
If the other party had been a bit more naive, the deal might have proceeded more smoothly.
Having finished all this, Jerome Bonaparte could finally prepare for his cousin's funeral with peace of mind. The events of this day were more exhausting for Jerome Bonaparte than anything that had happened in the past month, or even year.
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On the slightly advanced date of May 2nd, the morning sun shone brightly, suggesting a good day to go out and socialize.
On this sunny morning, an article titled "From Bonaparte to Bonaparte: A Review of the Life of Louis Napoleon" appeared in The Times, like a thunderstorm sweeping through the press and public opinion circles of London, turning the turbulent waters of London upside down.
Equality, democracy, social responsibility... These Charter Faction pursuits were boldly printed in The Times.