Gallic Royal Navy Transmission Center (iRP) (FO)

[Haste]

Battleship Saint-Nazaire, Leeds System
15. Septembre, 737 AGS

Sender: Général Gilbert Lebeau, Gallic Royal Navy.
Recipient: Directeur Victor Pelletier, Office of Naval Intelligence.
Topic: The chain of command.

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*The audio feed begins with a full three seconds of nothing but the Général's wheezing - a noise that will continue to be heard throughout the rest of the transmission.*


Monsieur Pelletier,


It has come to my attention that your organization has finally begun to make use of the Crown's recent capital injection. A great development, truly, if a little overdue. *Before continuing, Lebeau gasps for air.* As I am sure you are aware, Directeur, you are part of the same chain of command as us mere mortals. In fact, you are to report directly to me.

*A coughing fit momentarily overtakes the Général.*

How excruciating.

I believe that you are an intelligent man, Pelletier, and therefore I believe that you are fully aware that a man as important as I has limited time. You cannot expect me to read all the transcripts of your agents' numerous, trivial reports.

Instead, I expect to receive reports written by your hand, informing me of matters of true importance. Understood, Directeur?

*Lebeau shakes his head. The wobbling of his - respectable - jowls caused by the sudden motion creates a sound loud enough to temporarily dominate the audio feed. Then, after a sigh, the Général starts speaking once more.*

On a different subject: I cannot even begin to understand why you left that incompetent, gibbering idiot of a Cornett in charge of negotiations with those Rheinlanders. The correct handling of such meetings is one of the few things the Office - your Office - is supposed to excel at, is it not?

I would have greatly preferred it had you personally attended this meeting. But what is done - or rather, not done - is done, unfortunately. However, I will give you a chance to correct your mistake, Directeur. You will, as of now, personally oversee all cooperation between the Office and - what was it named again? - the Buro.

You will pull your weight, as I do. Ensure that the Royal Navy will reap the benefits of whatever it is that the Rheinlanders wish to offer us as soon as possible. Once you have done so - and I expect no delay - report back to me.

Immediately.


Cordialement,

Gilbert Lebeau
Général of the Gallic Royal Navy

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Transmission End