Page 5 of Baron in Check
In conclusion, while the notion of emancipation may appeal to the sensibilities of some, we must weigh these temporary sentiments against the lasting welfare of our kingdom. It is our duty to maintain the order and principles that have long upheldour society, ensuring the continued prosperity and unity of our nation.
With a swing of his hammer the Lord Chancellor took his seat.
Applause erupted and Greg blinked twice as some of the lords extended their arm to congratulate List for his farsighted warnings.
Greg gestured to the Lord Chancellor and cleared his throat.
“Silence!” the Lord Chancellor called. He offered Greg a spot at the podium.
Greg rose, but he feared the people had made up their mind, losing the inability to think logically and fairly.
When he finally spoke, his voice cut through the noise with surprising clarity, each word carefully chosen and delivered with conviction. The room fell silent, the abrupt pause in the commotion making Greg’s heart pound in his ears. He could feel the weight of every gaze, the collective breath of the room hanging on his next words.
“Esteemed members of this assembly, I rise today to present a vision of our nation not as it stands, divided, but as it could be—united in its diversity and strengthened by inclusivity. The question before us, Jewish emancipation, is not merely a legal matter but a testament to our values as a society committed to justice and equality.
It is essential to recognize that the Jews, like any other group within our great nation, are capable of immense contributions to the arts, sciences, commerce, and the very soul of England. To deny them full citizenship is to deny ourselves the fruits of their labor and intellect, which have the potential to elevate our society to new heights of prosperity and innovation.
Moreover, the principles upon which our nation prides itself—liberty, justice, and equal opportunity—are not exclusive to any single faith or creed. We affirm these principles byextending full rights to the Jewish people, setting a powerful example for all minorities within our borders. This act of inclusion would inspire loyalty and a deeper sense of belonging among all our citizens, thereby enriching the very fabric of our society.”
The reaction was immediate and tumultuous, a flurry of responses that flew at him like arrows. Greg stood steadfast, a rock amidst the storm, his arguments unfurling with calm precision. The clash of wills was more than a debate; it was a battle for the future, fought not with swords but words.
In the corner, seated where he could watch the chaos unfold, sat Baron von List with the self-affirming gleam of a snake before snapping up its prey.
Greg narrowed his eyes but held List’s gaze as he continued. “If we choose to encourage the Jews to be fully English, to support and contribute to British prosperity, we not only enhance our nation but position ourselves as a beacon of enlightenment and tolerance on the world stage. Conversely, should we turn them away, we risk not only the loss of their contributions but the tarnishing of our international reputation.”
List chuckled, his crossed arms shaking as his face stretched into a broad grin—a dangerous one Greg recognized—the bluff of an experienced gambler.
A dangerous strategist.
“Furthermore, the argument that Jewish customs and laws are incompatible with British values underestimates the capacity of our society to grow and learn from new perspectives. Diversity in thought and belief has always been a source of strength and resilience for nations, driving progress and fostering a more harmonious society.
The economic concerns raised by some can be addressed not through exclusion but through integration and collaboration.The unique skills and entrepreneurial spirit of the Jewish community can complement and enhance our existing trade and commerce, leading to greater prosperity for?—“
“For you!” List called as if the Prussian had a voice in parliament. “So you can enrich yourself with the fortune of the Pearlers and Klonimuses, and the money they divert from the Crown!”
Greg paused, trying to control his fury at the interruption. How dare the Prussian self-appointed diplomat accuse his friends and family of stealing from the Crown?
“You are as misguided, Baron von List, as you are misinformed.” Greg shot him a warning stare and then turned back to the lords. “In regard to loyalty, it is a grave mistake to assume that granting full rights would divide allegiances. History has shown that inclusion fosters loyalty; when people are made to feel a part of the nation, they are more likely to contribute positively and work towards its success.”
“And how many more baptized Jews do you want to bring to the House of Lords?” said a person from the back.
List turned and exchanged smiles, raising his hands in silent applause of his supporter.
“Imagine King Solomon taking George’s seat!” said another person, drawing a round of vicious laughter.
Greg’s expression tightened. He was losing the battle, but the war continued, one in which values clashed with popular opinion. List had put his pawns in defense before an attack—how terribly unoriginal. He showed every evidence of a weak character, not just on the black-and-white squares of a board but also in the shades of grey in international diplomacy.
“You speak as though driven by desperation, Baron von List. Are you afraid the Jews can uproot your culture and national honor?”
List rose and slapped the armrest. “How dare you imply that?—”
“That you are sitting on an outdated throne? That you are too viscous in your thinking to understand that progress is fluid and can come fromanycitizen?” The room grew quiet. “It is a step forward that acknowledges every individual’s inherent dignity and potential, regardless of faith.”
“You’re nothing but a figurehead for the Crown Jewelers, Stone! Shame on you!” List shouted.
The Lord Chancellor raised his palm and requested silence prior to initiating the debate between List and Greg. “What is your allegation?”
“He’s seeking self-enrichment with the fleet and trade routes with the Pearlers and Klonimuses. I’ve watched him and?—”
