"A blessing in disguise, politics is sometimes just such a comedy," he reflected. The British Government had originally harbored doubts about supporting the Japanese, fearing that it was like trying to prop up a failing wall, unable to recoup the investment cost.
But once the Holy Roman Empire supported the Spaniards, the British Government had no other choice. If they did not act, they would soon have no foothold in the Southeast Asia region.
Britain did not have many interests in Southeast Asia, and it seemed that being squeezed out would not cause much loss. However, things are not always what they appear on the surface.
A glance at the map revealed that Southeast Asia was perfectly situated between the Far East and India. Once pushed out, Britain's dominant position in the Far East would also be compromised.
Of course, they had another option—Australia. But that would involve a major detour!
