Washington
Secretary of State Saffar calmly said, "Mr. President, here are the quotes from various international arms dealers as well as our domestic capitalists."
"Of course, this doesn't mean much to us. The federal government was too hasty in its preparations for this war, and both the government forces and the state militias are now short on weapons."
"At present, many of our troops are still using their own shotguns. In terms of armament, we simply can't compare with the Southern Army."
"Even if we purchase all the current stock from these arms dealers, it won't satisfy our needs. Hence, choice is but an illusion."
President Lincoln rubbed his forehead; he was quite skeptical that the Secretary of State had come specifically to pick a fight. Since there was no choice, they might as well settle for whatever was available. What more was there to discuss?
"Send someone to negotiate with them. Try to push the price down as much as possible and eliminate the highest bidder."
