Chapter 378: Has Its Own Way
Samuel, following his strategic plan, continued to make calculated moves within the Abyssinian Empire. He aimed to exploit the existing divisions within the empire to acquire approximately 60,000 to 70,000 square kilometers of land in the southeastern region, effectively detaching it from Abyssinian control.
This region, despite its current underdevelopment, possessed a quarter of Ethiopia's high-quality arable land from its historical significance. Samuel aimed to incorporate this territory into the Kingdom of Italy.
While Samuel was strategizing in Desai, a messenger arrived with a telegram from China. As Samuel read the telegram, his expression grew serious, prompting questions from Sapeto, the head of the Rubatino company.
Samuel explained that the telegram didn't issue any specific orders but conveyed concerns from certain factions within Italy. Some believed that his actions were too cautious and passive when dealing with indigenous nations like the Abyssinian Empire.
Sapeto expressed his surprise and concern, noting that the government deducted substantial military expenditures, and their resources were already stretched thin.
Samuel, however, had anticipated such unrest within Italy. He explained that there were those who felt Italy should be more aggressive in dealing with the Abyssinian Empire, especially after capturing Desai.
Despite the large swath of territory Samuel had gained in the Abyssinian Empire, including desert and grasslands, which totaled over 50,000 square kilometers, he emphasized that Italy's primary focus was the southeast due to its strategic value and relative lack of local power.
He also mentioned that there were rumors of Italy planning to launch an attack from the north, with British backing, potentially targeting the Tigray region. Samuel and Sapeto shared a laugh, acknowledging that the would-be commanders might not even know where Tigray was located.
Tigray had been a historically significant region within the Abyssinian Empire, and its strength had varied throughout history. In the current context, it was a key area with a concentration of troops. Samuel had chosen to avoid the richer north, placing his bets on the south, where he faced fewer threats.
Samuel had learned from past experiences that he couldn't entirely trust his superiors or colleagues. He had often been deceived during the Italian-Austrian War, with fellow officers and colleagues abandoning him in times of need. This led him to be cautious and self-reliant, ensuring that he preserved his troops' strength.
With Italy's plans for a new front in the north, Samuel decided not to participate. Instead, he focused on collecting taxes in his jurisdiction and recruiting Italian immigrants to supplement his army. He knew from experience that if he didn't cooperate with his colleagues, they might sabotage his efforts.
Samuel had risen through the ranks on his merit and hard work, and he wasn't willing to rely on the goodwill of his peers. He was determined to forge his own path within the Abyssinian Empire.
(End of the chapter)