William Murdoch? Joseph seemed to have heard this name before, but he couldn't recall who it was at the moment, figuring it must be some capable British technician.
Since the man had come all the way to France, Joseph felt obliged to extend his welcome, "I am very welcoming to you, Mr. Murdoch. I am very much looking forward to your showcasing your skills in France's steam engine project."
Seeing that Dupont had only brought Murdoch with him, Joseph sensed that things might not go smoothly.
He asked the two men to sit down and looked anxiously at Dupont, "What does Mr. Watt say?"
Embarrassment crept over the latter's face as he began with some difficulty, "Your Highness, I am sorry, I failed to fulfill your important trust. Mr. Watt has rejected my invitation."
Although Joseph was mentally prepared, he still frowned upon hearing this, "Is he dissatisfied with our conditions?"
"No, Your Highness, in fact, he didn't care about the conditions..."
