Talleyrand nodded deeply in agreement, "Indeed, Grand Vizier, there are always some shameless wretches who attempt to disrupt our normal trade by war or intimidation."
He brushed aside Mekka Mohammed's hand, smiling, "However, from my experience, those who commit evil will meet with misfortune. Perhaps their fleet will be engulfed by a storm the moment it sails past the Strait of Gibraltar."
"A storm? In the Mediterranean?"
Talleyrand gestured dismissively, "Perhaps an encounter with a sea monster, who knows? But I believe that normal commercial traffic in the Mediterranean will not be hindered by the British."
Mekka Mohammed stared intently at the "nonsensical" cripple, yet saw utter confidence on his broad face.
"Forgive my frankness, but your fleet is no match for the English."
"You will see," Talleyrand maintained his smile, "The overbearing British Navy will also have to abide by the rules of the Mediterranean."
