"The British Empire will offer all the aid it can to the Kingdom of Spain. Of course, if you are not daunted by the prospect of a full-scale German offensive, you could even consider an alliance with us and join the ranks of the Entente," the British ambassador said with a smile.
Pretto cast a disdainful glance at the British ambassador. Was joining the Entente not a certain path to ruin? It seemed likely that the German forces would soon turn their attention to Spain. Within a month, Spain might well be obliterated. Such a foolish act was not one Spain would entertain.
"Your Excellency, Spain shall not join the Entente. We have no desire to be drawn into this war. Our only wish is to live in peace," Pretto responded.
The British ambassador nodded. "Your wish, I am certain, will be granted by the Almighty. However, what Spain faces is the relentless pressure of the Germans. If you yield this time, Spain will lose all standing on the international stage. And should the Germans perceive you as weak, they will continue to press you further. Do not forget, the Germans are quite willing to do such things."
"Indeed, throughout Europe, apart from Spain, the rest of the countries have either already been defeated by the Germans or are their allies. The remaining nations are insignificant. Spain, undoubtedly, is a larger nation with great strategic importance. I believe the Gibraltar incident is merely a test by the Germans. If Spain compromises, it will face endless demands from Germany, until Spain becomes a nation fully under their control," the American ambassador added ominously.
Pretto shuddered. If the Germans truly harbored such intentions, Spain's future was grim. The Germans would undoubtedly dismantle the privileges of the old elite, leaving them with no escape.
"What shall we do?" Pretto asked, panic creeping into his voice. He had not yet enjoyed all the luxuries life had to offer. To die now, without having savored them, seemed unbearable.
The American and British ambassadors exchanged a knowing glance, both of them harboring a subtle smile. Clearly, their words had struck home.
"Minister, if the Germans do indeed attack, the scale will likely be small. The conflict will probably be confined to Gibraltar. The Germans are intent on seizing Gibraltar; they will not rest until it is in their hands. In such a case, rather than lose Gibraltar without a fight, it would be better for Spain to engage the Germans there. Win or lose, at least Spain will demonstrate its courage, showing other nations and Germany alike that Spain will not be trifled with. This will inspire the Spanish people and bolster their morale. Even if Spain is defeated, it will be due to the disparity in national strength, and I am certain the Spanish people will not blame the King or the government. Other nations will admire Spain. And if fortune favors you, and you manage to hold Gibraltar, Spain's resurgence will be near at hand," the British ambassador encouraged.
Pretto pondered the suggestion. It made a great deal of sense. After all, if the war were confined to Gibraltar, even a loss would not deal a serious blow to Spain. And should Spain somehow emerge victorious, its international standing would soar. Of course, he knew the chances of such a victory were slim, nearly impossible.
At the same time, Pretto harbored some concerns. If war broke out, it would not be easy to keep the conflict limited to Gibraltar. If the fighting spread across Spain, the situation would become far more troublesome.
"And if the war escalates beyond Gibraltar?" Pretto asked. "Then the Kingdom of Spain will be doomed."
"Minister, should the situation reach that point, the United States will step in to mediate on behalf of Spain. I believe the Germans will show us some respect. After all, the United States is one of the great powers of the world," the American ambassador assured.
Pretto considered this. If Spain lost and chose to relinquish Gibraltar, with the American mediation, the Germans would likely not pursue the matter further. This would allow Spain to extricate itself with dignity—a perfect outcome for Spain. It would preserve face and avoid alienating Germany.
"Your plans, gentlemen, are certainly sound. However, I must first convince His Majesty the King. How about this: tonight, His Majesty will secretly meet with you both at the palace. Whether we succeed will depend on your ability to persuade him," Pretto suggested.
"Very well, we are agreeable. And should we succeed, rest assured, the United States will not forget your help, Minister," the American ambassador replied.
Pretto nodded. The prospect of additional benefits was appealing, and he believed that this plan would not bring serious harm to Spain. Therefore, he accepted the offer without hesitation.
That evening, the American and British ambassadors secretly met with Alfonso XIII. During their meeting, they assured him that should Germany take military action, they would offer aid to Spain, even providing a loan for the conflict. They also promised to keep the war confined to Gibraltar. If the fighting spread beyond, Spain could surrender to Germany, and the United States would mediate, perhaps even involving other nations like the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the negotiations. The Germans, they assured, would likely yield.
Alfonso XIII, who had little resolve, was easily swayed by the ambassadors' words, seeing great potential in the plan—most importantly, it would allow him and Spain to preserve their dignity.
Faced with the certainty of losing Gibraltar, if he could engage in a limited conflict while maintaining Spain's honor, Alfonso XIII was willing to proceed.
The following day, before the German ambassador, Alfonso XIII firmly rejected Germany's demands.