As they strolled, their conversation continued.
They discussed Japan further, then shifted to Hong Kong. Johnson, aware of Hardy’s investnts there, asked, "So, how’s Hong Kong doing? I’ve read so reports, but they’re not entirely clear."
"You asked the right person. Before returning to the U.S., I visited Hong Kong and t with Governor Grantham. Recently, the British issued a statent recognizing the CCP governnt, and stability has returned, allowing people to resu their routines. My investnts in Hong Kong are secure and starting to appreciate in value."
Johnson, however, seed less pleased. "That’s not exactly the outco I wanted. The Brits abandoned the policy we agreed upon just for a bit of profit."
After World War II, the U.S. was gradually erging as the world leader.
The British empire was fading, yet Britain still sought to preserve the dignity of once being the world’s foremost power, leading to nurous clashes and disagreents between the U.S. and the U.K. over shared interests.
At its core, both nations acted for their own benefit.
The transfer of power between Britain and Arica was anything but smooth, often fraught with disputes. For example, in the Middle East, their interests led to frequent confrontations.
The rapid decline of British colonial holdings was partially influenced by Arican maneuvering behind the scenes.
Hardy said, "Now, Britain’s colonies are all clamoring for independence. The British are busy putting out fires everywhere, and given their limited manpower, it’s tough for them to brutally subjugate the CCP, especially from such a distance. It will be too costly for them."
"To protect the Malacca Strait route to Japan and Hong Kong, I’ve set up a security base in Southeast Asia. My team reports that Malaya is experiencing considerable unrest, with various factions clashing, keeping the British constantly firefighting."
Johnson nodded. "I’ve seen reports on the situation there as well. It involves Malays, Indians, and Chinese, but my main concern is that if that region falls under the CCP influence, we’ll see significant upheaval."
It seed the U.S. and Britain shared similar concerns—mainly the threat of Communist expansion.
Hardy spoke in a casual tone, "Actually, there’s a simple solution to that ss."
"Oh? What’s that?" Johnson inquired.
"Partitioning."
"Britain has already established dominions in many places; the sa model could work there. No one wants to keep fighting; most people just want a stable life. Give them a peaceful environnt, and things will naturally settle down. Without a foundation for conflict, the will to fight diminishes."
"Establishing a democratic society that emphasizes the rights of native Malaysians could serve as a beacon for equitable governance."
Hardy foresaw potential shifts in power dynamics, recognizing how the ethnic Chinese population’s influence could overshadow the rights of native Malaysians if left unchecked. Instead, a fair and independent governance model that prioritizes the welfare and cultural integrity of the indigenous people could serve as a lasting solution.
Johnson reflected on Hardy’s words, finding the idea compelling.
The British wouldn’t relinquish their interests easily, refusing to let go until the last possible mont. Dominion status was a reluctant compromise, and while these regions technically remained under British rule, Britain no longer reaped benefits from them.
For Arica, however, this was an advantage. Partitioning British colonies would weaken Britain, and once they lost all their territories, Britain would have no choice but to lean on the United States.
And the term "democratic model" resonated well with Johnson.
"Hardy, you already have a base there and hold the title of British baron. You could take so action on this," Johnson suggested, looking at Hardy.
"You want to do it? No, no, no. I have enough businesses to manage as it is. I’m not inclined to get involved in such a thankless task. When I took over the Cayman Islands, it was for business, not for any governor role."
Hardy declined outright.
Johnson pressed on, "Your position makes you the ideal candidate for this. I’ll support you if you need anything—militarily or politically. There’s plenty of money to be made across Southeast Asia, much more than in Hong Kong."
Hardy replied, "That’s true; Hong Kong is small, and there’s no room to set up factories, especially for heavy industry. Doing that in Japan isn’t ideal, either."
"I’ll monitor the situation, but politics isn’t really my area," Hardy said, troubled. While he didn’t want to get into that muddy water, the benefits of doing things for the governnt were also clear."
With Johnson’s endorsent today, any moves Hardy made in Southeast Asia would effectively carry the tacit approval of the U.S. governnt, allowing him to engage in so underhanded yet profitable business without being questioned.
That evening.
Johnson invited Hardy to dine at the White House. Hardy t First Lady Bess Johnson, who had a very favorable impression of him, knowing that Hardy had been one of the first to genuinely support her husband and had helped him secure the election victory.
Hardy had a knack for charming won, so during dinner, he avoided political topics, focusing instead on television shows, new series, costics, and fashion—casual topics that kept the atmosphere light and enjoyable.
When Hardy left, the First Lady and Johnson walked him to the door, with the First Lady reminding him to visit again soon, promising to cook for him next ti.
A few days later.
The Pentagon issued an order.
Major General Williams was appointed as the Acting Director of the U.S. Military Logistics Bureau, responsible for overseeing all operations until Lieutenant General Jensen recovered.
Many people understood that Jensen’s return to active duty was unlikely—unless by a miracle. Though Williams was nad "acting" director, it was widely assud he would soon be confird as the official Director of Logistics.
Congratulations poured in for Williams on his promotion.
Hardy even flew from Las Vegas to Fort Belvoir, Virginia. When Williams saw Hardy, he embraced him warmly.
"Thank you, Hardy. I owe it all to you," Williams said.
"No, you’re truly suited for this position."
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The two found a quiet spot to enjoy a drink together, chatting as they drank. Williams said, "Hardy, in a little while, I plan to reform the logistics supply system and allow more private capital to participate."
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