To: Tradgardland, Monte Christo, and Other Territories of Imaginary 18th Century Europe

From: Representatives of the Grand Duchy of Stollen

At this point in time, the Grand Duchy of Stollen wishes to preserve, further, and maintain peaceful relations with (most of) its neighbors in Apocryphal 18^th Century Europe. For now, our collective troubles and challenges lie closer to home with the scheming and bellicose Princess Antonia of the Electorate of Zichenau on our southern frontier, who covets the slice of territory known as the Mark of Schleiz, long ago lost to Stollen in the War of 1693 and contested ever since.

Indeed, as many of you are aware, we have had a small expeditionary force stationed along the Greater Zwischen River in the Mark of Schleiz for most of the summer, in an observer role. Our officers there report that there has been a gradual build-up of white-coated Zichenauer forces across the river. At present, our generals and Grand Duke Irwin-Amadeus II are struggling both day and night in Krankenstadt Palace, debating ways to meet and repel any threat emanating from the Electorate of Zichenau. We trust that you understand our immediate concerns, which must take precedence over any relations and commitment of troops further a field.

As for our Grand Duke. . . Recent weeks have shown a dramatic improvement in his demeanor. Indeed, he seems to have largely abandoned his lobster costume in favor of his blue-coated general’s uniform. How long this change will last is a question we have left to the Grand Duke’s personal physician; however, we are hopeful that our ruler’s lucidity will last until the question of Princess Antonia and her claim to the Mark of Schleiz has been resolved. . . one way or the other.

We Remain Your Humble Servants,

Herr Udo Dirkschneider von Pfeffernuβe, Foreign Minister

Herr Hans Karl von Wilkowiczeske, Senior Member of the Stollenian Cabinet

Herr Heinrich-Schatzi von Pelznikkel, Minister of War