It wasn't until the ball was nearing its end that Genoa Governor Abiasso finally got the chance to speak with the Crown Prince of France.
After he approached and bowed, Joseph first smiled and said:
"Governor, this time the Genoa Parliament exchanged nearly 18 million francs in gold at the Bank of France Reserve, showing great confidence in the franc, which I highly appreciate."
Genoa, as the trade hub of Northern Italy, is indeed very wealthy.
"It is an honor for Genoa to serve you." Abiasso immediately felt this was inappropriate and quickly added, "Exchanging francs also facilitates our country's transactions in the common market; it's just regular financial operations."
"Very good." Joseph nodded approvingly and continued, "Genoa is too small in area, and its population is very limited, which greatly restricts its development.
"I believe Pisa can be merged into Genoa."
