[center][img]http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/96/Imperial_Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Empire_of_Austria_%281815%29.svg/389px-Imperial_Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Empire_of_Austria_%281815%29.svg.png[/img][/center]

[center][b]Austrian Empire[/b][/center]

They say we are a thorn on the side of Italy. But I ask, does a thorn not pester you repeatedly? Is it not the source of discomfort and irritance? Is a thorn not but a mere nuisance that may be torn or cut away with ease? If so, then it is Italy who is a thorn on our side. A thorn that will be cut and disposed of the moment it cuts too deep.

They say we impede Italian unity, and that we oppress those who live under our dominion - claims which have no merit, no foundation. Empty words aimed to incite hostility. We do not force anyone to live under our jurisdiction. Those who remain here do so because they wish to. And good on them, for they are safe here, and well-treated.

They say they are better to look after the Italian population. But by which right does Italy make demands of the Austrian Empire? We hold our land legally; these are our lands by right of law. But you, you are only armed with the "right" of Irredentism. You are only armed with dishonest words.

You say you ought to rule the Italians but there you stand, with empty words and no right, no power. Should Italians really be subjected to the rule of a state which can only resort to the use of lies and a desperate call for the international community to support the unlawful acquisition of land? A powerless state that can only pester its neighbors like a child. A powerless state that can only yell and kick and cry in hopes that it is heard and someone comes to its aid, like an infant crying to be fed. Only this infant cries because it cannot have what is not his. Is this the mighty Italy you speak of?

No, we are not a thorn on Italy's side. We are sword. A sword that you would be wise not to press on.

[i]-- Count Johann Bernhard von Rechberg und Rothenlöwen, Foreign Minister of the Austrian Empire[/i]