I am grateful for the Prince's arrival at Dijon and wish him every success in defending our Kingdom.

Chevalier Thomas, I understand your situation. But let me also explain mine: the Order marches under its Captain. It is not always practical to debate operational matters while on campaign. In moments of calm, such as in this Conseil, I am a great believer in consultation. But out in the field, where decisiveness and swift action are at a premium, I believe in command. When I heard your Duc's request, I personally - as Lieutenant acting in lieu of my Captain - assessed the situation. That is when I found my Company was too far from Metz to be of aid this season and that the King was menaced in Frankfurt by a substantial German army, with only two companies of mounted sergeants to support him.

But this issue raises a larger one - the planning and conduct of military operations throughout the Kingdom. At present, each army appears to be acting semi-autonomously - moving at its commander's whim. This risks inefficiency - for example, suppose all armies were to march to Metz or Dijon, when only one was required and leave other areas undefended. I say with all frankness, had I been able to reach Metz this season, I probably would have marched there - leaving our beloved King exposed, unnecessarily it now seems - given the skill of Lorraine's brave defenders.

I would suggest we consider the benefits of a more unified command structure. The office of the Seneschal is ideally placed to undertake this role - organising the planning and implementation of our military campaigns. I suggest that candidates for the post in the coming Conseil give some thought to this idea and how it might be made operational. If it is part of their campaign manifesto, it may give them more authority when they seek to direct our great Lords and army commanders. For my part, I believe the Order Company would happy work within such a national command structure. Afterall, it was to provide a national armed force, that the Order was formed.