"I see." The Genoese eyed him emotionlessly. "Then the question
becomes, _why_?"
Mayer said, "It may be difficult for you to see, but the introduction of
each of these will be a nail in feudalism's coffin. Each will increase
either production or trade and such increase will lead to the overthrow
of feudal society."
Baron Leonar, who had remained largely silent throughout the afternoon,
now spoke up. "As you said earlier, although I am a lord myself, my
interests are your own. I am a merchant first. However, I am not sure I
want the changes these devices will bring. Frankly, Honorable Mayer, I
am satisfied with my world as I find it today."
Amschel Mayer smiled wryly at him. "I am afraid you _must_ adapt to
these new developments."
The baron said coldly, "Why? I do not like to be told I must do
something."
"Because, my dear baron, there are three continents on the planet of
Genoa. At present there is little trade due to inadequate shipping. But
the steam engine I introduce today will soon propel larger craft than
you have ever built before."
Russ said, "What has this to do with our being forced to use these
devices?"
"Because I have colleagues on the other continents busily introducing
them. If you don't adapt, in time competitors will invade your markets,
capture your trade, drive you out of business."
Mayer wrapped it up. "Honorables, modernize or go under. It's each man
for himself and the devil take the hindmost, if you'll allow a saying
from another era."
They remained silent for a long period. Finally Olderman stated bluntly,
"The barons are not going to like this."
Jerry Kennedy grinned. "Obviously, that's why we've introduced you to
the tommy gun. It's not going to make any difference if they like it or
not."
Russ said musingly, "Pressure will be put to prevent the introduction of
this equipment."
"We'll meet it," Mayer said, shifting happily in his seat.
Russ added, "The Temple is ever on the side of the barons. The monks
will fight against innovations that threaten to disturb the present
way."
Mayer said, "Monks usually do. How much property is in the hands of the
Temple?"
Russ admitted sourly, "The monks are the greatest landlords of all. I
would say at least one third of the land and the serfs belong to the
Temple."
"Ah," Mayer said. "We must investigate the possibilities of a
Reformation. But that can come later. Now I wish to expand on my reason
for gathering you.
"Honorables, Genoa is to change rapidly. To survive, you will have to
move fast. I have not introduced these revolutionary changes without
self-interest. Each of you are free to use them to his profit, however,
I expect a thirty per cent interest."
There was a universal gasp.
Olderman said, "Honorable Mayer, you have already demonstrated your
devices. What is there to prevent us from playing you false?"
Mayer laughed. "My dear Olderman, I have other inventions to reveal as
rapidly as you develop the technicians, the workers, capable of building
and operating them. If you cheat me now, you will be passed by next
time."