tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91396412427511480912023-11-15T11:04:49.354-08:00Markgraaf of RaubenstadtMartinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-44199992112789885772014-10-28T20:50:00.001-07:002014-10-28T20:50:50.043-07:00Hagen MiniaturesRecently, I was taking a break from converting the basement into my "Wargaming Man Cave", surfing...well...dog paddling on the internet, when I came across Hagen Miniatures. They're out of Germany and they have some great 1/72nd scale stuff! What really got my attention was their 18th Century Range - 1/72nd scale Coaches (for your commanding General or Ruler to arrive on, or leave, the battlefield in style!) Civilians, male, female, and children in both Upper Class and Working Class. I also like their "Personality Figures". The casting of the soldier marching along while smoking his pipe, has a very solid, calming presence. Very reassuring to young recruits!
Check out Hagen Miniatures and see if they have something that tickles your fancy.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-70812762972450664022013-12-16T18:55:00.000-08:002013-12-16T18:55:52.517-08:00One if by land; two if by sea...but what if there's three?Hello!
The rumors of my demise are just rumors. Raubenstadt is still sputtering along when circumstances allow, and I hope to post more often. Anyway...GREAT NEWS! The three sets of HaT's 1/72nd Scale Seven Year's War Prussian Infantry (Command, Marching, and In Action) are available in the U.S.! Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah! I received mine from the Michigan Toy Soldier Company, out of Detroit today. These are some great looking miniatures and I can't wait to see how they look on the tabletop. They won't drain the ol' warchest either! Now all those "Grant Style" regiments and brigades that I lusted for in my youth, but could not afford, are about to happen.
The Command Box has four sprues. Each has a Mounted Officer, two subalterns on foot, a Standard Bearer, a Drummer, and a Flute player. The Marching and In Action Boxes have Forty privates each.
If you're looking to recruit some stout hearted lads, check out the offerings from HaT!
Cue the creepy organ music!
Martin
P.S. The title of the post refers to the journey that these little fellows have taken to get to me...land, sea, and air!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-86060942281977223572012-06-14T21:56:00.001-07:002012-06-14T21:56:38.819-07:00It Has Arrived!My daily walk to the local Post Office was rewarded today! For in my grubby mitts, fresh from On Military Matters in New Jersey, was my very own copy of "The War Game Rules" by Charles Grant. Life is good!
If you have any interest at all in "The War Game", then I highly recommend that you add this volume to your collection. The lavish pictures and diagrams are outstanding. Having all the changes, amendments, and additions to the basic set of (Can it really be forty years?) rules available in one place, instead of scattered among four or more volumes is very nice. I also appreciated the two sets of separate condensed rules and charts that were included.
It's not too late to hint for this for Father's Day. If all else fails...Christmas!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-32846057875217030422012-04-11T21:53:00.000-07:002012-04-11T21:53:03.774-07:00Four Months and Two Hour WargamesI can't believe it has been so long since I last posted anything! No excuses...but I felt there was nothing really worthy of being written up. I have been puttering away at painting figures (Still monitoring when HaT Industries will release their excellent looking 1/72nd Scale SYW Prussian Infantry. Soon now. Very soon! Their American Revolution series of sets look very good as well, but their [eventual] release is further off.); trying to keep up with Brigadier Grant's publications...I STILL NEED vols. IV and V of the Wargaming In History Series, all of the Wargamer's Annuals, the latest Mini-Campaign, and NOW the latest revisions to "The Wargame"! Sigh. Mr. Grant and company regularly blow great gaping holes in my wargaming budget.<br />
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Work on the basement continues as well. Water has been the bane of my existence. The lift pump decided it would be a good day to die and will need to be replaced. But when it rains it pours; the water heater croaked as well. (I suppose in solidarity with the lift pump.) Grumble, rumble, rumble.<br />
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Recently I came across a company called "Two Hour Wargames" out of Texas. They have a number of interesting game rules. I latched on to their set of one to one skirmish rules for the French And Indian War called, "Long Rifle". It's not overly complicated, but it has enough detail to give you a good feel for the period. As the name of the company implies a session can be completed in two hours or less. Check them out at www.twohourswargames.com Good stuff!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-91700259060916168822011-11-17T06:38:00.000-08:002011-11-17T06:38:12.385-08:00Two Out Of Three Ain't BadThings are starting to look up here in Raubenstadt! The new, faster, faster, better, more powerful sump pump has been installed and the basement is now no longer under water. (I wish I could say the same about the mortgage, but that's another story!)<br />
So... the destruction and eventual construction of "The Man Cave" will continue. Huzzah!<br />
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I was relieved to discover that "Battlegames" will not go the way of the Dodo, and will (hopefully) be with us for many a long year to come. Congratulations to Mr. Hyde for finding a way forward. Huzzah! Huzzah!<br />
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Now if I could only get Hat Industrie to have their 1/72nd Scale Seven Years War Prussians jump to the front of the production line, just in time for the Holidays, my joy would be complete. SighMartinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-12375301272378807822011-11-04T23:10:00.000-07:002011-11-04T23:10:09.738-07:00Three Strikes!Some days it just doesn't pay to get up. I went downstairs this morning and the basement was flooded (again). It seems the recent rains we had were just too much for the sump pump to handle, and the durned motor burned out. This is the third time this year for Raubenstadt to be inundated. Maybe I should change it's name to Bangladesh! So Monday a new and more powerful submersible pump will be installed, and the drying out process can start (again). Sigh.<br />
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I was saddened to learn that Battlegames Magazine is apparently going under and issue #26 was the last one. It was the best since The Mid-West Wargamer's Association Newsletter, edited by the sainted Hal Thinglum (forever blessed be his name) closed up shop. I will miss it. Double sigh.<br />
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Well there I was...all set to order a whole bunch of Hat Industrie's SYW Prussians from the Michigan Toy Soldier Company, when I noticed that they were in 1/32nd scale and not 1/72nd! Arrrrgh! I understand that the 1/72nd will be released in their E22 batch, but that's probably sometime in the Spring of next year. Triple Sigh.<br />
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Mom always said, "Good things come to those who wait." So I am determined that by the time Hat releases the 1/72nd SYW Prussians...I will have a DRY basement...and Mr. Hyde may determine that Battlegames might continue as a Quarterly or in some form on the Internet!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-48327392870175548762011-09-09T19:04:00.000-07:002011-09-09T19:04:38.151-07:00What Up With Minifigs GFI?It has come to the Markgraaf's attention that the Minifigs GFI site has been down for "maintenance" for quite some time now. Does anybody know what's going on with them? Are they ever going to come back on line? Or do I need to open a line of communication with Minifigs in the U.K.?Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-28227706234415342642011-09-05T03:43:00.000-07:002011-09-05T03:43:25.467-07:00Hey, Hey, Hey! Where's My Hat (Industrie)?We're about a month to a month and a half out from Hat Industrie's latest batch of releases; E20. "Big deal.", says you. "Yarrr!", says I. Among the planned sets are Hat's first entries into the Seven Year's War: Prussian Infantry Marching and Prussian Infantry In Action. I have been waiting for these for a long time, and it is good to know the wait is almost over (and has paid off)!<br />
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If they are anything close to their Napoleonic Wars Grandson's version of Prussians Marching and In Action (See the latest Plastic Soldier Review) good times are a comin' for those of us who indulge in Tricorne era wargaming!<br />
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I hope that they made the molds for these extra-durable, because I plan to purchase a blue ton of these excellent figures! Bring on the Austrians, British, French, and the Am. Rev. figures! Whoo-Hoo! Woe to the Treasury. Woe! Woe! Woe!<br />
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Hats off to Hat Industrie for listening and supplying what their customers want.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-53829843321894596142011-07-17T12:50:00.000-07:002011-07-17T12:50:24.652-07:00Did I Miss One?!Well there I was...taking a break from working on the downstairs "Man-Cave", when I noticed a update from that most excellent of bookstores - On Military Matters. Among the selections offered was a soon-to-be-published book from that prolific duo Brigadier Grant and Mr. Olley, Wargaming In History: The Seven Years War, Vol. IV.<br />
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"OUTSTANDING!", says I. "Put me down for one copy for Christmas!" Later on, I was going through my wargaming library. I have Volumes One and Two of their series...did I somehow miss Volume Three?Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-81481370278248198602011-03-18T20:15:00.000-07:002011-03-18T20:15:51.988-07:00What Does Fred Think?I was reading Jay Luvaas' book, "Frederick The Great on the Art of War", and on pages 38 and 39 the following paragraphs caught my attention:<br />
<br />
"Machiavelli speaks...of the principini, those diminutive sovereigns who, having only small dominions, cannot send an army into the field. He advises them chiefly to fortify their capitals in order to secure themselves and their troops in time of war. Those Italian princes discussed by Machiavelli are really a breed of mongrels, half sovereign and half subjects. They only appear as sovereigns by the number of their domestics. The best advice that one can give them would be...to lessen a little the opinion they entertain of their own grandeur, the extreme veneration they have for their ancient and illustrious pedigree, and their inviolable zeal for the scutcheons. Men of sense claim that they had better assume no rank in the world other than what is due noblemen of easy fortunes; that they ought to climb down from the scaffold of their pride and maintain at most no more troops than would be necessary to guard their palaces against robbers, if indeed any robbers could be reduced to the starving condition of seeking a subsistence in those palaces; that they ought to raze and demolish their ramparts and walls and everything that gives their place of residence the appearance of strength. The reasons are these: most of these petty princes, especially in Germany, ruin themselves by spending excessive sums to maintain that grandeur with which they are intoxicated, and to support the honor of their family they reduce themselves to beggary and want. There is hardly a second son of a younger brother who does not believe himself to be something like Louis XIV. He builds his Versailles, keeps his mistresses, and maintains his armies....<br />
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The reason these little monarchs do not need to fortify their capitals is very plain: they can hardly be besieged at any time by their equals for their larger neighbors would presently intervene and offer to mediate, an offer they are not at liberty to refuse. Thus instead of bloodshed, two or three dashes of a pen are enough to terminate their quarrels.<br />
<br />
What can be the use of their fortified towns? If they were strong enough to endure a siege as long as that of Troy against their equals, they would not be able to hold out as long as Jericho against a powerful prince. Besides, if they lie between two mighty neighbors who are at war, they have no choice but to observe neutrality unless they would be totally ruined. And if they join with either belligerent, their capitals become the frontier town of that Prince's dominions...<br />
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In short, to make war, give battle, and attack and defend fortified places is the business of powerful sovereigns, and those who effect to imitate them are no wiser than the man who counterfeited the noise of thunder and believed himself to be Jupiter."<br />
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Now Frederick's opinion must be weighed carefully. After all, he lived through and helped shape the course of his tumultuous times. But I can't help but wonder if his opinion was easier to reach because he was at the head of one of the most effective armies ever to march. His "business" of being a powerful Prince would have been much easier to carry out if the petty princes had voluntarily disarmed and demilitarized themselves.<br />
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Food for thought. The Markgraaf is now going to break out his soldiers and make some thunder!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-47546307272439228122011-02-16T20:56:00.000-08:002011-02-16T20:56:46.585-08:00Meanwhile...Back At The Ranch...TWO MONTHS SINCE MY LAST POST? Where does the time get off to? Right after the Holidays hit, I had to help relocate Number 2 Son from here in Indiana to Mankato Minnesota during the worst snowstorm in a decade. What an experience! It was thankfully concluded without any fatalities, fenderbenders, or property damage. Sleeping on the floor of the Bus Terminal in Minneapolis for two nights due to the snow emergency in Chicago did not improve my outlook. But enough of the excuses of reality. What's been going on in Raubenstadt?!<br />
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Well...the short answer is, "Not much. I've been busy.", but some progress has been made in gutting and re-doing the basement, i.e. "Man Cave". Sometime in the Spring, I'll get a large dumpster and finish off ripping out the paneling and wooden battens. The idea is to get the walls back to bare concrete block and go from there. In my mind's eye, I already see the permanent wargame table, the shelves for the troops and reference books, and finally, the painting area. All with adjustable lighting. It's going to be everything I've imagined I've needed ever since I discovered wargaming back when Dinosaurs Ruled The Earth; and Raubenstadt will rise like a Phoenix from the soggy mess that was the last time the basement flooded. The Markgraaf has pinned his hopes on the battery powered back-up sump pump to keep things dry down there.<br />
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I promise not to let so much time elapse before my next post. I've been going through my wargaming library to get the creative juices flowing again, and I've got a few ideas...heh, heh, heh!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-63859138614781812782010-12-13T20:31:00.000-08:002010-12-13T20:32:18.495-08:00More Honored In The Breach Than In The Observence"Well...that didn't go as well as I had hoped.", Col. Schrieber commented to the Markgraaf as they rode their horses back to their escort on their way out of the gypsy camp.<br />
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Negotiations had been making some small progress, when the name Baron Von Kerns came up in the conversation. The gypsy chief made it very clear that what ever relationship there had been (if any could be proved) it was business only and no sense of obligation to any of his relatives could be implied. It would also be best if they left immediately.<br />
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"Hope springs eternal, Colonel.", the Markgraaf replied. "Tell your men when we get back to camp that they may light their campfires. Tell the sentries to be particularly alert, for I am confident that we will have some visitors later tonight. You see, my dear Colonel, these were only the formal, opening gambits of the delicate dance of negotiating. The second stage will begin when we have multiple people come through our lines willing to talk if we cross their palms with silver. The difficulty will be deciding which of their tales will we believe and pay for, and which ones are creative attempts just to gain our coin."<br />
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"I shall see to it, milord", Col. Schreiber nodded, "I hope you're right."Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-60014384709965171512010-11-22T09:15:00.000-08:002010-11-22T09:15:23.831-08:00Frankzonia Is Full Of Woods...When the Pilfering Frei-Hussars showed the Markgraaf the abandoned sentry boxes at the Northern Frankzonian border, the Markgraaf was dismayed. It was obvious that it had been some time since they had last served their intended purpose, and they were in danger of disappearing altogether.<br />
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As Schreiber's Frei-Korps marched past the crossing post, the Colonel took in the situation at a glance. "Double the advance and flank parties. Everybody keep a sharp lookout and your wits about you. We must be ready for whatever we run into."<br />
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The Markgraaf mounted his horse and joined Schreiber at the head of the column. "I knew thing were bad here, but I never suspected they were so bad that Stanken would voluntarily abandon the fees he collected here. Colonel?"<br />
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"We need a local source of intelligence; with recent information; that is willing to talk with us, Milord.", the Colonel frowned. "We have no contract with any of the locals, nor do we have a base of operations for further supplies. The powers that be, might object to our marching though, and if their force is bigger than ours, they can make their objection most uncomfortable for us."<br />
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It was at that moment that a messenger from the advance cavalry patrol galloped up, and saluted. "Compliments of Captain Dorfmann Sir. We have located a good campground for tonight, Sir. The only draw back is further patrolling revealed a gypsy encampment over the next ridge. The Captain didn't want any of our horses going missing Sir."<br />
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The Markgraaf leaned over to the Colonel and said, "My wife always said that Frankzonia was full of woods, and the woods are full of gypsies, and the gypsies are full of shenanigans and...information. If we can approach them without scaring them off, we could learn much."<br />
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The Colonel nodded, and said, "Have our patrols been seen?"<br />
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The trooper replied, "I don't think so, Sir; but it's hard to say for certain."<br />
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"Alright. Tell Dorfmann that we'll make a cold camp tonight. Keep his scouts out. Don't approach the gypsy camp, but keep an eye or two on them."<br />
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The messenger saluted again, and spurred his horse.<br />
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"Have you had much experience with gypsies Milord?", the Colonel asked.<br />
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"No.", the Markgraaf replied, "but I'm hoping that my dear departed Father-in-Law's reputation is still influential with them."<br />
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Noticing the Colonels puzzled look, the Markgraaf explained, "Ernst, the Old Baron Von Kerns was a man that very few people disappointed more than once and lived to tell the tale."Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-65613355397529835792010-10-25T07:54:00.000-07:002010-10-25T07:54:17.358-07:00He's Over The Border And Away...It had taken three weeks for the Markgraaf to put the Freicorps into something resembling fighting trim. Replacing the unfit, re-equipping, resupplying, and repairing, had seemed to take forever, but to rush off without taking care of these, would have doomed the expedition before it started, but now the long awaited day had arrived, and the Markgraaf was eager to be off. The enforced delay had generated other benefits as well. His first instinct had been to march up the road with his entire army to Frankfort-Am-Main, confront the Grand Duke, with a drawn sword at his throat, and the growled greeting, "Hello Stanken. Where's my wife?", but such fantasies had cooled with the passage of time. As his father, John Henry, had said, "You catch more flies with honey, than you can with vinegar."<br />
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So the Markgraaf had decided on a two pronged approach. The diplomatic effort, spearheaded by Chancellor Weisenheimer, would continue to apply what pressure they could on the Frankfurter government, while Schreiber's Freicorps would go fishing in the murky waters and see what would rise to the bait.<br />
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The troop of Pilfering Frei-Hussars that had served with Von Mack during the "Affair Of The Runaway Duchess" were summoned. They would scout the countryside ahead of the Freicorps, discreetly seeking news of the missing Raubenstadt nobles and their escort. It was determined that to mislead any unfriendly observers, that it would be best to take an indirect approach. The Freicorps would cross the Rhine to the East, go North for a couple of days, recross the the Rhine, and enter Frankfurt from the North.<br />
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Long days in the saddle, plain camp food, and saber drills had started to melt away the years of easy living in the Palace from the Markgraaf. "The Old Man" might not be as quick with sword as some, but he had deep reserves of determination. He would let his opponent exhaust himself against his defense, then dispatch him with a workman like thrust.<br />
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The Markgraaf of Raubenstadt was on the march.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-43521148908815367512010-09-10T21:20:00.000-07:002010-09-10T21:20:23.843-07:00Zvezda's Glorious Hussars Arrive In RaubenstadtYa-hooo! Well... the Markgraaf may be heading off to parts unknown, but recruitment continues on the Home Front. Today, two boxes worth of Zvezda's "Black Hussars" arrived from The Michigan Toy Soldier and Figure Company. They are outstanding! No flash, excellent poses, and two boxes (38 figures) enables you to eventually field one Grant sized unit of snazzy looking Light Cavalry, with some left over for any Frei-Hussaren squadrons that you may have visions of dancing in your head.<br />
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Check out "The Wars of Louis Quatorze" entry for 22 May, 2010. Bill shows the front and back of the box. The Pilfering Hussars of Raubenstadt will soon take the field, and the other nine I'll paint up as per David's picture of the Von Schill Hussars on his "Not By Appointment" blog. Alte Fritz has a link to some very snappy looking Prussian Hussars as well.<br />
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Any 18th Century Imagi-nation Ruler can recruit these lads with confidence (And they're easy on the ol' warchest). So...if your mounted branch is looking a little jaded and dowdy, a couple of regiments of these dashing fellows will lend a higher tone to any brawls your army may find itself in.<br />
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Cuirassiers! The Markgraaf needs Cuirassiers!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-77733918640602459842010-09-10T13:54:00.000-07:002010-09-10T13:54:34.288-07:00At Colonel Schreiber's CampThe Markgraaf rode to the encampment where the recently hired Schreiber's Freikorps had been billeted. He approved of the sentries that stopped him at the camp's edge and asked him his business. Thanks to General Schwillingsaufenstein, he knew the passwords that would admit him. He approved even more, that even though he had given the proper responses, he was escorted by the Sergeant of the Guard's squad to the Colonel's headquarters, and was turned over to the Headquarter's Duty platoon. Such caution would be needed in the days to come.<br />
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The Colonel was at dinner. The Markgraaf was told to dismount, picket his horse with the rest, leave his pistols in their holsters, and the Lieutenant would see to his sword, while he waited the Colonel's pleasure.<br />
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As he did so, he heard laughter coming from the Colonel's mess tent, and the distinctive voice of Ritter Hugo von Schwillingsaufenstein, General of the Army of Raubenstadt, telling one of his favorite stories. The Markgraaf had heard the tale many times before as man and boy, and the good General was just coming to the end. Ritter Hugo was relating it with great gusto to his new and captive audience. The Markgraaf sat down on a nearby camp stool, under a canvas fly, and listened again to the old soldier weave the web that held the hearer's spellbound.<br />
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"The enemy was defeated, by God! The Vile Stagonians were retreating; leaving the field of glory to us! Thank God! For our part we were glad to see them go, for we had seen enough of them that day, by God! It was my first triumph as an independent commander of men. A proud moment for me to be sure; and I savored it to the full. Forty years have passed me quicker than that moment!"<br />
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Cheers, glasses, and steins were raised in salute. It also gave the General a chance to relight his pipe and take a pull from the foaming tankard by his side. Outside, in the gathering dark, the Markgraaf raised a full water dipper as well, and wet his throat.<br />
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"Telling stories is thirsty work. Now then...where was I?" He puffed on his pipe a time or two and continued, "Ah! Yes! But all too soon the sweet taste of victory took on a bitter tang. A local inhabitant was brought to me by the Escort Squadron. I pointed to a nearby collection of houses, and asked him, 'What is the name of that village, my fine fellow?' Imagine how crestfallen I became when I learned that my first victory would be forever known as, 'The Battle Of Halfwitz!'"<br />
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More laughter rippled through the audience of Freikorps officers. As it died down, a young cadet spoke up, "But Sir, that's not the name stitched on the flag."<br />
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The General took his pipe from his mouth, and pointed the stem of it at the youngster, as he addressed the Colonel, "Mark that one for advancement Schrieber! He notices the details and speaks up about them!" The Markgraaf recalled the thrill of pride that had coursed through him too, when he had spoken up to the General years ago.<br />
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"Sit down young man and let me finish.", Ritter Hugo said. "In a desperate effort to retrieve the situation, I just made it worse. I should have just left well enough alone." A hush fell over the tent, as the officers leaned forward to hear the end of the story. "I then asked the lout the name of the walled manor house that our Grenadiers had successfully assaulted, breaking the Stagonian's will to continue the fight. 'That's the House of Stupitz, my Lord.', the clod replied. Gentlemen, that's how the the Battle of Stupitz-Halfwitz became emblazoned on my banner from that day to this! So...pay attention to your maps; and if you do have to offer battle to your foe, promise me you'll try to find a decently named place to do so!"<br />
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Noticing the time, Colonel Schreiber dismissed his officers, and bade them good night. As they began to disperse throughout the encampment, the Lieutenant came up and said to the Markgraaf, "The Colonel will see you now.", and led the way.<br />
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As he entered, Schreiber looked over and casually glanced at the stranger. Medium height, brown hair well sprinkled with grey at the temples, starting to get a little stout in the middle, walked with a slight limp - favoring the left leg.<br />
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"So my good man, what can I do for you?", the Colonel inquired; and waited for the farmer to tell his tale of missing livestock or some such.<br />
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"Perhaps it would be better if I made the introductions.", Hugo smoothly intervened. "Colonel Schreiber, this is my ruler, my friend, and your employer, His Grace, The Markgraaf Of Raubenstadt. Your Grace, this is Colonel Rupert von Schreiber of the Freikorps you hired."<br />
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As Rupert came to his feet, he was relieved when the Markgraaf put out his right hand and firmly shook hands with him. You never could tell with the high nobility. Some of them could carry grudges about perceived slights for very long periods of time.<br />
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"Very pleased to meet you, Colonel", he said.<br />
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"Beg pardon, my Lord. I didn't know." Rupert began.<br />
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"No matter. No matter. Needs must when the Devil drives, as they say.", the Markgraaf responded; doing his best to put the Colonel at ease. "Please Gentlemen, sit down and make yourselves comfortable. We have much to discuss."<br />
<br />
As the sentries made their appointed rounds that night, they noticed the Colonel's tent stayed illuminated from within until the small hours of the morning.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-40059274393737796002010-08-24T23:01:00.000-07:002010-08-24T23:01:55.535-07:00The Markgraaf Goes HuntingDay after wearisome day had passed with no news of the Markgrafin, her brother David von Kerns, Col. Somerussian Guyovich, Agent von Mack, or the troop of guard cavalry and company of guard infantry that had escorted them to Frankzonia. It was as if they all had fallen off the face of the Earth, leaving no trace behind. Diplomatic inquiries were blandly deflected by the Frankzonian Court. Covert attempts had yielded nothing. Limited cavalry scouting of the common border was done to no avail. The Markgraaf considered himself to be a patient man, but at last he could stand the inaction no longer. He summoned Wilhelm, his oldest son, and Otto von Weisenheimer, the Chancellor of Raubenstadt to the Palace...<br />
<br />
"Son, I'm going after your Mother to bring her home from wherever she's gotten off to. I'm leaving you in charge until my return." Startled by the announcement, the Chancellor started to protest, but was waved to silence by the Markgraaf. "NO!<br />
Otto, my old friend! My mind is made up and nothing you were going to say can change it. As a young man I rode into their Court and swept the Baroness von Kerns off her feet in a whirlwind courtship that they still talk about! Thirty years have passed me quicker than the image of the first time I saw her. The Old Duchess disapproved of one of her ladies-in-waiting marrying beneath her and opposed our union."<br />
<br />
He reached out and gently shook his son's shoulder and laughed, "Luckily for you, your brothers, and sister we ignored her. I will not go another day doing nothing!"<br />
<br />
"But Father", Wilhelm said, "I want her back as much as you. Uncle Ernst and Uncle Johan have been frantically trying to move Heaven and Earth trying to find her! Let me go in your stead."<br />
<br />
"Ah? You think I'm too old to play the role of the questing Gallant Knight coming to the aid of his Lady Fair?! Bless you boy for the thought, but there's life in the old dog yet. What was done once, can be done again!"<br />
<br />
Leaning in close so he could see his son's eyes, the Markgraaf whispered, "The greatest thing about being the one in charge is that you can have things done the way you want them. Mostly it is a great burden, but there are times when it's very useful. This is one of those times. You will discover this for yourself when you rule this place and have a wife of your own, my son."<br />
<br />
With that, the Markgraaf gathered his hat, cloak, sword, and pistols from a series of servants as he headed for the Great Hall. He left the Palace, mounted his horse, and left Heidlebeerenburg behind him. He hadn't felt so alive in a long time. If there was even a hint of a trace of Mad Ludwig's involvement in this affair, the Markgraaf was determined to quickly finish up the business with the Prince-Bishop of Spires and turn his eyes toward Stagonia. Colonel Schieber was going to be very surprised.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-84746469730622094872010-08-06T15:33:00.000-07:002010-08-06T15:33:25.633-07:00Back On Track/Stay On TargetWell...it's taken a while, but I think I've recovered from my son's wedding. The photographer was amazing! He even made this Sow's Ear look like a Silk Purse. But enough about that. What's been going on in Raubenstadt?<br />
<br />
Well, the short answer is not much. The Margrafin has gone missing in Frankzonia, and one or more of her brothers may be dead. Agent von Mack has gone silent. So the Markgraaf has considered launching a multi-pronged approach - diplomatic, economic, surrepticious, and low-grade military in an effort to clear away the mists and find out, "Just what the Devil is going on?!" Stagonian involvement is suspected, and if proven, the already frosty relations may hit a new low.<br />
<br />
The gutting of the Basement (aka ManCave) continues at a slow but steady pace. Need to install battery powered back-up sump pump to prevent future water damage. (A new, faster, better, stronger Raubenstadt will arise from the soggy bottoms.) It's taking me longer than I expected, but it will be awesome when I'm done. It will be nice to have a place where I can store, display, and play with all the wargaming stuff I've accumulated, and not watch it get stored away in the attic or garage for years at a time.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, two publications have arrived from "On Military Matters". The first one is "This Very Ground" a one to one skirmishing game set in the French And Indian War. I like the simple mechanics, and they are robust enough to set in other times and theaters. Say...AWI, 1812, SYW, etc. Good Stuff! The second one was Asquith's "Wargamer's Guide to the War of 1812". It's chock full of information about the campaigns, the troops, and the battles big and small. I enjoyed reading it.<br />
<br />
Speaking about 1812, next year is the Bicentennial of the Battle of Tippecanoe. I understand that from the Indiana State Historical Society, that the whole campaign will be re-enacted from the Tecumpseh/Harrison meetings at Vincennes, the Pigeon Roost Massacre, the march up the Wabash to Prophet's Town, and of course, the battle. I'm looking forward to it all.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-23856056177581358662010-06-20T20:08:00.000-07:002010-06-20T20:08:36.349-07:00All Of Raubenstadt Celebrates!Our "Number Three" Son, Evan, is getting married this Saturday. Preparations have been underway for the better part of a year, and are now getting into high gear in the final week. He's the first of our four to get hitched. I'm going to try and do my level best to get through it with as much grace as I can muster; for beneath this hard, crusty exterior, lurks a soft, squishy center. (Good Heavens! I've just described a Tootsie Pop!) <br />
<br />
So the Markgraaf invites his fellow Imagi-Nation rulers to fill their glasses and mugs to the brim as he toasts the happy couple, "May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live! To Evan and his lovely Bride Jennifer!"<br />
<br />
The artillery batteries of the Felsigburg will be busy firing salutes for quite sometime to come, so the Markgraaf's plaintive cry of, "I'm too young to be a Grandfather!" will, no doubt, be lost amidst the resounding booms.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-89478287596833446992010-06-03T22:20:00.000-07:002010-06-03T22:20:13.294-07:00It Was A Dark And Stormy Night...The lightning would flash and be reflected in the water of the river for a few seconds. The thunder would roll and echo back and forth in the hills of the river valley, while the wind driven sheets of rain relentlessly fell from the night sky. The Markgraaf savored the view from a palace window for a moment, before closing it. The weather matched his mood. He turned to face the four people he had summoned to this gathering. They looked worried and exchanged anxious glances between themselves. "As well they should.", he grumped to himself. The Markgraaf liked to think that he was a benevolent, kind, and patient ruler, but he was not a happy man, and in Raubenstadt, when the Markgraaf is not happy, no one is happy, or at least doesn't allow the happiness to show.<br />
<br />
"She's been gone far too long! Something has gone terribly, terribly wrong! ...and NO one has had ANY communication with her, officially or unofficially since she and her escort left?!", he said.<br />
<br />
"There has been no contact with the Margrafin verbal or written, or with the officers of her escort." Secretary Bueller blandly stated.<br />
<br />
The Markgraaf turned his gaze to Ernst v.Kerns, the commander of his guards, "Not a peep from your brother David, or from Colonel Guyovich?"<br />
<br />
The brigadier levelly looked the Markgraaf in the eyes and said, "Martin...I have heard nothing from either of them. They would gladly sacrifice themselves before they would let even the shadow of danger come near her."<br />
<br />
The Markgraaf nodded. More to himself than anything else. He knew the Von Kerns valor well, and what they were capable of doing. "The shadow of danger...the shadow of danger...", he murmured. "Chancellor Wisenheimer! Has there been no message at all from von Mack?"<br />
<br />
"Not that I'm aware of, your Grace.", the Chancellor replied. "Von Mack is a very resourceful and capable fellow. I have no doubt that he would find a way to alert us if something had happened to her Grace, her brother, or Colonel Guyovich."<br />
<br />
"You're putting an awful amount of faith in one man.", the Markgraaf sighed and shrugged his shoulders.<br />
<br />
"The Frankfurters have been undergoing a turbulent time.", the Chancellor said to try and reassure his friend and ruler, but could not resist adding, "But then again, when have they not had turbulent times?" This drew some chuckles of agreement all around.<br />
<br />
"The Fartzen have been known to be upsetting and quarrelsome in their day to themselves and their neighbors, but if the Grand Duke or one of his many relatives has allowed the slightest harm to come to her..." The Markgraaf paused to calm and compose himself, "...the consequences will be severe."<br />
<br />
The Markgraaf sat down by General Schwillingsaufenstein, and asked, "What was the name of that Frei-Korps that was marching though here the other day?"<br />
<br />
The general took the last sip of schnapps from his glass, wiped his moustache with the back of his hand, "Schrieber's. Bunch of down on their luck Saxons from the Ducal Houses looking for a contract. A couple troops of ratty looking Dragoons on nags, a company of shoddy Grenadiers, and a smattering of ragged Jagers. Nothing special, but their weapons were in good order."<br />
<br />
"Hire them Hugo.", the Markgraaf said. "Give them the standard agreement, but keep it quiet. Quarter them in one of the smaller towns near the Frankfurter border. I may soon have need of troops who's reprehensible actions I can disavow."Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-39462424976885392662010-05-11T17:57:00.000-07:002010-05-11T17:57:05.151-07:00Fifty-Five And HoldingI turned 55 today. Much like Yogi Bera, "If I'd known I was gonna live this long, I woulda taken better care of myself." It was a quiet day, and I had a nice dinner with the wife, number 3 son, and his fiance. I'm still coming to terms with the fact that one third of my life is over. I must find more time for the important things in life like....WARGAMING!Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-33260944127424812322010-03-29T21:29:00.001-07:002010-03-29T21:29:18.502-07:00Good Things In The MailLike most wargamers I suspect, I like to receive stuff in the mail. Each morning I'm faced with the delicious question of, "Will ........arrive today?!". If yes, I feel like I've won the lottery. (And the odds are a LOT better!) If not, then the sense of anticipation resets and rebuilds till the next day. (And the odds are STILL A LOT better!)<br />
<br />
Recently, I've had some outstanding deliveries. First, on page 96 of Wargaming In History: The Seven Years War, there is a picture of a Prussian Frei Battalion Le Noble jager. The caption describes his headwear as "a black leather cap with a high front". It looked familiar. After a quick reconnaissance at www.plasticsoldierreview.com, I came across Italeri Set Number 6073, Austrian Infantry 1798 - 1805. I know. I know! They're early Napoleonic and not SYW, but... Hey! They've got leggings, casquet caps, and turnbacks on their long coats. If Brigadier Young could use RHA, then I can use these guys for my Frei Corps.<br />
<br />
So...a quick order to the boys at Squadron Mail Order, down in Texas, resulted in four boxes (192 figures) showing up. This will enable the Markgraaf to field:<br />
<br />
2 Frei Corps of 48 men, 1 Standard, and 1 Drummer each. (I still need 1 Mounted Colonel and 2 foot officers to finish them off.)<br />
<br />
2 Companies of Light Infantry of 6 men each. (Still need 2 foot officers.)<br />
<br />
1 Battalion of Grenadiers of 24 men. (They look remarkably like the picture of the Hanoverian Scheither's Corps Grenadier on page 110 of Grant & Olley's book! Will still need 1 Mounted Colonel and 2 foot officers.)<br />
<br />
1 Battalion of Engineers of 24 men, and 2 foot officers. (I'm going to use the Fusiliers in the "Roman" Helmet. Will still need a Mounted Colonel to lead them.)<br />
<br />
Any leftovers will be employed at the Army Staff level, or will be the basis for some of my "Frankenstein-like" conversions. (Eyegor! Bring me another head!)<br />
<br />
Secondly, my Minifig "sample" order from GFI, out in Colorado, has arrived. (Thanks Jeff for putting them in your Websites Of Interest list!) Woe to the Treasury! They fit in with all the Revell, Italeri, Scruby, and Airfix guys I've accumulated over the years. I ordered a Prussian Mounted Colonel and Horse, a Prussian Musketeer marching, a Austrian Mounted Colonel and Horse, and a Austrian Fusilier advancing. These are classy looking figures! There wasn't much flash to trim off, and I bet they are a breeze to paint up. Impressive!<br />
<br />
I ordered a further 3 Prussian Mounted Dragoon Officers and Horses, 2 Prussian foot officers, and 1 Prussian Dragoon Trumpeter and Horse to help fill in some of the holes in my collection. I like the look of these little fellas so much, I may have to break down and get some Grant style 48 men, 5 officer regiments and hang the cost. I also might have to put in an order with the Minifig U.K. lads for their SYW and AWI "Personality" figures as well!<br />
<br />
Last, but not least, my copy of "The Annexation Of Chiraz" has come from On Military Matters. Mr. Grant and Mr. Olley have taken a giant step forward from their "Raid On St. Michel". I am a big fan of minicampaigns, and "Annexation" gives us a "peek behind the curtain" as to how Messrs. Grant and Olley went about it. It's a good read, and I'll be referring to it often.<br />
<br />
So! On to the next item on the Neverending List Of Wargaming Stuff, as soon as time, chance, circumstance, and finance allow. I wonder how those Garrison figures would fit in...Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-828097957791094062010-03-11T11:36:00.001-08:002010-03-11T11:36:01.808-08:00A Moment With The MarkgrafinAfter a morning inspection and saber drill with his squadron of Saddlesore Lifeguard Lancers, Colonel Somerussian Guyovich casually wandered through the palace grounds, looking every inch the "Beau Sabreur" he was, while searching for his sister, Sharon Elaine, the Markgrafin of Raubenstadt. He eventually found her having a light lunch in a "Repose Temple" in the formal gardens. A squad of his brother David's Guard Musketeers was discretely scattered about nearby to insure that no one approached unchallenged.<br />
<br />
"Ah! Colonel Guyovich! There you are. You certainly are a dashing figure in your Cossack uniform. Do you have to use that sword to fend off all the ladies that throw themselves at you?!", she teased. "Will you join me?", she said gesturing to a seat across from her.<br />
<br />
"Thank you, Milady.", he said as he claimed a chair, keeping up the pretense that they were not closely related. "What's on the bill of fare? I'm frightfully sharp set and hunger is indeed the best sauce."<br />
<br />
"The potato salad goes remarkably well with the bratwurst and a bit of mustard. I also recommend the iced strawberry cordial. It's very spritely."<br />
<br />
"And this is...?", Guyovich inquired.<br />
<br />
"A salad made with three kinds of beans as the main ingredients.", she replied. "There are rumors that the Frankfurters are working on a salad with five beans!", she confided.<br />
<br />
"Remarkable.", he responded, as his plate and glass were filled.<br />
<br />
As soon as the servants were out of earshot, the conversation took a more serious turn.<br />
<br />
I'm surprised that you have enough of a saber left to carry, Paul. Is it true you hone it everyday?", the Markgrafin inquired.<br />
<br />
"Sargent Malik looks at me every morning and says, 'Hetman, a dull sword is of no use to anyone.', then he puts an edge on it that would do credit to a razor. Father always thought I was an indifferent 'hack and slash' man, and Uncle Mack spent many a long hour drilling with me, but I've come a long way since then. I have done my best to pass on those skills to your own sons."<br />
<br />
Sharon nodded and changed the subject.<br />
<br />
"All of my requests for an audience have been courteously rejected, but rejected none the less."<br />
<br />
"They're obviously stalling for time, but why and to what purpose? Who gains from the delay?", her brother pondered. "Uncle Mack is very concerned about the reliability of his sources.", he continued,"Even the Badmann network may have been compromised. He says he feels like...how did he put it? Ah yes! 'A one legged man in an ass kicking contest.'. He always had a gift for a colorful turn of phrase.", he laughed.<br />
<br />
"Poor Uncle Mack.", she said as she joined in the laughter. "Well...he knew the job was dangerous when he took it. It's a very tangled web, and there is no easy way to unravel it. We tug on a few threads here and there to no avail. Legend says that Alexander used his sword to cut through the Gordian Knot. We may have to use similar means. We need friends in high places and leverage. I believe I can supply both!".<br />
<br />
"Oh?!", her brother injected. "How?"<br />
<br />
"Let me demonstrate." She pointed her closed fan at a dish that had been set upon a nearby stand. The dish suddenly shattered and the pieces fell to the ground. Both Von Kerns turned to see their brother David wave from a palace balcony and start to reload his air rifle.<br />
<br />
"Friends in high places indeed! And the leverage?", Paul asked.<br />
<br />
"It will be interesting to see how the Court reacts when I mention that the cabbage and Saurkraut contracts between Frankzonia and Raubenstadt are due to expire soon."<br />
<br />
"Well that shall certainly set a cat among the pigeons", Paul laughed at his sister's audacity.<br />
<br />
"I hope so!", she replied. "It's a good thing David is an excellent wing shot, when the pigeon we want takes flight."<br />
<br />
Their glasses clinked as they toasted their plans.<br />
<br />
"Death to Stagonia!", the Cossack Colonel said in a soft tone.<br />
<br />
"Confusion to our foes!", the Markgrafin replied.<br />
<br />
In the shadows of the carefully clipped and trimmed hedges and shrubs, von Mack slipped his spyglass back into a pocket. It looked like it was going to be another long day.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-21756722424100576102010-03-09T22:13:00.000-08:002010-03-09T22:13:09.561-08:00Looking For The High CommandExcept for three regiments of HistoriFig Scruby infantry (two of them Lights) and one lonely Minifig casting of Lafaytte on his horse that I purchased lo these many years ago in my youth, the rest of my forces are plastic. Zvezda, Italeri, Revell, and some really long service Airfix American Revolution George Washington's Army compose the bulk of my forces. Much to my delight HaT Industrie will be releasing a SYW line soon that will rival their Napoleonic offerings, and I plan to purchase a boatload of 'em as soon as they're available. (Insert creepy organ music here.)<br />
<br />
However...I'm really at a loss for mounted officers above the rank of Colonel that really look the part and fit in with the rest of the guys. You know Generals pointing, contemplating their next move, squinting through a spyglass, or looking at a map. I long to have Staff and Aides-de-Camp galloping about, etc. carrying out the directions of their superiors. HistoriFig currently offers only one mounted officer in their SYW range and he makes a great colonel. Sometime ago I ordered the Prussian General Set from the excellent fellows at DPC. They are great castings with next to no flash to clean up, and they looked good to me once they were painted up. Now normally, a millimeter or two of height difference doesn't bother me, but they are pretty beefy and tower over the rest of the troops. On the other hand, who would disobey a general that looks like he can pick you up and break you like a twig over his knee.<br />
<br />
Old Glory might be a better fit, and I do like their Fred the Great casting...there's just something about the cane he's carrying. Their Brunswick figure is pretty impressive as well. I suppose that since a tricorne is a tricorne, their American Revoluion line may also provide some volunteers as well.<br />
<br />
Push comes to shove, I may just have to bite the bullet and order from Minifig UK. Lafayette will be glad to see 'em.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9139641242751148091.post-88823898445129435512010-02-17T16:08:00.000-08:002010-02-17T16:08:35.215-08:00Shop Talk With Von MackA few moments after Small Paul and his companions had left the inn, Badmann came sauntering in off the street and saw Mack sitting at a table looking at something in his hand. Noticing the splattered blood trail on the floor, he asked, "What happened here?"<br />
<br />
"Nothing I couldn't handle.", Mack replied blandly, as he slipped a coin into his vest pocket. "Come follow me. I've got a private room in the back."<br />
<br />
With that Mack picked up a bottle of schnapps and a couple of glasses from the bar, and lead the way to a backroom that was little more than a large closet, a table, and a couple of chairs. "It's cramped. I know, but it's not going to take us that long."<br />
<br />
Mack sat down in a chair and opened the bottle. Badmann filled the two glasses and was about to sit down, when he noticed Mack had one hand under the table.<br />
<br />
"What?!" Mack said at his friend's hesitation. "Oh...". He slowly raised his hand and reached for one of the glasses, as a relieved Badmann took his seat. "An old trick, but a good trick, none the less. Well...the bottle is opened, it must be drunk, and only truth spoken while we drink. Salute." <br />
<br />
The glasses clinked, and soon the table was covered with an astonishing wide array of pistols, knives, daggars, garrottes, brass knuckles, and blackjacks, while the two inspected, sharpened, and cleaned their personal arsenals.<br />
<br />
"So...what's the latest from St. Maurice? Any more of that 'zombie plague' business going around?", Mack asked.<br />
<br />
"It's been pretty quiet for the last few months. There's been no new 'outbreaks' at any rate. Say, that reminds me. Whatever happened to that Rottenbrat fellow that escaped in the aftermath of our last collaberation? The Herzog was most put out, and I had to do some fancy tap dancing about him. There were no traces. It was like he dug a hole and pulled it in after him."<br />
<br />
"How odd that you should say that.", Mack harumphed. "I came across his track just outside the city, and invited him to accompany me to the Felsigburg. I've never seen anybody with such a high tolerance for pain. He kept claiming that he was dead. So after a week of interrogation with no results, I agreed with him. In Raubenstadt we have a law that if a body is unclaimed by relatives after seven days, it can be given to the University's Medical College. I understand that the Professors and medical students were most anxious to examine this rare case. There must have been some spark of vitality left, because he kept screaming, 'No! No!!', when they were carting hime away. Who would have thought that someone like Rottenbrat would have had enough civic pride in him to donate his body to science?" Mack mused.<br />
<br />
Badmann shuddered at the mental image, and downed another shot. "Steiner is recruiting at the Black Pelican in Tradgarland.", he said.<br />
<br />
Mack was surprised. "I thought I burned that place down years ago."<br />
<br />
"They rebuilt it after your fire, and twice after ones I set.", Badmann offered. "Syldavians are a stubborn bunch. So why have three Kerns' come to town?"<br />
<br />
"Her Serene Highness, The Markgrafin of Raubenstadt is very annoyed that during the Reichduke's visit, her son Andrew was endangered by the Stagonian plot that was disrupted."<br />
<br />
"But young von Meltzer is in charge of the Leib Squadron of the Reichduke, and a personal friend of Prince Wilhelm. There's danger enough in either of those positions!" Badmann exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"I know. I know. I tried to explain this, but she wouldn't hear of it." Mack held up his hands in protest. "She's come to give the Old Duchess an earful about endangering her boy and settle some other matters that have long rankled her. Her brothers David and Paul, oh excuse me! Somerussian Guyovich are escorting her to make sure nothing happens to their sister, but I think Guyovich is hiding something. I've known them all since they were little, and as terrible as you think they are; they're not a patch on their father the Old Baron Kerns. I used to work for him when I was younger, you know. He gave me my first job. I still go to his grave every now and then. The children think that it's out of respect, but I really go to make sure that the cold bastard hasn't found a way out!"<br />
<br />
Mack drew his hanger to sharpen it. Badmann noticed that even though the hilt, knucklebow, and handle were plain blackened iron in a mass produced Dutch style, and that the scabbard was positively shabby, the blade itself was of the finest Cologne steel, with the "Running Fox" watermark. "I have sworn an oath to protect them, and I don't care who I have to kill to do so. So what is the latest information the Frankzonian Intelligence Service has on Stagonian Agents in the area?!"<br />
<br />
Badmann pondered, as he drank his drink, just how much he should tell this very, very dangerous man.Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09440393996804815125noreply@blogger.com4