Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World-Novel



A day later, with the issue in the weapon's factory now solved, the industrialist duo could finally heave a gigantic sigh of relief. The timely resolution was crucial, especially for Nielsen, as any delay in production would have been problematic.

Despite the fact that their company introduced superior weapons to the Army, they couldn't deny the awful act committed by Poul. Consequently, some members of Congress harbored a deep-seated resentment towards him.

"Jonathan, Amelia, I'll leave everything to you for now," Poul said, swiftly packing up his belongings.

"Oh, so you're heading out now, huh?" Jonathan grinned mischievously. "Well, enjoy your time with Sara."

Amelia's brows furrowed in confusion. "Wait... Mr. Nielsen, you're going out today? With Sara?" she asked, her tone laced with surprise. The outing was not mentioned in Poul's schedule, and the fact that Amelia had no prior knowledge of it indicated that he hadn't informed her beforehand. 

"Yes, I apologize if I didn't inform you about it. As you are aware, there was an issue in the weapon's factory that required my attention, and while dealing with it, I forgot to update my schedule," Poul admitted, a tinge of sheepishness evident in his voice.

Amelia's confusion melted into understanding. "It's alright, Mr. Nielsen. But today we are facing an issue with Mr. Russell." 

"Russell?" Poul repeated. "What about him?"

"Well, sir, there is this man named William Francis Kemmler who is currently in the custody of the New York Police. According to the police report, William murdered his wife after a heated argument. He was sentenced to death and the execution is…you won't believe this…electrocution."

Poul and Jonathan's interest is piqued by Amelia's revelation. 

"So, what does it have to do with us?" Poul inquired, his voice filled with curiosity and a hint of concern.

Amelia took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "Well, a man named Southwick Brown from the Capital Punishment Commission proposed the execution of William Kemmler with an alternating current." 

With that, Poul and Jonathan's attention began to focus on Amelia's words.

"Did you say alternating current? That's our system! If it becomes associated with death and executions, it could be a public relations disaster for our entire electric enterprise," Poul exclaimed.

Jonathan chimed in, his voice filled with worry. "You're right, Poul. And if Russell is involved, then it is one of his other smear campaigns against us. Should we take legal action? Since the electric chair is not yet fully understood by the public, we could argue that it is a violation of the eighth amendment for it being cruel and inhumane punishment." 

Amelia nodded, contemplating the options. "Legal action might be an avenue to explore, but we should also consider the broader implications. We don't want to engage in a lengthy legal battle that could further tarnish our reputation. Instead, we should focus on proactive measures to counter any negative associations."

"What are you suggesting?" Poul asked.

"For starters, we need to speak with Mr. Russell. He was the one responsible for suggesting Southwick Brown use our alternating current system."

"Damn, Russell. He never knows how to give up eh? We beat him and proved that our system is superior," Poul murmured. "Well, Jonathan, you go with Amelia to New York. Speak to him and tell him that we won't tolerate him using our technology in such a manner without our consent. Make it clear that if he continues down this path, we will not hesitate to take legal action." 

Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Very well. Amelia, we will leave tomorrow. I want this settled immediately."

"Understood, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia acknowledged and then flickered her gaze to Poul. "What are you going to do, Mr. Nielsen." 

"Hmm," Poul pondered aloud. "I believe that you two can handle it for now. The situation is not that serious to the degree that I have to interrupt my plans. I trust both of you to handle the matter competently…ahh this is sounding like I'm an irresponsible 

leader, isn't it?" Poul chuckled softly, realizing his unintended implication.

Amelia and Jonathan exchanged glances before Jonathan spoke up. 

"Poul, in case you forgot, I'm your partner. And you helped me greatly yesterday in the weapons sector. Amelia and I are going to handle it and you deserve this break."

Amelia nodded, going along with Jonathan.

Poul's expression softened as he looked at his trusted partners. He appreciated their understanding and support. 

"Thank you, both of you. It's just for this day."

With that, Poul grabbed his jacket and made his way toward the exit. As he waited for the elevator he was riding to reach the ground floor, his mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the upcoming day and his plans with Sara. He needed this break to clear his mind. It had been work after work and it had been a while since Poul had taken a day off.

He trusted his comrades that they would handle the situation with Russell and the potential PR disaster. Jonathan and Amelia were competent and resourceful, and Poul knew they would do whatever it took to protect their company's reputation.

As the elevator doors opened, Poul stepped out onto the ground floor and headed towards the main exit. There, he saw a familiar individual. It was Carl Benz.

"Mr. Nielsen, I have brought you the automobile." Carl Benz said, extending his hand, and pointing towards the parked Duesenberg Model J.

Poul smiled as he approached Carl Benz and shook his hand. "Thank you, Carl. I appreciate your assistance. The timing couldn't be more perfect."

"You seemed rather tense, sir. Did something happen?" Carl asked, sensing the tension in Poul's demeanor.

Poul's smile faded slightly. "Nothing serious, Mr. Benz. Just some business matters that are challenging me and my partner."

"Well, if you say so, Mr. Nielsen. Please enjoy riding her," Carl replied.

"Oh I will do just that," Poul nodded, a glimmer of excitement returning to his eyes. 

Meanwhile, Jonathan and Amelia wasted no time in preparing for their meeting with Russell. Amelia called the train station, booking two tickets for the next available train, and Jonathan packed his things in his bedroom as they needed to leave early the next morning. The urgency of the situation demanded prompt action, and they wanted to be well-prepared for their discussion with Russell.