I want to thank France as well as congratulate. When I was a lost soul, and even when Russia decided the opportunity to take my pitifully few remaining centers was more attractive than my potential alliance (after all I was weak and friendless) France listened. Though I normally vie to prevent a solo, I favor survival over elimination. France offered me survival though I sweated those draw proposals leaving me out.

However, France was mainly responsible for my weakened state. Up until I trusted him for one season, I was playing fairly good defense. His stab, while not unsuspected, caused my demise. I took a gamble on him and lost.

I enjoyed taking Germany down through timely sacrifice and deft shifting of forces.

Bottom line, without the French solo I would have come in 5th and been eliminated. Though I may have been a puppet, I remain a live puppet. I also find (for me) England a difficult country to play. I'll keep trying.

Thanks to all.