Carlton-Browne of the F.O.

synopsis

When news reaches Britain's Foreign Office indicating rich mineral deposits on the small island state of Gaillardia, interest in the ex-colony is re-awakened, only to turn to consternation on the death of the old king, a faithful ally. Learning that other Great Powers are interested, the Foreign Office sends Carlton-Browne as Special Ambassador to cement good relations and, guided by diplomatic precedent, he manages to create a disaster.