So in the south, the barrier of the Rhine can easily be turned through Switzerland.

There, of course, the character of the country offers considerable difficulties, and if the Swiss defend themselves resolutely, it might not be easy to break down their resistance.

Their army is no despicable factor of strength, and if they were attacked in their mountains they would fight as they did at Sempach and Murten.
The natural approaches from the North Sea to the Baltic, the Sound and the Great Belt, are commanded by foreign guns, and can easily fall a prey to our enemies.
The narrow coast with which we face to the North Sea forms in itself a strong front, but can easily be taken in the rear through Holland.
England is planted before our coasts in such a manner that our entire oversea commerce can be easily blocked.

In the south and south-east alone are we secured by Austria from direct invasion.

Otherwise we are encircled by our enemies.