Light-speed communication
With an already established network of agents, Nathan was financially invested in the outcome of the war and set out to convert that network into the most rapid, robust, and confidential system for war communications in all of Europe.
The cherry on top: it all fed immediately and directly to him, not the Prime Minister, not the Queen, to Nathan.
The communication was rapid:
“He [Nathan Rothschild] set up a private courier system with shipping agents in Dover, Calais, and Ostend with fast light vessels ready to sail at any time" These ships were at the ready, to deliver any message regarding the outcomes of battles or impending advances by Napoleon and his army.
The Britain's government had failed to create similar communication networks and was continuously let down by more established London firms. Due to the reputation gained of a rapid, robust communications network, the firm of N M Rothschild was approached by the government itself to utilize their network for war communications.
The pressure was now on Rothschilds to succeed, not just for his own personal knowledge, but to reliably deliver information to Westminster, acting as a middle man:
“The Rothschild courier and communications network had gained a justifiable reputation for speed and reliability. The pressure was on the Rothschilds to succeed. Nathan understood that success in this business could lead to further important commissions by Britain and her allies”
