But Lavoisier is still in Palatinate working on the fertilizer plant—who can this be handed over to?
Joseph suddenly recalled the later concept of "economic effect driving technological innovation."
France has so many chemists, so many chemical plants—as long as enough material incentives are provided, unexpected surprises might just result.
He took out his notebook and jotted down the words "kerosene refining technology tender."
Afterward, Joseph discussed with Berthier and other staff officers the possible methods of fielding hot air balloons in the army.
It was preliminarily decided that each infantry division would be equipped with three hot air balloons, operated by engineers.
One staff officer remarked a bit regretfully, "Such a powerful reconnaissance tool—if only every regiment could have one."
Berthier nodded. "Actually, if the information scouted by the balloons could be quickly relayed to every officer, that would be just as good—just like with the Sharp semaphore."
