Corwin Gray, Ep. 2 Downtime

Journal Entry, Corwin Gray, December 11th, 2073

After reviewing Cmdr. Cervantes’ report on militia readiness, and after Lucius’ generous but (I am quite sure) not entirely selfless donation, I have decided to pass through the Council a bill authorizing the militia to purchase arms and heavy weapons from neighboring towns, as well as non-Newton “irregular” forces, to be armed with aforementioned weapons.

Though I have no doubt my plan to bring in foreigners to fight for us will not be an entirely welcome decision, I feel that there is no reason to commit to an endeavor of this magnitude without being prepared to take it all the way. For the first time in its history, Newton needs a standing army.

I am no fool; I have read my history. Mercenaries can be uncontrollable and dangerous. Therefore, we shall distribute them evenly throughout the militia, as well as keeping their numbers to the bare minimum possible.
Idea: Lucius will no doubt be pleased to hear me say this, indeed, he strongly hinted at this himself in his speech to the Council. Much as Bill did, we shall wrest control of the pass and the mountains from the bandits, as well as expanding the safe zone around the Crossroads Outpost. Rather than being content to leave it safe yet still “contested,” we should strongly consider annexing that territory.

It is my understanding that there are several claims on the land, including a tenuous one from Newton proper, but, in clearing it, I have no doubt that our claim would be recognized by any objective source as strongest. Therefore, let it be done – I shall propose it to the council myself at our next meeting. This will also allow us to reward those who serve best with additional land, always the strongest motivator. Who knows – perhaps in time some of these mercenaries will become proper citizens.