The Shogunate also is preparing for further…

The Shogunate also is preparing for further conflict by modernizing its forces.

In line with Parkes' designs, the British, heretofore the Shogunate's primary partner, prove reluctant to provide assistance.

The Tokugawa thus comes to rely mainly on French expertise, comforted by the military prestige of Napoleon III at this time, acquired through his successes in the Crimean War and the War of Italy.