International Business Competing in The Global Marketplace 10Th Edition Hill Solutions Manual Full Chapter PDF

International Business Competing in
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Chapter 09 - Regional Economic Integration
Regional Economic Integration

9
Learning objectives
This chapter discusses regional economic integration,
agreements among countries within a geographic region to
achieve economic gains from the free flow of trade and
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investment among themselves.
There are five levels of economic integration. In order of

• Describe the different levels of increasing integration, they include free trade area,
regional economic integration. customs union, common market, economic union, and full
political union.
• Understand the economic and
political arguments for regional Integration is not easily achieved or sustained. Although
economic integration. integration brings benefits to the majority, it is never
without costs for the minority. Concerns over sovereignty
• Understand the economic and often slow or stop integration attempts.
political arguments against
regional economic integration. The creation of single markets in the EU and North
America means that many markets that were formerly
• Explain the history, current protected from foreign competition are now more open.
scope, and future prospects of This creates major investment and export opportunities for
the world’s most important firms within and outside these regions.
regional economic agreements.
The free movement of goods across borders, the
• Understand the implications for harmonization of product standards, and the simplification
business that are inherent in of tax regimes make it possible for firms based in a free
regional economic integration trade area to realize potentially enormous cost economies
agreements. by centralizing production in those locations within the
area where the mix of factor costs and skills is optimal.
The opening case discusses the complicated case of

Mexican tomato growers, U.S. tomato growers, and the
pricing structure that was in place once NAFTA went into
effect. The closing case explores the implications of a
recent ruling by the European Court of Justice that allows
consumers to bypass agreements regarding the exclusive
rights to local broadcasts of Premier League soccer
matches.
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McGraw-Hill Education.
OUTLINE OF CHAPTER 9: REGIONAL ECONOMIC INTEGRATION

Opening Case: Tomato Wars
Introduction
Levels of Economic Integration
The Case for Regional Integration

The Economic Case for Integration
The Political Case for Integration
Impediments to Integration
The Case Against Regional Integration
Regional Economic Integration in Europe

Evolution of the European Union
Political Structure of the European Union
The Single European Act
The Establishment of the Euro
Enlargement of the European Union
Management Focus: The European Commission and Intel

Country Focus: Creating a Single European Market in Financial Services
Country Focus: The Greek Sovereign Debt Crisis
Regional Economic Integration in the Americas

The North American Free Trade Agreement
The Andean Community
Mercosur
Central American Common Market, CAFTA, and CARICOM
Free Trade Area of the Americas
Regional Economic Integration Elsewhere

Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
Regional Trade Blocs in Africa
Focus On Managerial Implications

Opportunities
Threats
Chapter Summary
Closing Case: I Want My Greek TV!
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CLASSROOM DISCUSSION POINT

Choose either the European Union or the North American Free Trade Area, and then ask
students to think about what economic integration means for companies inside the bloc.
Then, ask students to consider economic integration from the perspective of a firm
outside the bloc.
Next, ask students to consider economic integration from the perspective of a consumer.
Try to organize student responses in a positive/negative chart on the board, and then at
the end of the discussion, ask students whether they would support economic integration
or not.
OPENING CASE: Tomato Wars

The opening case explores the complicated case of importing tomatoes from Mexico and
the impact on both sides of the border. When NAFTA went into effect, tariffs on
imported tomatoes from Mexico were dropped. U.S. growers firmly believed that they
would lose much of their business to their Mexican counterparts. The U.S. growers
lobbied the government to set a minimum floor price for Mexican tomatoes, with the idea
being that such a pricing structure would stop Mexican producers from cutting prices
below the floor. As it turned out, the deal didn’t offer much protection to U.S. tomato
growers.
1. Explore the U.S. growers’ sentiment that they were being shut out of the local tomato
market by the low prices agreed to by both countries. How does Mexico’s competitive
wages and growing conditions help the Mexican growers?
2. Ask students to explain the concept of Mexico dumping tomatoes on the U.S. market.
How did that hurt the U.S. growers?
3. When Florida growers petitioned the government to scrap the pricing agreement, many
U.S. business owners who do extensive business with Mexico cried foul. What was their
position when it came to how their own businesses would be hurt by such a government
agreement?
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LECTURE OUTLINE
This lecture outline follows the Power Point Presentation (PPT) provided along with this
instructor’s manual. The PPT slides include additional notes that can be viewed by
clicking on “view,” then on “notes.” The following provides a brief overview of each
Power Point slide along with teaching tips, and additional perspectives.
Slide 9-3 Introduction

Regional economic integration refers to agreements between countries in a geographic
region to reduce tariff and nontariff barriers to the free flow of goods, services, and
factors of production between each other.
Despite the rapid spread of regional trade agreements designed to promote free trade,
there are those who fear that the world is moving toward a situation in which a number of
regional trade blocks compete against each other. In this scenario of the future, free trade
will exist within each bloc, but each bloc will protect its market from outside competition
with high tariffs.
Slides 9-4 through 9-7 Levels of Economic Integration

The five levels of economic integration are: free trade area, customs union, common
market, economic union, and political union.
The most enduring free trade area in the world is the European Free Trade Association.
EFTA currently joins four countries--Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
Other free trade areas include the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Another Perspective: A site with information and additional links on NAFTA is available
at {http://www.fas.usda.gov/itp/Policy/NAFTA/nafta.asp}. The site includes
downloadable power point presentations on the benefits of NAFTA.
Another Perspective: To find out more about EFTA, go to {http://www.efta.int/}, and

click on “EFTA AELE.” From here you can click on several icons to get quick facts,
more in-depth reports, information on the European Economic Area, and many other
issues related to EFTA.
Customs unions around the world include the current version of the Andean Pact
(between Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru).
Currently, Mercosur, the South America grouping that includes Brazil, Argentina,
Paraguay, and Uruguay, is aiming to eventually establish itself as a common market.
The European Union (EU) is an economic union, although an imperfect one since not all
members of the EU have adopted the euro, the currency of the EU, and differences in tax
rates across countries still remain.
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Slide 9-8 The Economic and Political Case for Integration
Regional economic integration can be seen as an attempt to achieve additional gains from
the free flow of trade and investment between countries beyond those attainable under
international agreements such as the WTO.
The political case for integration has two main points: (1) by linking countries together,
making them more dependent on each other, and forming a structure where they regularly
have to interact, the likelihood of violent conflict and war will decrease, and (2) by
linking countries together, they have greater clout and are politically much stronger in
dealing with other nations.
Slide 9-9 Impediments to Integration
There are two main impediments to integration:

• although a nation as a whole may benefit significantly from a regional free trade
agreement, certain groups may lose
• concerns over national sovereignty
Whether regional integration is in the economic interests of the participants depends upon
the extent of trade creation as opposed to trade diversion. Trade creation occurs when
low cost producers within the free trade area replace high cost domestic producers. Trade
diversion occurs when higher cost suppliers within the free trade area replace lower cost
external suppliers. A regional free trade agreement will only make the world better off if
the amount of trade it creates exceeds the amount it diverts.
Slides 9-10 and 9-11 Regional Economic Integration in Europe
There are two trade blocks in Europe:

• the European Union (EU)
• the European Free Trade Association
The EU is by far the more significant, not just in terms of membership, but also in terms
of economic and political influence in the world economy.
Slides 9-12 and 9-13 Evolution of the European Union
The EU is the product of two political factors:

• devastation of two world wars on Western Europe and the desire for a lasting
peace
• European nations’ desire to hold their own on the world’s political and economic
stage.
The forerunner of the EU was the European Coal and Steel Community, which had the
goal of removing barriers to trade in coal, iron, steel, and scrap metal formed in 1951.
The EEC was formed in 1957 at the Treaty of Rome. While the original goal was for a
common market, progress was generally very slow.
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Another Perspective: The EU web site is {http://europa.eu/index_en.htm}. The site

contains a broad array of information about the historical role and current activities of the
EU in the global economy.
The Single European Act called for the removal of border controls, mutual recognition
of standards, open public procurement, a barrier free financial services industry, no
currency exchange controls, free and open freight transport, and freer and more open
competition.
Slide 9-14 Political Structure of the European Union
The main institutions of the EU are:

• the European Council (ultimate controlling authority within the EU)
• the European Commission (responsible for implementing aspects of EU law and
monitoring member states to ensure they are complying with EU laws)
• the European Parliament (debates legislation proposed by the commission and
forwarded to it by the council)
• the Court of Justice (the supreme appeals court for EU law).
Slides 9-15 and 9-16 The Establishment of the Euro
The Treaty of Maastricht, signed in 1991, committed the EU to adopt a single currency,
the euro, by January 1, 1999. The euro is used by 17 of the 27 member states. By
adopting the euro, the EU has created the second largest currency zone in the world after
that of the U.S. dollar.
Since its establishment January 1, 1999, the euro has had a volatile trading history with
the U.S. dollar. Initially, the currency fell in value relative to the dollar, but has since
strengthened.
Another Perspective: The European Union has a web page devoted to the euro
{http://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/euro/index_en.htm}. Students can explore the site
and click on the pages to see pictures of the coins and notes, the advantages of
participating in the euro zone, and frequently asked questions about the euro.
Another Perspective: The European Central Bank maintains a web site with current
information on the euro. The site is available at {http://www.euro.ecb.int/}.
Another Perspective: At one point in time, joining the Euro Zone had been the goal of
many Eastern European countries. Now however, given the recent financial crises that is
threatening the future of the euro, many are rethinking their plans. To learn more, go to
{http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/11_27/b4235017725502.htm}.
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Slide 9-17 Enlargement of the European Union
Several countries, particularly from Eastern Europe, have applied for membership in the
EU. In December of 2002, the EU formally agreed to accept the applications of 10
countries, and they joined on May 1, 2004. Today, membership is up to 28 countries,
with Croatia joining in July of 2013.
Slides 9-18 and 9-19 Regional Economic Integration in the Americas

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is the most significant attempt
at economic integration in the Americas. Other efforts include the Andean group and
Mercosur. In addition, there are plans to establish a hemisphere wide Free Trade Area
of the Americas (FTAA.)
Slides 9-20 through 9-23 The North American Free Trade Agreement
The free trade agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico became law
January 1, 1994.
Another Perspective: More on NAFTA can be found at

{http://www.fas.usda.gov/itp/Policy/NAFTA/nafta.asp}.
Following approval of NAFTA by the U.S. Congress a number of other Latin American
countries indicated their desire to eventually join NAFTA. Currently the governments of
both Canada and the U.S. are adopting a wait and see attitude with regard to most
countries.
Another Perspective: Many organizations are anxious to take advantage of the

opportunities offered by NAFTA. The NAFTA Register
{http://www.naftaregister.com/}is a directory of export management companies, export
service providers, and trading companies that want to profit from NAFTA by helping
buyers and selling take advantage of NAFTA related opportunities.
Slide 9-24 The Andean Community
The Andean Pact, originally formed in 1969, was based on the EU model, but was far less
successful in achieving its stated goals. In 1990, the Andean Pact was re-launched, and now
operates as a customs union.
Another Perspective: To see new developments with the Andean Community go to

{http://www.comunidadandina.org/endex.htm}.
Slide 9-25 Mercosur
In some industries Mercosur is trade diverting rather than trade creating, and local firms
are investing in industries that are not competitive on a worldwide basis.
Another Perspective: Mercosur's website, which includes a broad array of useful

information, can be accessed at {http://www.sice.oas.org/trade/mrcsr/mrcsrtoc.asp}.
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Slide 9-26 Central American Trade Agreement Market and CARICOM
There are two other trade pacts in the America, the Central American Trade Market and
CARICOM, although neither has made much progress as yet.
Slide 9-27 Free Trade of the Americas
If the FTAA is established, it will have major implications for cross-border trade and
investment flows within the hemisphere. The FTAA would create a free trade area of 850
million people.
Another Perspective: Additional information on the Free Trade of the Americas can be
found at {http://www.ftaa-alca.org/alca_e.asp}.
Slide 9-28 Regional Economic Integration In Asia
Several efforts have been made to integrate in Asia

One of the most successful is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Slides 9-29 and 9-30 Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Formed in 1967, ASEAN currently includes Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines,
Singapore, Thailand, and, most recently, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. The
basic objectives of ASEAN are to foster freer trade between member countries and to
achieve some cooperation in their industrial policies.
Slides 9-31 and 9-32 Asia-Pacific Cooperation
APEC currently has 21 members including such economic powerhouses as the United
States, Japan, and China. The stated aim of APEC is to increase multilateral cooperation
in view of the economic rise of the Pacific nations and the growing interdependence
within the region.
Another Perspective: For more on APEC, go to its web site at {http://www.apec.org/}.
Slide 9-33 Regional Trade Blocks in Africa
There are nine trade blocs on the African continent however progress toward the
establishment of meaningful trade blocs has been slow.
Slide 9-34 Implications for Managers
The EU and NAFTA currently have the most immediate implications for business.
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The greatest implication for MNEs is that the free movement of goods across borders, the
harmonization of product standards, and the simplification of tax regimes, makes it
possible for firms to realize potentially enormous cost economies by centralizing
production in those locations where the mix of factor costs and skills is optimal. Through
specialization and shipping of goods between locations, a much more efficient web of
operations can be created.
Just as the emergence of single markets in the EU and North America creates
opportunities for business, so it also presents a number of threats.
CRITICAL THINKING AND DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: NAFTA has produced significant benefits for the Canadian, Mexican,
and U.S. economy. Discuss.
ANSWER 1: NAFTA’s proponents argue that the agreement should be viewed as an

opportunity to create an enlarged and more productive base for the U.S., Canada, and
Mexico. As low-income jobs move from Canada and the United States to Mexico, the
Mexican economy should be strengthened giving Mexico the ability to purchase higher-
cost American and Canadian products. The net effect of the lower income jobs moving
to Mexico and Mexico increasing its imports of high quality American and Canadian
goods should be positive for the American and Canadian economies. In addition, the
international competitiveness of U.S. and Canadian firms that move production to
Mexico to take advantage of lower labor costs will be enhanced, enabling them to better
compete with Asian and European rivals.
QUESTION 2: What are the economic and political arguments for regional economic
integration? Given these arguments, why don't we see more substantial examples of
integration in the world economy?
ANSWER 2: The economic case for regional integration is straightforward. As we saw

in Chapter 5, unrestricted free trade allows countries to specialize in the production of
goods and services that they can produce most efficiently. If this happens as the result of
economic integration within a geographic region, the net effect is greater prosperity for
the nations of the region. From a more philosophical perspective, regional economic
integration can be seen as an attempt to achieve additional gains from the free flow of
trade and investment between countries beyond those attainable under international
agreements such as the WTO. The political case for integration is also compelling.
Linking neighboring economies and making them increasingly dependent on each other
creates incentives for political cooperation between neighboring states. Also, the
potential for violent conflict between the states is reduced. In addition, by grouping their
economies together, the countries can enhance their political weight in the world.
Despite the strong economic and political arguments for integration, it has never been
easy to achieve (on a meaningful level). There are two main reasons for this. First,
although economic integration benefits the majority, it has its costs. While a set of
nations as a whole may benefit significantly from a regional free trade agreement, certain
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groups may loose. The second impediment to integration arises from concerns over
national sovereignty.
QUESTION 3: What in general was the effect of the creation of a single market and a single
currency within the EU on competition within the EU? Why?
ANSWER 3: By creating a single market and currency, member countries can expect
significant gains from the free flow of trade and investment. This will result from the
ability of the countries within the EU to specialize in the production of the product that
they manufacture the most efficiently, and the freedom to trade those products with other
EU countries without being encumbered by tariffs and other trade barriers. In terms of
competition, the competition between European firms will increase. Some of the most
inefficient firms may go out of business because they will no longer be protected from
other European companies by high tariffs, quotas, or administrative trade barriers.
Companies from those countries that have not adopted the euro may find that their costs
are higher as they deal with currency exchanges. In addition, because it will be easier to
compare prices across markets, firms in the euro zone will be pushed to lower prices and
become more efficient.
QUESTION 4: Do you think it is correct for the European Commission to restrict

mergers between American companies that do business in Europe? (For example, the
European Commission vetoed the proposed merger between WorldCom and Sprint, both
U.S. companies, and it carefully reviewed the merger between AOL and Time Warner,
again both U.S. companies.)
ANSWER 4: Many students will probably suggest that the European Commission has a
right to regulate the European market, even if the regulation involves American
companies. Students taking this perspective will probably suggest that such restrictions
should be made independently of other considerations, even when the parent
governments of the companies have approved the mergers. Other students however, may
argue that the European Commission does not have the right to restrict a merger that has
been approved by parent governments. In doing so, the European Commission is in
effect protecting domestic companies from foreign competition, and violating the spirit of
the WTO.
QUESTION 5: What were the causes of the 2010–2012 sovereign debt crisis in the EU?
What does this crisis tell us about the weaknesses of the euro? Do you think the euro will
survive the sovereign debt crisis?
ANSWER 5: Since 2008, the euro has weakened, reflecting persistent concerns over slow
economic growth and large budget deficits among several EU members, particularly
Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, and Spain. Before the global recession, the governments
of these five countries had sharply increased their government debt to finance public
spending. By 2010, private investors became increasingly concerned that these countries
would not be able to service their sovereign debt, particularly because of the economic
slowdown. Investors sold off government bonds of troubled nations, driving down bond
prices and driving up the cost of government borrowing. Students’ answers to the
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question about the euro’s long-term survival will vary; however, time will tell if the
member countries can get back on their feet financially, which will stabilize the euro.
QUESTION 6: How should a U.S. firm that currently exports to only ASEAN countries
respond to the creation of a single market in this regional grouping?
ANSWER 6: A U.S. business firm that is currently exporting to only ASEAN countries
should seriously consider opening a facility somewhere in this grouping, as the
economics of a common market suggest that outsiders can be at a disadvantage to
insiders. The opening of borders within the ASEAN bloc also has the potential to
increase the size of the market for the firm. Of course it is possible, after careful
consideration, that exporting may still be the most appropriate means of serving the
market.
QUESTION 7: How should a firm with self-sufficient production facilities in several

ASEAN countries respond to the creation of a single market? What are the constraints on
its ability to respond in a manner that minimizes production costs?
ANSWER 7: The creation of the single market means that it may no longer be efficient
to operate separate duplicative production facilities in each country. Instead, the facilities
could either be linked so that each specializes in the production of only certain items or
several sites should be closed down and production consolidated at the most efficient
locations. Existing differences between countries as well as the need to be located near
important customers may limit a firm’s ability to fully consolidate or relocate production
facilities for production cost reasons. Minimizing production costs is only one of many
objectives. For example, location of production near R&D facilities can be critical for
new product development. The location decision needs to examine long run economic
success, not just cost minimization.
QUESTION 8: After a promising start, Mercosur, the major Latin American trade
agreement, has faltered and made little progress since 2000. What problems are hurting
Mercosur? What can be done to solve these problems?
ANSWER 8: Mercosur originated in 1988 as a free trade pact between Brazil and
Argentina. The pact was expanded in 1990 to include Paraguay and Uruguay with the
goal of becoming a full free trade area by 1994, and a common market sometime after.
While initially considered a success, critics began to question whether the trade diversion
effects of Mercosur outweighed it trade creation effects. Then, in 1998 member states
slipped into a recession and in 1999, Brazil’s financial crisis led to a significant
devaluation of its currency creating further turmoil. Finally, in 2001, Argentina beset by
economic stresses asked that the customs union be temporarily suspended, effectively
ending Mercosur’s quest to become a fully functioning customs union. However, in
2003, Brazil’s new president announced his support for a revitalized and expanded
Mercosur that would be modeled after the EU, but by 2011, little progress had been
made.
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Another Perspective: Students can check the current status of the agreement online
{http://www.sice.oas.org/trade/mrcsr/mrcsrtoc.asp}.
To solve the problems of Mercosur, the countries should reduce or eliminate high tariffs
on products that can be produced more efficiently in other parts of the world. It should
strive to develop industries in which it has a comparative advantage and direct its
financial resources to those industries. Finally, it should begin to develop an economy
that fosters the free flow of trade and goods throughout the region.
QUESTION 9: Would establishment of a Free Trade Area of the America’s (FTAA) be

good for the two most advanced economies in the hemisphere, the United States and
Canada? How might the establishment of FTAA impact the strategy on North American
firms?
ANSWER 9: In 1994, a Free Trade of the Americas (FTAA) was proposed. If the
agreement comes about, it would effectively create a free trade area of nearly 800 million
people responsible for more than $18 trillion in GDP in 2008. However, the U.S., while
initially a strong advocate of the agreement, has lessened its support for the FTAA
recently. The question of whether the agreement is good for the U.S. and Canada will
likely produce a lively debate among students.
CLOSING CASE: I Want My Greek TV!

The closing case explores the fallout from a recent ruling by the European Court of
Justice on the rights of companies like Sky Broadcasting Corporation to limit local
viewing options for consumers. Prior to the ruling Sky Broadcasting and ESPN had
exclusive rights to show broadcasts of English Premier League soccer matches. Under
the agreements, the companies divided the European market into segments and charged
consumers different prices in each market. The ruling now gives consumers the right to
access cheaper broadcasts being shown in other European Union markets. The Court
defends the ruling arguing that it upholds the basic principles of a single Market system.
exported from the United States. Discussion of the case can revolve around the following
questions:
QUESTION 1: Why do you think the English Premier League has historically charged
different prices for broadcasting rights in different European markets?
ANSWER 1: The Premier League has charged different prices based on local demand for
its soccer broadcasts. The highest prices were charged in the United Kingdom where
soccer is extremely popular.
QUESTION 2: Do you think the European Court of Justice was right to rule that the
league could not stop people from buying Premier League feeds from other countries?
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ANSWER 2: Student answers will vary. Sky Broadcasting and ESPN pay the Premier
League billions of dollars for the rights to broadcast the soccer games. Individual, small
business owners have to spend a lot of money to be able to broadcast the games to their
customers.
QUESTION 3: Who benefits from the EU ruling? Who will the losers be?
ANSWER 3: Small business owners will benefit from the ruling. However, if the Premier
League clubs begin to get less revenue from Sky and ESPN, it may have a profound
effect on the players the clubs can recruit and the wages they can afford.
QUESTION 4: If you were running the English Premier League, what would your
strategy be on broadcast rights going forward?
ANSWER 4: Student answers will vary. One tactic would be to negotiate with ESPN and
Sky Broadcasting to come up with a better financial deal for the small business owners—
thus trying to get them not to buy the feed from other countries. Another tactic would be
to raise the cost of the TV feed in the smaller markets to make the small business owners
pay more to decode the TV feeds from other countries.
INTEGRATING iGLOBES
There are several iGLOBE video clips that can be integrated with the material presented
in this chapter. In particular, you might consider the following:
Title: Spanish and Greek Responses to Debt Crisis Unleash Backlash from
Citizens
Run Time: 6:48
Abstract: This video explores the new protests against proposed austerity measures in
Greece, a country that has seen significant turmoil in recent months because of its high
level of debt, and then considers the deteriorating situation in Spain, and the potential that
it could also need bailout funds from the European Union and/or the International
Monetary Fund.
Key Concepts: European Union, euro, globalization, political economy, political risk,
economic integration, economic risk, global economy, International Monetary Fund
(IMF)
Notes: New protests broke out in Greece last week as Greek officials contemplated
implementing new austerity measures. The protests, which turned violent at times, came
after a period of several weeks of relative quiet. Protesters fear that the proposed reforms
could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. According to Jacob Kirkegaard of the
Peterson Institute for International Economics, last week’s protests were actually a
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carefully crafted response by Greek labor unions to government officials who are
negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and European Union (EU) for
financial assistance. The labor unions hope to attract attention to their plight, and raise
awareness of just how painful additional austerity measures would be. However, with a
cumulative drop in GDP of some 20 percent, government officials appear to have few
alternatives.
Another European Union member, Spain, is also experiencing its share of unrest as it
becomes increasingly apparent that it too will probably need bailout from the European
Union and/or International Monetary Fund. Spain will be announcing its budget for the
upcoming year shortly, and some have suggested that the country is hoping to
preemptively announce reforms before the European Union can actually mandate them as
part of an assistance program. Jacob Kirkegaard believes that political moral hazard may
be playing a role in situation. He notes that it is in the best interests of the European
Union to discourage other countries from requesting similar financial assistance.
The situation in both countries has highlighted the political instability plaguing not only
Spain and Greece but the European Union in general. In Greece, despite assurances from
parliamentarians like Kyriakos Mitsotakis that there will be no further austerity measures,
there is concern that the resistance to the proposed reforms could result in government
officials being voted out of office. In addition, unease about the high number of
unemployed youths and the potential for a lost generation are contributing to further
unrest in both Spain and Greece. For now, given that there is no quick and painless
solution to the debt problems in both countries, discontent and turmoil is likely to
continue.
Discussion Questions and Answers:
1. What is the European Union? How do debt problems in Greece and Spain affect the
European Union as a whole and its member countries? What are the potential political
implications of the austerity measures being currently being proposed in Greece and
Spain?
Answer: The European Union is comprised of 27 countries. The agreement eliminates

tariffs among member countries, establishes a common policy toward nonmembers,
allows for the free movement of people and capital, and harmonizes fiscal and monetary
policies. Most members have adopted the bloc’s common currency, the euro. Because of
the economic integration implied by membership in the European Union, economic and
political problems in one member country can spill over into other member countries. In
addition, instability in one or a few member countries can destabilize the bloc as a whole.
Most students will probably recognize that it is clear that there is little common support
for the austerity measures Greece, and now Spain, are proposing. Citizens in both
countries have voiced their opinions through protests. Many students may suggest that
angry voters are likely to voice their opinions at the polls as well. Students will probably
conclude that this creates an untenable situation - one where changes is inevitable, and
the future is unknown.
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2. Consider the opposition to further austerity programs in Greece. Labor unions claim
that they cannot endure any further cuts to their wages or pensions. In your opinion, are
they being short sighted? Do you think additional cuts could help the country recover
from its recession and debt burden? What role does the European Union play in the
proposed reforms?
Answer: The violent protests in front of the Greek parliament building by 6,000 laborers
last week were just one more indication of the high level of frustration of Greek workers.
Labor unions were hoping to not only draw attention to their plight, but also stop a new
set of austerity measures from going into effect. The proposed new measures would cut
already reduced wages and pensions by up to another 30 percent. Most students will
probably suggest that while they can sympathize with the workers, government officials
probably have in fact, very little choice to do anything else. Continuing on the path of
taking on further debt is not a viable alternative. Indeed, many students will probably
suggest that the real question should be just how deep the latest round of reforms needs to
be. Other students however, may wonder whether the country is trying to clean up its
mess too quickly. Students taking this approach may point out that it took the country
years to get into debt, and it could take years to recover. Students may wonder whether
the European Union should focus on ensuring political and economic stability as its
primary goal.
3. Discuss the notion of political moral hazard and why it is a concern in the European
Union.
Answer: Germany, along with other members of the European Union is approaching the
bailout of Greece with a great deal of trepidation. There is considerable concern that if a
debt relief package is awarded to Greece, there will be a general expectation that other
member countries should be entitled to similar assistance. In other words, a decision to
provide relief to Greece essentially means that Spain could be next in line, along with
Portugal, and so on. To avoid this, the European Union is making it very difficult for
Greece to get a bailout by demanding that the country implement unpopular austerity
measures. The hope is that if the path to get a bailout is not easy, other countries may be
dissuaded from even trying.
4. Reflect on the long term implications of high unemployment among the younger
generations in Spain and Greece. In your opinion, does membership in the European
Union increase the chance for brain drain?
Answer: Unemployment levels have reached extraordinary highs in both Greece and
Spain. The problem is particularly bad for the younger generation raising concerns for
the potential for a lost generation. Indeed, estimates put the unemployment rate at about
25 percent in Athens, and as high as a staggering 50 percent in Spain. Students may
suggest that youths in these countries will have no choice but to leave their homelands to
seek employment elsewhere within the European Union, which allows for the free
movement of people, or even outside the bloc. However, students may also note that if
9-15
this happens, the countries’ “best and brightest” may be lost forever, a situation that could
have a negative long term impact on the Spain and Greece’s ability to successfully grow
in the future.
INTEGRATING VIDEOS
There are also several longer video clips that can be integrated with the material
presented in this chapter. In particular, you might consider the following from
International Business DVD Volume 6:
Title: Twitter and Haiti
Learning Objectives
The purpose of this video is to help you:
❖ Understand how social media platforms are increasing the pace of globalization.
❖ Examine how new methods of communication are replacing more traditional ones.
❖ Recognize the marketing implications of how people communicate via social media.
❖ Explore how social media platforms may be changing social activism.
Key Words
❖ Globalization
❖ Global economy
❖ Technological change
❖ Cultural change
❖ Levels of economic development
Synopsis
When the earthquake hit Haiti last year, many people, both within the country and
outside, immediately got on Twitter and Facebook to get information about what was
happening, and to communicate with each other. This crisis was one of the first of its
kind in that rather than using more traditional forms of communication like the telephone
or television, large numbers of people turned to new forms of technology like Twitter and
Facebook. Even news reporters were scanning postings to learn more about the crisis.
This may reflect a global trend in which social media platforms are replacing long
established means of communication.
After the earthquake, many people posted messages to family members indicating that
they had survived and providing information about other friends and families. Some
people also provided details about what had occurred and what they had seen. Some
postings included information about problems that would probably occur as a result of
the earthquake such as shortages of medical supplies and water. People outside Haiti
were able to learn from these accounts of the extent of the devastation, and get a feel for
what was ahead for the Haitian people and the country as a whole.
9-16
Twitter and Facebook were also the first choice for many social activists and global
health organizations involved with the crisis. Social activists were able to leverage the
power of the social media platforms to reach out to people for help. Wyclef Jean, a
popular Haitian musician, asked his 1.3 million Twitter followers to donate money to
help for example. Interestingly, the efforts of activists like Jean were made easier
because of the availability of social media platforms and cell phones. People could
respond to their requests simply by sending a text message indicating their willingness to
donate money. Global organizations like the Red Cross were also able to use social
media platforms to raise awareness of the needs of the Haitian people and to organize
contributions.
Discussion Questions
1. Discuss how new technologies emerged as a preferred form of communication after the
earthquake in Haiti. What conclusions might a company targeting consumers in a
developing country like Haiti draw from this phenomenon?
2. What challenges do social network platforms like Twitter and Facebook face in
developing countries? Why might first mover advantages be important in these markets?
3. Reflect on the differences in how people use social networking platforms based on
their geographic location. How can companies capitalize on the growing use of social
media networks in developing countries and emerging markets?
4. Discuss how social media platforms are changing the way social activists raise
awareness and gain support for their causes. How can companies that support social
causes leverage these same opportunities?
INCORPORATING globalEDGE™ EXERCISES

Use the globalEDGE™ site {globaledge.msu.edu} to complete the following exercises:
Exercise 1
The World Trade Organization maintains a database of regional trade agreements. You
can search this database to identify all agreements that a specific country participates in.
Search the database to identify the trade agreements that Japan currently participates in.
What patterns do you see? Which region(s) of the world does Japan seem to be focusing
on its trade endeavors?
Exercise 1 Answer
Search phrase: Regional Trade Agreements
Resource Name: World Trade Organization: Regional Trade Agreements
Website: http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/region_e/region_e.htm
globalEDGE Category: Regional Trade Agreements
9-17
Additional Info:
The Regional Trade Agreements page of the WTO provides a lot of background and
analysis on RTA’s around the world. To access individual agreements, one has to enter
the “RTA Database” following a link on this page. You can also access Maps of RTAs
by Country to see the agreements for each country.
Exercise 2
Your company has assigned you with the task of investigating the various trade blocs in
Africa to see if your company can benefit from these trade agreements while expanding
into African markets. The first trade bloc you come across is COMESA. Prepare a short
executive summary for your company, explaining the level of integration the bloc has
currently achieved, the level it aspires to accomplish, and the relationships it has with
other African trade blocs.
Exercise 2
Search phrase: COMESA
Resource Name: COMESA: Introduction
Website: http://globaledge.msu.edu/trade-blocs/comesa/
globalEDGE Category: Trade Blocs: COMESA
Additional Info:
The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) is a free trade area
that encompasses 19 countries stretching from Libya to Zimbabwe. The Trade Blocs
section of globalEDGE provides information on the history and objectives of the trade
bloc, as well as its member states.
End of Part Case Notes

Part Three
Legal Outsourcing
1. What are the benefits to a law firm of outsourcing of legal services to a foreign
country? What are the potential costs and risks?
Answer: Outsourcing routine legal tasks to foreign law firms helps keep costs down and
helps companies and law firms improve their efficiency and minimize their business and
legal risks.
2. What kind of legal services are most amenable to outsourcing?
Answer: Many legal tasks are routine and are easy to outsource. These include reviewing
documents and drafting contracts.
9-18
3. Which groups gain from the outsourcing of legal services? Which groups lose?
Answer: Lawyers in foreign countries such as India stand to gain from outsourced legal
work. Lawyers who are recent graduates typically do “grunt” work at U.S. law firms.
With this type of work going overseas, new lawyers in the United States may have a
difficult time getting hired.
4. On balance, do you think that this kind of outsourcing is a good thing or a bad thing?
What are the risks here?
Answer: Students’ answers will vary. From a client standpoint, sending “routine” legal
work overseas may help contain clients’ costs. From a legal standpoint, law firms need to
be careful determining what type of work can be done by overseas legal services.
5. Why were the services in this case outsourced to India, as opposed to another country
such as China? What does this case tell you about the kinds of factors that are important
when a firm is considering whether to outsource a value creation activity, and where to
outsource it to?
Answer: India is favored because local universities produce a steady stream of lawyers
trained in common law, which is the legal tradition India inherited from the British. The
same tradition underlies American law. Also, educated Indians speak English well, and
the 10- to 12-hour time difference between India and the United States means that work
can be done overnight in India, increasing responsiveness to clients.
The Global Financial Crisis and Protectionism
1. Why do you think calls for protectionism are greater during share economic
contractions than during boom periods?
Answer: Sharp economic contractions are of course directly linked to slowdowns in

demand forcing companies to adopt new strategies. One such strategy may be to lobby
for protection from imports. Another action may be to lay off workers. In an effort to
protect their jobs, unionized workers may also lobby their governments for protection
from foreign competition.
2. Despite the sharp economic contraction during 2008–2009, the increase in protectionist
measures was fairly modest. Why do you think this was the case?
Answer: Thanks to the greater number of trade agreements in place today as well as
WTO rules, many countries found they had limited options when they tried to respond to
the recent global recession. In the past, countries had more freedom to implement
protectionist policies like tariffs designed to help domestic companies remain competitive
9-19
and protect domestic jobs. Now however, countries must be more creative with their
efforts or risk violating trade agreements. During the recent economic slump, some
countries focused on bureaucratic changes that effectively limited imports while other
countries provided subsidies to give domestic companies a competitive edge over global
competitors.
3. During 2008–2009, many developed nations gave subsidies to their automobile

producers. How might this have distorted international trade? Was this a reasonable thing
to do given the circumstances?
Answer: The 2008-2009 financial crisis prompted many countries including the United
States to provide subsidies to automakers. While the assistance helped companies remain
in business and protected jobs, it also created an artificial environment for them and may
have prompted some companies to shift production from more efficient locations to less
efficient plants in order to qualify for greater subsidies. Students may be divided on
whether the subsidies were beneficial. Some students will probably point out that the
subsidies helped companies preserve jobs and in doing so, introduced a level of stability
during a very precarious time. Other students however, may wonder what will happen
when the subsidies end and whether in fact the policies simply prolonged the hard
decisions that must ultimately be made.
4. What might occur if renewed economic slowdown triggered a wave of protectionist

measures around the world? Would protectionism protect jobs, or would it make things
worse?
Answer: In mid-2011, the global economy was still unstable, and the threat of a double-
dip recession was very real. Many students will probably suggest that if the economy
fails to fully recover, many companies will continue to face low demand and because of
the protection they received in the past, may still be unprepared to deal with it and once
again lobby for further protection. However, some students may point out that many
governments are now facing their own financial challenges and may be less willing to
help. Other students may wonder whether governments may focus on bureaucratic
policies as a means of helping companies in the future rather than on subsidies. In the
end, most students will probably agree that while protectionist measures can protect jobs
in the short-run, companies must ultimately become more efficient, and countries must
support industries that will be sustainable in the long-run.
5. The volume of world trade rebounded sharply in 2010 on the back of a fairly modest
growth rate in the world economy. What does this tell you about the nature of
international production in today’s global economy? What does this tell you about the
vulnerability of the world economy to any future trade wars?
Answer: Most students will probably recognize that today’s economy is truly global in
nature. A modest increase in demand can result in a substantial increase in the volume of
world trade thanks to the global nature of production where parts for products may come
9-20
from a number of countries and assembly may take place anywhere in the world.
Students should recognize that because global production is now the norm in so many
industries, the world economy is far more vulnerable to future trade wars than it was in
the past.
NAFTA and Mexican Trucking
1. What are the potential economic benefits of the trucking provisions in the NAFTA
treaty? Who benefits? Who might lose?
Answer: Under the NAFTA agreement trucks from Mexico are no longer required to
unload their goods and reload them onto U.S. trucks. Instead, Mexican trucks can simply
cross the border and continue to their final destination. These changes save time and also
money – efficiencies that can then be passed along to consumers. In addition, because
U.S. truckers must now compete with Mexican truckers, further savings should be
created. Most students will probably suggest that if the NAFTA agreement is followed,
U.S. consumers should benefit as should Mexican truckers. The real losers appear to be
U.S. truckers. Most students will probably recognize that this situation accounts for the
strong stance the Teamsters have taken against the agreement.
2. What do you think motivated the Teamsters to object to the trucking provisions in
NAFTA? Are these objections fair? Why did Congress initially align itself with the
Teamsters?
Answer: The Teamsters have rigorously objected to the provisions of NAFTA allowing
Mexican truckers to cross U.S. borders and deliver their goods to their destination. Prior
to NAFTA, Mexican trucks were required to reload their goods onto U.S. trucks at the
border. The Teamsters are worried not only about the loss of this business, but also the
new competition that the Mexican truckers will introduce. Many students will probably
realize the challenges faced by the Teamsters and may sympathize with them, but will
ultimately probably agree that the bloc as a whole is better off if the provisions outlined
in NAFTA are upheld. Students may suggest that it is only because of the union’s power
that the United States delayed implementing the agreement.
3. Does it make economic sense for the United States to bear the costs of punitive tariffs
as allowed for under NAFTA, as opposed to letting Mexican trucks enter the United
States?
Answer: When the United States initially failed to abide by provisions set forth in
NAFTA regarding trucks, Mexico gave the country a second chance to honor its
commitment. The United States responded with bureaucratic measures designed to block
Mexican trucks from entering the country. Mexico immediately implemented new tariff
policies on various U.S. goods destined for Mexico. Under the new policies, grape
exporters faced 45 percent tariffs and other U.S. exporters faced 20 percent tariffs. Most
students will probably agree that Mexico’s response was justified and suggest that the
effort by the United States to protect the Teamsters simply hurt another group of
9-21
Americans. Students may also note that U.S. consumers and companies should benefit
from the efficiencies that the agreement should provide, and that the efforts to protect a
single group are misguided.
4. Why do you think the Obama administration brokered a deal with Mexico to allow
Mexican truck drivers to access the United States? Do you think this is a reasonable deal?
Answer: Under NAFTA, Mexico has the right to place tariffs on goods shipped from the
United States to Mexico. California was hit hard by these tariffs because it exports a large
amount of agricultural products to Mexico, along with products from other U.S. states.
To alleviate the tariffs, the administration signed an agreement to allow Mexican truck
drivers access to the United States, which helped both countries.
The Rise of the Indian Automobile Industry
1. What are the attractions of India as a base for producing automobiles for domestic sale,
and for export to other nations?
Answer: From 2003 to 2008, India’s exports of automobiles jumped five fold. South
Korean automaker Hyundai led the way exporting more than one third of its Indian
production. Now, other companies including BMW, Nissan, Ford, and Toyota are
following Hyundai’s lead. The companies are attracted by India’s low cost, highly
productive labor force that has the ability to produce high quality vehicles. In addition,
India has a large number of engineers who are able to “think outside of the box” and
develop models for both the burgeoning Indian market as well as for export markets.
2. Both Hyundai and Nissan made their investments in the southern Indian city if
Chennai. Is there an advantage to be had by investing in the same region as rivals? What
is it?
Answer: Nissan’s decision to invest in the same city as Hyundai was probably driven by
the support structure that Hyundai’s investment helped to create. When Hyundai initially
built its operations it had to start from scratch, training employees, establishing a supplier
network, and so on. By investing in Chennai, Nissan will be able to take advantage of
Hyundai’s efforts. Moreover, it is likely that engineers and suppliers will continue to be
attracted to the region making it even stronger in the future. Some students may liken the
process to that which occurred in Silicon Valley when suppliers, researchers, engineers,
and so on helped to establish the region as a dominant force in the computer industry.
3. What are the drawbacks of basing manufacturing in a country like India? What other
locations might be attractive?
Answer: One of the major challenges facing companies in India is its inadequate
infrastructure. Roads are poor and overcrowded making it difficult for companies to
implement the just-in-time system that is common for most automobile manufacturers.
In addition, local suppliers are still hard to find and those that are available may not offer
9-22
the quality levels companies demand. Students may suggest that companies could avoid
some of these problems by locating production where the infrastructure is better
developed, however, they may also note that doing so could also mean higher costs.
4. If Hyundai, Nissan, their suppliers, and other automobile companies continue to make
investments in the Chennai region of India, how might this region evolve over time?
What does this suggest about manufacturing location strategy?
Answer: It has been suggested that over time, India’s Chennai region could develop into
a mini Detroit where most global auto companies have a presence and where the supplier
network and other supporting industries are well-established. Most students should
recognize the importance of country factors in the choice of production location and that
these factors can change over time. Consequently, it is imperative that companies
continually reassess their manufacturing strategy.
Logitech
1. In a world without trade, what would happen to the costs that American consumers
would have to pay for Logitech’s products?
Answer: Logitech moved its manufacturing to Taiwan and China in an effort to save
money and maintain a competitive advantage. While labor costs were a factor in the
decision to shift its manufacturing, other costs were also considered. The case notes that
Taiwan offered a well-developed supply base for parts, qualified people, and a rapidly
developing local computer industry. In addition, the company was able to secure space
for only $200,000. In China, Logitech is able to employ workers for just $75 per day. If
Logitech were not able to take advantage of opportunities such as these, and export its
product back to the United States, American consumers would pay significantly higher
prices for the company’s products.
2. Explain how trade lowers the costs of making computer peripherals such as mice and
keyboards?
Answer: The theories of Smith, Ricardo, and Hecksher-Ohlin show why it is beneficial
for a country to engage in international trade even for products it is able to produce for
itself. International trade allows a country to specialize in the manufacture and export of
products that can be produced most efficiently in that country, while importing products
that can be produced more efficiently in other countries.
3. Use the theory of comparative advantage to explain the way in which Logitech has
configured its global operations. Why does the company manufacture in China and
Taiwan, undertake basic R&D in California and Switzerland, design products in Ireland,
and coordinate marketing and operations from California?
9-23
Answer: The theory of comparative advantage suggests that it makes sense for a country
to specialize in producing those goods that it can produce most efficiently, while buying
goods that it can produce relatively less efficiently from other countries—even if that
means buying goods from other countries that it could produce more efficiently itself.
Logitech has successfully located the various parts of its value added chain around the
world to take advantage of those attributes that are available in each of the locations in
which it operates.
4. Who creates more value for Logitech, the 650 people it employs in Fremont and
Switzerland, or the 4,000 employees at its Chinese factory? What are the implications of
this observation for the argument that free trade is beneficial?
Answer: Logitech has taken great care in configuring its global value chain to lower
production costs while maintaining the value of those assets that lead to differentiation.
Logitech undertakes basic R&D work in Switzerland, and also in Fremont. Fremont is
also the location for the company’s global marketing, finance, and logistics operations.
Clearly, Logitech is successfully exploiting the benefits of the American and Swiss labor
force, while at the same time taking advantage of the lower costs of production available
in China. Logitech’s operations support the argument that free trade is beneficial.
5. Why do you think the company decided to shift its corporate headquarters from
Switzerland to Fremont?
Answer: Switzerland is still important to Logitech. Indeed the company undertakes basic
R&D work there. However, in an effort to be closer to many of America’s high-
technology enterprises, Logitech moved its headquarters to Freemont, California.
Freemont is now home to the company’s global marketing, finance, and logistics
functions, and is also the location for some additional R&D work.
6. To what extent can Porter’s diamond help explain the choice of Taiwan as a major
manufacturing site for Logitech?
Answer: According to Porter, four broad attributes of a nation shape the environment in
which local firms compete, and these attributes promote or impede the creation of
competitive advantage. The four attributes are factor endowments, demand conditions,
related and supporting industries, and firm strategy, structure, and rivalry. The first
attribute, factor endowments, clearly helps explain the choice of Taiwan as a major
manufacturing site for Logitech. Taiwan has a well-developed supply base for parts, as
well as qualified people. In addition, Taiwan’s rapidly expanding local computer
industry (related and supporting industries) also puts the country in a strong position to be
a major manufacturing site for Logitech.
7. Why do you think China is now a favored location for so much high-technology
manufacturing activity? How will China’s increasing involvement in global trade help
that country? How will it help the world’s developed economies? What potential
problems are associated with moving work to China?
9-24
Answer: Foreign companies now account for three-quarters of China’s high tech exports.
Porter’s diamond would suggest that like Taiwan, China has strong factor endowments
and strong related and supporting industries. Together, these attributes make China an
attractive location of high-tech manufacturing. China’s increasing involvement in global
trade should help the country by spurring its economic growth. This in turn, should
create more demand for imports which should be beneficial to the world’s developed
economies.
9-25
Another random document with
no related content on Scribd:
Sie nahm ihm die Rosen aus der Hand, legte sie ein bißchen
ärgerlich und doch behutsam auf den Flügel.
„Ist schon gut, Fritz, d i e Angelegenheit wäre erledigt ... Mir
scheint, dich führt etwas Ernstes hierher, und es wäre an der Zeit ....“
Er streckte bittend die Hände vor. Nein, nur nicht gleich von dem
verdammten Gelde .... nicht gleich im ersten Augenblick! Am liebsten
überhaupt nicht mit einer schönen jungen Frau von Geld sprechen ...
Gut, daß er die Uniform nicht anhatte. Auf und davon gelaufen wäre
er ... im Hotel totgeschossen hätte er sich auf der Stelle!
Karla sah ihn von der Seite an, und er tat ihr leid, der große
dumme Junge, mit den verworrenen Begriffen.
„Nun ist’s aber genug, Fritz, mit all dem Unsinn. Deine Mutter hat
mir geschrieben. Du hast siebentausend Mark Schulden ....“
Fritz sprang vom Sessel, auf den sie ihn gedrückt hatte.
„Was — siebentausend Mark?! Ist ja gar nicht wahr!
Fünftausenddreihundert sind es .. keinen Pfennig drüber!
Fünftausend in zwei Wechseln ... bekommen habe ich nur
dreitausend in Wirklichkeit .... aber das kostet ja was, das
verdammte Geld .... das kostet was ....“
So hatte also Adele vorsorglich die Summe vergrößert. Karla sah
ihm in die Augen, gütig und ernst.
„Kann ich dir glauben, Fritz?“
Sie erschrak, weil er plötzlich vor ihr niederfiel und ihre Hand
ergriff.
„Liebe, schöne, gute Frau ... Du ...“
Seine Schultern zuckten.
„Fritz, was soll der Unfug ... Fritz! ...“
Aber es war gar kein Unfug. Daß die Tante ihm helfen würde,
hatte er im letzten Grunde selbst gehofft, aber daß sie, die so jung
und schön und gefeiert war, ihn fragte, wie eine Mutter fragt: Kann
ich Dir glauben, Fritz? — das hatte ihn überwältigt.
„Du kannst mir glauben ... Auch daß ich keinen Wechsel mehr
unterschreibe, kannst du mir glauben. Eher ziehe ich den bunten
Rock aus ... ja ... Wenn’s sein muß — ziehe ich ihn aus ... arbeite ...“
Sie strich ihm sanft über den hellen, blonden Scheitel. Was
wurde aus ihm, wenn er den bunten Rock auszog?
Sie saß jetzt auf dem Sessel. Er hatte sich ihr zu Füßen auf dem
Teppich niedergelassen, spielte mit ihrer langen Kette, an der ein
goldenes Börschen hing, und küßte von Zeit zu Zeit ihre Hand, die
ihm über die Haare strich. Aber nun fragte sie, was er denn arbeiten
wollte. Das war eine ganz knifflige, ganz unbequeme Frage ... und
wieder stotterte er.
„Ja ... ich arbeite eben ...“
Sie neigte sich über ihn.
„Würdest du Lehrer werden wollen, wie dein Vater?“
Aber sie deckte gleich die Hand über seine Augen, da sie das
Grauen sah, das ihr entgegenblickte.
„Nein .... das wäre wohl nichts für dich .... Bankbeamter?“
Sie hatte Verbindungen. Wenn er wollte — er könnte gleich
eintreten. Und wenn er tüchtig war. — Mit den Jahren, als Prokurist,
könnte er es auf zwanzig-, auf dreißigtausend Gulden bringen!
Er zerrte an der Kette.
„Muß es denn sein ....?“
Sie schüttelte lachend den Kopf.
„‚Muß?‘ Nein, Fritz, ich weiß schon, das alles ist nichts für dich.
Du mußt eben bleiben, was du bist — da hilft nichts. Mußt die Zähne
zusammenbeißen und durchhalten, bis ein Glücksfall dir in den
Schoß fällt. Nur Schulden machen darfst du nicht mehr ...“
„Ich laß mich versetzen“, sagte er kurz. „Zur Schutztruppe ... da
kriegt man doch was zu tun! Da weiß man doch, wozu man den
Degen an der Seite hat ...“
Er stand erregt auf.
„Seit einem Jahr halten mich die Schulden fest. Hundertmal,
wenn ich zu spielen anfing, sagte ich mir: Wenn ich heute Glück
habe, dann Schluß mit allem hier — dann raus. Ich spüre doch
Kräfte in mir, Kräfte, die ich anders umsetzen möchte als nur im
Drillen der Kerls und im Herumhopsen in reichen Häusern. Ich
könnte doch was leisten ....“
„Das wirst du auch, Fritz ... hier meine Hand.“
Seine jungen Augen leuchteten auf, und stürmisch riß er Karlas
Hand an seine Lippen.
„Papa hat Recht ... Du bist der beste, der vornehmste Mensch ...“
Sie unterbrach ihn lächelnd.
„Schon gut, Fritz ... mach’ ihm nur Freude, mehr verlange ich
nicht. Er kann’s brauchen!“
Sie nahm die Blumen vom Klavier. Drohend erhob sie den
Finger: „Aber ein andermal ....“
Sie stockte, weil sie sein Gesicht sah, das ganz verlegen und rot
geworden war.
„Na ....? Etwa noch nicht bezahlt?“
Er nickte hastig.
„Doch ... ja ... gewiß bezahlt ... aber nicht von mir — Herrgott
nochmal — das ist ein ganzer Roman ... das ist ... Und die Kleine
sitzt im Café und wartet auf mich ... Donnerwetter ja ...“
Karla machte entsetzte Augen.
„Was für eine ‚Kleine‘ .... Was ist denn das schon wieder? Was
fällt dir denn ein, Junge ....“
„Mir ... mir ist eben gar nichts eingefallen ... oder doch, ja ... Mir
ist eingefallen, daß sie warten sollte, bis ich fertig war ... bis meine
Angelegenheit erledigt war ... Das ist doch wichtiger ... nicht wahr ...
als wenn du ihr sagst: Sie können Sängerin werden oder nicht!“
„Wer soll Sängerin werden? ... Was hat das mit dir zu tun? ...
Höre, Fritz, ganz ernsthaft, wenn du wieder eine Dummheit gemacht
hast .... Ich mische mich da nicht hinein .. bitte, mich dabei aus dem
Spiel zu lassen!“ Nun riß ihr doch der Geduldsfaden.
Aber Fritz streichelte ihre Hände. „Laß mich doch nur erzählen ...
hör doch nur zu ...“
Eine Geschichte war das — die konnte natürlich nur wieder ihm
passieren! Gestern im Zuge ... schubst da der Schaffner eine junge
Dame in sein Nichtraucherabteil. Ein junges Mädchen mit nur einem
kleinen Reisetäschchen. Sie schläft nicht — er schläft nicht. Er faßt
ab und zu nach seinem Revolver — sie stößt ab und zu zitternde
Seufzer aus. Ein paar Worte werden ausgetauscht. Dann schlägt er
die Hälfte des blauen Vorhanges von der Deckenlampe zurück.
Große Überraschung. Sie kennen sich von ein paar Bällen her.
Famose Tänzerin. Vater preußischer Kommerzienrat, großes Tier in
der Industrie — nur zwei Kinder. Einen Sohn und diese Tochter ..
Margot Laurin. „Wohin, Herr Leutnant?“ .. „Nach Wien. Und Sie,
gnädiges Fräulein?“ ... „Auch nach Wien.“ ... „Zu Verwandten?“ ...
„Nein.“ .. „Zu Bekannten?“ ... „Nein.“ Bittende Augen, erschrecktes
Umsichblicken. Endlich beichtete sie: sie ist durchgebrannt —
heimlich. Niemand zu Hause weiß, wohin! Sie will zur Bühne —
verrückt. Aber sie will durchaus. Träumt davon, Opernsängerin zu
werden. Wird es durchsetzen — ganz bestimmt. Dabei laufen ihr
jetzt schon die Tränen über die Wangen. Hat einfach Bammel!
Höllischen Bammel! — „Und Sie, Herr Leutnant?“ ... „Ich auch
sozusagen — durchgebrannt, nur mit Wissen und Erlaubnis meiner
Vorgesetzten!“ ... „Warum?“ ... „Schulden“ ... „Viel?“ ...
„Schauderhaft: fünftausenddreihundert Mark!“ Sie lacht sich tot. Er
beleidigt, zieht sich in seine Ecke zurück. Wie er hinüberblickt —
wieder Heulerei. Und hübsch ist sie! — — Wangen ... zum
Reinbeißen, und blondes Wuschelhaar, das in tausend Löckchen um
sie herumflattert. Und angezogen ... totschick! Und Füßchen hat sie
... lächerlich, einfach! „Also, gnädiges Fräulein — Bühne, Blödsinn
für Sie! Gar nicht zu machen!“ Sie will ihm fast ins Gesicht springen
vor Zorn. „Ich werde mich prüfen lassen!“ ... „Von wem denn, bitte?“
... „Von Karla König“ ... „Das ist meine Tante — zu der fahre ich
gerade!“ ... „Ihre Tante?? Ach, lieber Herr Leutnant .... dann werden
Sie mir helfen. Vielleicht empfängt sie mich gar nicht, wenn ich so
einfach heraufgehe ... aber wenn Sie ...“
„So haben wir uns dann die ganze Nacht von dir unterhalten. Ich
versprach ihr alles, was sie wollte. Sie sollte mich nur vorgehen
lassen ... ‚Ach so‘, meinte sie. ‚Ihre Tante soll wohl Ihre Schulden
bezahlen?‘ ... Das war frech. Aber — schlagen kann ich mich doch
nicht mit ihr, nicht? Sie stürzte bei der Ankunft gleich in einen
Blumenladen und kaufte einen Strauß für dich. Den sollte ich dir
bringen, um dich günstig zu stimmen ... Was sich so ein kleines
Mädel einbildet — nicht wahr? Ich denke auch nicht daran, dich
günstig zu stimmen. Sie hat keine Spur von Talent — mein Wort —
ich kenne mich aus! Und sie singt ... wie’n Vogel in der Mauser, sage
ich dir .... Rede ihr das nur aus mit der Bühne ... es ist Quatsch.
Heiraten soll sie! ...“
Karla unterbrach lachend.
„Dich — was, mein Junge? Mit deinem geladenen Revolver und
deinen Schulden?“
Er sah sie von unten herauf an, während wieder ein helles Rot
über seine Stirn huschte.
„Wenn du mir die Schulden abnimmst — den Revolver lege ich
dazu ....“
„Kindskopf. Und das will ein Herr Leutnant sein. Lauf’ ... hol’ mir
das Mädel herauf ... wir telegraphieren dann gleich an ihre Eltern.“
Und während Fritz Maurer Hals über Kopf aus der Wohnung lief,
die Treppe hinunter und ins Café, wo eine blonde, junge Berlinerin
sich mit bangem Herzklopfen die Folgen ihres tollen Streiches
ausmalte, lachte Karla ihr warmes junges Lachen.
Und dann brachte der Fritz ihr seine hübsche Reisegefährtin.
Ganz verschüchtert stand sie plötzlich vor der großen Künstlerin und
ließ sich sagen, daß ein hübsches Gesicht und eine niedliche
Stimme noch keine Künstlerin ausmachen.
„Eine Handlangerin allenfalls, die ein Handwerk erlernen kann mit
sehr viel Fleiß ...“
Wollte sie es darauf ankommen lassen?
Margot Laurin schüttelte den Kopf. Nein ... Dann wollte sie
verzichten ... so bitter es sein mochte ... so sehr sie sich auch
schämte — vor den ihrigen daheim ...
Fritz Maurer stellte sich breitbeinig auf, sehr selbstsicher.
„Ach was, gnädiges Fräulein ... sich mal recht von Grund aus
schämen ... das ist ganz gesund! Das nimmt einem die Lust, wieder
Dummheiten zu machen ...“
Und Karla sah, wie die beiden jungen Menschenkinder einander
ansahen mit einem Blick, in dem schon mehr lag als nur flüchtiges
gegenseitiges Gefallen.
„Donnerwetter ja ... gnädiges Fräulein ... wir zwei haben was
durchgemacht in diesen vierundzwanzig Stunden ... das verbindet,
wie?“
Ein Frechdachs war er. Die Welt gehört ihm — seit er die
Schulden los war.
Karla setzte die Depesche auf an den Kommerzienrat: „Ihre
Tochter war bei mir zur Prüfung ihrer Stimme. Öffentliche Laufbahn
ausgeschlossen. Trifft morgen Frühzug Berlin ein. Karla König“.
„Füge hinzu: ‚Unter dem Schutze meines Neffen, des Leutnants
Fritz Maurer‘“, sagte Fritz, über ihre Schulter blickend.
Das Kommerzienratstöchterlein lachte jetzt fröhlich auf.
„Nicht nötig ... das erzähle ich schon selbst, und Sonntag
machen Sie Besuch und holen sich den Dank.“
Karla lehnte sich zurück in den Stuhl vor ihrem Schreibtisch und
lächelte. Wie einfach das alles war in dem Alter ...
Dann hob sie den Blick zum Bilde ihres Kindes. Schmerzchen
guckte aus ihrem silbernen Rahmen auf die Mama herab mit großen,
ernsten Augen — —
Armes, kleines Schmerzchen — der „nichts unmöglich schien“
bei der Mama! Was würde sie sagen? Heute, wenn der Vater ihr
mitteilte, daß die Mama nicht mehr zurückkehrte zu ihnen ... nie
mehr! ...
Die jungen glücklichen Stimmen hinter ihrem Stuhl taten Karla
plötzlich weh .....
So vielen durfte sie Glück geben ... so vielen ... nur ihrem Kinde
nicht ....!
Blaß und still saß sie an ihrem Tisch zwischen den jungen
Leuten, die ein Zufall zusammengeführt — enger vielleicht, als sie
selbst es noch ahnten.
Blaß und still blieb sie den ganzen Tag über — bis Fritz bat: „Gib
uns deine Stimme mit auf den Weg, willst du?“
Da sah sie den jungen, eleganten Herrn plötzlich als mutierenden
Gymnasiasten am Ofen der elterlichen Wohnung lehnen und ihr
zuhören mit offenem Munde und glänzenden Augen. Hörte seine
rauhe Knabenstimme, als er dem Vater zurief: „Wie die singt ...“
Es war ein Abschied gewesen damals — für lange.
So sollte es heute ein Abschied sein — für immer.
Sie setzte sich an den Flügel. Weiches Dämmerlicht erfüllte den
Raum. Die Rosen dufteten.
Karla sang.
Und ihre Stimme spann seidig schimmernde, glitzernde Fäden
um zwei junge Menschenkinder, denen das Zimmer sich zu einem
Dom wölbte, in dem sie andächtig und staunend dem Schlagen ihrer
erregten Herzen lauschten.
chmerzchen hatte an diesem Sonntag allein essen müssen.
Luise wartete auf den Bruder, der sich seit zwei Stunden mit
Alwin im Studierzimmer eingeschlossen hatte.
„Wir wollen ungestört bleiben“, hatte der Bruder gesagt.
Als es Essenszeit war und das Mädchen zum dritten Male gefragt
hatte, ob sie auftragen sollte, hatte Luise leise an die Tür gepocht.
Da hatte der Bruder aufgeschlossen und gefragt: „Was ist denn?
Kann man denn nicht seine Ruhe haben?“
Und weiß wie Papier war er gewesen, mit Augen, die starr und
kalt unter den dicht zusammengezogenen Brauen glitzerten.
Da hatte sie Schmerzchen essen lassen und hatte daneben
gesessen, mit klopfendem Herzen und gespitzten Ohren.
Schmerzchen, die sich sonst ruhig und selbstgenügsam zu
beschäftigen pflegte, war von ihrer Unruhe wie angesteckt. Sie hatte
hundert Fragen, ließ sich nicht abfertigen mit kurzen Antworten und
sagte schließlich:
„Gewiß wird Mama jetzt kommen. Anna hat gesagt, der Sommer
ist bald vorbei ....“
Mit feuchten Fingern strich Luise über ihren glatten, dunklen
Scheitel und ging leise ins Musikzimmer.
Sie beugte den Oberkörper zum Fenster hinaus, starrte auf die
Menschen, die in der letzten Augustzeit nur spärlich um diese
Stunde vorbeischlichen. Da erblickte sie die volle, ein bißchen
schwerfällige Gestalt der Schwester, winkte mit der Hand, legte den
Finger an die Lippen.
Adele wischte sich den Schweiß von der Stirn. Auch aus ihren
Augen sprachen Angst und Unruhe.
Leise schritt Luise durch den Gang, öffnete die Tür zum
Treppenhaus. Sie hörte Adelens kurzen, schon ein wenig
asthmatischen Atem.
„Leise .. still, Adele .. sie wollen nicht gestört sein.“
Adele flüsterte:
„Weißt du denn noch nichts?“
„Ja, was denn eigentlich?“
„Die Frau läßt ihn sitzen! Es ist empörend! Das hat er nun
davon.“
Luise schauerte zusammen, als wäre ein kalter Windstoß ihr in
den Rücken gefahren.
Adele stöhnte: „Mein Gott ... die Schwüle ... ich hab’ mich kaum
schleppen können ... Also, was sagst du, Luise ... was sagst du?
Das ist der Dank für alles, was Ernst getan hat? Und mein armer
Alwin ... Hast du sein Gesicht gesehn? Hübscher Kurabschluß, wie?
Hat es nötig gehabt, nach Wien zu fahren! Ihr kam das natürlich wie
gerufen! Eins, zwei, drei hat sie ihm alles aufgehalst. Und er ... so
gutmütig ... so dumm — geht ihr richtig auf den Leim und übernimmt
den schönen Auftrag!“
Adele band die breiten schwarzen Schleifen ihres Hutes auf.
„Leg doch ganz ab“, sagte Luise rauh.
Adele aber machte die Erregung mitteilsam, riß die Schleusen
ihrer verborgensten Empfindungen auf.
„Wenn man es richtig nimmt, Luise — gepaßt hat sie ja nie zu
uns. Wie nur Ernst sich so täuschen konnte! Wir zwei waren uns
doch gleich nach ihrem ersten Besuch klar über sie. Ich jedenfalls!
Was habe ich mir für Mühe mit ihr gegeben — weißt du, Luise? Als
sie noch möbliert in der Göbenstraße wohnte! Sie hat mir ja auch
leid getan damals, und ich bildete mir ein, wir könnten sie sittlich
heben, ihr Pflichtgefühl einimpfen ... da kam ja leider das dumme
Amerika dazwischen. Das war Ernstens Unglück! Da hat er jede
Autorität über sie aus der Hand gegeben! Du erinnerst dich doch,
Luise, wie sehr ich immer dagegen war, daß sie allein in ein
Engagement geht? Ich hab immer gesagt: das führt zu nichts
Gutem! Das entfremdet! Aber ich redete natürlich in den Wind
hinein. Damals, als die Depesche kam aus Wien, daß sie dort blieb
— damals hätte Ernst sich scheiden lassen sollen. Vielleicht hätte
sie sich damals besonnen.“
Luise schüttelte den Kopf. Sie sah sich in dem Gang stehen an
jenem Abend, da sich der Schatten eines großen Mannes hinter der
Glasscheibe hin und her bewegte ... Damals hatte es angefangen ...
damals — an dem Abend, da Karla im Schlafzimmer das
Blumenglas auf den Boden geworfen hatte und in ihren Augen etwas
aufgeblitzt war, das wie Haß aussah gegen sie alle ...
„Damals war es wohl auch schon zu spät“, sagte sie, und ihre
Mundwinkel zogen sich tief herab.
Sie saßen nebeneinander auf dem großen Umbausofa, und die
Falten ihrer schwarzen Kleider lagen übereinander, daß es aussah,
als wüchsen zwei Oberkörper hervor aus einem dunklen, breiten
Stamm.
„Und jetzt ist Fritz bei ihr ...“, sagte Luise.
Adele senkte den Kopf tief auf die Brust herab.
„So schlecht kann sie doch nicht sein“, murmelte sie.
Luise streifte die Schwester mit einem Blick, aus dem zum
erstenmal in ihrem Leben Härte sprach. Als wäre ihr zum erstenmal
die Binde vor den Augen gefallen, als hätte sie zum erstenmal die
grenzenlose Selbstsucht dieser Frau erkannt.
Noch enger zog Adele den Kreis ihrer Sorge, als sie oder der
Bruder es je getan. Für sie gab es nur noch Mann und Kinder; sogar
die Geschwister nur soweit, wie sie sich ausnützen ließen.
Luise stand auf und legte die Hand an ihren weißgesäumten
Kragen, als fehlte ihr die Luft.
„Laß es nur Alwin und Ernst nicht wissen, das rate ich dir“, sagte
sie und wendete sich ab.
Adele blieb auf dem Sofa sitzen. Was war denn das mit Luise?
Waren sie denn nicht immer eines Sinnes gewesen? „W i r sollten
doch wenigstens einig bleiben, Luise ....“
Luise nickte. Aber sie fand kein Wort — weder der Anklage noch
der Beruhigung.
Es kam wohl bei allen vor, daß sie plötzlich sehend wurden ....
Da gab’s nur eines: Augen schließen und n i c h t s e h e n w o l l e n !
Schweigend saßen sie da und warteten auf die Männer.
Altmann kam zuerst herein.
„Da bist du ja auch, Adele ...“
Er blieb stehen, räusperte sich. Seine Augen suchten Luise. Sie
war ihm die nächste jetzt. Er hätte allein sein wollen mit ihr. Aber es
war zu verstehen, daß Maurers blieben ... Adele hielt es auch wohl
für ihre Pflicht. Sie tat immer ihre Pflicht ..... immer.
Drückend war die Luft — drückend von Schweigen, drückend von
der brütenden Hitze ...
„Ich werde den Rolladen herunterlassen“, sagte Luise.
„Warte, ich helf dir ...“
Alwin Maurer nahm ihr die Schnur aus der Hand. Klappernd
schossen die Brettchen auf den Fenstersims herab.
„Nun wird’s wohl zu dunkel sein“, meinte Adele.
„Nein ... so ist es gut ... eine Wohltat ...“
Altmann ließ sich schwer auf seinen Platz am Eßtisch nieder.
Eine Wohltat, daß sie alle sein Gesicht nicht sahen im tiefen
Dämmer des Zimmers ... eine Wohltat ...!
„Setzt euch doch ... So setzt euch doch endlich!“
Jeder Schritt dröhnte in seinem Kopfe wider — wie Drahtpuppen,
so tanzten sie alle vor seinen Augen. Als hätte man ihm die Haut
vom Kopfe gerissen, so war ihm zumute ... alles schmerzte.
Aber das brauchten sie nicht zu sehen ... Nacht hätte es sein
sollen ... dunkle Nacht! ...
Luise schöpfte die Suppe auf.
„Ihr müßt vorliebnehmen ....“
„Wir haben gar keinen Hunger .. nicht wahr, Alwin?“ sagte Adele.
Aber sie wartete nicht ab, bis alle bedient waren, führte den Löffel
in nervöser Hast zum Munde.
Immer war es so gewesen — ihr Hunger wuchs mit der
Aufregung. Und nicht ihr allein ging es so. Die vier Löffel klapperten
in raschem Takt. Niemand sprach ein Wort. Das Tier im Menschen
verlangte sein Recht.
Die Rühreier wurden hereingebracht, später der Braten.
„Das ist ja viel zu viel“, raunte Adele der Schwester zu.
Außer ihr bemerkte es niemand, ob es viel oder wenig war.
Beim dritten Fleischbissen aber fiel Altmanns Besteck zurück auf
den Teller. Luise legte die Hand auf seinen Arm.
„Das ist alles?“
„Ich kann nicht ... ich kann nicht mehr ...“
Er lehnte sich zurück in seinen Stuhl und preßte mit beiden
Händen die Brust zusammen.
Niemand konnte mehr essen.
Alwin Maurer murmelte:
„Sprich dich aus ... Oder soll ich sagen? ... Adele weiß übrigens
schon ...“
Adele suchte ihr Taschentuch; ihre Knie zitterten, ihre Stimme.
„Mein armer Ernst ... ich weiß ... Es ist ... abscheulich ist es — ich
sagte es schon zu Alwin und Luise ... Abscheulich! Undankbar! ...“
Altmann riß die Augen weit auf.
War das alles, was sie zu sagen wußte? ... Undankbar?
Abscheulich? Heftig, in kaum noch beherrschtem Zorn schob er den
Teller zurück.
„Laß die Worte bitte! Die sind hier nicht am Platz!“
So sprach man von einem Dienstboten, der nach Jahren
grundlos kündigte ... aber von s e i n e r F r a u ? ... Von Karla — — —
Alwin fuhr auf.
„Gerade wir, Adele ...“
Adele atmete rasch und kurz. „Gerade wir ...“ — das traf sie. Traf
sie wie ein Messerstich. Und wenn Alwin noch wüßte, daß vielleicht
in diesem Augenblick Fritz ... Was wurde aus ihr, wenn sie es
erfuhren! Was für Demütigungen war sie ausgesetzt!
Alwin Maurer blickte trübe auf die weinende, zitternde Frau. Ein
Irrtum war sein Leben gewesen — ein Irrtum, in allem und von
Anbeginn an. Ihr durfte er keine Schuld geben.
„Komm, Adele, Ernst wird Ruhe haben wollen ...“
Altmann hielt sie nicht zurück. Überwand sich aber, stand auf,
gab ihnen das Geleit bis zur Tür, ging in sein Zimmer, stellte sich ans
Fenster, sah sie beide über die Straße gehen — langsam, mit
gesenktem Kopfe. Sah noch, wie Adele ihren Arm in den ihres
Mannes schob, ihm ihr verweintes Gesicht zuwandte, ihm etwas
sagte — und wie sie dann, enger aneinandergepreßt, schleppenden
Schrittes um die Ecke bogen, untrennbar trotz allem, was sie
voneinander schied.
Da trat er vom Fenster zurück, fiel in den Sessel, der auf dem
großen angegrauten Fell stand ... den Sessel, in dem sie immer
gesessen, wenn sie ihn in seinem Zimmer aufsuchte, wenn sie
gehäkelt und vor sich hin geträumt hatte — weit weg von ihm —
schon damals vielleicht.
Er hatte sein Gesicht mit den Händen bedeckt, und seine
Schultern zuckten.
Luise ließ ihn allein. Wußte, wie wenig sie ihm war in diesem
Augenblick.
Aber als der Abend sich durch das offene Fenster hereinstahl,
der Straßenlärm abklang und die Stille sich um Altmann legte —
eine Stille, die nicht Ohnmacht und die nicht Schlaf war, eine Stille,
die wie ein Vorbote war seines neuen, stillen Lebens, die wie eine
Auflösung war des schreienden, vernichtenden Schmerzes, da
klopfte es an seine Tür.
Er rief nicht herein. Und dennoch ging die Tür auf.
„Schmerzchen“, murmelte er, und streckte die Hand aus.
„Schmerzchen“, — der Name war alles, was ihm von Karla
bleiben sollte. Denn das Kind nahm er ihr fort.
„Ich soll gute Nacht sagen, Papa.“
Geflüstert kam es ihr von den Lippen, und sie trat auf den
Fußspitzen näher, als säße ein Kranker in dem Sessel.
Er stellte sie zwischen seine Knie, legte den Arm um sie.
„Weißt du ... daß ... deine Mama nicht kommt in diesem
Sommer?“
Schmerzchen senkte den feinen Kopf und zupfte an dem Gürtel,
der ihr weißes Sonntagskleidchen zusammenhielt — das Kleidchen,
in dem sie mit der Mama hatte spazierengehen wollen.
„Ja ...“, hauchte sie leise.
„Hat Tante Lis es dir gesagt?“
Sie nickte stumm.
„Und daß die Mama auch nächsten Sommer nicht wiederkommt
.... und übernächsten nicht .... daß sie nie mehr zurückkommt?“
Schmerzchens braune, ernste Augen wurden weit und groß.
Ein kurzer, zitternder Seufzer flog über ihre Lippen in die Stille
des Zimmers hinein.
„Ist Mama tot?“
Ihr Stimmchen, das fein und zart war, kippte um. Nur wenn eine
Mutter tot war, sahen die Kinder sie nie wieder. Das wußte sie von
der Schule her. Dann kamen die Kinder in schwarzen Kleidern an
und flüsterten leise: Mutter ist tot! Weinten, und die Lehrerin
streichelte ihnen Wangen und Haar. Furchtbar traurig war das! Aber
auch schön! Die Kinder sagten, die Mutter wäre jetzt ein Engel und
schwebte ihnen zur Seite, sie zu beschützen. Das war auch traurig,
aber sehr schön!
Altmann drückte das feine Köpfchen an seine Brust. Tot ... nein.
Nicht einmal die fromme Lüge konnte er dem Kinde als Trost geben.
Ein Bild von Karla in einer Zeitschrift ... ein Wort, das das Kind
auffing ... jetzt oder später ...
„Nein, Kind ... deine Mama lebt.“
Schmerzchen kroch zum Vater auf den Schoß; sie sagte: „Dann
kommt sie ... die Mama ...! Ich weiß es ... ich habe ihr einen Brief
geschrieben: Liebe, liebe Mama, komm doch zu deinem
Schmerzchen. — Du wirst sehen, Papa, sie kommt ...“
Ruhig, sicher, sehr überzeugt sprach Schmerzchen. Das gab es
doch gar nicht — eine Mama, die nicht kam, wenn ihr kleines
Mädchen sie rief.
„Deine Mama wird ein anderes kleines Mädchen haben, andere
Kinder ...“
„Andere Kinder? ....“
So wie sie andere Puppen bekam? Neue, schönere? Sie warf
dann die alten fort. So warf die Mama ihr Schmerzchen fort. Spielte
nur mehr mit ihren neuen schönen Kindern? ...
Schmerzchen weinte nicht. Nur ihre kleinen, feingliedrigen Hände
ballten sich zornig zusammen.
„Dann werfe ich Mama aber auch fort ...“
Es war das Ende einer langen, langen Gedankenkette. Mehr
sagte sie nicht. Um keinen Preis hätte sie geweint. Um keinen Preis
gesagt, wie das Herz ihr schlug .... wie die Füße ihr kalt wurden, und
ihre Zähne sich aneinanderpreßten.
„So mußt du nicht ... hörst du, Schmerzchen ... so darfst du nie,
nie von der Mama sprechen! Das verbiete ich dir ...“
Ihr feines Kinderohr hörte etwas heraus aus der Stimme des
Vaters, was sie mit einem neuen heftigen Schreck erfüllte. Sie
schlang ihre Arme um seinen Hals, drückte sich an ihn mit aller Kraft
ihres kleinen, zarten Körpers. Nun war es ganz dunkel im Zimmer,
und sie hielten sich umschlungen — ganz eng, ganz fest, der
alternde Mann und sein kleines Mädchen.
— — — Eingeriegelt in seinem Zimmer, beim Schein der grün
beschirmten Lampe, saß Alwin Maurer und schrieb ein letztes Mal
nach Wien.
„Meine liebe Karla! Ich habe mit Ernst gesprochen. Dein
Wille soll geschehen — mit aller Beschleunigung und allem
Nachdruck, die Du wünschen magst. Nur eines läßt er dir
sagen: Alle Brücken müssen abgebrochen sein, die von uns
zu Dir, von Dir zu uns führen — bis die Wunden geheilt und
vernarbt sind. Das Kind darf in keinen Zwiespalt gebracht
werden.
Dem mußt Du Dich fügen.
Ich freilich kann es kaum glauben, daß Du eine Fremde
werden sollst für uns. Aber nur so allein wird es möglich sein,
daß er seinen Frieden und Du ein neues Glück wiederfindest.
Da bleibt mir denn nichts übrig, als Dir zu danken für die
Stunden, die ich in Deiner Nähe verleben durfte.
Die Erinnerung an sie soll hell und tröstend durch das
Dunkel der kommenden Jahre leuchten.
Alwin.“
lice Reichenberg saß mit Karla und Gaudlitz um das Bett
ihres „kleinen Rudi“, der sich langsam vom Scharlach erholte,
der ihn fast das Leben gekostet hätte.
Durchsichtig blaß war das blonde Knabengesicht und so zart,
daß es schien, als hätten seine blaugeäderten Lider Mühe, sich
unter ihrer Last zu heben. Kraftlos lagen die dünnen, langfingerigen
Hände auf der roten Seidendecke. Die pflegende Schwester machte
eine bittende Bewegung.
„Ja, wir gehen schon“, sagte die Mutter, neigte sich über die Stirn
des Kindes und machte den anderen ein Zeichen, ihr zu folgen.
In ihrem kleinen Salon war der Teetisch gedeckt. Im Kamin
prasselten noch ein paar große Baumscheite, obwohl von draußen
die Sonne der letzten Apriltage an den breiten Spiegelscheiben der
Fenster brannte.
Gaudlitz klemmte eine Zigarette zwischen seine starken weißen
Zähne.
„Wenn wir verheiratet sind, nehmen wir dir den Jungen auf ein
Jahr ab. Paß auf Alice ... wie der sich auf Pinnow herausmachen
wird! Den ganzen Tag draußen — Bücher zum Fenster ’raus ... Luft
und Licht! Er kann dann auch gleich mit Karla einen Reitkursus bei
mir nehmen. Skandal, daß der Bengel noch nie auf ’nem Gaul
gesessen hat ...“
Fürst Reichenberg schlenderte herein, mit den kurzsichtigen
Augen blinzelnd wie ein Spaziergänger.
„Ah, das ist g’scheit ... Da kriegt man ja noch eine Schale Tee ...
Küß’ die Hand, Karla .... Na — wie steht’s mit dem Buben? ... Die
Schwester hat mich nicht reinlassen wollen ... er schläft, sagt sie.“
„Er schläft sich gesund!“
„Aber ja ... die Alic’ braucht gar keine solche Angst zu haben. Wir
Reichenberg’schen Buben haben alle nit anders ausg’schaut in dem
Alter ... waren lauter Krischperln! Das ist Familientradition. Der
Professor, den wir konsultiert haben, der hat auch g’sagt: Wenn der
Bub erst über’s zwölfte Jahr hinaus ist, dann ist überhaupt keine
Gefahr mehr ....“
Reichenberg stellte sich an den Kamin, klopfte eine Zigarette auf
den Daumennagel auf, lächelte ein bißchen ironisch. „Will’s gern
glauben, der Hansel und die Karla — das gibt schon ein anderes
G’schlecht. Mordsbuben werden das sein.“
Vor vier Wochen war Karlas Ehe gerichtlich geschieden worden.
Die Blätter hatten sich der Nachricht bemächtigt. Eine große, dichte
Staubwolke war um sie herum aufgeflogen.
Wieder prangten Karlas Bilder auf der ersten Seite aller
illustrierten Blätter. Einige hatten in ihren Archiven noch ein Bild von
Gaudlitz, von seiner Sportzeit her. In Medaillenform, sinnig von einer
Zeichnung umrankt und geeint, wanderten nun ihre beiden Bilder in
Cafés und Gasthäusern, in Lesezirkeln und an Zeitungsständern von
Hand zu Hand.
Trotz der Geheimnummer stand die Telephonklingel weder bei
Reichenbergs noch bei Karla still. Anfragen, Glückwünsche, Blumen,
Depeschen, Briefe prasselten in Sturzwellen auf Karla herab. Der ihr
geltende Applaus in der Oper steigerte sich jedesmal zu nicht enden
wollenden Huldigungen. „Hierbleiben! ...“, „Hierbleiben!“, brauste es
vom „Paradies“ herunter bis zum zweiten Rang. Vor dem
Bühneneingang hielten Schutzleute die Ordnung aufrecht. Deutsche
Höfe, an denen sie gesungen, sandten Orden, goldene Medaillen, in
manchmal verspäteter Anerkennung der Verdienste. Russel kabelte:
„Verstehe und gratuliere!“ Kapelle kabelte: „In Größe und Schönheit
abgehen das Beste. Hätte nur gern noch einmal Ihre Stimme
gehört.“
Nur der Papa aus der Schillstraße krähte zornig herüber: „Also
doch! Meinetwegen — Glückwunsch!“
Der eigensinnige alte Papa! Dem mußten sie beide noch mal
richtig den Kopf zurechtsetzen!
Über die Trauung wurde jetzt wieder gesprochen. Wo sie
stattfinden sollte vor allem. Reichenberg war für Wien, Gaudlitz für
Pinnow. Alice Reichenberg bestand auf Wannsee.
„Im Musiksaal, da wo ich Karla zuerst singen hörte, da wo ich sie
liebgewann und es mir zuerst denken konnte, daß ....“
„So?“, unterbrach Gaudlitz. „Dann müßte die Trauung im
Tiergarten sein ... da hab ich mir’s zuerst gedacht ... und ich bin
doch der Maßgebende!“
Karla lehnte ihren hübschen runden Kopf an Gaudlitz’ Schulter,
ihre großen, leuchtenden Augen starrten in die Kaminglut. Gaudlitz’
Herz schlug ruhig und stark, im gleichen Rhythmus mit dem ihren,
und ihr beider Blut sang das gleiche Lied einer reinen, frohen Liebe.
„Wannsee wäre schön“, sagte sie verträumt ...
Ganz schattenhaft drängte sich ihres Kindes zartes Gesicht in die
jubelnde Seligkeit ihres Empfindens ... aber nur wie aus weiter,
nebelhafter Ferne. Sie preßte ihren Kopf fester an Gaudlitz’ Schulter
...
Hier war die Gegenwart ... Hier war ihr Leben ... ihre Zukunft.
Das andere mußte vorbei sein .... für immer ... „bis die Wunde
vernarbte.“
„Also Wannsee. Einmal muß ich auch nachgeben.“ —
Alice war immer glücklich, wenn der Bruder im Frühjahr nach
Wien kam. Dann ergriff sie jedesmal die Gelegenheit zu langen
Wanderungen über die Berge. Es traf sich gut, daß Karla acht Tage
nicht beschäftigt war. In kurzen Lodenröcken, den Mantel über den
Rucksack gerollt, den Bergstock in der Hand, mit
nägelbeschlagenen Schuhen, so traten Alice Reichenberg und Karla
in Begleitung von Gaudlitz ihre Wanderschaft an. Die vielen Zufälle,
Beschwerden, Überraschungen und Unbequemlichkeiten, die
ständige Nähe und das Aufeinanderangewiesensein, die eine solche
Wanderschaft bedingte, hatte Alice immer Einblick gewährt auch in
die verschlossenste Seele. Wenn nicht für den Bruder, so doch für
sie selbst waren diese Tage gleichsam ein letztes Überprüfen.
Sie zerstörten ihre letzten heimlichen Bedenken. Und als sie
zurückkehrte, sagte sie zu ihrem Mann: „Die zwei Menschen hat der
liebe Herrgott in seiner schönsten Laune für einander erschaffen!“
In Karla aber hatten diese Tage ein neues, starkes
Zusammengehörigkeitsgefühl geweckt, ihrem Glücksempfinden ein
tiefes, bewußtes Rechtsgefühl gegeben.
War es noch vorgekommen, daß sie manchmal mit leisem,
uneingestandenem Schreck daran dachte, ihrer Kunst für immer zu
entsagen, so hatten diese Tage alles gleichsam gelöscht, was sich
nicht auf Gaudlitz beziehen konnte, und mit jedem Tage wuchs in ihr
das Bedürfnis, auch äußerlich, und zwar so rasch wie möglich alles
zu beseitigen, was trennend zwischen ihr und ihm lag — wäre es
auch nur die Trennung eines Gedankens.
— — Karlas erster Weg, als sie nach Wien zurückkehrte, war der
zum Intendanten der Oper. Sie bat ihn, auf ihre letzten
Auftrittsabende zu verzichten. So gewogen er ihr war — davon
wollte er nichts wissen. Am selben Tage noch fuhr Karla nach
Baden. Und — was ihr auf dem geraden Wege nicht gelungen war,
erreichte sie durch Fürsprache der hohen Frau, die ihre Gründe
würdigte und verstand.
An diesem Nachmittag kutschierte Fürst Reichenberg seinen
berühmten Viererzug nach der Kreau hinaus. Im Wagen saßen Karla
und seine Frau. Neben dem Wagen, auf einem feurigen Hengst, den
Reichenberg wohl in seinem Stall hielt, aber nie bestiegen hatte, ritt
Gaudlitz.
„Donnerwetter ... der Gaul macht einem was zu schaffen ... der
muß mal tüchtig in Arbeit genommen werden!“
Die Frauen sahen ihm die Freude an, an dem Kampf mit dem
edlen Tier.
„Ist er nicht doch zu wild?“ fragte Alice Reichenberg.
„Der? Den reite ich noch für Karla zu, wenn’s drauf ankommt!“
Er sprengte lachend davon, ein Bild der Gesundheit, Kraft und
Kühnheit. Karlas Blicke folgten ihm in strahlender Bewunderung.
„Wann dir der Bleß so g’fallt — wegen mir kannst ihn mitnehmen.
G’schenkt“, sagte Reichenberg, als sie in der Glasveranda bei der
„Jause“ saßen.

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Regional Economic Integration

There are five levels of economic integration. In order of

The opening case discusses the complicated case of

OUTLINE OF CHAPTER 9: REGIONAL ECONOMIC INTEGRATION

Levels of Economic Integration

The Case for Regional Integration

The Case Against Regional Integration

Regional Economic Integration in Europe

Management Focus: The European Commission and Intel

Regional Economic Integration in the Americas

Regional Economic Integration Elsewhere

Focus On Managerial Implications

Closing Case: I Want My Greek TV!

CLASSROOM DISCUSSION POINT

OPENING CASE: Tomato Wars

Slide 9-3 Introduction

Slides 9-4 through 9-7 Levels of Economic Integration

Another Perspective: To find out more about EFTA, go to {http://www.efta.int/}, and

Slide 9-8 The Economic and Political Case for Integration

Slide 9-9 Impediments to Integration

There are two main impediments to integration:

Slides 9-10 and 9-11 Regional Economic Integration in Europe

There are two trade blocks in Europe:

Slides 9-12 and 9-13 Evolution of the European Union

The EU is the product of two political factors:

Another Perspective: The EU web site is {http://europa.eu/index_en.htm}. The site

Slide 9-14 Political Structure of the European Union

The main institutions of the EU are:

Slides 9-15 and 9-16 The Establishment of the Euro

Slide 9-17 Enlargement of the European Union

Slides 9-18 and 9-19 Regional Economic Integration in the Americas

Another Perspective: More on NAFTA can be found at

Another Perspective: Many organizations are anxious to take advantage of the

Slide 9-24 The Andean Community

Another Perspective: To see new developments with the Andean Community go to

Slide 9-25 Mercosur

Another Perspective: Mercosur's website, which includes a broad array of useful

Slide 9-26 Central American Trade Agreement Market and CARICOM

Slide 9-27 Free Trade of the Americas

Slide 9-28 Regional Economic Integration In Asia

Several efforts have been made to integrate in Asia

Slides 9-29 and 9-30 Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Slides 9-31 and 9-32 Asia-Pacific Cooperation

Another Perspective: For more on APEC, go to its web site at {http://www.apec.org/}.

Slide 9-33 Regional Trade Blocks in Africa

Slide 9-34 Implications for Managers

CRITICAL THINKING AND DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

ANSWER 1: NAFTA’s proponents argue that the agreement should be viewed as an

ANSWER 2: The economic case for regional integration is straightforward. As we saw

QUESTION 4: Do you think it is correct for the European Commission to restrict

QUESTION 7: How should a firm with self-sufficient production facilities in several

QUESTION 9: Would establishment of a Free Trade Area of the America’s (FTAA) be

CLOSING CASE: I Want My Greek TV!

Run Time: 6:48

Discussion Questions and Answers:

Answer: The European Union is comprised of 27 countries. The agreement eliminates

Title: Twitter and Haiti

INCORPORATING globalEDGE™ EXERCISES

End of Part Case Notes

2. What kind of legal services are most amenable to outsourcing?