Earning money - how?

[Wolfgrin]

I've just begun the game, but am having trouble figuring out how to make money. I've read the manual and done the tutorial. I've opened trade relations with all surrounding kingdoms and have taxes pumped to high. I'm still at -3 (very early in the game). I don't know what else I can do without getting a positive income. Any help is appreciated.

BTW, I'm playing as Ulster on Easy.

[Gustavus Adolphus]

Welcome to the forums! Fire extra people you don't use (like marshals builders, and landlords) and put merchants in there place. Also find the biggest countrys around to trade with, like germany or byzintina. Also use your royal family since they don't cost anything.

[Da Bomb]

I think what you are forgetting to do is hire merchants. Having trade agreements does nothing by itself. In your knights bar use a king, prince, or hired knight to become a merchant then do trade with a country and click the highest numbered one and click Gold.