Chapter 182: Choice
In March 1869, Ernst returned to Hechingen after inspecting the company in Vienna and visiting the Austro-Hungarian royal family. This year marked a critical moment as the opening of the Suez Canal at the end of the year would have a profound impact on the East African colonies.
The Suez Canal's opening meant a shift in global waterways, affecting various aspects of affairs in East Africa. It would weaken the strategic importance of Cape Town and trigger competition between Britain and France for control of the canal. Ernst believed that this situation was an opportunity for Prussia to challenge France's dominance in Europe.
As all European nations were focused on European affairs, East Africa's rapid development could proceed with less international scrutiny. However, the opening of the Suez Canal also meant that East African ports like Dar es Salaam and Mombasa would see a decline in importance on global shipping routes.
Prince Constantine had largely retired from political affairs, focusing on taking care of the Hechingen territory. His advancing age made him less active in politics. He contemplated Ernst's deep commitment to East Africa, knowing that his son's ambitions could bring significant benefits to the Hohenzollern family.
Ernst discussed his plans to upgrade the first town in East Africa, transforming it into a modern city and a political center for the colony. Prince Constantine recognized the importance of this endeavor.
Constantine understood that East Africa was a vast and promising colony with considerable potential. However, Ernst had concerns holding him back from taking direct action.
The first concern was his attachment to his father, Constantine. In his previous life, Ernst had left his family behind to seek his fortune overseas, and the thought of abandoning his father once again weighed heavily on him.
The second concern was the coordination required between East Africa and the Hexingen Consortium. While Ernst believed the Hexingen Consortium's weight should be greater, East Africa's rapid growth was challenging this balance.
The third concern was the timing for declaring East Africa's sovereignty. Ernst wanted to wait for the right moment when most of the major powers would agree.
Prince Constantine proposed a solution: he would go to East Africa to take charge. While Ernst appreciated his father's willingness to help, he worried about Constantine's age and health. Constantine, however, insisted that he was fit for the task and wanted to fulfill his dream on this grand stage.
Ernst ultimately had to agree to his father's decision, but they reached a compromise. The trip would be postponed until Ernst could make thorough preparations for Constantine's journey, ensuring his safety and comfort in East Africa.
This decision marked a significant turning point in Ernst's plans for East Africa, as his father, Prince Constantine, prepared to take on a central role in the development of the colony.