Chapter 223: Visit to Sweden
In the Kingdom of Sweden on March 11, 1870, Ernst had a heartfelt reunion with his aging aunt, Queen Josephine Maximilian Eugénie Napoleon, who fondly reminisced about his late mother. She commented on how much Ernst had grown and expressed her belief that her sister would have been proud of him.
Ernst inquired about his father's well-being, and Queen Josephine spoke of the passing of many relatives and friends over the years. She empathized with Ernst's mother's early death and acknowledged the dedicated upbringing Prince Constantine had provided.
Queen Josephine then asked if there was anything specific Ernst wished to discuss during his visit to the Kingdom of Sweden. Ernst proceeded to share the nation-building plans for East Africa.
Queen Josephine expressed her surprise at Prince Constantine becoming a king in his old age and assured Ernst that his cousin, King Karl XV of Sweden and Norway, would likely agree to their plans.
Karl XV joined the conversation, curious about the establishment of a kingdom in Africa. Ernst explained that overseas kingdom establishment was more feasible than in Europe, given the need to conquer native populations.
Karl XV shared his thoughts on Africa's climate and expressed his readiness to assist Ernst in the diplomatic recognition of the Kingdom of East Africa.
Ernst mentioned that they planned to declare the kingdom's establishment around May of that year and had been working on diplomatic efforts in various countries, including German states, Romania, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and others.
Karl XV offered to help with their relations with Britain and France, noting that they might not show significant interest in East Africa, as the region lacked major strategic importance.
Ernst's visit to Sweden proceeded smoothly, and he continued his diplomatic journey by planning to visit St. Petersburg to meet with Alexander II of Russia. Alexander II readily agreed to the meeting, as Africa was distant from Russia and held little interest.
Ernst would then embark on visits across the European continent, reaching out to countries with strong ties to the Hechingen royal family. He also contacted Alfonso XII, who was in France and had received financial support from the Hechingen royal family. Alfonso XII expressed his willingness to make a statement on behalf of Spain in support of the Kingdom of East Africa.