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Chapter 31 - Rudolf Diesel

Before the establishment of the power laboratory, Edel had already sent an invitation to the renowned inventor Rudolf Diesel, hoping to entice him to come work in Romania. At that time, Diesel was financially secure and did not feel the need to accept Edel's offer. However, recent events had turned the tide for Diesel. His investments in the stock market had resulted in significant losses, and he was on the brink of financial turmoil. This change in circumstances presented an opportune moment for Edel to extend another invitation.

This time, Edel summoned Carust, the captain of his guard, to carry out the task. "Carust, send two individuals to Augsburg and extend another invitation to Rudolf Diesel to join us in Romania," Edel instructed.

Carust, concerned about the specifics of the offer, inquired, "Your Highness, what terms shall we offer the inventor this time?" He remembered that the previous offer of a 100,000 marks annual salary plus a 2% patent royalty on Diesel's engine innovations had failed to sway him. Given that they were approaching Diesel again, Carust felt a bit uncertain.

Understanding Carust's concerns, Edel reassured him that these were minor details. He believed that accommodating a few eccentricities was worth the potential benefits to Romania. "Bring this letter to Diesel," Edel said as he handed a sealed envelope to Carust. "I believe he will find our new terms agreeable."

With the letter in hand, Carust left to arrange the mission. Meanwhile, Edel turned his attention to another pressing issue. He sighed as he read a report about an accident at the power laboratory. Academician Moronier, a key researcher in dynamics, had been injured during an experiment. This unfortunate event made Diesel's recruitment even more crucial.

In Augsburg, Rudolf Diesel started his day early at the factory, troubled by recent financial losses. The financial crisis had devalued his stock investments severely, and the sluggish adoption of his diesel engines in automobiles exacerbated his woes.

While immersed in his work, Diesel was interrupted by his secretary, who informed him of the arrival of two gentlemen from Romania. Diesel, recalling the previous invitation from two years ago, suspected the purpose of their visit. Despite his initial reluctance, he decided to meet them, instructing his secretary to let them in and serve coffee.

Once the secretary had exited, Diesel addressed the visitors. "May I know what brings you here?" he asked.

One of the visitors, introducing himself as Mark Sikuslow and pointing to his companion, Snowf Rosliwa, began, "Mr. Diesel, we've learned of your recent challenges. Our crown prince believes that a distinguished inventor like yourself should not be hindered by such distractions. He thinks you should focus on further enhancing the diesel engine."

Diesel listened, feeling a mix of resistance and curiosity. Under normal circumstances, he would have declined as he had before. However, his current financial strain made him more receptive to their proposal.

"What terms does your crown prince offer?" Diesel inquired after Sikuslow finished speaking.

Sikuslow exchanged a glance with Rosliwa, both pleased by Diesel's interest. "We are not privy to all the details, but His Highness has written you a letter," Sikuslow said, handing Diesel an envelope.

Diesel opened the letter, which contained a greeting from Prince Edel and detailed an offer that far exceeded his expectations: an annual salary of 200,000 marks, a 2% royalty on any diesel engine patents, and a position as Director of the Romanian Power Laboratory with a research budget of no less than 3 million marks annually.

Stunned by the generosity of the offer, Diesel realized this could resolve his financial difficulties and allow him to focus solely on his research. Though tempted, he maintained a composed demeanor. "Let me think about it," he told the visitors, carefully placing the letter in his pocket.

Sensing Diesel's interest, the visitors did not press further. "We will await your decision at the Billic Hotel," Sikuslow said as they took their leave.

Back at home, Diesel discussed the day's events with his wife, who supported the move, pointing out the advantages over his current precarious situation. Encouraged by his family's backing, Diesel resolved to sell his factory and dedicate himself to research.

After three days of contemplation, Diesel accepted Edel's offer and agreed to relocate to Romania within a month. Edel was delighted upon receiving the news, as Romania would soon benefit from the expertise of a true power specialist.

At Bucharest Railway Station, Carust, the head of the bodyguard, was waiting to greet the renowned inventor of the diesel engine, Rudolf Diesel. Through their initial conversation, Diesel learned that Carust served as the captain of the crown prince's guard, a revelation that underscored the importance Romania placed on his visit—a level of esteem he seldom felt in Germany.

"His Royal Highness hopes to have lunch with Mr. Rudolf Diesel so that you can experience the warm hospitality of the Romanians," Carust explained, revealing the purpose of his presence at the station.

"It is indeed an honor to receive such an invitation from His Highness," Diesel replied, unable to conceal his gratitude for the unexpected royal attention. Together, they made their way to the palace in a finely appointed car.

Feeling slightly apprehensive about his first encounter with royalty, Diesel inquired, "Your Excellency Chief Guard, might there be any particular protocols I should observe when meeting the Crown Prince?"

"His Royal Highness is quite approachable and informal. You needn't worry about special protocols," reassured Carust, helping to ease Diesel's nerves.

Upon their arrival at the palace, Carust led Diesel through the opulent halls to a grand meeting room where Crown Prince Edel awaited. Greeting Diesel warmly, Edel said, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Rudolf Diesel."

"I am deeply honored by your high regard, Your Highness," Diesel responded, genuinely moved by the prince's welcoming demeanor. After exchanging pleasantries, Edel expressed his curiosity about Diesel's recent work on the diesel engine.

"Mr. Rudolf Diesel, what are your plans for the power laboratory once you assume leadership?" Edel inquired with keen interest.

Sitting up straight, Diesel answered confidently, "Your Highness, my primary focus will be to further enhance the diesel engine. Its robust power and fuel efficiency are undeniable. If we can manage to reduce its size, fitting it into automobiles should pose no significant challenges. Additionally, its application in maritime vessels holds great potential, as few ships currently utilize diesel engines for propulsion."

Edel listened intently but felt compelled to address the practical limitations of Diesel's ambitions, particularly regarding automotive and large maritime applications. "While the advantages of diesel engines are well noted, under current technological constraints, it is impractical for passenger cars to adopt them due to their higher noise levels, vibrations, and greater mass and volume compared to gasoline engines. They also require pre-heating in colder weather and are generally more costly due to higher material standards," Edel explained gently, aiming to temper Diesel's expectations without discouraging his innovative spirit.

Caught off guard by the critique, Diesel asked, "Then, Your Highness, where do you envision the future of the diesel engine if not in these areas? Surely you are not suggesting I abandon the project."

Smiling, Edel replied, "Not at all. Diesel engines have numerous strengths—durability, adaptability to rough terrains, high safety due to lower flammability of diesel compared to gasoline. I see great potential in military and agricultural vehicles. As for marine applications, that remains a long-term goal. Our immediate aim should be to broaden the use of diesel engines where feasible. Passenger cars, for now, remain out of reach."

Reflecting on Edel's insights, Diesel felt a newfound respect for the prince's understanding of diesel technology. "I apologize for my earlier impulsiveness, Your Highness. I hadn't expected such a depth of knowledge in diesel technology from you. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction."

"You are too kind, Mr. Diesel. Sometimes, a fresh perspective is all that is needed," Edel responded, emphasizing the value of open-mindedness.

Their conversation deepened mutual respect and laid the foundation for a budding friendship. After lunch, Edel escorted Diesel to the power laboratory, eager to introduce him to the team. The lab staff, already aware of Diesel's impending visit, were thrilled to meet the inventor in person. The presence of the crown prince only heightened the significance of the occasion.

"His Royal Highness, Mr. Diesel, welcome to our facility," greeted Moronier's assistant, the previous lead of the lab, as he gestured towards the workspace.

"Diesel, what do you make of our laboratory?" Edel asked, turning to Diesel after having established a friendly rapport.

"It is far superior to my previous workspace, Your Highness, and the equipment is exceptionally well maintained. I am confident that we will achieve great things here," Diesel replied, aware of the need to live up to the high expectations set by the crown prince's endorsement.

"I look forward to congratulating you on your future successes," Edel said, offering words of encouragement before turning to engage with the laboratory staff on a more personal level. As the staff excitedly shared their prior knowledge of Diesel, gleaned from newspapers or academic circles, Edel subtly signaled for quiet, bringing the room's focus back to Diesel.

"Now, let's hear from your new director, Rudolf Diesel," Edel announced, setting the stage for Diesel to address his new team.

Stepping forward confidently, Diesel addressed the gathered researchers, "I am here not as a savior but as a collaborator eager to advance our power laboratory. Together, we will demonstrate to all of Europe the vital role our lab plays in the field of power dynamics. Are you with me?"

A resounding "Yes!" filled the room, bolstering Diesel's confidence in his new role.

"Your words are inspiring, Diesel. I must attend to other matters now, but I wish you the best in your endeavors," Edel said, preparing to leave.

"Thank you for your support today, Your Highness. Allow me to escort you out," Diesel offered, showing his appreciation.

"No need, Diesel. Familiarize yourself with your team. I shall take my leave," Edel replied, departing with his guards. As he exited, he overheard two researchers discussing Fritz Haber's synthesis of ammonia in Germany, a topic that piqued his interest but he chose not to dwell on it, focusing instead on returning to the palace to initiate further inquiries.

Left in charge, Diesel turned to Moronier's assistant, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. "What were you working on previously?" he asked.

"The small agricultural diesel engines that His Highness mentioned," the assistant replied.

"Then that is where we shall begin," Diesel decided, setting the course for his tenure at the power laboratory.