laboratory

The conversation between King George I and Constantine delved into the prevailing racial attitudes of 19th-century Europe. The King, taken aback by Constantine's proposal to recruit black soldiers, expressed his disbelief and skepticism about the capabilities of what he referred to as "ignorant African savages."

In the context of the era, where Europeans encountered diverse human races during overseas activities, some individuals exploited these encounters for profit. They treated people from different races as exotic specimens, showcasing them in exhibits for public amusement. The prevailing sentiment in 19th-century Europe was steeped in racial discrimination, and such prejudiced views were considered the norm.

Understanding this backdrop, King George I struggled to comprehend the idea of recruiting black soldiers, aligning with the prevailing beliefs of Europeans about those from Africa. Constantine, aware of the skepticism, clarified that the intended use of these soldiers was to maintain order in the Congo, not to serve directly in the Greek army.

To ease the King's concerns, Constantine explained, "Well, these soldiers will first be used to maintain order in the Congo, rather than serve directly in the Greek army." Despite King George I's initial disbelief, he sighed in relief, expressing gratitude that Constantine wasn't intending to integrate black soldiers directly into the Greek army, fearing potential unrest and mutiny.

Inwardly, Constantine acknowledged the potential challenges such a move might pose but maintained the narrative that utilizing indigenous soldiers to maintain order in Africa was a reasonable course of action. The conversation highlighted the deep-seated racial prejudices of the time and Constantine's pragmatic approach to navigate these societal norms.

Ten days later, Constantine, accompanied by his butler, embarked on a carriage journey to the bustling port of Piraeus to welcome Tesla, who had traveled all the way from New York. Recognizing the significance of Tesla's expertise in shaping Greece's electrical future and industrial development, Constantine regarded him as a pivotal figure.

Upon arriving at the port, amidst the commotion of disembarking passengers, Constantine, seated in the carriage, glimpsed Tesla from a distance—a tall man, even among Europeans. With the main lord's appearance, Constantine hastily descended from the carriage and approached Mr. Tesla.

"Welcome to Greece, Mr. Tesla," Constantine warmly greeted the distinguished guest.

Seeking a quiet spot in a cafe within the city of Athens, the two men settled near a window, allowing them to observe the lively street below.

Mr. Tesla, curious about Constantine's intentions, cautiously inquired, "Your Excellency, I wish to understand your true thoughts. Are you merely funding a scholar's exploration of alternating current technology out of personal interest, or do you genuinely aim to promote alternating current in Greece?"

Acknowledging the poor quality of Greece's lignite coal and its hindrance to industrial progress, Constantine expressed his sincerity, "Whether it is direct current or alternating current, this form of energy does not suffer from the grade differences found in coal mines."

Constantine outlined the potential of burning lignite to generate electricity, addressing the challenges posed by low-quality lignite. Tesla, reassured by the urgency of Greece's need for electrical energy, felt a sense of relief.

Recognizing the importance of a foundation for the study of the AC system, Tesla voiced his concerns about Greece's lack of supporting facilities and scarce technical personnel.

Constantine, confident in the University of Athens' willingness to collaborate, proposed, "You don't have to worry; the University of Athens can cooperate with your work. I believe many scholars there would be willing to join you in the research and development of alternating current. If you do not object, your laboratory will also be placed at the University of Athens."

Accepting Constantine's invitation, Tesla stood and shook hands, sealing the agreement. Constantine introduced Butler Cape as a resource for addressing any concerns Tesla might have regarding experimental equipment, establishing a laboratory, or negotiating with the University of Athens.

As Constantine personally escorted Tesla to the Acropolis of Athens, where the University of Athens was located, President Ichios, aware of the Duke of Sparta's visit, greeted them at the school gate.

In his forties, with a Mediterranean hairstyle and gold-rimmed glasses, President Ichios welcomed Constantine and the delegation to the University of Athens.

During the campus tour, Ichios assured Constantine, "You can rest assured, Your Excellency. I will ensure that the most powerful researchers in the school cooperate with Mr. Tesla."

Understanding the significance of the AC system research for Greece's industrial development, Ichios committed to giving the project the attention it deserved.

Observing this, Constantine, aware of the importance of the power system in Greece's industrialization, emphasized to Butler Cape, "In the past few days, you have been taking care of Tesla and building up his laboratory. If there is equipment that must be imported, you can help contact the Greek embassy abroad and let them assist with purchasing."

Constantine recognized the pivotal role of the power system in Greece's industrialization and ensured no detail was overlooked.