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The reborn Prince Hechingen of the Swabian branch of the Hohenzollern family perceives the unfolding situation in Europe, where war is imminent. Europe cannot afford to delay. The strategy involves establishing a presence in East Africa, fostering immigration and development, and laying the foundations for agriculture. This gradual approach leverages the crisis to expedite the process of industrialization

African Entrepreneurship History

Upon realizing that further argument with Merk over the Grigualand situation would be fruitless, Johnson decided to return to Cape Town to report the matter to higher authorities. He acknowledged that the final resolution of Grigualand's ownership would depend on the decisions made by influential figures within the Cape Town government.

Merk, in response, maintained a diplomatic tone, suggesting that sometimes misunderstandings could be resolved through frank discussions. Johnson agreed and requested safe passage back to Cape Town, emphasizing the safety of his team.

Merk assured Johnson that he would be escorted safely to the other side of the Orange River, although he informed Johnson that they would not be allowed to return afterward.

Johnson understood the implications but was more focused on returning to Cape Town to report the situation. The Cape Colony had already been made aware of the East African Kingdom's large-scale military operations in South Africa, causing tension and uncertainty among the colonial authorities.

Portugal, particularly its Mozambique colony, was even more nervous about East Africa's expansion. Mozambique had observed the East African Kingdom's military strength but chose to remain passive as long as there was no direct threat.

Back in Cape Town, Governor Henry Buckley discussed the situation with his subordinates. Reports indicated that the East African Kingdom had dispatched tens of thousands of troops, potentially numbering between 20,000 to 30,000. The situation was complicated, and the true strength of the East African Kingdom remained shrouded in mystery.

Buckley explained the geographical challenges posed by East Africa's expansion, particularly the lack of knowledge regarding the interior of Africa. He suspected that East Africa may have occupied a significant amount of land adjacent to Mozambique.

Buckley speculated that East Africa likely used waterways for rapid military mobilization and material replenishment. He suspected the existence of a north-south river between East Africa and South Africa that allowed for quick expansion.

However, his speculation regarding the river was not entirely accurate, as the Luangwa River, which connects to the Zambezi River, was not continuous enough to facilitate direct access to South Africa.

The situation remained complex and uncertain, with many questions surrounding East Africa's expansion plans.

Chapter 396