Chapter 38

February 19, 1862, 8 a.m.

Within the opulent confines of the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, King William IV, flanked by his advisors Tolbeck and Hesbet Feng, received a delegation from the Russian Empire. A palpable tension hung in the air as the Crown Prince Nicholas introduced his companions: "Your Majesty, allow me to present my brother, Alexander Alexandrovich, and our esteemed Foreign Minister, Alexander Gorchakov." William IV, masking his revulsion, executed the obligatory cheek-kissing ritual with practiced ease. His greeting, however, held a subtle edge: "It is a profound honour to host you within the Netherlands. I am merely curious, however, about your navigational challenges in locating our esteemed nation." Crown Prince Nicholas's response was veiled in ambiguity: "The capricious winds of the Netherlands, Your Majesty, have proven rather…disorienting. Finding our bearings has been an unexpectedly arduous task." William IV feigned incomprehension with a disarming smile: "Indeed, the Dutch topography, with its lowlands susceptible to unpredictable sea breezes, can present unique meteorological challenges. The shifting winds make even short journeys somewhat…intriguing. But one adjusts. I trust your journey wasn't unduly prolonged by these atmospheric vagaries?" Prince Alexander's growing impatience was barely concealed, a detail not lost on the astute William IV.

Yet, it was Gorchakov who skillfully shifted the conversation's trajectory: "It seems curious, Your Majesty, that given the significant nature of this Amsterdam gathering—an event of such royal importance, touching as it does upon Your Majesty's impending nuptials—the former King, now Grand Duke of Luxembourg, isn't present to officiate." Gorchakov's words hung in the air, a pointed observation laced with unspoken meaning.William IV's gaze, heavy with unspoken implications, momentarily stunned him. Crown Prince Nikolai registered a flicker of displeasure, yet chose to withhold immediate contradiction. Prince Alexander, however, betrayed a palpable thrill. Gorchakov remained unmoved; his two decades navigating the intricate courts of Western Europe had rendered him impervious to the affectations of royalty. His nonchalance stemmed not merely from jaded experience, but also from a decade of relentless professional ascent, fueled further by the recent Franco-Prussian-Dutch alliance. His diplomatic prowess, truly remarkable, had been honed over years. The 1850 power struggle between Prussia and Austria within the German Confederation marked his first encounter with Bismarck. Witnessing Bismarck's formidable talent, Gorchakov harbored deep anxieties about Prussia's potential dominance. This apprehension intensified his disdain, leading him to champion Austrian Prime Minister Felix Schwarzenberg, thereby actively suppressing Prussia and enduring the ignominy of Olmütz – a decision that cemented his status as a reviled figure in Prussia.

During the 1853 Crimean War, serving as Tsarist Russia's envoy to Austria, his prescient understanding of Britain and France's impending intervention prompted urgent counsel to Tsar Nicholas I against needless bloodshed. His warnings, however, were dismissed with contemptuous indifference.In the wake of the Crimean War's devastating conclusion, Tsar Nicholas I succumbed to a bitter end in 1855. His demise ushered in the reign of Alexander II. That same year witnessed the departure of Nicherro from his post as foreign minister. June 1856 marked a pivotal shift in Russian foreign policy as Nicherro assumed the mantle of foreign minister, embarking upon a transformative era in international relations. His tenure began with an unwavering commitment to restoring Russia's standing on the world stage. He sought to solidify Tsarist Russia's preeminent position in Europe, simultaneously cultivating cordial ties with both France and Prussia—a delicate balancing act, given the longstanding friction with France stemming from Poland's volatile status. Despite persistent Franco-Russian tensions over Poland, hindering genuine amity, Nicherro skillfully navigated the diplomatic labyrinth of Europe, securing crucial Prussian acquiescence to Russia's Polish policies. However, this Prussian approval proved a double-edged sword. The precarious nature of the Russo-Prussian relationship presented a formidable challenge. This inherent instability precipitated an unforeseen calamity for the Netherlands.

William IV, privy to certain intelligence regarding Nicherro, possessed a nuanced understanding of the minister's character and ambitions, a knowledge fraught with both intrigue and forebodingGorchakov's animosity, though potent, stemmed from a deeply rooted sense of grievance. His early career at the Pevchesky Bridge Building, the hallowed halls of Tsarist Russia's foreign ministry, was marked by years of profound disillusionment, fueling a simmering resentment born of perceived inadequacy. The catalyst for his final, bitter realization was the overwhelming presence of Prussian officials. These individuals, he felt, had usurped positions rightfully belonging to native Russians, creating a suffocating bottleneck in career advancement. This influx of Prussian influence was directly linked to the Tsarina, herself the daughter of Frederick William III, sister to both Frederick William IV and the reigning William I. These familial ties paved the way for a flood of Prussian diplomats into the Tsarist court, where they formed a powerful, exclusive cabal that exerted ironclad control over the Pevchesky Bridge Building, the very emblem of Russian foreign policy.

Understanding the source of his rage, William IV offered a cryptic explanation: "My father is orchestrating a significant undertaking in Luxembourg. Further details will be revealed in due course." He then subtly shifted the conversation, addressing Crown Prince Nicholas: "Your presence here underscores the Netherlands' pivotal position within the Tsarist Empire. Our nations have enjoyed an enduring, mutually beneficial alliance—a paragon of European partnership spanning centuries. Surely, you wouldn't dispute this longstanding bond, Crown Prince?" Crown Prince Nicholas affirmed this, echoing his late father, Tsar Alexander II: "Undeniably, the Netherlands remains a crucial ally of Tsarist Russia in Western Europe."His gaze, unwavering and intense, fixed on Gorchakov, a silent admonition against overconfidence. "Incidentally," William IV declared, "I believe Nikolai and Alexander are my cousins!" The announcement hung in the air, momentarily silencing the three men. "Oh? Have you forgotten my grandmother's identity?" William IV inquired playfully, a subtle challenge in his tone.

Gorchakov, initially startled, swiftly recovered. A knowing glance exchanged between him and Tolbek, followed by a respectful address to the two princes: "My apologies, Your Highnesses. I had overlooked that Her Royal Highness Princess Anna Pavlovna, the former Queen of the Netherlands, is the sixth offspring of Tsar Paul I—sister to your uncle, Alexander I, and your grandfather, Nicholas I." The weight of centuries of Russo-Dutch history settled upon them. Alexander and Gorchakov, acutely aware of the Empire's longstanding foreign policy, could not—dare not—disagree. This was immutable, a cornerstone of Russian statecraft. "My grandmother eagerly anticipates your arrival in Amsterdam. She's longed to meet you both. Please, allow me the honor of escorting you to her residence." Nicholas and Alexander, their hesitation dissolving instantly, assented without delay. Their father's aunt? Refusal was unthinkable. A smile illuminated William IV's features. "The intertwining fates of Tsarist Russia and the Netherlands stretch back over three centuries. Dutch traders, pioneers in Arkhangelsk, were the vanguard of foreign engagement with Tsarist Russia." He continued, his voice imbued with historical gravitas, "Their acquisition of grain there forged a pivotal commercial link, reshaping Russia's economic trajectory and accelerating its integration into the European sphere. The Netherlands served as a crucial catalyst in Russia's ascent..."

The Ottoman Empire's ascendance in the 16th century severed established East-West trade routes, prompting the Dutch to pursue an alternative passage through the burgeoning Russian Empire. This ambitious, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, endeavor fostered significant interaction between the two nations, initiating a period of burgeoning economic interdependence. By the 17th century, a vibrant exchange of goods flourished between Tsarist Russia and the Netherlands. Dutch merchants became pivotal in distributing a vast array of Russian grain and textiles throughout Europe. This burgeoning commerce was underscored by the Netherlands' proactive diplomatic engagement. In 1601, they dispatched their first envoy, Aisama Massa, formally acknowledging Tsarist Russia on the world stage, a bold diplomatic move.

Further solidifying this nascent relationship, in 1613 Tsar Mikhail Fyodorovich, the first Romanov ruler, presented his credentials to the Prince of Orange, formally requesting Dutch assistance in the ongoing conflict with Poland. This proactive outreach highlighted the growing strategic importance of Tsarist Russia in the eyes of the Netherlands. Demonstrating this commitment, in 1615, during Polish and Lithuanian aggression against Russia, the Dutch skillfully mediated, securing a reconciliation between Russia and Sweden, earning substantial goodwill in the process. The deepening ties culminated in 1676 with John von Keller's prolonged stay in Moscow, following his confinement by Tsar Fyodor III. His presence marked the establishment of a de facto Dutch embassy, signifying a new era of robust bilateral relations. This pivotal moment was closely followed by Tsar Peter the Great's influential visit to the Netherlands in 1696, where he meticulously studied the Dutch economic model.

This visit was met with enthusiastic cooperation from the Netherlands, which extended its support by imparting advanced maritime, military, and shipbuilding expertise to promising young Russian leaders. This generous transfer of knowledge ensured a mutually beneficial partnership, securing the Netherlands' position as a crucial ally of the burgeoning Russian power.Russia's enduring connection to the Netherlands began in 1699 with the establishment of a permanent embassy in The Hague, strategically positioning itself at the heart of European diplomacy. This pivotal move signaled Tsarist Russia's burgeoning desire for Western integration, with the Netherlands—already a familiar and trusted Western power—serving as its crucial gateway. Russia's burgeoning relationship with the Dutch manifested in subtle yet significant ways. During the War of the Austrian Succession, while not directly engaging France and Prussia, Russia covertly bolstered England's efforts through its Dutch connection, a testament to its evolving geopolitical acumen.

The reign of Catherine I witnessed a dramatic upswing in Russo-Dutch trade, culminating in a crucial non-aggression pact that linked Russia with the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden, expanding Russia's influence across the Baltic. The Napoleonic Wars tested this alliance. Facing French aggression in 1795, Russia forged a powerful coalition with Britain and Austria, even dispatching Cossack troops to aid the besieged Dutch. Despite this valiant effort, the Netherlands' proximity to France proved insurmountable, resulting in its subjugation. However, the tide turned. Alexander I's triumph over Napoleon in 1814 led to a triumphant visit to Amsterdam, met with effusive popular support. His unwavering advocacy for Dutch sovereignty at the Congress of Vienna was instrumental in the establishment of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, permanently etching Russia's role in the nation's rebirth. This enduring narrative underscores the multifaceted and profoundly impactful relationship between Russia and the Netherlands, shaped by diplomacy, commerce, and ultimately, military intervention across centuries.

In 1815, a strategic union was forged when Tsar Alexander I proposed a marital alliance between his sister, Anna Pavlovna, and King William I of the Netherlands – the future King William II's father. This dynastic link symbolized a powerful burgeoning partnership between Russia and the Netherlands. Queen Anna Pavlovna subsequently bore four sons and a daughter, the eldest of whom became the father of William III and, consequently, the grandfather of William IV. This intricate web of familial connections placed Paul I as William IV's great-grandfather, Alexander I as his great-uncle, and Nicholas I, Anna Pavlovna's younger brother, as the eventual successor to the Russian throne due to Alexander I's childlessness. The resulting kinship positioned Alexander II as a contemporary cousin to William III, further solidifying the interwoven destinies of the Romanov and Orange-Nassau dynasties. This previously strained relationship was noticeably transformed, revealing an unexpected warmth. The Napoleonic Wars dramatically elevated Russia's global prestige. Triumph over Napoleon catapulted the Tsarist empire into the uppermost echelon of European powers.

This geopolitical shift fundamentally altered the balance of power, leaving the Netherlands reliant upon Russia's substantial backing within the Western European landscape. The Belgian quest for autonomy in 1830 mirrored the rise of nationalism across the continent. Inspired by Britain's robust self-determination, Belgium resolutely challenged the Viennese Congress's decree incorporating it into the Netherlands, sparking a protracted struggle for independence. Ultimately, Belgian statehood was only definitively confirmed in 1839, contingent upon the concurrence of Russia, Great Britain, France, and other key European players. The Netherlands' consent, sealed under the weight of international pressure, concluded this critical chapter.Throughout the 19th century, a unique and enduring partnership blossomed between Tsarist Russia and the Netherlands, defying the norms of great power relations. This relationship, characterized by mutual respect and pragmatic cooperation, transcended fleeting geopolitical ambitions. A pivotal moment arrived in 1851 during a tense border dispute between France and the Netherlands in Guyana.

Russia's intervention, offered as a mediating force to the Dutch, demonstrated a commitment to its ally that surpassed mere diplomatic gestures. France's measured response underscored the weight Russia carried in the situation. The evolving dynamic between these two nations reflected a shift in Dutch priorities. As the Netherlands' imperial aspirations waned, its economic ties with Russia intensified. This culminated in the 1846 signing of a crucial commercial and navigation treaty, establishing a principle of reciprocal most-favored-nation status. This agreement solidified the Netherlands' position as Russia's third most important trading partner, trailing only Prussia and Great Britain. The significance of this economic partnership is further highlighted by the substantial Russian gold reserves—exceeding 80 million guilders—deposited in Dutch banks, a testament to the trust and stability the relationship engendered. King William IV eloquently captured the essence of this exceptional bond, noting the remarkable longevity and mutual respect characterizing over three centuries of interaction between a global superpower like Russia and a smaller nation like the Netherlands.

This enduring amity, a rarity in international affairs, stands as a testament to the deep-seated mutual benefits derived from the relationship. The Netherlands served as a vital conduit for Russia in Western Europe, forging connections and facilitating its integration into the Western European sphere. Conversely, Russia offered the Dutch a lucrative and unique market, resisting the allure of more easily accessible trade opportunities, demonstrating a profound commitment that spanned generations. Their enduring partnership, forged through decades of reciprocal assistance and steadfast support, played a crucial role in Russia's development and cemented a truly exceptional friendship between these two nations.The fortuitous timing of their alliance—a serendipitous convergence of national interests—explained the Crown Prince's privileged position as the initial envoy. He fervently hoped this burgeoning Dutch-Russian amity, a bond forged over centuries, would endure millennia, unsevered by their generation. Crown Prince Nikolai and Gorchaskov exchanged a knowing glance; the King's subtle demeanor suggested an impending shift in the political landscape. Their longstanding, amicable relationship, this natural harmony between the Netherlands and the Tsarist Empire, felt precarious. After Gorchaskov's tacit consent, Nikolai inquired, "Your Majesty, how do you envision fostering continued advancement for both our nations?" William IV's concise, yet electrifying response—three words that simultaneously astonished and exhilarated, leaving them speechless—was...