Chapter 7 : Arrival to India

The three stops chosen by Queen Victoria were not mere layovers on a journey, but rather the final strategic actions the monarch was willing to undertake for the British Empire and for Arthur. Each of these stops had a clear purpose: to consolidate British power in key regions and to secure the future of her young.

Stopping at the Suez Canal and in India would not only help to calm the spirits of the Indian people but also reaffirm British dominance in the region, a crucial piece on the imperial chessboard. The stop in Australia, on the other hand, had a more personal objective: to provide Arthur with a solid base from which he could project his influence and prepare for the challenges ahead.

March 29, 1900.

After sailing for half a month, the British fleet finally arrived in Calcutta, the capital of the Indian Empire. At that time, India was the heart of the British Empire, a jewel that had transitioned from being administered by the British East India Company to being directly ruled by the Crown following the Indian National Uprising of 1857.

In 1876, Queen Victoria had been crowned Empress of India, marking the beginning of the Indian Empire and the end of its semi-independent status. Now, India was a full-fledged colony, and its Governor-General, George Curzon, was a man known for his firmness and strategic vision, though also for his controversial decisions, such as the partition of Bengal.

At noon, the fleet docked at the port of Calcutta. Arthur and Queen Victoria, after weeks at sea, finally set foot on solid ground. Although the cruise ship they traveled on was a luxurious vessel equipped with all kinds of amenities, including gardens and a swimming pool, nothing compared to the feeling of being on land. Arthur, in particular, longed for the stability that only solid ground could provide.

At the port, Governor George Curzon and the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, General Kitchener, were waiting to receive them. Both men were key figures in the administration of India, though their personalities and approaches often clashed. Curzon, a brilliant but stubborn aristocrat, and Kitchener, a pragmatic and determined military man, represented two sides of the same coin: civil and military power.

"Your Majesty, Your Highness," they both greeted in unison, bowing slightly. Queen Victoria, with her usual elegance, responded with a smile.

"Marquess Curzon, General Kitchener, it has been a while since we last met," said the Queen, acknowledging their loyalty and service.

Curzon and Kitchener, despite their differences, shared an unwavering commitment to the Empire. However, their disagreements over how to manage India would lead to their removal from their positions in 1905. Still, both would continue to serve the Empire in roles of great importance: Curzon as Lord Chancellor and Foreign Secretary, and Kitchener as Secretary of State for War, where his foresight during World War I would prove crucial to the British war effort.

"George, it has been two years since you last returned to England. You have dedicated your life to India, and for that, I am deeply grateful," said Queen Victoria, addressing Curzon with genuine appreciation.

"Your Majesty, India is the heart of the Empire. It is an honor to serve here, and I will not rest until I ensure its stability and prosperity," Curzon replied solemnly.

The Queen nodded, satisfied. Then, she turned to Kitchener. "General, your exploits in South Africa have not gone unnoticed. The British people consider you a hero."

"I simply did my duty, Your Majesty," Kitchener replied humbly, though his gaze revealed the pride of a man accustomed to battle.

"In any case, you have made significant contributions to the British Empire. I originally planned to reward you upon my return to Britain, but I believe it would be better to take this opportunity today to reward you directly," said Queen Victoria with a smile.

Then Queen Victoria immediately stopped smiling, turned serious, and said solemnly: "General Kitchener, Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army!"

"Here, Your Majesty."

"In recognition of your outstanding contributions in Egypt and South Africa, you are hereby rewarded with the title of Baron of Khartoum and granted permission to visit Britain once this year. Additionally, these 50,000 pounds are a reward for you. The Empire will never forget those who have made contributions to it," the Queen declared solemnly.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. Long live Your Majesty and the Empire!" General Kitchener took the 50,000-pound note handed to him by a servant with some excitement.

The 50,000 pounds were not the true reason for General Kitchener's enthusiasm. The reward of the barony was what moved this talented military man.

Although a baron is the lowest rank in the traditional aristocratic system, there are four levels above it: viscount, earl, marquess, and duke.

However, due to cultural differences, noble ranks in various European monarchies also differ.

Take the United Kingdom, for example. Noble titles typically consist of baron, viscount, earl, duke, prince, and King. It is not easy for a commoner to obtain the title of baron or viscount based on merit.

Generally, earldoms and dukedoms are inherited by members of the royal family or ancient aristocrats, and common people have no chance of attaining them.

After a simple welcoming ceremony, Queen Victoria took a carriage and moved to the Governor's Palace with Arthur.

The guards were stationed outside the city of Calcutta, leaving only a small group of over 200 guards to ensure Queen Victoria's safety at all times.

Unlike other places, Queen Victoria would remain in India for three days. One of these days was to review the achievements made in India during this period, and the other was to rest for a while, which was also a good opportunity for the fleet to resupply.

After all, considering that Queen Victoria was over 80 years old, although the cruise ship was not lacking in supplies, the unstable life on board was still somewhat exhausting for Her Majesty.

After a sea voyage that lasted half a month, it was time for Queen Victoria to rest for a few days.

After everyone disembarked, the crew of the transport fleet began delivering supplies to the ship, ensuring that the coal and daily necessities on board would last until the next destination, Australia.