Sponsor African Explorers

Hearing Constantine's response, Queen Olga persisted, "Constantine, I want to remind you that your African exploration plan has cost 4 million francs so far. The returns, however, have been minimal—a few rare African woodcarvings, log records of the expedition, and hand-painted maps."

She brandished the bill in her hand, emphasizing the substantial sum involved. King George, engrossed in his breakfast, seemed indifferent to the conversation, nonchalantly devouring a grape.

Constantine, enjoying jam-covered bread, responded vaguely, "In business, significant investments often yield substantial profits, Mother."

Acknowledging this, Queen Olga warned, "While I grasp this truth, I must caution you. Your plan is exceedingly risky, with the potential for significant losses."

Constantine, undeterred, asserted, "High risks are inherent in endeavors that promise colossal gains."

In the late 19th century, the European public, whether in London or Paris, avidly consumed news of overseas expeditions published in newspapers. Stories of adventurers like Robert Clive's exploits during the British invasion of India were particularly captivating.

Queen Olga, waving a bill to underscore her point, addressed the family's investment in Constantine's expedition. "Up to now, your African exploration plan has cost 4 million francs, and the returns are scant—a few rare African woodcarvings, log records, and maps."

Four million francs held substantial value in that era. Queen Olga emphasized the tangible cost, reminding Constantine and King George of the considerable financial commitment.

Undeterred, Constantine continued his breakfast, explaining, "If we desire substantial profits, we must be willing to make significant investments. This is a fundamental business principle."

Despite Queen Olga's concerns about the high risks, Constantine remained resolute in his belief that ventures with massive potential rewards warranted substantial investments. The allure of overseas expeditions, fueled by a strong public interest in adventure stories, further motivated him.

At the end of the 19th century, Africa, with its unexplored inland territories, emerged as the last mysterious continent for Europeans. Southern Africa, with its humid, hot, and rainy tropical climate, posed challenges, but it remained an enticing destination for explorers seeking fortune or driven by curiosity.

Constantine, contributing significant funds to sponsor adventurers exploring southern Africa, supported the likes of Mr. Stanley, a legendary figure born in England, raised in the United States, and drawn to the adventurous spirit prevalent in southern Africa.