This period is frequented by engagements with Austrian Prime Minister Ernest von Koerber involving discussions with various influential figures on structuring the Ottoman Empire’s financial affairs.
Theodor Herzl works to secure a charter for the Land of Israel and to receive the Sultan’s approval. He journeys to Paris and London, partaking in a notable meeting with the English Zionist Federation and participating in the Fourth Zionist Congress.
Herzl holds several meetings with Ármin Vámbéry, a confidant of the Sultan, whom Herzl enlists to consult on diplomatic work in the Ottoman Empire, during which Vámbéry gives Herzl his word that the Sultan would receive him by May.
Herzl requests a £700,000 loan from Jacobus Kahn’s firm, marking significant financial developments related to the deal with the Ottoman Empire. Subsequently, he discusses with Koerber regarding the operation of a newspaper supporting the Government. Unfortunately, the plan for a Ottoman loan shatters, leading to renewed travels to Paris and London. Herzl persistently seeks a meeting with Lord Rothschild, but these attempts prove unsuccessful. However, an exciting dimension is added once he encounters Rothschild’s cousin, Lady Battersea, at the home of Israel Zangwill.
Recognizing the need for international support against immigration restrictions to Palestine, Herzl corresponds with Zionists globally for parliamentary intervention. Although he contemplates shifting the focus of his activities to London, he ultimately does not pursue this course.
This journal concludes with Herzl securing an audience with the Ottoman Sultan.
