Theodor Herzl’s journey unfolds as he arrives in St. Petersburg to seek Russian support for his Zionist proposals. He aims to secure favorable intervention with the Ottoman Sultan to facilitate Jewish settlement in Palestine and to advocate for open Zionist activities within Russia. After meeting twice with Plehve, Herzl successfully gains his support for the Zionist cause. During this stay in St. Petersburg, Herzl engages with influential figures such as Pauline Korwin-Piatrowska, Eugen Jakowlewitsch Maximow, General Alexander Kirejew, Nissan Katzenelsohn, and Sergej Juljewitsch Witte. After he departs from Russia, Herzl is warmly received by the Jews of Vilna with a standing ovation. He then spends an evening in Werki at Jacob Ben Jacob’s summer house with a diverse group of guests.
Herzl’s journey continues to Basel for the turbulent Sixth Zionist Congress. There, he presents updates on the Uganda offer and recounts the challenges and achievements faced during his Russian expedition. Despite heavy opposition, it is agreed to dispatch an expedition to East Africa to assess the feasibility of settlement in the region. Herzl visits Mainau to meet with Grand Duke Friedrich von Baden and share updates on the current situation. Herzl pens a letter to Plehve, furthering diplomatic ties. The journal reaches a close when the Herzl family then leaves for Alt-Aussee.
