The Kings of the East: A Romance of the Near Future

by Sydney C. Grier

"The Kings of the East: A Romance of the Near Future" by Sydney C. Grier is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of ambition and cultural identity against a backdrop of geopolitical intrigue, focusing on characters entangled in the complexities of Jewish nationalism and colonial aspirations. One of the key figures appears to be Count Mortimer, an Englishman with a past as a former Prime Minister of Thracia, who becomes embroiled in a movement aimed at re-establishing a Jewish state in Palestine. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to a vibrant scene in Vindobona, where holiday-goers fill the parks and cafés. In a private meeting orchestrated by the financier Israel Goldberg, several men discuss their shared ambition to colonize Palestine, which requires a capable leader to navigate the political intricacies involved. The atmosphere is tense as they eagerly await Count Mortimer, the man they believe can helm their movement. The chapter sets the stage for a story rich with political machinations, exploring the aspirations and conflicts surrounding the Jewish community's desire for a homeland while referencing the broader tensions of the era. As the plot unfolds, the complexities of leadership, identity, and cultural heritage become central themes, leaving the reader curious about the choices facing Count Mortimer and his companions.