A Journey to Egypt - 5. Chapter 5

Gin and Tonic

The train compartment was cozy and well-appointed, with plush seats upholstered in rich fabric. The large windows offered a panoramic view of the passing scenery, allowing Reginald and Alexander to take in the beauty of the landscape as they traveled towards Cairo. The gentle rocking of the train and the rhythmic sound of the wheels on the tracks created a soothing ambiance.

As they settled into their seats, Reginald turned to Alexander, a thoughtful expression on their faces. "We've seen and done so much already," he began, his voice filled with wonder and reflection. "From the grand bazaar to the Temple of Serapeum, and even the unsettling experience with our room being ransacked.”

Alexander nodded, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery. "It was such a violation," he said, his voice tinged with anger. "I cannot believe someone would do that. But it is strange, isn't it? Nothing was taken.”

Reginald sighed, his brow furrowed. "Yes, it is very odd. As if they were looking for something specific and did not find it. But at least it is over now, and we can move on.”

They continued to talk about their adventures, reminiscing about the vibrant markets, the delicious food, and the historical sites they had explored. The conversation flowed easily, their bond growing stronger with each shared memory.

As the train sped through the countryside, they watched the changing scenery, anticipating their adventures in Cairo. The lush fields, distant mountains, and occasional villages painted picturesque and, of course, desert areas backdrop for their journey.

Despite the unsettling incident at the hotel, they felt renewed excitement and determination. The experience had brought them closer together, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Feeling the need to unwind and enjoy the journey, Reginald and Alexander decided to visit the bar car for a drink. The bar car was elegantly designed, with polished wood paneling, plush seating, and soft ambient lighting that created a warm and inviting atmosphere. The large windows offered a panoramic view of the passing scenery, adding to the charm of the setting.

As they entered the bar car, they were greeted by the friendly bartender, who stood in front of a well-stocked bar adorned with an array of bottles and glassware. The air was filled with the faint scent of citrus and spices, mingling with the rich aroma of aged spirits.
Reginald and Alexander took a seat at the bar, and Reginald gestured to the bartender. "Two gin and tonics, please," he requested with a smile.

The bartender nodded and expertly prepared their drinks, the sound of ice clinking against the glass and the fizz of tonic water adding to the ambiance. He garnished each drink with a slice of lime and handed them over with a flourish.

As they sipped their refreshing gin and tonics, Reginald and Alexander felt a sense of relaxation wash over them. The drink's refreshing, crisp taste was the perfect antidote to the day's excitement.

Reginald glanced at the bartender again. "Do you have any cigars?" he inquired.The bartender smiled and produced a small wooden humidor, opening it to reveal an assortment of fine cigars. Reginald and Alexander each selected a cigar, and the bartender provided a cutter and matches.

They lit their cigars, the rich, earthy aroma filling the air as they took their first puffs. The combination of the gin tonic and cigars created a moment of pure indulgence, a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the journey. They moved with their drinks and cigars to armchairs near a window!

They felt renewed contentment as they sat in the bar car, watching the scenery pass by and savoring their drinks and cigars. The adventure continued, and they were ready to face whatever lay ahead.

An English gentleman approached Reginald and Alexander, his presence both refined and unassuming. He wore a tailored suit that spoke of elegance and tradition, with a neatly tied cravat and polished shoes. His hair was a distinguished silver, neatly combed back, and his eyes held a twinkle of curiosity and intelligence.

With a polite nod, he sat next to Reginald and Alexander. "Good day, gentlemen," he began, his voice carrying the cultured tones of an educated man. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Mr. John Selden.”

Reginald smiled and introduced himself and Alexander. "I am Mr. Reginald Thorne, and this is Alexander Blackwell!” He extended a hand in greeting, his manner warm and respectful. They shook hands and smiled.

Mr. Shelden’s presence was both calming and intriguing. With a warm smile, he turned to them and asked, "How has your trip been so far?”

Reginald and Alexander exchanged a glance, their minds briefly wandering over the many challenges and discoveries they had faced. Reginald spoke first, his voice steady and reflective. "It has been quite a journey, Mr. Selden. We have encountered more than we anticipated, but our resolve remains strong.”

Alexander nodded in agreement, adding, "The ancient sites are intriguing, the architecture is breathtaking, and the history we have uncovered is invaluable. But it is not without its dangers. We have had to stay vigilant at every turn.”

Mr. Selden listened intently, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. "I can only imagine the adventures you have had. Egypt is a land of mysteries and wonders.”

The conversation flowed naturally, with Mr. Selden's genuine interest and kind demeanor putting Reginald and Alexander at ease. Despite the challenges ahead, they felt a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie.

The gentleman nodded; his interest was piqued. "What have you seen so far?”

Alexander took a sip of his gin and tonic before answering. "We have explored the grand bazaar, and visited the Temple of Serapeum. It has been an enjoyable adventure."

The gentleman's eyes lit up with enthusiasm. "Those are fantastic places! But there is so much more to see in Cairo. Have you been to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities yet? Did you know that in 1851, during the reign of Abbas I, the whole collection was transferred from El-Ezekial to one of the halls within the Citadel of Salah El-Din (Saladin), accessible only to private visitors? However, in 1855, most of the objects were gifted to Austria's Archduke Maximilian, who had shown great interest in them during his visit to Egypt.

“In 1858 a warehouse in Boulaq was used to establish a new Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. and many artifacts can now be viewed by visiting there. The artifacts there represent a major part of the Egyptian collection in the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. It is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts.”

Reginald shook his head. "It's definitely on our list.”

The gentleman leaned in slightly, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "You must also visit a few of the beautiful mosques. The architecture is simply stunning. And if you have time, stroll through the Khan El-Khalili market. It is a bustling maze of shops and stalls, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.”

Alexander smiled, grateful for the recommendations. "Thank you for the suggestions. We will be sure to check those out.”

The conversation continued, with the gentleman sharing more insights and tips about Cairo. Reginald and Alexander felt renewed excitement for the adventures that awaited them in the city.

The gentleman bid them farewell and wished them a good journey. Reginald and Alexander finished their drinks and returned to their compartment as the train neared Cairo.

They settled into their seats, reflecting on the day's events and the adventures ahead.

Reginald turned to Alexander, a thoughtful expression on his face. "We've seen and done so much already," he began. "From the grand bazaar to the Temple of Serapeum, and even the unsettling experience with our room being ransacked.”

Alexander nodded, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery. "It was such a violation," he said, his voice tinged with anger. "I cannot believe someone would do that. But it is strange, isn't it? Nothing was taken.”

They continued to talk about their adventures, reminiscing about the vibrant markets, the delicious food, and the historical sites they had explored. The conversation flowed easily, their bond growing stronger with each shared memory.

Despite the unsettling incident at the hotel, they felt renewed excitement and determination. The experience had brought them closer together, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The train pulled into the station in Cairo, and Reginald and Alexander were filled with anticipation. A porter helped them with their luggage, and they called for a carriage to take them to their hotel. Samuel Shepheard established the hotel in 1841 under the name "Hotel des Anglais." They stayed at Shepheard's Hotel, renowned for its luxury and grandeur. The hotel was reknown as one of the most magnificent hotels in the world.

As they arrived at Shepheard's Hotel, they were immediately struck by its elegance. The entrance was flanked by potted palms, their lush green fronds adding a touch of tropical charm. On entering, one came to the Egyptian Hall, the foyer, whose focal point was the Grand Staircase with four imposing columns – copies of the temple columns of Karnak. The marble floors gleamed under the soft lighting, and the richly appointed décor exuded an air of sophistication and opulence.

The lobby was a masterpiece of design, with intricate moldings, plush furnishings, and tasteful artwork adorning the walls. Every detail had been carefully considered, creating an atmosphere of timeless luxury.

The hotel clerk, a good-looking older gentleman, greeted them with a warm smile. He had them sign in and took their passports for registration. His demeanor was professional and courteous, making them feel welcome and at ease.

Reginald turned to Alexander and said, "It might be a clever idea to put the scarab in the safety deposit box. We do not want to take any chances after what happened in Alexandria.”

Alexander nodded in agreement. "Yes, that is a good idea. Let us make sure everything is secure.”

The clerk assured them that their belongings would be safe and offered to assist them with anything they needed during their stay. With their check-in complete, Reginald and Alexander were eager to explore the city and continue their adventure.

They dressed in their finest attire. Reginald looked dashing in his new fashionable suit, a tailored deep navy suit, and Alexander in a crisp white shirt and charcoal trousers. "We are looking so good!" Reginald commented.

Reginald took out a piece of the hotel's stationery and wrote a letter to his mother. He told her about everything he had done and how beautiful Alexandria was. He folded up the letter and placed it in an envelope.