Alexandra's letter to Ernst, dated November 4/16, 1896

Alexandra wrote this letter to her brother Ernst on November 4/16, 1896.

Source:

mashkaromanova on Tumblr

https://mashkaromanova.tumblr.com/post/189101218400/alexandra-feodorovna-1896-my-darling-ernie-as

The letter:

My darling Ernie,
As I have just a little free time before we go off to the Christening of Militza's little Boy, I hasten to write to you. — We shall be on the run this week to Petersburg, as there are several regimental feasts we must go to — a bore I must confess, as one would prefer remaining quiet a little. — Nicky has much to do, but still he managed to go out shooting twice last week, & he looked & felt much the better for it. — We walk twice daily to-gether. as the snow is not thick. At Gatchina they are able to sledge since 8 days, — wh. Misha enjoys greatly. We have been there several times, but yesterday, it being sweet Baby's first Birthday, we remained quietly here. — Paul's children come & play with her sometimes, wh. she enjoys very much. I slid down the hill with her the other day even. She goes out as long as it is not too cold & has splendid red red cheeks. —

Mossy with her four sons in three years, is charming? Mavra was expecting again, but it has gone wrong & is all over this time. — I am with anxiety awaiting the news from Irene; God grant all may go well. — The little red flanell jackets & frocks are getting on for the Alice Hosp: as my annual Xmas gift, & I love making them. Those happy weeks at Darmstadt with you darlings, seem like a dream to me; so long ago it all seems. What a joy it was being again in my old home after two long, long years, wh. I had left so suddenly & with such sad & unsure feelings. It touched me deeper than I can say that the people had not forgotten their old Ahhlise!

I wonder if you will go to the Mausoleum to-day — sweet little May's death day; already 18 years ago since she was taken from us. Have you still got her cap under your cushion in bed? — How nice for dear Ducky that Sandra is with you. Please kiss both & sweet Baby Ella. — By the by is anything being done about the house in Venice? Has Zwilling gone there to see about it? Do let us know.

But I must dress now. Goodbye & God bless you, my own old Ernie dear. Ever yr deeply loving & devoted old Sunny.

[P. S.] Many kisses from us both.

Above: Alexandra.

Above: Olga.

Above: Alexandra's and Ernst's younger sister Princess Marie (May), who died from diphtheria at the age of four on November 16, 1878.

Above: Ernst's daughter and Alexandra's niece, Princess Elisabeth (Ella).

Above: Ernst.