Alexandra's letter to her sister Victoria, dated June 5, 1910

Source:

The Life and Tragedy of Alexandra Feodorovna by Baroness Sophie Buxhoeveden, 1928

The letter:

Don't think my ill health depresses me personally. I don't care, except to see my dear ones suffer on my account, and that I cannot fulfil my duties. But once God sends such a cross, it must be borne. Darling Mama also lost her health at an early age. I have had so much, that, willingly, I give up any pleasures — they mean so little to me, and my family life is such an ideal one, that it is a recompense for anything I cannot take part in. Baby is growing a little companion to his father. They row together daily. All 5 lunch with him daily, even when I am laid up.

Above: Alexandra.

Above: Nicholas and Alexei in a rowboat.