Tsarskoselskaya Restoration Workshop, Gosfond and GMZ Tsarskoe Selo
Friday, September 22, 2023
Nicholas's letter to Alix, dated July 21/August 2, 1894
Source:
Alexandra Feodorovna: Diaries and Correspondence, volume 2: Engagement and Marriage, 1894, pages 197 to 199, by George Hawkins, 2023
George Hawkins at Letters and writings of Nicholas II and his family on Facebook
The letter:
Peterhof
July 21/Aug 2 1894
N53
My own true Lovy-dear,
Many fondest thanks and loving kisses do I send you with these lines for your dear letter No 55 which I found lying on the table when I came back from a drive on my bicycle! This afternoon I got also two telegrams fr you my sweetykins, oh! how happy I am to know you safely arrived and home again! We are nearer each other now, my Alixy, which is a comfort because our letters will take less time to arrive!
I have got some of the nice new photos of us two, I have put them up on the writing-table and upstairs in my bedroom — it is such a pleasure for me to look at them, only you have got such a sad expression nearly on all — it is true it has been made on the last day! Lovy-dear, you look too thweet for words with that sailor's cap on — you must wear it sometimes at Darmstadt when I come, I shall also bring mine! I like the tiny ones the best and have telegraphed to the man "Now" to send me some more of them! I am glad you had the chance of bathing, though I long to have splashed in the sea with you. Schneiderlein must have looked killing, I am sorry I missed that sight, she looks like a match I am sure!
I have not begun any of your books, but will certainly read them when I have more time! It is simply awful what my room downstairs looks like: heaps of papers, illustrations, photographs, presents, things I brought with me etc — and till now I cannot force myself to get them all in order!
I like that dream you had when orchie saw us late in the evening sitting up together! If she is now with you, do give her many kind messages fr me. Won't she be rather a bore when I come to Darmstadt! But as we shall probably be still more together all day long, it won't be necessary to borrow so many hours of the night! won't it, darling little one?
The weather is fine and not too hot, just what I like. It is funny, but I assure you, I am already sunburnt; as soon as I get home, into the air I am accustomed to, I feel quite another man, and am capable of taking any amount of exercise or working hard the whole day!
Nicky (greek) arrived today from the camp where he spends his time in my regiment. He is delighted to be there and tomorrow I join him and my battalion. Now good-bye, my lovykins for awhile, I must get ready for dinner.
The letter in full:
Peterhof
July 21/Aug 2 1894
N53
My own true Lovy-dear,
Many fondest thanks and loving kisses do I send you with these lines for your dear letter No 55 which I found lying on the table when I came back from a drive on my bicycle! This afternoon I got also two telegrams fr you my sweetykins, oh! how happy I am to know you safely arrived and home again! We are nearer each other now, my Alixy, which is a comfort because our letters will take less time to arrive!
I have got some of the nice new photos of us two, I have put them up on the writing-table and upstairs in my bedroom — it is such a pleasure for me to look at them, only you have got such a sad expression nearly on all — it is true it has been made on the last day! Lovy-dear, you look too thweet for words with that sailor's cap on — you must wear it sometimes at Darmstadt when I come, I shall also bring mine! I like the tiny ones the best and have telegraphed to the man "Now" to send me some more of them! I am glad you had the chance of bathing, though I long to have splashed in the sea with you. Schneiderlein must have looked killing, I am sorry I missed that sight, she looks like a match I am sure!
I have not begun any of your books, but will certainly read them when I have more time! It is simply awful what my room downstairs looks like: heaps of papers, illustrations, photographs, presents, things I brought with me etc — and till now I cannot force myself to get them all in order!
I like that dream you had when orchie saw us late in the evening sitting up together! If she is now with you, do give her many kind messages fr me. Won't she be rather a bore when I come to Darmstadt! But as we shall probably be still more together all day long, it won't be necessary to borrow so many hours of the night! won't it, darling little one?
The weather is fine and not too hot, just what I like. It is funny, but I assure you, I am already sunburnt; as soon as I get home, into the air I am accustomed to, I feel quite another man, and am capable of taking any amount of exercise or working hard the whole day!
Nicky (greek) arrived today from the camp where he spends his time in my regiment. He is delighted to be there and tomorrow I join him and my battalion. Now good-bye, my lovykins for awhile, I must get ready for dinner.
Now it is late in the evening but I must have a little talk with my "Sunny", I could not go to sleep else! Serge and Ella arrived fr Moscow and they dined with us, also a. Miechen u. Wladimir, u. Alexis, Paul and the cousins. I was right pleased to see Ella again, of course, there was no end of talking about you — I love talking about my sweetykins, when she is far away, and with her own sister who sometimes reminds me of my little bride. I told her that she was to write to you and she said it was wrong and lazy of her not answering Granny's or yr letters! I gave all your love and they thank you heartily, especially a. Miechen.
This morning all the family went to Petersburg by sea — there was the "панихида" for Grandpapa and Gra[n]dmama, as tomorrow used to be her namesday. On our way back we lunched on board the "Alexandria" which was a pleasant sort of a picnic! From the peer we drove to the palace (where lovy dear lived as a small child 10 years ago) and looked at Xenia's trousseau. Lor! what a quantity of dresses she receives, some reminded me of your's, especially the tea-gowns! I can see your sweet little bed-room at Windsor, with lots of dresses and stuffs hanging over the bed and sopha and I and Madelaine helping you to try them! Oh! my precious little one, I miss you and want you back so fearfully, come my Alixy, come to your old boysy, who loves you more deeply than he can say. Let me clasp my arms round you and keep you tight on my heart. But "patience", that will come!
It is getting late, sweetykins and I must be early up tomorrow — it is Mama's namesday. Good-night and God bless you, my angel. How thankful I am to Him for bringing you safely home!
Ever your own (your's unto death) deeply loving and utterly devoted, faithful and truly affectionate Nicky
Sweet one! Alixy-dear!
Above: Nicholas and Alix.
Note: панихида = a memorial service in the Russian Orthodox Church.
Nicholas's letter to Alix, dated July 13/25 (New Style), 1894
Sources:
Alexandra Feodorovna: Diaries and Correspondence, volume 2: Engagement and Marriage, 1894, pages 170 to 172, by George Hawkins, 2023
George Hawkins at Letters and writings of Nicholas II and his family on Facebook
The letter excerpt:
All those pretty songs my darling sang to me, oh! how I would like to hear them again, you cannot think my Alixy-dear what a pleasure it was to me to hear you sing. And what a good low deep voice you have! If I had told you that when I was with you my childy-dear, you would have called me a spötter as usual, so I was silent!
The letter in full:
North Sea
The Polar Star
July 13/25 1894
N47
My own sweet darling little Alix,
I had such a longing yesterday to jump into the old pilot's boat, go ashore, take a train to Portsmouth and cross quickly to Osborne. I might have been in my sweety's arms after tea on that afternoon! No! Deary, you don't know how awfully I miss you everywhere and in everything — no neighbour for the meals, no drives, no kisses and no blessing in the evening. This time our parting was infinitely more hard and painful than at Coburg, except my deep love and adoration for you, my own little child, I have become so accustomed of having you near me all that time that I don't know how I am to spend the day! I miss you frightfully. My darling, my beloved little bridy-dear, my precious one, my sunny, my primrose-sweet! When we got out of the Channel into the North Sea the weather went on alright till 6.0. We played at "Bull" the whole afternoon. Then there came on a thick fog which lasted for about 3 hours, we had to steam slowly, but just when the flag went down and the prayers were sung, it became clear and a wind sprang up. We saw the lightning all over the horizon and a thunderstorm came on. It poured for an hour. The poor people on watch were drenched. After that it got fine and the moon appeared, but rather a heavy swell, probably the rest of a gale, made the yacht roll.
While I was sitting with the officers in their ward-room, there came a few showers of water through the sky lights and the half ports. I sat with them till 1.0 and had a small supper. Of course we talked only about England, they asked me about the court-life and told me what they had seen in London! And we all agreed that it was a great pity we had to leave before the Cowes-week! They are all delighted to have been the first who have seen you since we are engaged!
Today it rolled a good deal, but the weather is lovely, so warm and clam, the sun shines beautifully on the smooth sea, wh is my sweety, quite the colour of your deep lovely eyes! My little cabin looks so pretty and bright — oh! if you were here with me, my precious little darling!!! We have really crossed the North Sea quickly so we are already nearing the Danish coast and we see two lighthouses in the distance.
I wonder what you might [be] doing now at Osborne and whether you have got the same fine weather as we have? The clocks have already been advanced about an hour, wh is not difficult to reckon what you are up to at the same time. My precious little girly-dear, I have read and read your dear letter through many, many times — it does me good but makes me sad at the same time! What joy also to find those lines you have written in my diary, as I go on every day there is something new — I always think I hear your sweet voice whispering me those words!
All those pretty songs my darling sang to me, oh! how I would like to hear them again, you cannot think my Alixy-dear what a pleasure it was to me to hear you sing. And what a good low deep voice you have! If I had told you that when I was with you my childy-dear, you would have called me a spötter as usual, so I was silent!
We have just finished playing at Bull, wh made me quite wet because the sun baked me nearly up on deck. The poor old priest did not appear at all today, probably he sicks!!! the poor old man! Mr Heath is busy painting little pictures for Granny, he is perfectly enchanted with her kindness to him and has lost his head about you. In fact, all on board have!
July 14/26 — Good-morning my sweetykins! It is a most lovely summer day, the sky is bright and there is a dead calm upon the sea. We are steaming between the danish and swedish coasts and I am already sweating on account of the heat! This night we saw the german squadron pass us quite near, going out to sea, very likely. Henry was on board one of them.
My own little darling, when the weather is so fine and everything looks so bright and beautiful as it does this morning, I always have a yearning or a mad longing for you, that you would also admire nature and be by my side! It really breaks my heart to think that the divine spell is broken and that the lovely dream has ended for such a long time now! I must tell you the same again — I love you, with unending true devotion, better, deeper, stronger, purer — better far than I can say, and every day I feel the chains that have linked us together grow tighter and stronger, but that makes each separation still more painful!!
Now sweety-love I must end as we shall come into Copenhagen in an hour! If only you were here on board with me!!! But I hope to find a darling letter awaiting me ashore, oh! what a comfort that is! My darling, my precious little girly-dear, I send you many many kisses and blessings and fondest thanks for that lovely long letter you gave my man, I don't know how often I have read it through! Lovy, sweetest little child, fervently praying God to keep His watchful Hand over my darling and bestow upon her His blessings without end, I remain ever and ever your own deeply loving, devoted, trustful and faithful spitzbub
Nicky
Your's unto death!
Above: Nicholas and Alix.
Note: Spötter = mocker.
Nicholas's letter to Alix, dated June 16/28 (New Style), 1894
Sources:
Alexandra Feodorovna: Diaries and Correspondence, volume 2: Engagement and Marriage, 1894, pages 157 to 159, by George Hawkins, 2023
George Hawkins at Letters and writings of Nicholas II and his family on Facebook
The letter excerpt:
... We got to the Wolferton station at 11.15 and a. Alix and the girls met me and brought me to their house. The drive through their woods was charming, there blew such a delightful fresh breeze fr the sea. I rushed through the house, looked hurriedly at the rooms and then we all left for the horse-sale near Kings-Lynn. U Bertie was as funny as usual, and in the carriage there were two or three misunderstandings between him and a. Alix. That always happens because she does not hear what he says and he hates to repeat his own words. We soon arrived at that place and went into an enormous tent where about 200 farmers and horse dealers were eating. We all sat down at a table higher than the others and had our lunch, quite like on the stage. I thought of you my precious one and how you would have laughed looking at all those people walking, sitting and eating away.
After that began the horse sale. We sat in a sort of box as one sits in for the races, and everywhere round there were crowds of people gaping more at us than the horses. 50 horses were soled [sic] for auction and just fancy lausbub let himself be tempted by two beauties of chestnut (mares). The foolish people thumped with their sticks and cheered when it was proclaimed I had bought two. But towards the end, it became perfectly intolerable as it never seemed to finish and the weather suddenly got cold and very windy. Oh! how I bored myself then and how I wished I were comfortably seated near my darling in her tiny room at Windsor.
The letter in full:
June 16/28 1894
Sandringham, Norfolk
N45
My own sweet precious beloved Darling,
Here I am sitting in my room, scribbling to you in by no means a merry mood! I have got a strong neuralgia (that never happens to me) and I miss my little girly-dear most awfully. It was more painful than I can tell you to have to say good-bye even for a day and a half on such a bright lovely morning — we might have spent together at Frogmore after breakfast.
I was happy to have caught a glimpse of your sweet face looking out of the window as I drove down to the station. As long as I could I tried not to lose the castle out of my sight, until at a curve some noughty trees shut it quite out. The heat in the train was abominable, I perspired as the performance of the new famous play called "Die verhängnissvolle Schlüssel" made me sweat then! But I was comforted by the thought that atleast my beloved little child was not with me, so did not suffer from that stifling heat. Col. Byng was kind enough to take some sandwiches and fruit with him; the latter was so refreshing!
We got to the Wolferton station at 11.15 and a. Alix and the girls met me and brought me to their house. The drive through their woods was charming, there blew such a delightful fresh breeze fr the sea. I rushed through the house, looked hurriedly at the rooms and then we all left for the horse-sale near Kings-Lynn. U Bertie was as funny as usual, and in the carriage there were two or three misunderstandings between him and a. Alix. That always happens because she does not hear what he says and he hates to repeat his own words. We soon arrived at that place and went into an enormous tent where about 200 farmers and horse dealers were eating. We all sat down at a table higher than the others and had our lunch, quite like on the stage. I thought of you my precious one and how you would have laughed looking at all those people walking, sitting and eating away.
After that began the horse sale. We sat in a sort of box as one sits in for the races, and everywhere round there were crowds of people gaping more at us than the horses. 50 horses were soled for auction and just fancy lausbub let himself be tempted by two beauties of chestnut (mares). The foolish people thumped with their sticks and cheered when it was proclaimed I had bought two. But towards the end, it became perfectly intolerable as it never seemed to finish and the weather suddenly got cold and very windy. Oh! how I bored myself then and how I wished I were comfortably seated near my darling in her tiny room at Windsor.
We drove home for tea, then it was that the neuralgia came on. It was vile! The right eye ran with tears so strong was the pain. And so I had to walk about the garden, admire the stables, the dogs, two goats and other objects. I pretty nearly went mad, when I came home Victoria gave me something to soothe the pain, wh really helped.
For dinner there came all the gentlemen staying in the house, 22, more or less impossible company. Even Aunt Alix never knew some of them before. During dinner I got your second dear telegram which made the "корова" so happy on account of the "курица."
Oh! my sweet darling! I love you, I love you, 't'is all that I can say!!! I miss you now in the evening so dreadfully when the others are gone to bed. We played at skittles after dinner, I am proud to say that I beat all the gentlemen!
I suppose you shall get this letter a little before I turn up wh shall be after the Arch-Duke's arrival. Toria's and Maud's rooms are sweet and so prettily arranged, they have done everything afresh after the fire in 1891. We two are invited to a family lunch before the garden-party, at Marlborough House at 2.0.
Now, my own precious sweet little Alix I must end. Many a blessing and a kiss do I send you my true love. Trust your ever loving, truly devoted and deeply adoring old Nicky
душка, прелесть моя!
Above: Nicholas and Alix.
Notes: "Die verhängnissvolle Schlüssel" = "The Key of Fate".
корова = cow.
курица = hen.
"душка, прелесть моя!" = "darling, my pet!"
Alexei's letter to Alexandra, dated November 7, 1915
Source:
Kler Chernikina at lastromanovs on VK
The letter:
Одеса, 7 Ноября 1915 г.
Дорогая моя Мама.
Папа просил сказать, что он Вас целует и неможет на писать. Толькочто приехали с Смотра одной Дивизии. Там был «Гвардейский Экипаж». Видел Щербачева и Родионова, Кублицкого, Кажевникова и заде всех шол с пулемечиками Таубе. Видел Папу Ведрава и Маму Ведраву. Было очень было хорошо. Пока пора кончать. Еще видели мальчиков на корабле. Целую Вас крепко. Обнимаю.
Да хранит Вас Бог!
Алексей
English translation (my own):
Odesa, November 7, 1915
My dear Mama.
Papa has asked me to say that he kisses You and cannot write. Just arrived from the Review of one Division. There was a "Guards Equipage". I saw Shcherbachev and Rodionov, Kublitsky, Kazhevnikov and behind all the shoals with Taube machine gunners. I saw Papa Vedrav and Mama Vedrava. It was very good. Until it's time to finish. We also saw the boys on the ship. I kiss You firmly. I hug [You].
God keep You!
Alexei
Above: Nicholas and Alexandra with Alexei. Photo courtesy of Ilya Grigoryev at lastromanovs on VK.
Pierre Gilliard's letter to Alexandra, dated November 7, 1915
Source:
Kler Chernikina at lastromanovs on VK
The letter:
Madame,
Jeudi après déjeuner Alexis Nicolaévitch a assisté avec Sa Majesté à des expériences très intéressantes faites par un ingénieur avec des liquides inflammables. Au retour Il a lu à haute voix en russe.
A 9 heures du soir Il est parti pour la gare avec Sa Majesté.
Il s'est reveillé le lendemain matin à 11 heures après avoir donc dormi 12 heures! ce qui lui a fait le plus grand bien.
Toute la journée du 6 s'est passée dans le train. Il a travaillé pendant 2 heures: arithmétique, russe et français. Il s'est couché de bonne heure et s'est réveillé frais et dispos. Ce matin après un Te Deum à la cathédrale, Alexis Nicolaévitch a accompagné Sa Majesté au port. Nous avons visité le croiseur turc Gamidich et un des nombreux vaisseaux-transports qui sont préparés pour les troupes.
Le courrier partant à l'instant je suis obligé de terminer brusquement ma lettre.
Je suis avec profond respect, Madame, de Votre majesté le très humble et très obéissant serviteur.
Pierre Gilliard
Odessa 7 Nov. 1915.
English translation (my own):
Madame,
On Thursday after lunch, Alexei Nikolaevich attended with His Majesty some very interesting experiments made by an engineer with inflammable liquids. On the way back He read aloud in Russian.
At 9 o'clock in the evening He left for the station with His Majesty.
He woke up the next morning at 11 a.m. after having slept for 12 hours! which did him the most good.
The whole day of the 6th was spent in the train. He worked for 2 hours: arithmetic, Russian and French. He went to bed early and woke up refreshed. This morning, after a Te Deum at the cathedral, Alexei Nikolaevich accompanied His Majesty to the port. We visited the Turkish cruiser Gamidich and one of the many transport vessels which are prepared for the troops.
The courrier leaving at the moment I am obliged to end my letter abruptly.
I am with deep respect, Madame, Your Majesty's very humble and very obedient servant.
Pierre Gilliard
Odessa, Nov. 7, 1915.
Above: Nicholas and Alexei reviewing the troops in Odessa.
Above: Alexandra. Photo courtesy of Ilya Grigoryev at lastromanovs on VK.
Above: Pierre Gilliard resting with Alexei, two of his friends, and Peter Vasilievich Petrov.
Pierre Gilliard's letter to Alexandra, dated November 8, 1915
Source:
Kler Chernikina at lastromanovs on VK
The letter:
Madame,
C'est par suite d'une confusion d'heures que ma lettre à Votre Majesté a été interrompue hier et je profite d'un arrêt du train pour la reprendre aujourd'hui.
Samedi matin Alexis Nicolaévitch S'est levé de bonne heure. Il a pris le thé avec tout le monde, puis Il a fait des exercices et un problème d'arithmétique.
Nous sommes arrivés à 11 heures à Odessa par une belle journée d'automne froide mais ensoleillée. Alexis Nicolaévitch S'est rendu avec Sa Majesté à la Cathédrale où a eu lieu un Te Deum. Dans les rues la foule était contenue avec peine par les soldats et l'enthousiasme était considérable.
De l'Eglise les automobiles ont pris directement le chemin du port militaire dans lequel se trouvaient quelques navires de guerre et une quantité de transports (russes, anglais, français et italiens). Alexis Nicolaévitch a visité avec Sa Majesté l'ancien croiseur turc «Hamidic», un navire hôpital, un transport et un navire école pour enfants qui a extrêmement intéressé Alexis Nicolaévitch. Le déjeuner a eu lieu dans le train. Alexis Nicolaévitch a mangé à part pour ménager Ses forces.
A 2 heures et demie Il est reparti avec Sa Majesté qui allait passer en revue une division dans les environs de la ville.
Sa Majesté a passé devant le front à cheval, Alexis Nicolaévitch suivait en automobile avec le comte Frédériks. Puis a eu lieu le défilé: le régiment de tête était formé par l'équipage de la garde, d'où grande joie d'Alexis Nicolaévitch en reconnaissant officiers et soldats. Venaient ensuite 3 régiments de ligne, de l'artillerie lourde et des cosaques.
Toute la cérémonie a duré près de 2 heures.
Rentré au train, Alexis Nicolaévitch a lu à haute voix en russe.
Il S'est couché de bonne heure, enchanté de Sa journée.
Je suis avec profond respect, Madame, de Votre majesté le très humble et très obéissant serviteur.
Pierre Gilliard
Ce 8 novembre 1915
English translation (my own):
Madame,
My letter to Your Majesty was interrupted yesterday as a result of a confusion of hours, and I am taking advantage of a stop in the train to resume it today.
On Saturday morning Alexei Nikolaevich got up early. He had tea with everyone, then He did exercises and an arithmetic problem.
We arrived at 11 am in Odessa on a beautiful cold but sunny autumn day. Alexei Nikolaevich went with His Majesty to the Cathedral where a Te Deum was held. In the streets the crowd was barely contained by the soldiers, and the enthusiasm was considerable.
From the Church the automobiles took the direct path to the military port in which there were a few warships and a quantity of transports (Russian, English, French and Italian). Alexei Nikolaevich visited with His Majesty the former Turkish cruiser "Hamidik", a hospital ship, a transport and a school ship for children, which greatly interested Alexei Nikolaevich. Lunch took place on the train. Alexei Nikolaevich ate separately to spare His strength.
At half past two he left with His Majesty, who was going to review a division in the vicinity of the town.
His Majesty passed in front of the front on horseback, Alexei Nikolaevich followed in an automobile with Count Frederiks. Then took place the procession: the leading regiment was formed by the crew of the guard, from which great joy of Alexei Nikolaevich in recognising officers and soldiers. Then came 3 line regiments, heavy artillery and Cossacks.
The whole ceremony lasted almost 2 hours.
Back on the train, Alexei Nikolaevich read aloud in Russian.
He went to bed early, delighted with His day.
I am with deep respect, Madame, Your Majesty's very humble and very obedient servant.
Pierre Gilliard
This November 8, 1915
Above: Alexei.
Above: Alexandra. Photo courtesy of Ilya Grigoryev at lastromanovs on VK.
Above: Pierre Gilliard.
Pierre Gilliard's letter to Alexandra, dated November 10, 1915
Source:
Kler Chernikina at lastromanovs on VK
The letter:
Madame,
Que Votre Majesté veuille bien excuser cette lettre écrite dans le train en marche dont les secousses rendent mon écriture très peu lisible.
Dimanche à 9 heures du matin Alexis Nicolaévitch a accompagné Sa Majesté qui passe en revue le 2e corps d'armée à Jémérérievka. L'Empereur est à cheval et Alexis Nicolaévitch seul en automobile avec le Ministre de la Cour.
Il assiste au déjeuner auquel sont invités le général Cherbatchef et les officiers supérieurs du 2e corps d'armée.
Nous arrivons à 1 heure 30 à Tiraspol où Sa Majesté à pied avec Alexis Nicolaévitch passe en revue la 2e division du 16e corps d'armée dont nous avons vu la veille à Odessa la 1ere division. Comme il fait froid, on marche avec grand plaisir. Rentré au train Alexis Nicolaévitch s'occupe une heure avec moi. Il s'endort vers 9 heures et quart un peu fatigué par le grand air. Il dort admirablement et le lendemain Lundi à 9 heures du matin nous arrivons à Reni sur le Danube, à la frontière de la Roumanie. Sa Majesté assiste avec Alexis Nicolaévitch à un Te Deum à la Cathédrale. On part ensuite en automobile et au bout de quelques verstes Sa Majesté à pied avec Alexis Nicolaévitch passe en revue la 3e brigade des tirailleurs du Turkestan. De la place élevée où nous sommes on a une vue étendue sur le Danube et la Roumanie jusqu'à Galatz.
Nous revenons au bord du fleuve pour visiter la base de l'expédition spéciale du capitaine Vessiolkine, qui depuis plusieurs mois ravitaille la Serbie et munitions et vivres. Après la visite nous montons sur un des bateaux à bord duquel on nous sert un repas froid. Sa Majesté visite ensuite avec Alexis Nicolaévitch des batteries et des positions fortifiées puis on rentre au train. Cette visite et revue ont duré 5 heures, mais c'était une journée extrêmement intéressante et instructive pour Alexis Nicolaévitch.
Je prie Votre Majesté de me croire Son très respectueux et très obéissant serviteur.
Pierre Gilliard
Ce Mardi 10 novembre 1915
English translation (my own):
Madame,
May Your Majesty please excuse this letter written in the moving train, the jolts of which make my handwriting very difficult to read.
On Sunday at 9 o'clock in the morning Alexei Nikolaevich accompanied His Majesty, who reviewed the 2nd army corps at Jemereryevka. The Emperor was on horseback and Alexei Nikolaevich alone in an automobile with the Minister of the Court.
He attended the luncheon to which General Sherbachev and the senior officers of the 2nd army corps were invited.
We arrived at 1:30 am in Tiraspol where His Majesty on foot with Alexei Nikolaevich reviewed the 2nd division of the 16th army corps, the 1st division of which we saw the day before in Odessa. As it was cold, we walked with great pleasure. Back on the train, Alexei Nikolaevich spent an hour with me. He fell asleep around a quarter past nine, a little tired from the open air. He slept admirably, and the next day Monday at 9 o'clock in the morning we arrived at Reni on the Danube, on the border with Romania. His Majesty attended with Alexei Nikolaevich a Te Deum at the Cathedral. We then left by car, and after a few versts His Majesty on foot with Alexei Nikolaevich reviewed the 3rd Brigade of Turkestan Tirailleurs. From the high place where we are we have a wide view over the Danube and Romania as far as Galatz.
We returned to the banks of the river to visit the base of Captain Vessyolkin's special expedition, which for several months has been supplying Serbia with ammunition and food. After the visit we got on one of the boats, on board which we were served a cold meal. His Majesty then visited batteries and fortified positions with Alexei Nikolaevich, then we returned to the train. This visit and review lasted 5 hours, but it was an extremely interesting and instructive day for Alexei Nikolaevich.
I beg Your Majesty to believe me Your very respectful and very obedient servant.
Pierre Gilliard
This Tuesday, November 10, 1915
Above: Nicholas and Alexei at Reni.
Above: Alexandra.
Above: Pierre Gilliard.
Alexandra's letter to Nicholas, dated September 4, 1915, and Nicholas's telegram and letter, dated September 4 and 5, 1915
Sources:
Letters of the Tsaritsa to the Tsar, 1914-1916, published by Duckworth & Co., 1923
The letter:
No. 112.
Tsarskoje Selo, Sept. 4-th 1915
My very own Sweetheart,
I have remained in bed this morning, feeling deadtired, & having slept badly. My brain continued working & talking — I had spoken so much yesterday & always upon the same subject until I became cretinized; & this morning I continued to Botkin, as its good for him & helps him put his thoughts to right, as they also did not grasp things as they were. One has to be the medicine to the muddled minds after the microbes from town — ouff! She got his telegram yesterday, perhaps you will copy it out & mark the date Sept. 3-rd on the paper I gave you when you left with his telegr. written down: "Remember the promise of the meeting, this was the Lord showing the banner of victory, the children or those near to the heart should say, set us go along the ladder of the banner, our spirit has nothing to fear."
And your spirit is up so is mine & I feel enterprising & ready to talk away. It must be alright & will be — only patience & trust in God. Certainly, our losses are colossal, the guard had dwindled away, but the spirits are unflinchingly brave. All that is easier to hear than the rottenness here. I know nothing about the strikes as the papers (luckily) don't say a word about them. —
Ania sends her love — wont you wire to me to, "thank for letters, Image, toffee" — it would make her happy.
Aunt Olga was suddenly announced to me yesterday evening at 10½ — my heart nearly stood still, I thought already one of the boys was killed — thank God it was nothing, she only wanted to know whether I knew what was going on in town & then I had to let forth again, for the fourth time in one day, & put things clearer to her, as she could not grasp some things & did not know what to believe.
She was very sweet, dear Woman. — Here is a paper for Alexeiev, you will remember the same officer asked some time ago about forming a legion; well, you will think about it — perhaps it would do no harm to form it & keep it in reserve in case of disorders or let it replace another regiment wh. might come more back as a rest. — The legion of Letts, are you having it disbanded into other existing regiments, as you had intended & wh. would be safer in all respects & more correct.
The Children have begun their winter-lessons, Marie & Anastasia are not contented, but Baby does not mind & is ready for more, so I said the lessons were to last all 50 instead of 40 minutes, as now, thank God, he is so much stronger. — All day long letters & telegrams come — but its yours I await all day with intense longing. —
I want to go to Church this evening. — Ania sends you her fondest love. Got finer after luncheon & we drove. The girls had a concert. — So anxious for news. — Kiss you endlessly, my love & long for you. When you come, I suppose it will only be for a few days? — Have nothing interesting to tell you, alas. All my thoughts incessantly with you. Send you some flowers, cut the stalks a little, then they will last longer.
God bless you
Ever yr. very own old
Wify.
Love to Kirill & Dmitri & Boris. —
Nicholas's telegram:
Telegram. Stavka. 4 September, 1915.
I thank you for your dear letter; Tatiana as well. I have made arrangements about a motor car for Ella. She will receive it in a week's time. It is cooler after the rain. Greetings to you from the cousins who are here. I kiss all tenderly.
NICKY.
I thank you for your dear letter; Tatiana as well. I have made arrangements about a motor car for Ella. She will receive it in a week's time. It is cooler after the rain. Greetings to you from the cousins who are here. I kiss all tenderly.
NICKY.
Nicholas's letter:
Uglich. 4 September, 1915.
MY OWN DARLING,
I kiss you countless times for your dear letters; the last two smelt delightfully of your scent, which has come through — even through the envelope, in the form of a greasy patch! When you see Paul, tell him that I intend to send him later on to the armies. George is now transferring from one army to another. He telegraphed that, on the 1st of September, his train was bombed at Lida by Zepp. and aeroplanes, and that about 20 people were killed! Boris arrived yesterday with interesting papers for me from Gen. Olokhov — he has replaced Besobrazov. It is pleasant to hear from all sides such praise of Boris, and of how he is loved, not only by his regiment, but by others as well. I have had the idea of appointing him Field Hetman in place of the excellent Gen. Pokotilo, who has gone back about a fortnight ago to the Don. I am sure that you will ask me: why not Misha? — but I want to try keeping him with me; and later on we will see. Perhaps he can get the command of the Cavalry Corps of Khan-Nakhichevansky.
A few days ago I received a request from Yussoupov, asking me to release him from Moscow, and I have agreed to it, all the more readily as the very good and energetic Gen. Mrosovsky has only just been appointed Commandant of the troops of the Moscow military district.
He commanded a grenadier corps there, and in the war, knows the town and will prove his worth, I hope, when the moment comes.
You ask me about the reception of the 3 German sisters. I think, of course, yes — especially as Mamma is receiving them. Here such things seem very much simpler and clearer. My darling, I miss you so terribly at times, and I feel so lonely!!! The Germans are pouring into the gap between our troops at Dvinsk, and through others at Vilna; this causes great anxiety to Alexeiev, as there are no details and no information. Their cavalry patrols, with the infantry following behind, have come up to the railway line at Polotzk! This movement upsets our plans of bringing up reserves to the two [...] mentioned. It is enough to make one desperate when one is unable to move and concentrate troops as quickly as one would desire.
He (Alex.) told me to-day that he considers it imperative to move the Stavka, and he thinks Kalouga a suitable place for it. This vexes me very much, as I shall again feel myself far away from the army. He has sent someone, as well as Voeikov, to select a suitable locality. Perhaps he is right, but I do not like the idea at all. If God will again vouchsafe us His blessing, we shall be able to stop this advance of the enemy — then, of course, the Stavka will remain at Mogilev, which is both convenient and expedient — everything is near at hand here.
My friend, Gen. Williams, has shown me a telegram telling me of the safe arrival of two new submarines in the Baltic Sea. We have now five English submarines in our fleet. That, if you remember, is the result of my telegram to Georgie — the one I sent him before my departure. Have you seen in the newspapers the speeches by Kitchener and Lloyd George on the war, and on the part played in it by Russia? It is very true. If only God would grant that they and the French began now — it is long overdue!
I have just received your dear, letter with two newspaper cuttings and Marie's letter. I thank you with all my heart for all that you write to me, and for the box of sweets, which are delicious. Tomorrow I shall receive Shcherbatov, who is coming here, and also Polivanov. Dimka C. Golytzin has asked permission to go later to Tiflis — he will make a good assistant to Nicol., as he knows the local society and people well — and I have allowed him to follow N. It is better for him to be surrounded by good men!
Well, I must finish; it is already late. Good-night, sleep well, my precious Wify.
5 September.
Good-morning, my beloved Sunny. It is dull and cold and looks like rain. I have now to receive two deputations, and afterwards I am going to the usual Report. It is Ella's namesday to-day. God bless you, my precious Wify, you and the children! I kiss you all tenderly.
Please give this little note to A.
NICKY.
Above: Nicholas and Alexandra. Photo courtesy of Ilya Grigoryev.
Above: Maria and Anastasia.
Above: Alexei.
Notes: "She got his telegram yesterday" = Anna (Ania) Vyrubova had received a telegram from Grigori Rasputin.
Letts = Latvians.
Alexandra's letter to Nicholas, dated September 3, 1915, and Nicholas's telegram, dated September 3, 1915
Sources:
Letters of the Tsaritsa to the Tsar, 1914-1916, published by Duckworth & Co., 1923
The letter:
No. 111.
Tsarskoje Selo, Sept. 3-rd 1915
My own beloved Nicky dear,
Grey weather. Looking through the papers I saw that Litke has been killed — how sad, he was one of the last who had not once been wounded, & such a good officer. Dear me, what losses, ones heart bleeds — but our Friend says they are torches burning before God's throne, & that is lovely. A beautiful death for Sovereign & country. One must not think too much about that, otherwise it [is] too heartrending. — Paul's Boy left yesterday evening after having taken Holy Communion in the morning. Now her both sons are in the war, poor woman & this one is such a marvelously gifted boy, wh. makes one more anxious — he is sooner ready to be taken from this world of pain. — Wont you get Yussupov & give him instructions & send him off quicker to Moscou, its very wrong his sitting here at such a time when his presence can be needed any moment — she keeps him.
Tsarskoje Selo, Sept. 3-rd 1915
My own beloved Nicky dear,
Grey weather. Looking through the papers I saw that Litke has been killed — how sad, he was one of the last who had not once been wounded, & such a good officer. Dear me, what losses, ones heart bleeds — but our Friend says they are torches burning before God's throne, & that is lovely. A beautiful death for Sovereign & country. One must not think too much about that, otherwise it [is] too heartrending. — Paul's Boy left yesterday evening after having taken Holy Communion in the morning. Now her both sons are in the war, poor woman & this one is such a marvelously gifted boy, wh. makes one more anxious — he is sooner ready to be taken from this world of pain. — Wont you get Yussupov & give him instructions & send him off quicker to Moscou, its very wrong his sitting here at such a time when his presence can be needed any moment — she keeps him.
But one must have an eye on Moscou & prepare beforehand & be in harmony with the military, otherwise disorders will again rise. Stcherbatchev being a nullity, not to say worse, wont help when disorders occur, I am sure. Only quicker to get rid of him & for you to get a look a[t] Khvostov, whether he would suit you, or Neidhardt. — (who is such a pedant).
Thank God, you continue feeling energetic — let one feel it in everything & in all yr. orders here in this horrid rear. — We take tea at Miechens.
Here are the names of Maia Plaoutin's sons — she entreats to get news of them — can somebody in yr. staff, or Drenteln try to find out their whereabouts? —
Well, I placed my candles as usual, ran in to kiss A. as she was off to Peterhof — then hospital, operation.
Your Eristov lunched with us, has grown older, limps a little, was wounded in the leg & lay at Kiev. Then I received Ignatiev (minister) & talked long with him about everything & gave him my opinion about all, they shall hear my opinion of them & the Duma. I spoke of the old man, of their ugly behaviour towards him, & turned to him as a former Preobr., what would one do to officers who go behind their commanders back & complain against him & hinder & wont work with him — one sends them flying — he agreed. As he is a good man I know, I launched forth & he I think understood some things more rightly afterwards. — Then I had Css. Adlerberg; after wh. we made bandages in the stores.
O, T. & I took tea at Miechen, Ducky came too, looking old, & ugly even, had a headache & felt cold & was badly coiffée. — We spoke much & they looked at things as one ought to; also angry at the fright & cowardice & that none will take any responsability upon themselves. Furious against the Nov. Vremia, finds one ought to take strong measures against Suvorin. Miechen knows that a correspondence goes on between Militza & Suvorin, make the police clear this up, it becomes treachery.
I send you a cutting about Hermogens — again Nicolasha gave orders about him, it only concerned the Synod & you — what right had he to allow him to go to Moscou — you & Fredericks ought to wire to Samarin that you wish him to be sent straight on to Nicolo Ugretsk — as remaining with Vostorgov, they will again cook against our Friend & me. Please order Fred. to wire this. — I hope they wont make any story to Varnava; you are Lord & Master in Russia, Autocrat remember that. —
Then I saw Gen. Shulmann of Ossovetz — his health is still not yet good, so he cannot yet go to the army. — Uncle Mekk was long with me & we talked a lot about affairs — & then about all the rest. He finds Iussupov no good. Miechen said Felix told him his Father had sent in his demission & got no answer. —
Big strikes in town. God grant Rouzsky's order will be fulfilled energetically. — Mekk is also very much against Gutchkov — he says the other brother also talks too much.
Lovy, have that assembly in Moscou forbidden, its impossible, will be worse than the Duma & there will be endless rows. —
Another thing to think seriously about is the question of wood — there wont be any fuel & little meat & in consequence can have stories & riots.
Mekks railway gives heaps of wood to the town of Moscou, but its not enough & one does not think seriously enough about this. —
Forgive my bothering you Sweetheart, but I try to collect what I think may be of use to you. — Remember about Suvorin's articles wh. must be watched & damped. —
A great misfortune, one cannot get the refugees to work, they wont & thats bad, they expect one to do everything for them & give & do nothing in exchange. —
Now this must go. The Image is fr. Igumen Serafim (fr. whom St. Seraphim came, wh. you held in your hand). The goodies, toffee is from Ania. —
Weather grey & only 8 degr.
Lovy, please send of your suite to the different manufacturies, fabricks to inspect them — your eye — even if they do not understand much, still the people will feel you are watching them, whether they are fulfilling your orders conscientiously — please dear. —
Many a tender kiss, fervent prayer & blessing huzy mine, fr. yr. very own old
Sunny.
Sunny.
God will help — be firm & energetic — right & left, shake & wake all up, & smack firmly when necessary. One must not only love you, but be afraid of you, then all will go well. —
Is it true nice Dimka also goes to Tiflis — a whole suite of yours follow, thats too much, & you need him with the foreigners & for sending about.
All the children kiss you. —
Nicholas's telegram:
Telegram. Stavka. 3 September, 1915.
Warmest thanks for dear letter, and for Olga's. I hope that you do not tire yourself with all that you do. I feel well and determined. Boris has arrived, sent by the officer commanding the Guards, with the report of their losses...
Warmest thanks for dear letter, and for Olga's. I hope that you do not tire yourself with all that you do. I feel well and determined. Boris has arrived, sent by the officer commanding the Guards, with the report of their losses...
Above: Nicholas and Alexandra. Photo courtesy of Ilya Grigoryev at lastromanovs on VK.
Note: Alexandra almost always referred to Grigori Rasputin as "our Friend".
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)