One hundred years ago
THE CLOUD is settling heavily upon the Czar. The attempt to conceal the gravity of his illness has suddenly been abandoned by the officials, and on the 16th inst. the following bulletin was issued by Drs Zakharin and Leyden at his Crimean residence: — "There is no improvement in the disease of the kid- neys. His Majesty's strength has dimin- ished. The doctors hope that the climate of the southern coast of the Crimea will have a favourable influence on the health of the august patient." A further bulletin, dated Wednesday night, acknowledges an increase of weakness. The attempt to visit Corfu has been abandoned, the Emperor being too weak, and he will remain in Livadia until the end comes, which cannot be delayed for many days. Conscientious to the last, the Czar insists on doing all necessary work and remaining Sovereign and Pontiff so long as he can write or breathe. The idea of a Regency has been given up, and the Princess Alix of Hesse has been summoned to Liva- dia, by special train, in order that her marriage with the Cesarewitch may be solemnised during his father's lifetime.
The Spectator 20 October 1894
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