CHAPTER THREE“I find your daughter as delightful as your son,” the Czar was saying.
“It is extremely gracious of Your Imperial Majesty,” the Grand Duke replied formally.
The Czar put his hand on his shoulder.
“We are old friends, my dear Louis, and I can tell you that I am glad I can forge a clear link between our two countries. I shall promote Alexander and I do not think that you will be disappointed in what I have in store for your son, Maximus.”
“It is difficult for me to express my gratitude,” the Grand Duke murmured.
The two men walked as if by instinct towards the window.
Outside the sun was shining and everything seemed to glitter.
“In a few days we will go to the country to Tsarskoe Selo,” the Czar said, “and I shall be glad to get out of the City.”
“You will not wait unti
