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"Hoell the diadem would become that proud pure brow!" exclaimed

Alexis, with animation

"How happy would this poor Russia be under your mild sceptre!" said the

chamberlain, Woronzow

"Yes, you owe it to all of us, to yourself and your people, to mount the

throne of your fathers," said Grunstein

"But if I say to you that I will not?" cried the princess, reclining

again upon her divan "The duties of an empress are very difficult and

wearing I love quiet and enjoyment; and, moreover, this throne of my

father, of which you speak so pathetically, is already occupied,

and awaits ent- in his cradle? That is your emperor, before

whom you can bow, and leave me unmolested with your imperial crown

Come, Alexis, sit down by me upon this tabouret We will take another

look at these nificent presents Ah! truly they are dearer to me than