Page:The Tsar's Window.djvu/202

 visible. The wives and families of the ministers of the empire occupied the seats.

To the top of the house nothing was to be seen but an array of ball-dresses, jewels, and uniforms. Even the members of the orchestra were in uniform.

We had time to criticise everything; for it was nine o'clock before there were any signs of preparation in the imperial box. At last the Grand Chamberlain, the Minister of the Household, and some others entered the empty lôge, to which all eyes had been directed for some time, and some orders were given to an Arabian attendant about the arrangement of the chairs.

This Arab was as black as ink. He wore a red and white turban; a short black jacket, trimmed with gold; a scarlet sash, and full red trousers. The whole audience breathlessly watched him as he arranged the chairs. The orchestra turned, and faced the imperial box; and so did every one else. The leader stood with his baton uplifted, ready to give the signal.

There were a few moments of deathly stillness; then, at a sign from the great box, the leader's baton fell. Every soul in the house rose, the Russian Hymn burst forth, and cheers rent the air as the Emperor came in with the bride. These cheers were prolonged, and repeated when the Tsarevitch made his appearance.

I think that was the most impressive moment of my life. I was one cold chill from head to foot. The people shouted, the Tsar bowed, and the hymn and cheers were continued.

This sovereign's face is to me inexpressibly sad and