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304
THE TRAGIC WEEK [chap. xvii.
been received during the night. The first one I opened
was a telegram in which M. Sazonoff informed me that
the evening before, at seven o’clock, the Ambassador of
William 11, had handed him Germany’s declaration of war.
In reading this awful news I was seized with
indescribable anguish ; it was as if a whirlwind of sinister
visions had encircled me ; at this moment I had absolutely
clear presentiments of the troubles which were to
overtake my country, my relations. ... I dashed into my
wife’s room. "War has been declared!" I exclaimed,
bursting into tears. . . .
My wife immediately helped me to regain my
self-control by saying: "Stockholm at this moment is one
of the most important diplomatic posts for Russia. If
the Minister occupying this post gives way to nerves,
the worst may happen. It is absolutely necessary from
the very first to keep a firm hand on oneself and do
one’s duty !"
I choked back my sobs and left the room. " The cup
is full, we must drain it even to the dregs if necessary."
This saying gave me back my courage and powers of
action.
Having finished dressing I went to the office at the
Legation where a whole crowd of fellow countrymen—
the first who had escaped from Germany—were awaiting
me.
" Gentlemen," I said, " I have just received official
information that last night a declaration of war was
handed to our Minister of Foreign Affairs by the
German Ambassador. Gentlemen, Hurrah for Russia
—and for H.I.M. the Emperor!"
An indistinct murmur greeted this little speech. A
gentleman with a red beard and a hooked nose then
spoke with a marked "Russian accent: "Yes, that is all
very well, Monsieur, Hurrah for Russia and the Emperor;
but first and foremost you must concern yourself with
our unhappy position. We have just arrived from
Germany; how and by what route can we return to
our own country?" etc.
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