The conversation took place in Moscow on 17th May 1893⁠—on the eve of the popular fête held to celebrate the coronation. Rina, a strong, handsome girl, with a profile characteristic of her race⁠—the hooked nose of a bird of prey⁠—had long ceased to be passionately devoted to balls or social functions, and was, or at least considered herself to be, an “advanced” woman and a lover of “the people.” She was her father’s only daughter and his favourite, and always did what he wished. In this particular instance it occurred to her that she would like to go to the popular festival with her cousin, not at midday with the Court, but together with the people, the porter and the grooms of their own household, who intended to start in the early morning.

“But, father, I do not want to look at the people; I want to be with them. I want to see how they feel towards the young Tsar. Surely for once⁠ ⁠…”

“Well, well, do as you like. I know how obstinate you are.”