Here is stationed an officer of the guard. He alone ventures
defiance to the intruders. He meets them with his sword drawn, and
swears to strike down the first person who attempts to enter the
corridor.
"Unhappy man, what is it you dare!" said Lestocq, boldly advancing. "You
are guilty of high-treason. Fall upon your knees and implore pardon of
your empress, Elizabeth!"
The officer shrank bank in terror. It was an empress who stood before
him, and he had dared to defy her!
Begging forgiveness and mercy, he dropped his sword and fell upon his
knees. The Russian slave was awakened in him, and he bent before the one
who had the power to command.
Unobstructed, retained by no one, Elizabeth and her followers now strode
through the corridor leading to the private apartments of the regent.
Sentinels were placed at every door, with strict commands to strike down
any one who should dare to oppose them.
In this manner they reached the anteroom of the regent's chamber.
Elizabeth had not the courage to go any farther. She hesitatingly
stopped. A deep shame and repentance came over her when she thought of
the noble confidence Anna had shown, and which she was now on the point
of repaying with the blackest treason.
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