Indeed, sometimes with the highest and tenderest
imperial favor and grace. Ah, a murder at the right moment is an
excellent thing, only one must be quite sure of himself, and not fail
of hitting the right man. An unsuccessful murder is a very bad, and,
indeed, a very dangerous thing. I would have nothing to do with one, and
never have had any thing to do with one. Whatever I have undertaken I
have always boldly and successfully accomplished. The good Emperor
Peter III. knew that, and consequently trembled when I, with Passeb and
Bariatinsky, entered his chamber. The good emperor! He did not tremble
long, it was soon finished. Yes, yes, that was a deed done at the right
time, and therefore has the great Catharine been so grateful to us, and
honoured us above all the illustrious grandees of her empire."(*)
(*) Of the tragic and horrible events connected with
Catharine's accession to the throne, and of the
strangulation of Peter, in which he took so active a part,
Orloff spoke in Rome with the greatest freedom and evident
pleasure.
"My little opening murder has, indeed, less significance," sighed Joseph
Ribas. "What was it but to help a humble musician to the blessedness and
harmony of the spheres!"
"But that musician was your brother!"
Ribas shrugged his shoulders.
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