Early on the morning of the day prior to the coronation, Radzivil and Zabern sought the presence of the princess.
"Your Highness," said the premier, "a Russian army of one hundred thousand men is assembling at Zamoska."
Zamoska, distant but six miles from the frontiers of Czernova!
"A Russian army at Zamoska?" repeated Barbara.
"And commanded by the Czar in person," added Radzivil.
"What is the Czar's object in mustering his troops so near our own borders?"
"When the news reached us late last night," said the premier, "your ladies reported that you were in so sweet a sleep that it would be wrong to disturb you. I therefore took upon myself to send an envoy in your name to the Czar to inquire the reason for this massing of troops so close to our frontiers."
"You did quite right, my lord. Has the messenger returned?"
"A few minutes ago. And the explanation given is that the Russian army is gathering at Zamoska for the autumn manœuvres."
"You do not believe this story?" said the princess, turning to Zabern.