After what seemed a very long time the Emperor came out—alone.
“Your Majesty,” I cried, “tell me, I implore you, if there is anything dreadful in store for Her Majesty?”
The Emperor was painfully nervous. “No, no, Lili, and if Kerensky had uttered one word against Her Majesty, you would have heard me strike the table—thus—” and he struck the writing-table with his fist. “But I hear they’ve arrested Anna. Poor unfortunate woman, what will become of her?”
At the sound of her husband’s voice the Empress came out of Marie’s bedroom. The Emperor told her that Kerensky had arrested Anna because he suspected that she was implicated in political plots. “If it’s true, it’s an awful thing,” said Kerensky; “but I suppose everything will now be disclosed.”
Their Majesties then related the particulars of their interview with Kerensky.
“His first words,” said the Empress, “were, ‘I am Kerensky. You probably know my name.’
“We made no answer.
“‘But you must have heard of me?’ he persisted.
“Still no reply.
“‘Well,’ said Kerensky, ‘I’m sure I don’t know why we are standing. Let’s sit down—it’s far more comfortable!’