August 1914 (1971) (edit title/settings)

CHAPTER 1
The Caucasian Range—Sanya Lazhenitsyn drives to the station—life in the village—the first newspaper reports—Sanya and Varya—Varya's challenge—their previous meetings—Varya's reactions to the first days of war—she tries to change Sanya's mind

DOCUMENT No. 1
5 August: Ambassador Paléologue to Emperor Nikolai II

DOCUMENT No. 2
13 August: Not by Marshal Joffre

DOCUMENT No. 3
14 August: Nikolai II to Foreign Minister Sazonov

CHAPTER 2
Sanya mentally unprepared for the war—regrets letting Varya go—his night in the train—history of the Lazhenitsyn family—sunrise over the steppe—a visit to Lev Tolstoy—Sanya baffled by the proliferation of "truths"—farewell to the steppe—a Kuban estate seen from the train

CHAPTER 3
Irina's quarrel with her husband—making the best of things as they are—breakfast with mother-in-law—life with the Tomchaks—their house and grounds

CHAPTER 4
Ksenia's awakening—her brother at the safe—where shall Ksenia study?—Ksenia the dancer—Ksenia in the hammock—her conversation with Irina—the quaint ways of Kuban farmers—ridiculous or authentically Russian?—a letter from Yarik Kharitonov

CHAPTER 5
Zakhar Tomchak's business trips to Rostov— choosing the best high school—Tomchak's tête-à-tête with Aglaida Fedoseevna—Ksenia safely lodged with the headmistress—her progress at school—the one thing Tomchak forgot to ask

DOCUMENT No. 4
24 August: From the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Ambassador Paléologue in St. Petersburg

CHAPTER 6
Roman Tomchak's day of solitude—his travels—his political dreams—how he bought off the terrorists

CHAPTER 7
(A glance at the newspapers)

CHAPTER 8
The merchant Saratovkin on his deathbed—he comforts Varya—the joy of homecoming—Pyatigorsk in summer—the tinsmith's booth—emanations of anarchism—I must earn his trust!—the black well

CHAPTER 9
Zakhar Tomchak's homecoming—"this war is tomfoolery"—Zakhar's key employees exempt from the call-up—Yevdokia's anxieties—Zakhar: "I feed all Russia!"—his annoyance with his son—he decides to take his daughter away from her studies—Irina's dream hero—her love of the mysterious—reconciliation with her husband—Russian flags over East Prussia

CHAPTER 10
At HQ 2nd Army—General Samsonov cannot keep abreast of events—unpreparedness of his troops—advancing into empty space—Samsonov's dispute with Zhilinsky—the Quartermaster General returns from Army Group HQ—news of General Martos's victory—Samsonov branded a coward—the colonel with a letter from the Grand Duke

CHAPTER 11
Vorotyntsev with Samsonov—the 2nd Army's problems—rival claims to Artamonov's corps—Vorotyntsev decides to visit it—uncoded telegraph messages—suppertime

CHAPTER 12
Vorotyntsev rides out of Ostrolenka—the perfect staff does not exist—the 1st Army fights at Kauschen and Gumbinnen—friction with Supreme Headquarters—Rennenkampf fails to pursue the enemy—where are the Germans hiding?—getting around the wagon train—how Russia greeted the war—the army promotion ladder—Vorotsynev's night ride—history of the army reform: the "Young Turks"—competing with the German General Staff—how the opening campaign was planned—on generals—the journey by night

CHAPTER 13
Leaving for the front a relief for Vorotyntsev—General Levachev's advice—Love or Duty—Vorotyntsev's estranged parents—history of a happy marriage—Vorotyntev's sense of loss—mature means coarser—personal dramas unimportant—the Russian wireless telegraph more help to the Germans

CHAPTER 14
Yaroslav Kharitonov—his delight in his soldiers—muddled marches—Staff Captain Grokholets's joke—Russian reactions to German prosperity—Second Lieutenant Kozeko and his diary—the eerie emptiness of Prussia—Germans on the Russian staff have run us into the ground

CHAPTER 15
In Neidenburg—quelling the smoke—Ensign Lenartovich and army doctor Fedonin—"the worse, the better"—why help the wounded?—nothing to be said for Russia—"You're not at the university now!"

CHAPTER 16
The town of Soldau—Vorotyntsev locates Krymov—local intelligence—does the Russian army know what cavalry is for?—agreements and disagreements—the Germans nearby

CHAPTER 17
More vacillations: which route to take?—a British emissary at Samsonov's HQ—Samsonov moves on—a corps-by-corps explanation for the Briton's benefit—the journey to Neidenburg—entry into the town—fighting close by to the left—the lunch, the toasts—telegraph exchanges with Artamonov

CHAPTER 18
General Nechvolodov leads the corps reserve—retreating troops questioned about the day's fighting—Captain Raitsev-Yartsev—news of senseless troop movements—Bischofsburg: dismay at Corps HQ

CHAPTER 19
The soldiers at the well—Second Lieutenant Kharitonov and Sergeant Major Chernega—Kozeko works on his diary—looting—a party of officers from Corps HQ

CHAPTER 20
Nechvolodov rallies his forces—Colonel Smyslovsky—the reserve under fire—the tip of the horn—the Belozersk Regiment seeks permission not to retreat

CHAPTER 21
A natural commander—the Germans held up—the night stand of the reserve force at Rothfliess—Nechvolodov and Smyslovsky under the stars—thoughts spoken and unspoken—the reserve force abandoned and forgotten—ordered to retreat

CHAPTER 22
Lenin's reckless streak—the struggle with the reunion movement—demoralized by a quiet life—landed in a mess!—Hanecki's exertions rewarded—Lenin in mortal danger from peasants—money, the Party's arms and legs—to overthrow capitalism we must become capitalists!—departure from Nowy Targ—the law of expendable friendships—the Party dwindles—how shall we take advantage of this lucky war?—no danger of peace now—the womenfolk at fault again—how Lenin sent Inessa to Brussels—Nadya: a revolutionary's wife knows her duty—the family finances—the advantages of Switzerland—how to start the wheel turning?—at Cracow station—don't try to stop the war, whip it up!—Germany is our ally!—detraining the wounded—transform this war into civil war!

CHAPTER 23 (Review of Events to 26 August)
Russian eccentricies as seen by the Germans—the German army in Prussia avoids contact with Rennenkampf—change of command in the German army—withdrawal of two German corps from the Marne and its effect on the war—the Germans helped by Russian wireless telegraph—military operations to 26 August—Samsonov's army in danger of encirclement—Tannenberg

CHAPTER 24
Talent a handicap in an army career—General von François at Stallupönen in conflict with his superior officer—explaining himself for history—birth of the plan to surround the Russians—Hindenburg and Ludendorff—before the assault

CHAPTER 25
The war inconvenient for General Artamonov—his corps reinforced—the riddle of François's corps—what needs to be done before a battle, and what Artamonov did—a night ride to encourage the troops—the Vyborg Regiment—Vorotyntsev finds no role for himself—his dream at Usdau—a lively morning—the toy lion—Arseni Blagodarev—General von François reconnoiters—the Russians thrashed by German artillery—the windmill burns—the German attack beaten off—in the smoke—Vorotyntsev and Blagodarev cross the battlefield—rallying the remnants—Blagodarev's wife, Katya—in the wrecked manor house—the Petrov and Neuschlott regiments attack—surprise order to withdraw—Vorotyntsev's frantic efforts—the battle is lost—Artamonov denies giving the order—"I stand firm as a rock"

CHAPTER 26
The entry into Allenstein—Colonel Pervushin—his suggestion to the Corps Commander not accepted—the mirage of normality in Allenstein—General Klyuev—the situation on the right flank as seen from the air

CHAPTER 27
General "Don't spill a drop" Martos—his corps ready but robbed—the battle of Orlau—how Martos sized up the situation in East Prussia—his castling move—his vain attempts to get help from Klyuev—the battle for Mühlen—orders to fall back on Allenstein—Martos threatens to resign

CHAPTER 28
Samsonov's travails in Neidenburg—Mingin's division mislaid—a confusing message from Blagoveshchensky—collapse of right flank—Artamonov still "firm as a rock"—Samsonov and his staff draw up tomorrow's orders—Samsonov takes a walk around the town—the Estland Regiment's runaways—"no rusks!"—Krymov reports: left flank has also collapsed—Artamonov relieved of his command

CHAPTER 29
Uncanniness of the deserted town—the looting begins—Yaroslav finds himself some maps—Kozeko's defense of self-service—behavior of Kharitonov's platoon—banquet with cocoa for the troops

CHAPTER 30
General Blagoveshchensky in the depths—the 6th Corps's panic flight in the dark

CHAPTER 31
"Die höchste Zeit"—Samsonov at a loss—one bold stroke could save the day—Samsonov's prayer—Artamonov surrenders Soldau too—the 2nd Army's situation report—Samsonov's prophetic dream—Feast of the Assumption—ride forward!—Samsonov's staff disapprove, but 2nd Army's HQ moves out—Samsonov's final telegram to Army Group HQ

CHAPTER 32 (27 August)
Review of military operations on 27 August—the Germans, uncertain of victory, modify their plans—night operations near the village of Waplitz

CHAPTER 33
Martos's sleepless nights—Klyuev will never come!—Martos fights on—anticipates the enemy's night attack
Sasha Lenartovich's sleepless regrets—a night alarm—stumbling around in the dark—and attack in the mist—Sasha feels the thrill of battle—Wittmannsdorf in the morning light—Sasha remembers Yelenka

CHAPTER 34
Neidenburg: the commandant's worries—the hospital prepares for evacuation—Vorotyntsev questions the shell-shocked Kharitonov—Tanya Belobragina—Vorotyntsev sums up the situation—at the Bismarck monument—Vorotyntsev reports to Samsonov

CHAPTER 35
Samsonov rides on—Blagoveshchensky reports another retreat—at Martos's command post—Martos, victorious, recommends retreat

CHAPTER 36
Vorotyntsev looks for a force to cover Neidenburg—his speech to the troops—hurrah for the Estland Regiment!

CHAPTER 37
Vorotyntsev reconnoiters with the Cossacks—his encounter with General von François

CHAPTER 38
Generalship and gestures—François hindered by orders from headquarters—his eagerness to complete the encirclement—in captured Neidenburg—two French aristocrats meet

CHAPTER 39
Samsonov's staff draw up the "sliding shield" plan—Samsonov's hours of reverie in Nadrau—men from the Narva and Koporye regiments halted in flight—Samsonov reproves the runaways—things for which there is no excuse—Samsonov consents to a general withdrawal—he detaches Martos from his corps

CHAPTER 40
The initial defeat sets the pattern for the future—general's rank badges symbols of uselessness—General Klyuev's conduct examined—his incompetent leadership on 28 August—the Neva Regiment's futile stand at Kämmereiwald—the Dorogobuzh Regiment brings up the rear—Colonel Kabanov—the 13th Corps ordered to retreat

CHAPTER 41 (28 August)
The Russian Supreme Command prepares to advance on Berlin—non-intervention tactics of Northwest Army Group HQ—Blagoveshchensky takes his corps off for a rest—Artamonov's corps headless—Russian victories in the center lead nowhere—review of operations on 28 August as seen by the Germans—still no sign of Rennenkampf—the German High Command in Prussia gives up the encirclement plan—François still set on carrying it out

CHAPTER 42
Sanya and Kotya leaving for their regiments—their farewell to Moscow—have we made a mistake?—they meet the Stargazer—their high spirits and certainty of the future—the beer cellar below the Union cinema—why Sanya parted company with Tolstoy—the state and the "dialectical leap"—the Populists and the people's happiness—the people and the intelligentsia—self-improvement or social reform—the ever-flowing stream of history—when the bugle sounds—riddles

CHAPTER 43
Chernega's little ways—a battery is run by its sergeant major—the night journey to Schlage M—Chernega takes deployment for defense into his own hands—covering the retreating regiments—those who aren't out yet won't be leaving!

DOCUMENT No. 5
29 August: From the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander

CHAPTER 44
The Feast of the Miraculous Image— Samsonov's memories of Novocherkassk—defense is at an end—Samsonov deals directly with battalion commanders—the sunlit mist—bad news from the forest—Samsonov's transformation—his staff revises their plan—remnants of disintegrating units converge in confusion on Orlau—Samsonov's farewell to his troops—Vorotyntsev's approach to him unsuccessful—2nd Army HQ on the move again

CHAPTER 45
Sasha Lenartovich under fire—is there any way out?—an evening of rumors about the retreat—Lenartovich deserts—scenes from the retreat—no sense in a war like this!—he blunders into General Samsonov—a special thank-you to you, men of the Chernigov Regiment!

CHAPTER 46
The 13th Corps's retreat beset by difficulties—orders to retreat obeyed with alacrity—but the rear guard die rather than surrender—two corps cut across each other's paths in Grünfliess Forest—the cavalry back out—the infantry under fire—first signs of the final debacle

CHAPTER 47
Vorotyntsev's memories of childhood in Kostroma—services in the fields—the Vorotyntsev family tradition—the weary body clams its rights—Vorotyntsev and Blagodarev in the Grünfliess Forest—Kharitonov joins them—map reading, and an escape plan—they meet Lenartovich—getting captured not all that easy!

CHAPTER 48
Samsonov's grievances cease to rankle—his staff still pointlessly fussing—the attempt to break out at Saddek—Samsonov tries to dismiss his staff—Baklanov's grave—General Samsonov's last hours

CHAPTER 49 (Review of Operations on 29-30 August)
Evening of the 29th, German encirclement completed—no attempt by the Russians to break the ring from outside—Army Group HQ orders Rennenkampf to halt—but abruptly changes its mind and orders him to Allenstein—to-ing and fro-ing of Tolpygo's cavalry division—Russian 1st Corps stationary all day on 29 August—Sirelius's troops move on Neidenburg overnight—François on the morning of the 30th—counterattack!—Martos taken prisoner—a crack in the encirclement—the ring reinforced—Sirelius misses his chance—General Kondratovich's desertion—followed by futile exertions on the part of Zhilinsky

CHAPTER 50
Vorotytsev's group—a night in the slaughterhouse—dawn in the forest—they meet men from teh Dorogobuzh Regement—questions and answers—the Dorogobuzh group's journey—feeding them—"we're from Tambov"—shall we go on together?"—Vorotyntsev and Lenartovich carry Kabonov's body on a stretcher—choosing final burial place—Kachkin could do it either way—funeral service in the forest

CHAPTER 51
Russian units in disorder, their attempts to break out grow feebler—Pervushin's three bayonet wounds—Grokholets—Chernega

CHAPTER 52
Position of the 13th Corps—General Klyuev bent on surrender—unauthorized attempts to break out—Captain Vedernikov, Lieutenant Colonel Sukhachevsky

CHAPTER 53
Lev Tolstoy's theory put to the test by General Blagoveshchensky—the 6th Corps reformed away from the battle zone—Nechvolodov ordered to proceed to Willenberg

CHAPTER 54
The grievous history of General Nechvolodov—brother Russians to the rescue—plan of attack on Willenberg—gaps in the German ring!—concentration of troops for the operation—Nechvolodov's troops called off

CHAPTER 55
Vorotyntsev's thoughts—a Chinese prophecy—the group lie low by day—planning to break out—Ofrosimov's sacrifice—Lenartovich thinks, ax in hand—a searchlight!—searchlight extinguished—out we go!

CHAPTER 56
The Russians in Neidenburg again—night in the hospital—the lieutenant from Martos's convoy—General Sirelius interrogates him—the Lady with the Lamp—Tanya Belobragina's change of heart—the Russians evacuate—Tanya conceals the regimental colors on her person

CHAPTER 57 (31 August)
François returns to the attack on Neidenburg—Zhilinsky's panicky orders—2nd Army HQ makes its escape—Rennenkampf told to withdraw—General Gurko at Allenstein, a third breach in the ring

DOCUMENT No. 6
31 August: Démenti from the Chief Administration of the General Staff

CHAPTER 58
After the battle—the battlefield through the eyes of a horse—horses—abandoned equipment—the men—Russian prisoners—the captured generals—concentration camp

DOCUMENT No. 7
1 September: From the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander

CHAPTER 59
Sasha and Veronika Lenartovich unlike each other as adults—the burning passion of Aunt Adalia and Aunt Agnessa—their futile efforts to bring Veronika up properly—a renegade age—Likonya—the girls have their own view of life—the aunts appalled by patriotic reactions to the outbreak of war—the State Duma in session—to Veronika and Likonya, like water off a duck's back

CHAPTER 60
The aunts prepare for confrontation—Beauty, Truth, and Justice—Vera Zasulich—her acquittal—revolutionary stars in their courses—Sofia Perovskaya—conventional morality and the revolutionary—the People's Will Party stalks Aleksandr II—Sofia in command on 13 March—names after 13 March—into the twentieth century—Dora Brilliant—Maria Spirdonova—Bitsenko-Kameristaya—the beauty of terror and its philosophy—Zhenya Grigorovich—Ivan Kalyaev and his masquerades—Mikhail Sokolov—Matasha Klimova—Tanya Leontieva—Tamara Prints—those who could not rise to action—dowdiness of Social Democratic women—Yevlalia Rogozinnikova—make a start, and hang the consequences—how can anyone forget those heroines?

CHAPTER 61
Uncle Anton's portrait—doomed from birth; "Anton's fire"—grief and mirth at the murder of Aleksandr II—Anton trains himself for terror—intoxicated with the thought of death on the scaffold—turn the navy against the Tsar!—mutiny at Sveaborg—the attempt on Dubasov—an uncle's execution surely puts his niece under a moral obligation?—who started it?—the rights of those who would change the world by revolution—the winged horse of terror—Veronika's doubts—moral purity all right up to a point—the tragedy not that of the victim, but of the one who struck the blow—the explosion on Aptekarsky Island

CHAPTER 62
14 September and 13 March—Azef floats to the surface—the Petrov-Voskresensky affair—was Bogrov and Okhrana agent?—throwing mud at the gallows—why has no one explained it?—the dizzy whirl of contradictions—the beauty of his heroic deed

FROM PREVIOUS KNOTS

CHAPTER 63
Bogrov's grandfather and father—the young man's early political development—in search of a political creed—his character—his appearance—the spoiled child put to the test—becomes one of the anarchist leaders in Kiev—superiority of "central terror" to other tactics—against dividing the spoils—the bitterness of defeat—others beside the proletariat need defending—earning a respite—studying the Okhrana—Bogrov plays games with Captain Kulyabko—accepts small payments to earn credibility—his first arrest—suspected by his comrades but cleared—the niche between the revolution and the police—Azef's exposure spurs him on—Stolypin the best target—Stolypin and the autocracy—Stolypin and the Jews—Bogrov's loyalty—dandyism and university examinations—tired of Kiev, but where should he go?—Petrov-Voskresensky's example—Bogrov in Petersburg—his flirtation with von Kotten—his encounter with Stolypin at the waterworks—"central terror" can be carried out only by individuals—visit to Yegor Lazarev—Bogrov declares his intention of murdering Stolypin—Lazarev refuses to help—a holiday on the Riviera—back to Kiev—an aching emptiness—anti-Jewish actions in the spring of 1911—the right bullet in the right chest—they're coming to us!—a lonely vigil

CHAPTER 64
Program of the festivities announced—climbing the circus pole—Dniepr boatmen?—a bold first step toward the Okhrana—visiting Kulyabo at home—tying up loose ends—the Nikolai Yakovlevich story— the Okhrana take the bait, bless them—Bogrov refuses a theater ticket—a breathing space—the plan matures—an opportunity missed?—a ticket to the Merchants' Gardens—a telephone refinement—a latter to Papa and Mama—the illuminations—or shall I live a little longer?—two steps behind the Tsar—this Tsar a title, and no more—there must be no pogrom—Stolypin nowhere to be seen—why does Kulyabko ask no questions?—Bogrov's nocturnal missive—a wide-awake Bogrov and a sleepy Kulyabko—Bogrov's stories don't hang together—has he overplayed his hand?—at the Hotel Yevropeiskaya—hypnotic fusion of fables—Bogrov dead tired—a policeman at the door—getting the theater ticket—it's in my pocket!—in the vestibule—overdoes it and is sent away—a quick turn and back again—amid the glittering throng—am I being watched or not?—the first intermission—go home!—the very last chance!—the target—remember it forever!

CHAPTER 65 (Pyotr Arkadievich Stolypin)
The focus of Stolypin's life from youth onward—faults of the repartitional agrarian commune—ideology and the commune—the ancient peasant commune not repartitional—Peter the Great reinforces the commune by introducing the poll tax—socialist views of the commune—no land shortage, but hopeless congestion—beginning of Stolypin's service career, and his agricultural predilections—Stolypin as governor of Saratov—the war with Japan—assassination of Adjutant General Sakharov—first attempt on Stolypin's life—where is the remedy for the village's ills?—Stolypin's gubernatorial report for 1904—how the Tsar came to read it—Stolypin appointed Minister of the Interior—complexion of the First Duma—the Duma's view of Stolypin—confrontation—Stolypin's arguments for the reform of communal landholding—relations with the Duma deteriorate—should he yield or discuss it?—Dmitiri Shipov favors a Kadet cabinet—Stolypin's arguments are accepted and he becomes Prime Minister—his attitude toward the Manifesto of 30 October—flaws in the electoral law—Stolypin takes the middle course, beginnings of constitutional government in Russia—Russia rocked—the revolutionaries grow more brazen—weakness of local authorities—disorders in outlying rural areas—troops used improperly—agitators succeed in fomenting unrest in military units—dissolution of the First Duma—Stolypin applied the Tsar's will to the agrarian problem—the Duma caught unawares—the SR manifesto to the army and navy—revolution in Finland—Finnish freedoms—the Sveaborg mutiny—a firm line means fewer casualties—the throne loses its nerve—the explosion on Aptekarsky Island—Stolypin will not resign!—what was the "Stolypin terror"?—"society" defends the terrorists—Stolypin in the Winter Palace—is the Russian monarchy still alive?—can order and reform be combined?—his character: show me the way and I'll finish the task—a monarchist's difficulties—the chain of assassination attempts—Stolypin ready to die at any time—main idea of the peasant reform—the reform runs up against the peasant commune—how the commune was bolstered up in previous reigns—and even in recent years—selfish fears of the ruling stratum—the peasant must not be left without property—part two of the reform of 1861—the golden age of Stolypin's relations with the Emperor—Article 87 of the Fundamental Laws—unsuccessful invitation to public figures to join the cabinet—decree on freedom of worship—work on law granting equal rights to Jews—all decrees held up—law on consolidated holdings and separate homesteads—convocation of the Second Duma—the ceiling of the Tauride Palace collapses—Stolypin issues a government statement—Stolypin's all-embracing program—hard work not to the Duma's liking—Tsereteli's bombinations—the Kadets are silent— socialist threats—Stolypin's demeanor and his reply—"You will not succeed in frightening us!"—Stolypin's reply to Moscow—his reply on field courts-martial—the Duma supports terror—the Duma holds up business—Stolypin's arguments against the parceling of big estates—"they want great upheavals"—progressive society finds him intolerable—how the Fourth Duma will speak of him—Stolypin's efforts to save the Second Duma—the Zurabov incident—Stolypin's family in the Yelagin Palace—the wise man yields while still armed—reform delayed in nineteenth-century Russia—Nikolai II misses his chances—learning to work constitutionally—to save the constitution the electoral law must be changed—on the narrow path between abysses—secret negotiations with the right-wing Kadets—the Kadets unwilling and unable to build—dissolution of the Second Duma—Manifesto of 16 June—purpose of changes in the electoral law—public reactions to the 16 June decree—V. Maklakov's afterthoughts—zemstvo rights extended—the zemstvo's place in Stolypin's policy—his speech at the opening of the Third Duma—revolution or brigandage?—people of the land—what Stolypin meant by freedom—the monarchic power a historical asset to Russia—Rodichev: "Russia never had a history"—"Stolypin neckties"—Stolypin challenges Rodichev to a duel—Rodichev's apology—assassination attempts continue—"bury me where they kill me"—Guchkov's fitful support of Stolypin in the Third Duma—Stolypin's respect for serious debate—unable to get anything worthwhile through the Duma—questioned about Azef—Lopukhin's treachery—character and role of Azef—Stolypin foresees his own end—the land is Russia—interminable debate on land reform in the Third Duma—Stolypin's "wager on the strong" maliciously misinterpreted—attacks on reform from the right—Stolypin an outsider in high official circles—the Tsar's frequent changes of mind—the letter of resignation in his briefcase—episode of the naval estimates, Stolypin almost dismissed—his difficult relations with the Emperor—Nikolai's personality and habits of rule—love and duty—the monarch's forgetfulness—Stolypin and Kaiser Wilhelm—Stolypin underestimates the importance of foreign policy—the Herzegovina crisis—Stolypin's poor opinion of Russia's allies—he sees no need for Russia to go to war—end of the revolution—Stolypin the "pillar of the state"—"Russia is discontented with herself"—progress of the land reform—history of resettlement, and how it was hindered in the past—resettlement goes ahead under Stolypin—his Siberian tour—Russia regaining her health—the revolutionaries rejected—the aviator Matsievich's challenge—Stolypin's position in the party spectrum—only the "spheres" unreconciled with Stolypin—the Tsar's attitude toward him changes for the worse—the conflict over Iliodor—in Russia power does not reside in the cabinet—enemies all around: Rasputin and Kurlov—the question of the western zemstvos—first reading of Stolypin's bill in the Duma— composition of the State Council—Witte's role—should Stolypin have persisted?—his bill defeated—his resignation submitted—the dowager Empress's intervention—the Emperor gives way—Stolypin resorts to Article 87—was it worth invoking the emergency procedure? V. Maklakov's appraisal—a forewarning of the trials of parliamentary democracy everywhere?—Guchkov slams the door—Stolypin fights back in the State Council—he defends his action in the Duma—the Duma eager for a reckoning—insults from Maklakov—the Kadets avenge themselves—Purishkevich invites applause from the left—Stolypin's day of shame—defeat in the air—the peasants ignored—the atmosphere of doom around Stolypin—time to depart, but how sorely he will yet be needed!—Stolypin's testament—how to carry it out—fate of Stolypin's program
Dark forebodings in the summer of 1911—Stolypin out of place in the festivities—his reluctance to leave St. Petersburg—Kurlov in charge of security—the Kurlov type—Stolypin slighted by the court—Stolypin unprotected—refused a bulletproof vest—Bogrov could have taken forty shots at him—Kurlov's belated warning—Stolypin's vulnerability in the opera house—no news from Kurlov—the last minutes—shots fired—the face of murder—Stolypin blesses the Emperor—the Emperor keeps his distance

CHAPTER 66
What it means to serve the state—the sure way to succeed—an official mission in quest of a portrait—Kurlov on the lower rungs—a dangerous time for those in high places—pleasing both the throne and the liberals—Kurlov's grudge against Stolypin—he leaves revolution behind for a holiday in France—money no less important than promotion—Kurlov's career in Kiev, his new patrons—Spiridovich and Kulyabko—Kurlov's intimate financial relations with Kulyabko—Kurlov enjoys the Tsar's favor—his rapid rise—Vice-Minister of the Interior—he takes Kulyakbo and Verigin up with him—commander of the Corps of Gendarmes, with the rank of general—the Sletov group—Kurlov's discreet employment of secret agents—money troubles—responsible for the Emperor's security on his travels—aspires to replace Stolypin—in charge of security at the celebrations in Kiev—Bogrov reports—how best to use him?—the festive whirl—Bogrov's information finally reaches the governor-general and Stolypin—Stolypin not invited aboard the Tsar's river steamer—security chases its own tail—Stolypin left wondering— Kulyabko's anxiety during Act I—Bogrov's telephone tapped—Kurlov withholds information from Stolypin to the very end—panic after Bogrov shoots—efforts to keep Bogrov out of the procurator's hands—a cool plan of defense—arrest the lot!—Kokovtsov's brusqueness—if Stolypin dies, blame him for everything!

CHAPTER 67
Rumors abroad in Kiev—the wounded man's condition—who is the assassin?—talk of a conspiracy—Bogrov got his ticket from the Okhrana!—"society" overjoyed at the Okhrana's disgrace—all Russia is vulnerable—sensational details—Stolypin himself responsible for his assassination—tone of the Kadet newspapers—Central Committee of the Social Revolutionary Party welcomes the assassination—the hero must be cleared of collaboration with the Okhrana!—rumors of Bogrov's splendid behavior—tone of New Times—prayers for Stolypin

CHAPTER 68
In too much of a hurry to finish him off—hurly-burly after the shooting—duty done—released from secrecy—poor Kulyabko—why the Emperor was spared—no defense counsel for Bogrov—imprisoned in Kosy Kaponir—the Lieutenant Colonel of Gendarmes gives advice—shall I forfeit the glory to save my skin?—memories of the Riviera—the halls of Monte Carlo—the years of wandering recollected—if I can't save myself I can be a millstone around the neck of the Okhrana!

CHAPTER 69
The wounded man recovers consciousness—some improvement on the first day—unable to learn anything or get through to anybody—his spirit floating freely—the Emperor stays away—the investigator—Kokovtsov—telegrams—prayers for the sick man—and still he plans for the future—the great years recalled—16 September—the Emperor still absent—the scaffolding has collapsed as I prophesied—who will carry on my work?—bury me in Kiev—17 September—the Emperor isn't coming—straining twoard the future—18 September—and still he hasn't come—it is not for us to weight Thy purposes—oblivion—last moments—Dr. Afanasiev on Stolypin

CHAPTER 70
Panic among the Kiev Jews—the government protects them—attitude of the right toward the murdered man—the Emperor's indifference plain for all to see—tone of the Russian press—tone of the European press
The coffin transferred to the Monastery of the Caves—the funeral

CHAPTER 71
Secrecy of the trial—Bogrov not allowed to supplement his deposition before the trial—evasiveness of main witnesses—no record to the court proceedings kept—Bogrov changes his testimony, now a loyal agent of the Okhrana, Stolypin's death an accident—Kulyabko's evidence: Stolypin knew all about it!—Bogrov's last words in court: he asks for better food—sentence is passed—Bogrov's farewell letter to his parents: "Your son is honorable"—hurried preparations for the execution—further interrogations of the condemned man—Lieutenant Colonel Ivanov—the interrogation as recorded—dishonor too high a price?—I don't want to die!—the rabbi's visit—on the gallows—how fortunate for all in authority

CHAPTER 72
Celebrations at the racecourse—in the imperial box at the opera—if Stolypin had resigned at the right time he'd still be alive—Nikolai and Alix discuss Stolypin—the military parade on 15 September—the ceremony at Ovruch—the visit to the Kiev high school—by river to Chernigov—the celebrations there—news of Stolypin's death—the Tsar at the hospital—"Russia still has her Susanins"—the Tsar's departure from Kiev—Kokovtsov appointed Prime Minister—a restful train journey—Nikolai's favorite yacht—celebrations at Sevastopol—who will be Minister of the Interior?—the new palace enjoyed in anticipation—looking over the palace—favorite palaces by the sea—royal robes weigh heavy—why shouldn't Kurlov be Minsiter?—the Tsar shows favor to those under investigation—Kokovtsov much easier to deal with than Stolypin—no need to regret those who are no more

CHAPTER 73 (The Tsar shows clemency)
What the public expected of the investigation—secrecy and limitations of Trusevich's inquiry—Kurlov's forced retirement—his subtle apologia—the State Council's verdict—influential pleas in mitigation—Kurlov's defense further refined—Senator Shulgin's judgment—a department of the State Council upholds Shulgin's charges—the ancients look after their own—the Tsar's pardon—symbolic of the state's decline—the life breath of elder statesmen—how could they fail to lose Russia?—the zemstvo idea flouted—Stolypin's monument—his memory mocked

CHAPTER 74
Nikolai's carefree youth—his early amusements—army service, military fun and games—the imperial hunt—a journey to the East—his impressions of Siberia—he meets Alix—his courtship and engagement—Nikolai as fiancé—he visits London—Aleksandr III's illness—missing Alix—further decline in the old Emperor's health—Nikolai's apprenticeship—his father's premature death—traveling with the Emperor's coffin—the funeral—burdensome ceremonial duties—the wedding—alone together at Tsarskoye—suffocated by paper—coming to terms with a monarch's lot—his uncles advise him—Pobedonostev or Witte? changes of mind—conflicting counsels—"senseless dreams"—the omen of the Tver Zemstvo's dish—problems of foreign policy: the secret alliance with France—the irresistible Wilhelm—Nikolai determined to reconcile France and Germany!—the three countries thwart Japan—Wilhelm on Russia's mission in the Far East—Nikolai in love with the Eastern idea—Britain the eternal enemy—the secret his father died with—the coronation gives promise of regeneration—the victims of the stampede: an ill omen?—the French ambassador's ball—the culprits pardoned—the hailstorm at the Nizhni Novogorod Exhibition—foreign travel—trusting the French—scheme for a landing on the Bosphorus—uselessness of his counselors—the imperial couple's way of life incomprehensible to high society—friendship with Wilhelm, their common concerns in Asia, Kiaochow ceded—should Russia take Port Arthur?—Wilhelm crowns Nikolai Emperor of the East—diplomacy makes his head spin—Kuropatkin's plan to slow down the arms race—Russia's notes to the great powers—world reactions—the Hague Conference—Nikolai disillusioned—the superior charms of private life—Nikolai's feelings during the Boer War—Easter perspectives—operations in China in 1900—no peace ever inside Russia!—the university strike of 1899—unruly students drafted into the army—Finland's privileges—are the zemstvos compatible with autocratic government?—the Minister of Education assassinated—mild measures—educated society implacable—Sipyagin assassinated—why can't we live together peacefully!—dynastic worries—death of Nikolai's brother Georgi—the difficulties of ruling—on his own insistence—the Tsar's heart is in the hands of God—Monsieur Philippe and his detractors—Russia's mission in Asia—Wilhelm's warmest sympathy—ministers at odds over the Asian question—Nikolai knows the East and Russia's interests better—incorrigible disaffection of educated Russians—rapid evolution of Russian policy in the Far East—clash with Japanese interest in Korea—failure of talks with Marquis Ito—Russia alone, without allies—the Emperor bypasses his ministers and seeks other helpers—Bezobrazov's "dictatorship"—canonization of St. Serafim of Sarov—creation of the Far Eastern vice-regency—death of the Princess of Hesse—at war with Japan—punish Japanese insolence! Kuropatkin's intentions—Alix's pregnancy—the Tsar's daily round—educated youth sides with Japan—attitude of the powers—a chain of military failures—the Tsar attends regimental celbrations—church services—Otsu becomes a symbol—discussing high policy—the imperial family's yearly round—a tight and loving family circle—the Tsar blesses his troops—an heir is born—Wilhelm's loyalty—the heir's first illness—Port Arthur cut off—the defeat at Liaoyang—Pleve assassinated—Svyatopolk-Mirsky appointed Minister of the Interior—how to deal with the educated class?—Alix after childbirth—hunting—regimental visits—Georgie asks for Crete—blessing the troops again—I ought to go out East myself!—further defeats—Admiral Alekseev replaced—Wilhelm urges continuation of the war with Japan—the decision to send the Baltic squadron out East—a leisurely farewell to it—the Baltic squadron opens fire on British fishing vessels—crisis in Anglo-Russian relations—Wilhelm uncertain whether to offer coaling facilities—what about France?—Wilhelm discloses his plan for a tripartite agreement—Svyatokpolk-Mirsky's conciliatory moves—educated society demands emasculation of the government—the unauthorized Zemstvo Congress of 1904—the banquets campaign—"down with the autocracy," disturbances in St. Petersburg and Moscow—conferences on the suppression of the disorders—forces to live in the St. Petersburg gloom—insolubility of Russia's problems—hunting near home—blessing the troops in winter—Port Arthur surrendered—the New Year and hopes for 1905—Uncle Sergei resigns—case shot at the blessing of the water—the strike in St. Petersburg— should he go to the Winter Palace and talk to the workers?—the petition—the government's measures before the demonstration—the Emperor's prayers—the troops forced to open fire—the Tsar's regrets—Dmitri Trepov, governor-general of St. Petersburg—Nikolai receives a workers' delegation—Wilhelm's plan for the pacification of Russia—Uncle Sergei assassinated—the dynasty held captive—disorders, riots, looting sweep the country—no forces to quell the disturbances—the educated class on strike—how could he call on them to obey authority?—firmness or compromise?—an uncompromising manifesto and a magnanimous decree issued on the same day—Nikolai's ministers also extort from him a rescript on the convocation of representatives—defeat at Mukden—Russia's fate in the balance—wild talk in public places—the Battle of Tsushima Strait—Nikolai receives Guchkov—should he swallow his pride and try to make peace talks with Japan?—Wilhelm offers to mediate—Witte sent to conduct peace talks—hopes for success and hopes for failure—Nikolai grieves over the peace treaty—the meeting at Björkö—Wilhelm extorts a secret agreement—Nikolai receives municipal and zemstvo delegates—exorbitant demands of the constitutionalists—conferences at Peterhof on the Duma—summer's minor pleasures—how soon should the Duma be summoned?— outrages in various parts of the Empire—a cruise in the Finnish skerries—title of Count bestowed on Witte—internal disorders spread—the authorities refrain from using force—the railway strike—Moscow without water—the workers refuse to wait—Kirill's morganatic marriage—ministerial feebleness—a storm brewing—Witte's urgings—time for the monarch to share power with an elected body—Nikolai's heart is against it—no other advisers to be found—even Peterhof is cut off from St. Petersburg—ought they not to restore order first?—Witte is adamant—then let it be done by royal proclamation!—Nikolasha arrives: he is offered and refuses dictatorial powers—why cannot general peace prevail?—not exactly a constitution?—a coup d'état against himself—30 October: seventeenth anniversary of the railway disaster—his relief after signing—the ungrateful exult, loyal subjects alarmed—old laws abrogated, new ones not yet formulated—"society" hostile, Witte at a loss—the strikes were subsiding before the manifesto!—we have only poured gas on the flames!—how low the country has sunk in a single month!—Russia's shame—Nikolai meets Rasputin—reviews the Guards regiments—attempts to extricate himself from the secret agreement with Wilhelm—Russia slips into an unnecessary alliance with Britain—the Bosnian humiliation—efforts to preserve friendship with Germany—the wheel of history comes full circle

JULY 1914

The benefits of dealing with Wilhelm directly—Austria's underhandedness—preparing for war—Sukhomlinov and Yanushkevich, two confident generals—Austria declares war on Serbia—the Emperor consents to partial mobilization—telegram asking Wilhelm to restrain Austria—Yanushkevich says partial mobilization impossible—what will England do?—the Tsar provisionally approves general mobilization—Austrian insolence—threats from the Reichskanzler, reassurance from Wilhelm—the Austrians bombard Belgrade—Wilhelm offers to reconcile Nikolai with Vienna—Nikolai calls a halt to general mobilization and again says no—his ties of affection with Wilhelm the only hope—Sazonov produces new arguments—the German fleet approaches—Nikolai agrees to mobilize—Wilhelm has never been an enemy!—mobilization notices on red paper—Sazonov unwilling to negotiate with Austria—the Emperor prevented from assuming Supreme Command—another friendly telegram to Wilhelm—Nikolai receives the German ambassador—the Tsar's and the Kaiser's telegrams out of phase—is there no way to stop it?—Wilhelm's triumphal entry into Berlin—Germany's ultimatum to Russia—St. Serafim of Sarov's feast day—Nikolasha appointed Supreme Commander—telegrams and prayers—Germany declares war—like the breakup of a family—another errant telegram—by yacht to Petersburg—the service at the Winter Palace—the populace on the palace square—crowned Tsar too young

DOCUMENT No. 8
July 1914: Letter to the Emperor from Rasputin

CHAPTER 75
The miracle of national reconciliation—must there be war?—how to merge with the people—arguments among the Bestuzhev students—Petersburg and Petrograd—a woman professor—the price of emancipation—Olda Orestovna—the study of the Middle Ages—personal responsibility

CHAPTER 76
The philosophy of Kharitonova's high school—Aglaida Fedoseevna's domestic principles—joys and sorrows with her children—Ksenia's troubles—her ride through Rostov—Zhenya's happiness—the headmistress plays patience—her anxiety for Yarik—Yurik is catching the fever

CHAPTER 77
(A glace at the newspapers)

CHAPTER 78
The engineers Obodovsky and Arkhangorodsky—to turn my hand to making a life for Russia—the tour of inspection—via revolution and emigration to serious work—Obodovsky's plans—the Northeast and Russia's future

CHAPTER 79
The engineer's wife—the young people angered by Jewish patriotic demonstrations—lunch with the Arkhangorodskys—the young people argue with the engineers—exploitation, production, and distribution—where to the revolutionaries get their funds?—Mademoiselle—Ksenia and her hosts—the right attitude toward revolution—the Black Hundreds and the Red Hundreds

CHAPTER 80
The ups and downs of Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolaevich—the Supreme Commander's staff not of his own choosing—his belief in signs from heaven—his routine at Supreme Headquarters—his devotion to France—growing concern for Samsonov's army—Vorotyntsev turns up—an unrepeatable moment—Vorotyntsev reports—the Grand Duke's carriage unrocked—a gracious telegram from the Emperor—he that endures to the end shall be saved

DOCUMENT No. 9
German leaflet dropped from an airplane

CHAPTER 81
Vorotyntsev and Svechin—speak your mind just once!—how high up does responsibility for the operation go?—mutiny or responsible action—why did we get into this war?—victory at Lvov will be used to mask defeat in East Prussia—farewell to Blagodarev

CHAPTER 82
Conference at Supreme HQ—description of participants—Nikolai Nikolaevich's sympathies and his blind spots—Vorotynstev explodes—his defense of the 2nd Army—strategic and governmental mistakes—Vorotyntsev ordered out—telegram on the capture of Lvov

DOCUMENT No. 10
2 September: Telegram from the Supreme Commander to the Emperor

Index of Names
Map