Бесплатный фрагмент - Semenovsky regiment. Blood and Steel. Revolution of 1905

Power is ghostly, like morning fog, and rests only on the tips of the bayonets of soldiers loyal to it

From the Author

Those terrible events, late 1904 — early 1905, look incredible and, even strange, rather almost fabulous from the top of our time. The events in that year in Zemstvo, opened by the Front of a large layer of the liberal elite to Emperor Nikolai Alexandrovich, led to a difficult situation, officials were engaged in hidden sabotage, in fact, went over to the side of the front. Cunning and short-sighted actions at the same time led to open indignation of the proletarians. A group consisting of members of the Free Economic Society, as well as cliques of Mr. Witte. was very influential, and decided on open actions when the Sovereign did not allow the convening of the Zemsky Sobor. Then, in modern terms, Witte played the card of the «Union of Workers of St. Petersburg,» moreover, blindly. He provoked a conflict, and did everything possible so that the delegates of the workers could not meet with the King. The suffering of the common people was indiscriminate to these heartless nobles, they simply craved the same privileges as the British aristocrats. Witte and his associates, without hesitation, would sacrifice both the King and the entire august family to achieve their goals. In the meantime, they tried to discredit the authority of the sovereign.

The fight became more and more inevitable. And, these days, the imperial life guards did not abandon their emperor. The guards did not deny, and simply carried out the order, and in the days of the Moscow rebellion. when the militants of parties and workers’ squads, or even just robbers and rapists, having seized weapons, began to plunder other people’s property and kill defenseless inhabitants. Chaos reigned in Moscow. Well, the massacre in Moscow was provoked by the connivance of the authorities, immediately, on December 7, who did not arrest the instigators of the bloody riot.

The guards were able to fulfill their duty, regardless of anything. Neither the words of the liberal press nor the slander of the intellectuals could overturn their courage and determination. Loyalty to the oath, honesty and loyalty to the Sovereign and Empire prevailed. However, the Life Guards of Nicholas II did not calculate whether the Tsar was good or bad, not tall enough, or married incorrectly. They were just doing what they had to do. It was they, the Life Guards, who did not allow Russia to fall into the abyss back in 1905. Although, everything was much harder than in February 1917. Simply, then in Petrograd there was no second colonel Min, and there were only one Dzhunkovsky and the princes of Lviv. The Life Guards, the only one, remained on guard of the state, and coped with the task during the riots of 1905.

Unlike the KGB of the USSR, which plunged the USSR into chaos. In 1989—1991, this service became treacherous in essence, going over to the side of traitors, to the side of foreign states. The Soviet Army, on the other hand, showed cowardice and indecision, the generals were afraid to make the necessary decisions, or were bribed. And, the USSR was destroyed by foreign spies. He did not fall under his own weight, as they try to lie to us. And it was destroyed by its own elite, as in February 1917, and the same events took place in Moscow in August 1991. And in February 1917 and in August 1991, the elites longed for the possibility of uncontrolled enrichment and impunity, which, unfortunately, they were able to achieve in our misfortune.

In China, the generals were not afraid and showed rigidity and fought back the rebels in Tiananmen Square. They crushed the traitors, did not step aside, but fulfilled their duty. This is the lesson of history, that everything is decided by the power of weapons and decisiveness, and not pieces of paper with seals called laws.

Prologue

Georgy Alexandrovich slowly walked along the parade ground of his regiment, carefully watching how the sergeant major conducts combat exercises with soldiers.

The day today turned out to be quite good, and such a long-awaited Christmas was approaching, with its small and great joys. Gifts for the daughter of Natalie and his wife, beloved Ekaterina Sergeevna, he prepared in advance, following this rule strictly. I already imagined how little Natalie would rejoice at such wonderful surprises. And for him, to be honest, the main surprise was the appointment to this position. One of the oldest regiments of the Russian army, and the last chief, Baron von Langof, became the head of the Petrovsky brigade from the chiefs of the regiment, that is, he stayed with them to pull the service strap. Colonel Istomin, who, like him, was also the head of the battalion, took the post of overseer of the Sovereign’s property in the Moscow Kremlin, becoming his commandant. Well, he received the long-awaited appointment to his beloved regiment, the head, where he began his military service as an ensign.

Feldwebel kept well done, managed with intelligence and meaning, and without raising his voice. That’s what it means, a man in his place!

For an officer who had been in the ranks for thirty years, the matter was ordinary, but informative. Not out of spite or bad mood, a non-commissioned officer with many stripes on his overcoat sleeve is doing this. The colonel himself did not immediately understand this, and probably ten years later, after memorable battles, now a long war in Bulgaria. I realized that this is not a drill, but a way to make a soldier accustomed to order, to create a habit of feeling his comrades nearby. And, follow orders, without hesitation. Also did not immediately understand it. Well, in the war, in battles with the Turks. You carry out the order, as it should, without even asking yourself a question, why? And you will stay alive and win…

Not every sergeant major in the companies of his regiment was remembered by Colonel Min, but he noticed this, noticeable, with important sideburns. It was Erofeev, the colonel heard how the non-commissioned officer commanded the platoon:

— Once, once, left-right… On.. left! Well done, you should immediately hear the order of the boss! — the sergeant major gave commands.

Here, and the old servant of the chief saw, he turned to the ranks, and shouted in a perfectly set voice:

— Smirna!

The soldiers famously stretched out into the frunt. And the sergeant major himself ran up to the colonel, stopped about six steps, and, according to the charter, took three steps to the chief, saluted and famously reported:

— Your high-bearded! I conduct combat exercises with the second platoon of the fourteenth company!

— Excellent, sergeant major. Continue!

And, so as not to embarrass the soldiers with excessive attention, Min rushed to the headquarters of the regiment. Yes, this surname was in his family, just Min, and no von Min. And not from Germans of origin, but from Scots, And the grandfather, the founder of the clan, was a purely civilian man, an engineer who arrived in Russia from Scotland. But Father, went to the generals. Such a career in Britain would simply be impossible. And he could never get such a regiment under command, the oldest, along with Preobrazhensky. For example, the Grenadier Guards or the Coldstream Guards could hardly even enter the service. Min understood all this, and appreciated the trust of his sovereign.

The officer opened the door, climbed the stairs. Everything was familiar here for an officer who had long served in the army. In the chancellery thundered newfangled typewriters, «Underwood,» a pair of maidens sporingly controlled these newfangled devices. Nearby lay trays full of printed orders and forms.

Min gave honor to the regimental banner, the famous banner of their regiment, decorated with St. George ribbons. The sentry standing at the banner was like this relic, stately and tall, a true fellow. The colonel even perked up a little, and indeed, recently passed the day of November 21, a great holiday, the Day of the Entry of Our Lady into the temple, a regimental holiday. And yes, he accepted the regiment on December 5 of this year.

But all one thing was dreary in his soul, alarming, after all this news, and today’s return from Tsarskoye Selo, where he was received by the Sovereign. Before that, he managed to talk with the duty general, Prince Golitsyn, and was able to understand all the anxiety of the Imperial Court. This conversation only reinforced his worst fears.

But then Lieutenant Colonels Riman 1st Nikolai Karlovich, Baron Maidel Roman Karlovich, von Etter Ivan Sevastyanovich got up, and he, as he should, greeted his officers, the commander of the battalions of the Semenovsky regiment.

— Sirs, good to see you.

— So what, Georgy Alexandrovich? What is heard at the top? said von Etter.

«It’s not going well. And August Fedorovich confirms the fears. Turmoil begins… With this Zemstvo, with a petition, Mr. Witte went too far. And here, and the war with the Japanese, everything is one to one, as if on purpose!

«Yes, now August Fyodorovich Langof is the head of the Petrovsky brigade,» Riemann said, «he knows what’s what.

— And another, as I heard from the chief of police. Labor unions stirred. Their zemstvo support.

— So, our gentlemen liberals decided to shake the calloused hands of artisans? And the smell of sweat and burning does not bother? Riemann chuckled, «everyone is wise, these friends of Mr. Witte. They want to bring us all under the monastery! Especially, Prince Lvov, and his gang! That’s who should be arrested, but sent to Siberia forever!

— Maybe we will be sent to the army? It’s a shame to sit in St. Petersburg, gentlemen! — Maidel was indignant, — all the officers are awaiting the decision of the Sovereign!

— In such an environment, Baron, ’and Riemann chuckled again,» I’m afraid we’ll find another matter.

— What?

— For which the First Emperor created his Amusement. To defend his See. We, gentlemen, have to disperse these rebels and troublemakers with a bayonet and bullet.

— Potishe, Nikolai Karlovich, — asked Min, — do not talk about it, so loudly.

The chief of the regiment fully understood the validity of Rimann’s words. And the way several generals wished for this, it would be necessary to arrest this Government of troublemakers, led by Witte, and send them all to the Peter and Paul Fortress. That others would be discouraged to muddy the water. Reassure these zemstvo, yes, the unbowed liberals, who in life did not raise anything heavier than a silver spoon. And then, out of stupidity and anger, these stupid people raised such an element that could cover Russia with their heads, flooding it with blood. But no, the Life Guards will not allow this, Colonel Min himself was sure of this. And, he was going to fulfill any order of the sovereign.

Part One. Bloody Sunday

Putilov plant

Work in the middle of the day was just boiling in the workshops. To tell the truth, everything was not bad here. A great new building, with huge windows that gave plenty of light, high ceilings and good ventilation. The lighting was electric, bright lamps burned with clean light. Convenient, good, just work, no need to be distracted by empty.

The carpenter laid in the trolley in even rows carefully treated with fugank boards. He liked what he did. I even loved the smell of wood, this incomparable bright aroma. I would never exchange this case for any other, say, iron. Gar, crash, it was not his, did not like such a job by a skilled craftsman.

Hands, as if they themselves did such a familiar job. Here, however, he overlooked, dropped several boards in a pile of sawdust. He even sighed with grief, took off his cap, and slammed it on his gray harem pants.

— Sergunin, I warned you! Why didn’t you take the sawdust, damn it! How will the fire happen? Did you forget everything?

— Yes, Mr. Master, everything is under our supervision… So, and the barrel of water is full, I spill a bunch all the time… We try, we remember the instructions of the authorities.

— Keep your mouth shut, Fedorov! Don’t consider yourself smarter than the master. What happened to whom to answer? Something for you?

— So the fines, I suppose, no one canceled! Here, for all the nonsense earned deprive. Are we so directly rich, or what?

— Well, and you, Ukolov, consider yourself well done. So frankly, it will not be easy for you to find a job. You are with us, not a turner or a milling machine operator. Carpenters and carpenters are lined up a lot, near the board, everyone should get a hunt and a state-owned apartment, and the flow is not bad. Where will you go, to your village, to your Kolpino? You can’t earn that kind of money anywhere. And they won’t take you to the undertakers. Their artel is strict, they don’t take strangers, and the master laughed, satisfied with himself utterly.

— Not the case like that. Not according to conscience. Why should you, Mr. Tevtyunin, cling to Sergunin? Works, man, tries. The daily lesson performs exactly, on time, does not detain anyone. That car, we even finished upholstering with wood early. And the shop manager declared gratitude.

— And you, Subbotin, there? Well, I didn’t expect it! Everyone from the fact that you go to this «Meeting of Workers» has lost all respect for the authorities. No, to attend Sunday school, or there, the factory reading room, we have heard enough of various blanks!

The master turned red, it became clear that he was angry. Yes, and the character is complicated, the artisans knew about it.

— So good people are going, Mr. Master, — Subbotin answered with a smile, — sensible. They are glad about the workers, about their needs. You know, our life is not easy, and the prices in St. Petersburg are rather big.

— Okay, that’s it! — and Tevtyunin waved his hand, as if he chopped with a saber, — I dismiss Sergunin, and Fedorov and Ukolov. And you, Subbotin, too, so that the master does not contradict, but does not climb into his own business!

— How so, master? It’s not human, it’s wrong! — noted Subbotin.

— So let the Workers «Assembly think of you. And money for food gives you. And you, gentlemen, artisans, at the end of the week go to the factory office, for calculation. That’s it!

And the master, no longer wanting to discuss what had happened, went further, through a huge workshop, checking the work. Other artisans only looked at their comrades, but no one quit their jobs, fearing fines.

— What are you looking at? Or is the day over? — Subbotin calmly said, — the work must be completed!

Workers’ Union

— So, you all heard, comrades, how unfairly master Tetyavkin treated the woodworking workshops of the Putilov plant with our comrades Sergunin, Subbotin, Fedorov and Ukolov. The dismissal was not fair and we have to stand up for them. Otherwise, after all, anyone can be deprived of a place at the wrong request of any factory manager.

He spoke so ardently, and confidently, a man, about thirty years old, standing at the table. The audience listened, nodded animatedly, agreeing with the arguments of their leader. The place was chosen, quite suitable, among the working village on Vasilievsky Island. So, there were rumors among the workers that almost hundreds of activists were gathering. Yes, there were fewer dedicated comrades. And where could you sit with a hundred people?

Under the ceiling of a large room, in the dim light of a tin lampshade, there was gray smoke from cheap tobacco. Yes, the people were accustomed to a lot, and were extremely passionate about talking, so everyone sat quietly. And everyone smoked, from the first to the tenth.

— So this is understandable, — an elderly worker noticed slowly and with significance, with pleasure to tighten cigarettes with smoke, — this is not the first time this has happened, and again from master Tetyavkin. What will we decide, Ivan Fomich? Society thinks differently…

— That’s what I’m talking about, Comrade Lavrentiev. Our friends from all departments of our «Union» in St. Petersburg sent us. We are simply obliged to stand up for our comrades, to show working solidarity. Otherwise, and tomorrow, and we, like husky dogs, will be thrown out of the threshold. And our Soyuz will cease to be respected, among us, artisans.

— You can and simply do, teach Tetyavkin a little, so that society would respect in the future…

— Verily say… It is necessary to brainwash it…

— It’s something to say Semyon, in the evening to meet, yes to explain. If he doesn’t understand well!

— And, it would be nice to open the windows, otherwise we’ll burn it? — one of the delegates noticed with a laugh.

— And that’s right. And then, the devils, you can’t breathe… — added smiling, Ivan, — Martha! Bring tea, be kind! And crumpets, of course! And then he was hungry, for such a conversation! And I’m not alone!

One of the artisans rose, opened the satin curtains on a low window, and opened the shutter, giving way to cold air. It smelled noticeably of winter cold and sea.

The woman brought a tin tray, with glass glasses in curly cup holders. And then a large dish with crumpets and plates. Although they were now open in the vents, and the aroma of the freshest oven filled the room, right up to the ceiling.

— From, please take a bite, — said Vasiliev.

«So, Ivan Fomich,» Lavrentiev noted, «people are different here, students and philistines. They were called there, «revolutionaries.» Social Democrats, yes Social Revolutionaries… Say, they want to give our business a political coloring.

— Drive them into the neck, these geese, — Vasiliev answered wickedly, but grabbed the table with his fist, — the working man lacks another clamp on his neck! I know all of them… They collect money from fools, they say, for a common cause, but they themselves, according to Switzerland and France, sit, drink coffee there, at the expense of the people… Everything is clean with us, I, but Father George can report for every penny of the people. Here, now, the fund is ready for a strike. If the owners do not return our comrades to work, then we will go on strike! And the money, from contributions, will go to help the artisans. Father George promised to meet with the mayor, from the estate of the «Workers’ Assembly.»

— You say correctly, Ivan Vasilyevich, right… And who will we send to the director of the Putilov plant? Lavrentiev smiled cheekily.

— So, Zakhar Semenovich, — Vasiliev answered, — I don’t see anyone better than Inozemtsev. An intelligent worker, skillful and intelligent, people respect him. Yes, from the Narva branch of the Society, let a few people go with him, talk to Mr. Smirnov. What will other delegates say? From all branches of society?

— We know this master well. Sensible, no doubt. Yes, you, Ivan Vasilievich, better manage. With our dear Sergey Ivanovich.

— Lavrentiev says correctly, — Inozemtsev himself got involved, — people trust you more, Ivan.

There were no special disputes, it did not happen. Everyone just cursed their heads in response, giving authority to such an event.

Workers sat here, interpreted about their daily needs, not understanding themselves what History was doing now, changing everything in this world, at the usual conversation. And then, ordinary people, with their own minds, without any intellectuals, and aristocrats, and other abstruse personalities, quite coped, and they themselves began to decide their fate.

— And if Smirnov does not agree? Yes, the labor inspectorate will not stand up for the dismissed comrades? And what does Father George say?

— Then, my dear comrade Lavrentiev, we will go on strike… We can’t be afraid, this is stupid. Our comrades will lose respect for us. And the factory administration.

Ivan Vasiliev calmly said this. True, it was dreary now on his soul, but it was impossible to retreat.

— Here, here! All here, brothers! — one of the artisans buzzed.

— You, Eroshka, go for it. You’ll spoil the whole thing, «Lavrentiev said, frowning.

— Sure, no bedlam to fix! — Vasiliev said, — the police bailiff expects from us that we will repair the booze. Immediately then everyone is stuffed into a funnel, but into a suit. Do not shout, you comrades, but speak in line. And I will begin, since the delegates sentenced me to that.

— Right, Ivan Vasilich, you always say business! — agreed first Lavrentiev.

«Yes, we understand, not stupid, I suppose,» Eroshka whispered.

One of the young workers encouragingly slapped the young boy on the shoulder, and all together, with a hundred artisans, approached the office building of the Putilov plant.

The police bailiff was the first to jump out of the door, evil examining the workers who approached.

— What came? Or do you have nothing to do? he shouted, raising his bossy voice.

— So, your nobility, purely on business, — Vasiliev, who came forward, calmly answered, — on our factory affairs. About workers. We want to talk with Mr. Smirnov, the director of the plant.

— You’re… Busy after all Sergey Ivanovich, you have to wait.

— So we will wait, it’s important. Tell me, delegates from the Workers’ Assembly came about the illegal dismissal of our comrades.

— What… Expect.

And the police officer, dusted off his bash and trademark overcoat from falling snow. He did it leisurely, for show, watched the workers look at him.

It was still a winter day, and the artisans shivered chillingly in their short coats. And those who still wore smart jackets with varnish visors covered their ears red from the cold with their palms.

— Well, what is there? Will he come soon?

— Or escaped, through another exit. Exhausted!

Such voices were increasingly heard among the workers who were tired of waiting.

— Calm down, comrades! — Vasiliev tried to encourage the workers, — stand your ground!

But now, the oak door creaked, and Sergei Ivanovich Smirnov came out on the porch. Every director of the Putilov plant was known.

Some of the artisans reached for their hats, but Vasiliev looked evil at such, very inclined to the authorities, and quietly said:

— No need to break your hats… We are no worse than this gentleman, too, we have respect for ourselves…

— So what came, factory workers? — the director began the speech first, — otherwise it’s cold, why stand in vain?

«Here, Mr. Smirnov, is a demand to you from the Workers’ Assembly,» Vasiliev replied, stepping forward with the paper, «about the illegal dismissal of our comrades.»

— Who will you be? — asked Smirnov with irony.

— Ivan Vasilievich Vasiliev, chairman of the «Union of the Assembly.» Authorized by all branches of the «Assembly of Workers» of St. Petersburg to negotiate with the factory administration.

— Forgive, gentlemen, so I will not accept your letters. As far as I know, Soyuz has no right to represent the rights of artisans. Well, of course, I will listen to the dissatisfied workers themselves.

— Okay… Comrades, go to the factory office.

Subbotin, Sergunin, Fedorov and Ukolov went to the stairs. Looking back at our own, it was clear that we were hesitant and wary of the turn of the matter.

— And yet, Mr. Smirnov, take the paper, — Vasiliev insisted.

The director frowned displeased, but still, did not refuse the elected artisans.

— And you disperse, there is nothing to pillar here! — I took command of the police bailiff, — go, what are you standing here!

The guardian of the law shouted, painted a thick face from Natuga. But it was clear that he himself was scared. He often touched with his palm in a white glove, the handle of his saber. Or, the same palm, as if by itself, outside the will of the owner, so affectionately and tenderly stroked the black holster of the revolver.

Father George at the mayor Fullon

— All well, comrades. Mr. Mayor will certainly support us, — said the priest, sitting in the line.

The wagon was noticeably shaken on the cobblestone pavement, the runners glided with crunch and grinding, but everyone was accustomed to this, did not fall, kept tight. Here, on the pews, sat six delegates from the Workers’ Assembly. They listened to their leader with pleasure, nodded, agreeing with reasonable arguments.

— Yes, the «Inspectorate for Workers’ Affairs» did not help us, they really did not even listen. Mr. Chizhov said that he did not recognize our society, the Workers’ Union, — Lavrentiev said displeased

— Not all at once, of course. But, His Excellency Ivan Andrevich Fullon, is ready to support us. He telephoned me himself, asked me to come to sort out what had happened. Yes, and the sovereign always remembers us. And officials, they are without exception, only stand for the rich, — the priest recalled.

— It’s for sure… — the artisan agreed with the weight in his voice.

— So we will talk with the mayor, I am sure that they will support and help us here. Ivan Andreevich will certainly accept the deputation, — Father George repeated again.

His companions looked at the priest’s calm face, and also did not cause concern yet. Confidence in the success of the case was passed on to the artisans. They talked a lot of hard-hitting about Father George, curiously named by his last name, «Gapon,» because they recognized this person’s rare gift of conviction. And considerable charisma, ability and talent to lead. And just energy and business. It is not easy for Father George to become the leader of the Workers’ Assembly on a par with Vasiliev.

While talking like that, the line rolled up to the mansion of the St. Petersburg mayor. At the cast-iron gate stood a brave, mustachioed city, prominent and stately

The policeman approached the cab driver, and Father George gave the paper, with a seal and signature from Mr. Fullon.

«His Excellency made me an appointment,» said Gapon.

— Yes, I’ve been warned. Come to the front gate. You will be met.

And then, the mayor was able to surprise. The guests were greeted by a majord with a staff and livery, who opened the door to visitors. In the hallway they were met by the owner of the house himself, smiling warmly. So, as if very happy. The mayor was even in the military uniform, and with orders and a sword on his side.

— Father George! — Fullon said hello first.

This official came under blessing, bowing his head and kissed the priest’s hand.

— Good evening! — and then shook hands with each artisan, without repairing.

It is clear, not as with equal, but with people respected by him. It was unusual for these people, and they did not have such presences. The workers appreciated the politeness of an important person, to be honest, they were not used to such treatment. That such an official, and the hands of simple workers shakes, the face does not bend.

— What, come in. Let’s drink tea, talk. Is it important? Wouldn’t you be going to come here on New Year’s Eve?

— So of course, Your Excellency, — Lavrentiev answered with a cunning face.

A cook on a cart brought cups, then a custard kettle with a samovar. I poured tea and quickly and skillfully arranged the devices. Sugar and bagels looked great on a special dish, in the middle of the table.

— Ivan Andreevich, — Gapon began, — here, an appeal about working needs. And then Mr. Smirnov, director of the Putilov plant, does not want to listen to us. Mr. Chizhov from the Inspectorate also considers the requirements to be wrong, unnecessary, rude. And here it is stated about the rates for work, and about working conditions. And especially that the dismissal of workers would henceforth be possible only by agreement with the «Assembly of Workers.» Well, of course, we petition for the establishment of an eight-hour working day.

— Not all at once, not all at once, gentlemen! -Fullon even moved away from the table in excitement — schools for workers, hospitals, so this is the most important thing. But just like that… Say, workers are poorly treated. Yes, there are no drugs for many diseases yet! Tuberculosis, scarlet fever, cholera, diphtheria… And I ask you to help! Be sure to have soap at the washbasins, and the water just boiled for drinking. There are factory baths, free… And before that it was, people, I suppose they forgot… When there was no electricity, full daylight worked, that’s where eleven working hours came from. In winter — and he chuckled — the factories barely worked until lunchtime. The sun came in and that was it… — he spoke with pleasure — so science and progress make life much easier. Sewerage, water supply, electricity. And soon, I read in the newspapers, refrigerators will be in houses instead of cellars, — Fullon said in syllables, — to store food. Yes, gas stoves will become instead of wood.

— And in the canteens, by the way, your Excellency, the bosses with meat and potatoes flutter. Cabbage puts little, pickled cucumbers are bad. And, the workers say, Savva Morozov is especially involved in this.

— Lavrentiev, right? Am I wrong? So I can say, Lavrentiev, — the mayor answered with a laugh, — there is enough money for Mr. Morozov, for which he does not have to lay out potatoes. They steal there, about Excuse me, your fellow chefs… And here, it was possible to allow the workers’ unions to check the factory canteens. Quite a good thought, and it’s easy to do it!

It was evident that the mayor was very pleased with his words.

— Yes, especially, artisans are hot only in factories eat. It is forbidden to cook in working barracks, there are no kitchens there, — said Father George, with sadness in his voice, — at least primuses were allowed.

— Everyone will burn, devils, — Fullon nodded negatively, — samovars are standing in the corridors, and okay… That’s what I’m talking about, not everything is working out yet. But where did you come from, Lavrentiev? From the Yaroslavl province, not otherwise?

— Exactly, Your Excellency.

— And what, you lived richer in your village? Bread will not be particularly born there, well, potatoes there, turnips, of course, and mushrooms from the forest. A couple of cows… No, and you won’t die of hunger, but you won’t find money for extra felt boots. And here, I look, I was able to buy an accordion for myself, and your boots are good.

— It’s certainly… Here in the German Empire, there everyone has pensions, at the age of sixty. Parliament, yes workers’ unions are allowed, — another artisan calmly added, — Europe, one word…

— In Russia, but no one pays taxes. Here, they just take on the church and also the Land Tax. And retire, so save to the bank and save. Who forbids? And then, not everyone will live to be sixty-five years old.

— However, pension, not bad because it…

— And taxes in Germany are considerable. And in Russia there are only excise taxes, but they collect for the church, — the mayor repeated.

Gapon, however, kept silent about the Imperial Reichstag, where citizens of deputies elected. And the mayor did not mention it.

— So I’ll work, I’ll start a dozen cows, I’ll sell oil on the market. Then I will heal.

— You can see! — Fullon came to life — work gives you many opportunities. Especially if you spend money wisely. So I heard your wishes, I will help in many ways, but the demands to fire the workers by the consent of your Union are not yet feasible.

The mayor got up, making it clear that the conversation was over. It seems that Mr. Fullon was not too bad. The delegates also got up, put on their hats and left the living room.

— So what do you say, Father George? — asked Lavrentiev with dissatisfaction, — except for the canteens, everything else, as if in the future. Then, someday… And what now, in the present? Nothing worked. The factory authorities do not take us seriously, that’s the point…

Gapon straightened his fur hat, raised the collar of his black coat, and said in a deaf voice:

— After the New Year, the third of January, the strike will still begin… We have nowhere to go, and we cannot retreat. Tell your comrades that everyone is ready…

Strike action

A heavy and low beep was announced, rather just poured around the neighborhood, in the suburbs, in working settlements, shedding craftsmen for a long and difficult working day. Like small streams, groups of people stretched from low factory barracks and settlements, merging along the road into a full-flowing river, from walking artisans. Thousands and thousands of workers were already hurriedly walking to the plant. People greeted warmly, seeing their comrades in workshops and plots.

«How’s it going?» Nikolai asked Vasiliev quietly.

These two, now walking side by side, count in the foot, sweeping away the dark snow with the knocked-out heels of their yal boots.

— Yes, resolved. The Narva department approved everything, — the chairman of the Workers’ Union calmly replied, — as we enter the workshops, you and your comrades take the workers off the machines, and take them to a gathering. But, do everything without gum and sodom. But, and don’t let anyone stay at work. Since it was decided at the gathering, it means that we are doing so. All at the same time should be.

— Yes understood, Ivan Vasilyevich. Do not drive, do not doubt!

— And then, Nikolai, we move all together to the plant management, but we warn about the beginning of the strike. Culturally, educated, without carnage…

— That Mr. Smirnov will be upset! Petrov said with a grin.

— There we will look… And, the guys are worse, send with appeals to neighboring factories. On Franco-Russian, Metal, and others… Together, it will become easier to stand for a common cause. Everyone, immediately, will not be broken, gendarmes and police.

— I will do everything, do not hesitate! Well, Lavrentiev, will we work? he turned to the elderly artisan who was walking next to them.

— Yes, I always… As with the community, so it means right… Nishto, let’s manage, — the interlocutor answered with confidence.

Vasiliev did not even notice other workers during the conversation, with the explicit approval of those who were listening to what he was saying now.

— You don’t worry, Ivan Vasilyevich, we won’t lag behind. And we ourselves will become strong, and we will not let others be betrayed.

— Thank you, Mikhail, — answered the leader of the artisans.

He did not expect that these would support him, he thought. And then, apparently, people suffered, accumulated quite anger towards the authorities.

And the human river poured into the wide factory gates, and now it diverged, broke into small sleeves, along all the departures and workshops of a huge enterprise. As if blood poured in, making a monster of brick and became a living being capable of creating. Again there was a factory beep, and a new working day would have to begin…

But no, people suddenly ran from workshop to workshop, as if notifying others about something important. And, on the contrary, several people ran out of the workshops, and went to the building of the factory office, and took refuge there, behind the oak doors.

And the plant drilled, and like a volcano, splashed out human lava. She slowly flowed, seething with strain, to the factory office. Ahead of everyone were the activists of the «Union» Vasiliev, Petrov, did not hide behind the backs of their comrades.

A police bailiff jumped onto the stairs, as if scalded with boiled boiling water, attaching the saber to the belt on the move. He frantically adjusted his fur hat, but moved his eyebrows frantically, trying to hide his fright. And for sure, the noisy volumes of artisans of several thousand people could instill fear in anyone.

— What have you come? Nothing to do? — the guardian of the law began to try to take the throat.

— Do not shout, we are not afraid of you. Call Mr. Smirnov, we must notify him of the start of the strike, — the chief from Soyuz began to speak.

— And who will you be, well done?

— Chairman of the Workers’ Assembly, Ivan Vasilievich Vasiliev.

— You say well. Not from the «revolutioners» hour?

— Someday we do such nonsense, your nobility. Everything is in labor. So will you call?

— Expect. This is for you, not in a wine shop, to stand, right away, they cannot stand it… Sergei Ivanovich is busy. But, I’ll report back.

I didn’t have to wait that long. The director of the Putilov factories, Mr. Smirnov, appeared. He did not speak first, looked at the workers’ deputation. Started Vasiliev:

— We, as workers of Putilov factories, will present you with these requirements. Of the main ones, it is to restore our dismissed comrades at work, and calculate master Tetyavkin. Set an eight-hour working day at factories. Prices for labor should be set fair, in agreement with the «Union of Workers,» and it is possible to dismiss workers in the future only in agreement with the «Union of Workers,» nothing else.

— These are completely impossible requirements, — Smirnov began, — and the working day is established by the Ministry of Finance. The prerogative of hiring employees and remuneration refers exclusively to the duties of the administration, and is agreed with the shareholders of the enterprise. Don’t they beg workers to appropriate someone else’s property?

— In this case, Soyuz announces the start of the strike, Mr. Smirnov! Vasiliev solemnly announced.

— And I, as the director, warn! That if the workers do not start work, then in three days, all of them will be fired! I ask you to think carefully before making such rash decisions, gentlemen!

— Do not intimidate us, Mr. Smirnov! Will not come out with you! All, diverge, comrades!

Smirnov wanted to add something else, but he was no longer obeyed, the artisans dispersed to their places.

And the plant, as if frozen, lurked, calmed down. Yes, the lighting accelerated this winter darkness at such an early hour, but the shafts of the machines that drove the machines for processing parts stood up. It was unusual and the craftsmen themselves, such silence simply cut the ears.

«You know how, Ivan Vasilyevich,» Lavrentiev said quietly.

— Nothing, everything will stand, rest. And there, in a week, you look, and everything will spin more fun and work again. Without us, Lavrentiev, nothing will be done. Mr. mayor himself, or a police bailiff, I suppose, will not become machines!

Loud laughter was a response to Vasiliev’s words. The artisans talked merrily among themselves. Yes, it seems that things were getting better, ordinary people believed in their strength, as the chairman of the Workers’ Union gladly decided. So, they could withstand and win.

«Petition for the needs of workers»

— We have a simple business, Ivan Vasilyevich, oh and difficult. And let the whole working Petersburg join the Putilovsky strike, read it. Each artisan, from enterprises, decided to fight for his rights… But, the protest fizzles out, oh, fizzles out…

— What are you, Father George. It seems to you that’s all, I think. You need to rest, unwind. So, and you are tired of riding around St. Petersburg, — said Vasiliev.

The worker drank tea slowly. In front of them stood several glasses of tea, on a saucer, next to it, lay sugar and bagels, unwise, but beloved delicacies of craftsmen. And here, in the tavern on the Narva outpost, it was calm and quiet, only blows on the balls were heard. Activists, from the working squad, entertained themselves with a game of billiards.

— And so, Ivan Vasilyevich… It’s restless for me, I feel that a black carriage will come for me soon, and I will go to remote places. The exile, or even in the monastery, in Tobolsk, will lock me up.

— Nothing, Father George. Working people will not betray you, comrades will help. You don’t go to these intellectuals… The people are worried. This pure audience is only a lot of others to use in their affairs. We will cry from these, «revolutionary,» not for the workers they stand, but for their power. They live by robbery. Bad people, evil, unkind, murderers.

— More I myself with Maxim Gorky meet. After all, an honest person stands for working people. He himself spent his whole life, from the other side, — Gapon replied, having drunk a little tea from his glass, — and this is what they advised… We, like Zemstvo, should turn to the sovereign with a petition. After all, he does not know about our troubles, around officials surround him. So you need to directly ask him for intercessions. And no matter what they refuse, you have to go with a procession, the Godmother, to the king-priest himself

— But you say correctly, Father George, — Vasiliev beamed, — or even really, people are worried, doubt, but what will happen to us with a strike? The owners, you see, hesitate to negotiate. Not otherwise, on officials, on the police with gendarmes hope. And we, like this, from the other side! — and quite laughed.

— Well, we sketched the text, printed. Will you look? With your own eyes?

Sovereign!

We, workers and residents of St. Petersburg of different classes, our wives, and children, and helpless old parents, came to you, sovereign, to seek truth and protection. We are impoverished, we are oppressed, burdened with back-breaking labor, we are abused, people are not recognized in us, we are treated as slaves who must endure their bitter fate and be silent. We endured, but we are pushed further and further into a maelstrom of poverty, disempowerment and ignorance, we are suffocated by despotism and arbitrariness, and we are suffocating. No more strength, sovereign. The limit of patience has come. For us, that terrible moment has come when death is better than the continuation of unbearable torment.

And so we quit our job and told our owners that we would not start working until they fulfill our requirements. We did not ask for much, we only wished for what was not life without, but hard labor, eternal flour. Our first request was that our owners discuss our needs with us. But we were denied this — we were denied the right to talk about our needs, finding that the law does not recognize such a right for us. Our requests also turned out to be illegal: to reduce the number of working hours to 8 per day; to set the price for our work together with us and with our consent, to consider our misunderstandings with the lower administration of the plants; increase the payment for their work to laborers and women to 1 rubles. per day; Cancel overtime treat us carefully and without insults; arrange workshops so that you can work in them, and not find death there from terrible drafts, rain and snow.

Everything turned out to be, in the opinion of our owners and the factory administration, illegal, all our request is a crime, and our desire to improve our situation is audacity, offensive to them.

Sovereign, there are many thousands of us here, and all these are people only in appearance, only in appearance — in reality, we, as well as the entire Russian people, do not recognize a single human right, and even the right to speak, think, gather, discuss needs, take measures to improve our situation. We were enslaved, and enslaved under the auspices of your officials, with their help, with their assistance. Any of us who dare to raise the voice of God to protect the interests of the working class and the people are thrown into prison, sent into exile. They punish, as for a crime, for a good heart, for a sympathetic soul. To feel sorry for a downtrodden, disenfranchised, exhausted person is to commit a serious crime. All the working people and peasants were given to the arbitrariness of the bureaucratic government, consisting of embezzlers and robbers, who not only did not care about the interests of the people, but trampled on these interests. The bureaucratic government brought the country to complete ruin, brought a shameful war on it, and further and further leads Russia to death. We, the workers and the people, have no say in the expenditure of the huge levies levied on us. We do not even know where and what the money collected from the impoverished people goes. The people are deprived of the opportunity to express their desires, demands, to participate in setting taxes and spending them. Workers are deprived of the opportunity to organize into unions to protect their interests.

Sovereign! Is this in harmony with divine laws, the mercy of which you reign? And is it possible to live under such laws? Isn’t it better to die — to die to all of us, working people throughout Russia? Let the capitalists — exploiters of the working class and officials — embezzlers and robbers of the Russian people live and enjoy. This is what stands in front of us, sovereign, and this is what gathered us to the groans of your palace. Here we are looking for the last salvation. Do not refuse to help your people, take them out of the grave of lawlessness, poverty and ignorance, give them the opportunity to decide their own destiny, throw off the unbearable oppression of officials. Destroy the wall between you and your people, and let them rule the country you have with you. After all, you are put on the happiness of the people, and officials snatch this happiness from our hands, it does not reach us, we only get grief and humiliation. Look without anger, carefully at our requests, they are directed not to evil, but to good both for us and for you, sovereign! Not the audacity in us says. and the consciousness of the need to get out of an unbearable position for everyone. Russia is too big, its needs are too diverse and numerous for some officials to manage it. People’s representation is needed, it is necessary that the people themselves help themselves and manage themselves. After all, he only knows his true needs. Do not push his help away, they led immediately, now call on the representatives of the Russian land from all classes, from all classes, representatives and workers. Let the gham be a capitalist, a worker, an official, a priest, a doctor, and a teacher — let everyone, no matter who they are, elect their representatives. Let everyone be equal and free in the right of election — and for this they led that elections to the Constituent Assembly take place on condition of universal, secret and equal voting.

This is our most important request, everything is based in it and on it, this is the main and only plaster for our sick wounds, without which these wounds will ooze strongly and quickly move us to death.

But one measure still cannot heal our wounds. Others are also needed, and we directly and openly, as a father, tell you, sovereign, about them on behalf of the entire working class of Russia.

Necessary

I. Measures against the ignorance and disempowerment of the Russian people.

1) Immediate release and return of all victims for political and religious beliefs, for strikes and peasant riots.

2) Immediate declaration of freedom and inviolability of the person, freedom of speech, press, freedom of assembly, freedom of conscience in the matter of religion.

3) General and compulsory public education on public account.

4) The responsibility of ministers to the people and the guarantee of the rule of law.

5) Equality pepper the law of all without exception.

6) Separation of church and state.

II. Measures against people’s poverty.

1) Abolishing indirect taxes and replacing them with a direct progressive income tax.

2) Cancellation of redemption payments, cheap credit and gradual transfer of land to the people.

3) The execution of orders of the military maritime department should be in Russia, and not abroad.

4) Ending the war by the will of the people.

III. Measures against the oppression of capital over labor.

1) Abolition of the institution of factory inspectors.

2) The establishment of permanent commissions elected from workers at factories and factories, which, together with the administration, would deal with all claims of individual workers. The dismissal of a worker cannot take place except from the decision of this commission.

3) Freedom of consumer-production and trade unions — immediately.

4) 8-hour working day and normalization of overtime work.

5) Freedom of labor struggle with capital — immediately.

6) Normal wages — immediately.

7) The indispensable participation of representatives of the working classes in the development of the draft law on state insurance of workers — immediately.

Here, sovereign, are our main needs, with which we came to you only if they were satisfied, perhaps the liberation of our Motherland from slavery and poverty, perhaps its prosperity, it is possible for workers to organize to protect their interests from the impudent exploitation of capitalists and the bureaucratic government that is robbing and strangling the people. They led and swear to fulfill them, and you will make Russia both happy and glorious, and you will capture your name in the hearts of our and our descendants for eternal times; and you will not command, do not respond to our plea — we will die here, in this square, in front of your palace. We have nowhere else to go and no need. We have only two ways: either to freedom and happiness, or to the grave. Let our life be a victim for suffering Russia. We are not sorry for this sacrifice, we willingly make it.

Priest George Gapon

Worker Ivan Vasimov

Vasiliev, frowning, read this paper again, slowly moved his lips, saying every word to himself. Yes, it was said and written strongly and truthfully, and for sure, every artisan will like such a message.

— It’s reasonably written, you can’t say anything against it. And every letter is in place, and the word for the word, like a kind and noble rivet on a steam boiler. You, Father George, can express your thought with a pen, simply and intelligibly. And who helped you, from your friends, journalists and writers?

Gapon understood how badly workers treat clerks, secretaries and other paper miners… Here, I knew one thing, that it is better not to say. Yes, he went and consulted the journalist Arkhangelsky, to Maxim Gorky himself, so that the text of the Petition would turn out well. And he wrote himself, so he did not sleep for a couple of nights, and then, and on the hectograph, they multiplied the Petition.

— Self wrote how the heart prompted. And they only helped to multiply the message. And you, Ivan Vasilievich, distribute this Petition, let the comrades of all eleven branches of our Union get acquainted.

— Yes, I think so, — and Vasiliev began to wrap a stack of freshly printed sheets with a newspaper, — everyone agrees. And you, Father George, it is better for now to move to us, to the Narva outpost, to the working suburb.

— Why? It’s calm on Church Street. The place is good.

— Soon the news of the Petition, and of our procession, will spread like a wave in a pond from an abandoned stone. Exactly, they will try to arrest you. Both me and you, Father George, and our activists can be grabbed. Well, we’ll coast… See what I got at the flea market?

And the artisan put a black beard on an elastic band and glasses on the table in front of the priest.

«And what, a beard will suit you,» Gapon replied with a grin, «well, I think we’ll appoint a procession for Sunday, on the ninth day.» Immediately, after the service in churches.

— Yes, it will turn out well. Someone at construction sites earns extra money, and on Sunday everyone will be free. Here, all together, and move, from all sides of the city, directly to Palace Square!

British conspiracy

The pleasant gentleman looked calmly out of the window, pulling back the French curtain. He always liked this stunning view, and, oddly enough, he adored this strict and proud city, albeit with his own, very strange love. The British Embassy was now in its proper place. Yes, Saltykov’s beautiful three-story house was good, and the location on Palace Embankment corresponded to the status of a power that he served with love and devotion.

It was he, the British ambassador, Lord Charles Harding, who was now awaiting his attorney, for an important conversation. It was the most difficult thing, and he picked up a person for this wisely. It was impossible to make a mistake and ruin everything. Too big stakes were now at stake, no less, and the fate of a huge Empire. It was impossible to lose.

Then they knocked, and Harding looked with displeasure at the inappropriately entered. He did not like to be disturbed. But, he immediately cooled down, because it was his butler who came in, which means that the matter was important.

«Your Excellency, Mr. Frank Dodd has come,» he said, «that’s why, the most journalist, you talked about him yesterday.»

— Please him, Elisson. Let him come in. And be kind, bring us coffee. Not tea. I don’t like tea at all.

— Two cups?

— No, a whole coffee pot, just like that! Or maybe you need two. And, cookies. How will the conversation go. The evening will not be easy, long and boring, but you, Elisson, do not worry.

— Of course, your ladyship. Always there, ready to fulfill any assignment, without any doubt.

The butler nodded decorously and withdrew. His lordship allowed himself a satisfied smile. Yes, at least you don’t need to worry about it. Here Harding looked around the room, as if he had lost something here, and important for himself. Again I looked at the map of St. Petersburg, city bridges attracted his attention. He put his hands behind his back, saw his reflection in the mirror and…

And, slowly took his place at the head of the table. Yes, he adored all these conventions, and steadily and carefully followed them, believing that this is what does not allow to relax. He is in charge here, and he will always be so and everyone should have understood this.

Then the door knocked again, and a slender, fit gentleman entered the living room, with an impeccable parting on his head, shaved to a mirror shine. True, the fashionable checkered tracksuit was a little out of place, but his lordship mentally apologized to this gentleman. Nevertheless, this person is not from the highest stratum of society, but he had to be lenient even to the plebeians. This was one of the manifestations of genuine aristocracy. And, the journalist grabbed a leather briefcase, only with documents. Of course, what slightly reassured Harding was the normal shoes laid on a gentleman, not boots with suede hammocks.

And, Harding, quickly appreciating everything, began an important conversation, smiling warmly to begin with:

— Ah, Mr. Dodd, please sit down. A long, but I assure you, very boring conversation awaits us.

— No doubt, — and the journalist sat down in a chair, — actually thought so. Since you invited me.

Harding chuckled. His guest did not climb into his pocket for a word, and was able to remind that he did not come uninvited, but was invited. A person knew how to put both dots and ellipses in a conversation. The British ambassador made inquiries about his guest, and until he was disappointed.

Frank Dodd was actually a real athlete. A car, a bicycle, and even skates, all among his hobbies. And it is clear that such occupations created a certain reputation for this person, especially among the guards officers of St. Petersburg. Mr. Frodd was received in many houses, and was known as the soul of society. He even became interested in ballet and, of course, ballerinas, which earned even more trust among the guards community.

Elisson returned with a tray, instantly put out coffee cups, and with the agility of a magician filled them with a fragrant drink.

— Exciting. Thank you, Elisson. Then I myself, — said Harding.

— Of course, your ladyship.

The butler bowed slightly to his lordship. Elissons served for generations in the family of his lordship, and the lord himself allowed a certain familiarity in communication with the butler, considering this an elegant manifestation of true aristocracy. But, the Viscount waited until the servant left the hall. And only then began the conversation:

— The most important thing to you, Mr. Dodd… Do you know what events await the city of St. Peter?

— There is a general strike in the city, and a procession of workers is scheduled for January 9 to hand over the petition to Emperor Nicholas. Alarming.

— Well, I prefer the title tzar, it’s more familiar here. Do you and I have any acquaintances among the officers of the guard? Isn’t it?

— Unfortunately, only among the new regiments. And in artillery. I am not a member of the meetings of the Four Regiments.

His lordship thought for a second, then smiled almost happily. Actually, everything went, as it should have gone, to his complete pleasure.

— What we need, Mr. Dodd. On January 6, the Water Consecration is scheduled on the Neva, before Epiphany. The sovereign himself, many aristocrats and I will be present… So, tell our people, you need a shot from a cannon, and not a blank projectile.

— Do you want to kill the King? — and Dodd jumped up.

— No… Foreigne Office is concerned about the situation in Russia. Nikolai Alexandrovich is unrestrained brave, and can go to the demonstrators on January 9th. I’m pretty sure of that. The city is crowded with terrorists capable of anything. And the anarchists will try to kill him. Here, I wish to prevent this. Quite a noble cause, right? And does not contradict your honor?

— Of course, but…

— What do you persist, just like Count Rostov! I’m not Princess Maria!

Harding made inquiries about his guest. He knew that he adored Dostoevsky and Tolstoy, and decided to play this card as well. Nothing brings people closer together than common hobbies, and the Viscount understood this, and better than others.

— Have you read War and Peace? Frodd asked here, as expected.

— Of course, because Count Tolstoy is my favorite writer. A true aristocrat, to the core. Brave, artilleryman, participant in the Eastern War… And what novels I wrote! Undoubtedly, about people from the best surnames… Many in Britain, Mr. Frodd, recognized in his heroes the stories of their families. War, treason, relationships, the ruin of families… Tolstoy, this is just modern Shakespeare with his irrepressible and beautiful passions…

— Yes, Count Tolstoy writes amazingly, so lively and beautiful.

— The death of Andrei Bolkonsky is tragic…

— You may be right… Maybe the irreparable will really happen. Of course, I cannot stand aside, and I will do my best.

— And these are funds… — and his lordship pushed the package, — nevertheless, and honest people need money.

— Please, yes… You are, of course, right, your ladyship, «the journalist reluctantly agreed.

— Shigaru, Mr. Dodd?

And the ambassador pulled up a box of cypress wood. Beautiful cigars have always helped to do the necessary to create a relaxed environment. My favorite port would not hurt, but it would be necessary to call Elisson, open the bottle. And this could interfere with the conversation.

— I will not refuse, — the journalist lit a cigarette with pleasure.

The ambassador also dragged on with tobacco smoke, thinking with pleasure about the work done. It seems that Dodd was persuaded to execute this plan. But, he was not alone in the chess game conceived by the British ambassador. Rather, one of the figures on this two-color field. No, Harding simply adored chess, they personified for him a dualistic picture of the world, an eternal and clear confrontation between White and Black. Of course, he was also the Initiate, a true Gnostic.

— So everything is decided? ’the ambassador reminded of himself.

— Unquestionably, the answer was very brief.

Dodd finished another cup of coffee, nodded a little, thanks to the owner for the treat.

— Yes, and here they do not understand how you can drink tea with milk, — he noted.

— You apparently haven’t been to Moscow. Lemon tea is just a favorite drink of Russians. St. Petersburg is very different from the ancient capital. I swear you’ll decide you’re in another country.

— But the city is beautiful…

— Yes, Stockholm and Amsterdam, it’s just two squalors compared to St Petersburg.

— I think it’s time. We need to meet now with important people from the Zemsky Assembly.

— Yes, of course, — agreed Harding, — I also know Prince Shakhovsky and Prince Lvov. I like conversations with Yuliy Sergeyevich Witte.

Hearing these names, Dodd completely calmed down, and shook his hand goodbye to the owner of such an elegant living room.

The ambassador quickly penciled in his notebook, circling the critical date, the sixth of January, with a red pencil. Everything was very good, but Mr. Dodd, of course, should not have known that the secretary of the embassy, Sir Williams, had a meeting with Svyatopolk-Mirsky. The topic was important. The secretary showed concern about the upcoming working demonstration, and caught up with fear on the home secretary. Viscount Harding already knew. that Svyatopolk-Mirsky demanded help from General Meshetich, fearing unrest on January 9. True, this official, being a supporter of the Zemsky Assembly, nevertheless wanted to skip the deputation of workers to Palace Square. But the Minister of Finance Kokovtsev and the Minister of Justice Muravyov were against this. But not only that, Harding had meetings with Mr. Witte himself, the first minister of the cabinet of Tsar Nicholas. That man was an ardent supporter of Britain, the Zemsky Union, the convocation of the Constituent Assembly. And Witte promised him an oath that he would not allow the workers to have an audience with Nicholas II, and even more so, the sovereign’s meeting with Gapon.

That, it would be quite understandable, because these gentlemen did not bear direct responsibility for a possible catastrophe. True, after probable excesses, all these pieces will be thrown off the chessboard. Like him, Viscount Harding. But he did not regret it, he was simply obliged to fulfill everything, such was his mission here.

And that was also good. After all, the goal of the British ambassador was quite mundane, far from different moral ideals, such as democracy, or simply, popular representation. Simply, the British government understood that Japan was already exhausted, there were no funds to wage a long war with Russia. Mikado longed for peace, but understandably worthy. And for this, Viscount Harding had to organize riots so that tzar Nicholas II would take up internal affairs. And make his hands stay clean. Deep down, he also feared that the Russians would be able to deliver weapons to Ireland, always ready to rebel. Yes, these bears were too chivalrous to take such a step. Although, it would simply kill the British Empire, destroy its greatness.

And Harding, interrupting such thoughts, took up the map of St. Petersburg. As a child, he adored playing soldiers, placing his tin troops on an imaginary battlefield. This now helped to think spatially, to reason objectively. So, Meshetich will undoubtedly use the troops of the garrison, and the Life Guards. The solution can only be simple, but effective — to block the bridges leading to the Palace Embankment, to cut off the working outskirts from the city center. First of all, the Narva outpost, that is, the center of events will be the Narva bridge… But, the Neva River froze, and the protesters will be able to walk across the ice… So, the most faithful regiments will stand at Palace Square, and on Nevsky Prospekt.

Viscount Harding gladly drew schemes with a pencil, enthusiastically indulged in his favorite business. I felt now a great commander, almost Alexander the Great. But now, they knocked on the door, interrupting this, without a doubt, the most important thing. English looked kindly at his servant. He, however, was not stunned, but made a significant, even important face and uttered:

«Your ladyship, it’s too late. It’s time to serve dinner, «Elisson said firmly.

Harding barely got off the card, swiping his right fingers across his chin as he took a snap. Actually, he did not experience moral torment, what is it for his grandiose plan for the life of a couple of hundred people? Sheer nonsense. And I was sure that he would not die again. The width of the streets will not allow. Well, the first three rows of demonstrators will shoot, no more, simple mathematics. Thirty in a row, multiply by three, get — one hundred, plus, minus… In general, sheer nonsense, if you think about it, as the Viscount himself said. And all this thinking was simply swept away and scattered by the aroma of dinner.

— I understand that these are kidneys, Elisson? Viscount guessed.

«Exactly… And also lamb with garlic and your favorite rhubarb pie.

Harding did not consider himself a Puritan, and excellent cuisine was his weakness. But he did not consider it necessary to deny himself such minor pleasures. And, he was hungry after a long conversation. Therefore, calmly and importantly sat down at the dinner table, and cheerfully said:

«So what do we stand for, Elisson! It’s time to get down to business! Nobody but us, as they say!

Meeting of officers at the General Staff. Seventh of January

General Meshetich and Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich stood at a large map of St. Petersburg hanging on the wall and pinned flags. Such was the case, so reminiscent of the game.

— So it seems, everything was foreseen, — the general declared, looking back at the work they had done.

— Yes, it remains to distribute troops in accordance with the action plan.

«Neva got up. The rioters will be able to get around us on the ice.

— A considerable reserve will be left on Palace Square.

— So there is, your highness, but surprises always arise,

— What else, Meshetich?

— True, it is necessary to provide dressing points for soldiers.

Rydzevsky claims that our father George sniffed with the Social Revolutionaries, which means that the case will end in shooting. There are too many terrorists in that gang.

— Why didn’t Mr. Muravyov give the order to arrest the leaders of the rioters? Would end it all without a headache!

— I gave the order, but Rydzewski did not fulfill it. Say, Gapon took refuge in the working quarter, behind the Narva outpost, he is guarded with a hundred artisans. He reported, they say, does not want to send policemen to death. It is impossible to carry out this order without an army. We no longer control the city.

— You are cunning, but wise, everyone wants Nikolai Alexandrovich, our sovereign, to harm.. Do you yourself have no connection with Father George? the Grand Duke suddenly asked.

— I’m sorry, I don’t want to participate in such a nasty performance. They did not allow to properly investigate the shot from the gun that occurred on January 6th. Undoubtedly, there was an attempt on the sovereign. And here, and this is a procession, on the ninth. I do not believe in chance and coincidence, Your Highness. Yes, and you yourself know, the officers of the St. Petersburg garrison also see the conspiracy, and at the very top. To be honest, I would have arrested life and the government tonight, and all these troublemakers from the outskirts of the city. We are being stupid, your highness! Instead of winning, we still lose!

— I reported to Nikolai Alexandrovich… But he trusts Witte, Svyatopolk-Mirsky and Fullon. He considers them honest and faithful people.

— With all due respect, Your Highness!!!

«However, Your Excellency, please do not tell the officers about your suspicions. They are unsubstantiated… And such words can prevent gentlemen officers from remembering the oath!

«And I myself am a soldier, and I remember the oath to the sovereign…» Meshetich said wistfully.

— Out and nice… Regiment commanders will appear soon. You are not against my decision, at the Narva bridge to put companies 93 Irkutsk while? — as Vladimir Alexandrovich asked by chance, — I would do that it would be seen how exactly your decision. It’s better this way.

General Meshetich understood what was the matter. The Grand Duke did not sweat to wash the hands of his Life Guards in blood. And the one who wants to shoot at his own, at the Russians… Yes, but they do not want to take the rioters at night, albeit by the forces of soldiers, you say. But, and the general could not object. Only, a little bowed his head, agreeing.

— A written order on the disposition of regiments will be prepared. The bosses will receive envelopes with a written order, which will outline their actions in case of possible circumstances. I will not shift the responsibility to subordinates, — the general said firmly, pointing to a stack of envelopes.

— This is a very honest act.

— Attends, Your Highness.

But then, generals and officers began to enter the hall. General Meshetich and Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich Romanov greeted each by the hand.

Disposition of military units in St. Petersburg on January 9, 1905.

Area Commanders Divisions Total Disposition

Vasilievsky Island Major General Samgin

State Councilor Pashchenko of the Life Guards of the Finland Regiment, Life Guards of the Rifle Regiment — 2 battalions

Life Guards of His Majesty’s Cossack Regiment — 2 hundred

Life Guards of Her Majesty’s Ulan Regiment — 2 squadrons

89th Belomorsky Infantry Regiment — 1 company of 2 ¼ battalions

2 squadrons 2 hundreds 2 companies — Nikolaev bridge

2 companies — Palace Bridge

2 companies — against the Mining Institute

3 companies, 2 squadrons and 2 hundreds — general reserve

Petersburg part Major General Ragozin

Lieutenant Colonel Krylov of the Life Guards Grenadier Regiment, Life Guards Pavlovsky Regiment — 2 battalions

Life Guards of Her Majesty’s Ulan Regiment — 2 squadrons

Life Guards of His Majesty’s Cossack Regiment — ½ hundreds of 2 battalions

2 ½ squadrons 2 companies — Birzhevoy bridge

2 companies — Trinity Bridge

4 companies and 2 squadrons — reserve

Vyborg part Major General Belov

Lieutenant Colonel Shalfeev of the Life Guards of the Moscow Regiment — 2 battalions

Life Guards of Her Majesty’s Ulan Regiment — 1 squadron

Life Guards Dragoon Regiment — 1 squadron 2 battalions

2 squadrons 2 companies — Foundry Bridge

2 companies — Clinic Vilie

4 companies and 2 squadrons — reserve

Kolomenskaya and Narva units Major General Rudanovsky

Rotmister Davydov

Lieutenant Colonel Sokovich of the Guards crew — 1 ½ of the battalion

Life Guards Izmailovsky Regiment — 1 battalion

91st Dvinsky Infantry Regiment — 3 companies

93rd Irkutsk Infantry Regiment — 2 companies

96th Omsk Infantry Regiment — 2 companies

Life Guards Horse Grenadier Regiment — 3 squadrons of 4 ¼ battalions

3 squadrons Narva Gate — 2 companies, 1 squadron

Leuchtenberg street — 1 company

Warsaw Bridge — 1 company

Old Kalinka Bridge — 2 companies

in the Narva part (shipyard) — 3 companies

Small Kalinka Bridge — 1 company

corner of English Passage and Moika — 1 squadron and 1 company

English embankment against Zamyatnin lane — 2 companies

English pr., angle Officer — 3 companies (reserve)

Alexander Nevskaya, Rozhdestvenskaya units and Shlisselburg section Major General Shirma

Lieutenant Colonel Babulevich

Lieutenant Colonel Vasiliev

Lieutenant Colonel Lesnikov

Lieutenant Colonel Romankevich

Lieutenant Colonel Deitrich

Lieutenant Colonel Ivanov Life Guards Ataman Regiment — 4 hundred

Life Guards Dragoon Regiment — 2 squadrons

Life Guards Preobrazhensky Regiment — 1 battalion

90th Onega Infantry Regiment — 2 companies

91st Dvinsky Infantry Regiment — 1 company

89th Belomorsky Infantry Regiment — 1 company

198th Infantry Reserve Alexander Nevsky Regiment — 2 companies of 2 ½ battalions

2 squadrons 4 hundreds Arkhangelogorodsky bridge near the Neva — 2 companies and at the Shlisselburg unit — 2 squadrons

Nevsky Prospect, Suvorovsky corner — 4 companies, 1 squadron

Znamenskaya Square (reserve) — 2 companies, 1 squadron

Novokamenny bridge, Ligovskaya and Obvodnaya corner — 1 company, 1 squadron

Suvorovsky Prospect, Academy of the General Staff — 1 company, 1 squadron

Moscow part Major General Langof

Lieutenant Colonel Menchukov Life Guards Semenovsky Regiment — 2 ½ battalions

Life Guards Jaeger Regiment — Battalion ¾

Life Guards Dragoon Regiment — 2 squadrons of 3 ¼ battalions

2 squadrons 2 companies, 1 squadron — the corner of the Borovoy and Obvodny canals

Moscow outpost — 2 companies, 1 squadron

New Moscow Bridge (Obvodny Canal) — 2 companies

Moscow part — 1 ¾ battalion (reserve)

Kazan, Spasskaya and Foundry units Major General Gadon

Lieutenant Colonel Pchelin of the Life Guards Preobrazhensky Regiment — 3 companies

Life Guards Engineer Battalion — 1 company

Life Guards Horse Grenadier Regiment — 2 squadrons 1 battalion

2 squadrons Gostiny Dvor — 1 company and 1 squadron horse grenadier

Kazanskaya, No. 3 — 1 company and 1 squadron

1 company — Duma

Admiralty unit Major General Shcherbachev of the Life Guards Pavlovsky Regiment — 2 battalions

Life Guards Preobrazhensky Regiment — 3 companies

Cavalier Guard regiment — 4 squadrons

Life Guards of His Majesty’s Cossack Regiment — 2 hundred

Life Guards Horse Regiment — 4 squadrons of 2 ¾ battalions

8 squadrons 2 hundred 1 battalion of the Life Guards Pavlovsky Regiment and 2 hundred Cossack Regiment — send to the Winter Palace by 9 o’clock in the morning

Life Guards Pavlovsky Regiment 1 battalion and 3 companies of the Preobrazhensky Regiment 11 a.m. — Palace Square

Cavalier Guard Regiment, Life Guards Horse Regiment are ready by 9 a.m., and at 11 a.m. arrive at Palace Square

— Gentlemen! The disposition has been approved, and is not subject to discussion, — General Meshetich began his speech, — you were summoned to be familiarized with the order on the garrison. Each of the chiefs appointed with the troops entrusted to him in a certain part of St. Petersburg will receive an envelope against signature. In the same place, there will be names of military units assigned for protection. The sovereign, and the whole city, hope for your loyalty to the oath. However, there is confidence that the rioters will be afraid of the armed soldiers, and will turn, will not break through to Palace Square. If not, then you will have to stop them in any way. The order to issue live ammunition, but not to sharpen the checkers.

— Why not arrest the leaders of the rioters today? — Major General Shcherbachev could not resist the question, — everything would be easier.

— I don’t understand myself, gentlemen. But, I did not receive such an order, and the Minister of Justice Muravyov himself and the Minister of Internal Affairs Svyatopolk-Mirsky did not give me permission for arrests. I will say openly, I don’t like the situation myself. Moreover, Mr. Witte, the first minister, withdrew from this matter. Everyone has a bad feeling, gentlemen. And if anyone wants to give a letter of resignation, I will accept, and I will not condemn…

General Meshetich looked, very calmly at the audience. But no, no one reached for the papers prepared in advance. Each of the generals and officers was assembled and calm. And, the head of the garrison, with fatigue in his voice, said:

— Then I dare not detain you, gentlemen. A difficult day awaits us on January 9th.

Meshetich could hardly resist crossing himself by looking at the holy icons. He felt a wild disgust for himself, as if he was forced to swim with his legs tied…

Maxim Gorky and deputation from the Minister of the Interior

— What will we do? Surely this horror is acceptable? Do you yourself understand what can happen? — Maxim Gorky hotly asked the audience.

Here, at a long table in the editorial office, journalists and employees of the newspaper «Our Days» gathered.

— What are you silent? ’the writer repeated.

Alexey Maksimovich Peshkov, now a famous Russian writer, was noted by the grateful attention of readers. Amazing, fresh, shining charisma of the author, endlessly charming novels «Childhood. Boyhood. Youth,» and, which immediately became fashionable plays. «At the bottom» did not leave the stage of the «Art Theater» Savva Morozova. The pseudonym «Maxim Gorky,» perhaps, more reflected the soul and nature of this writer. But, Gorky did not invent his heroes, or it was at some distance from the author’s personality. In the past, every now and then, Gorky lived this, this whole life, and, of course, he himself was one of his heroes. The writer’s life was not illusory, his essence did not differ from his creative half. And Gorky’s ardor and passion became real.

— Hospody, some nonsense… We are with you, now, as if gathered here on Maundy Thursday, and tomorrow, the bloody execution will take place… Annensky said pathetically, and covered his face with splayed fingers.

And so frozen. One of the journalists grabbed a pencil and a piece of paper, and instantly built a suitable sketch, and proudly showed his creation to his comrades. They nodded, patted on the shoulder of their friend.

— Terrible victim… No, we just have to prevent this! — Gorky almost shouted, — as we begin to look honest people in the eyes, we just have to act! Disaster, right on our doorstep!

— What is destined, will certainly happen, — whispered the writer Annensky, — the workers, as if they had taken a heavy vow, and wish sacrifice yourself… Like Christ in the garden of Gethsemane, they themselves betray themselves into the hands of the executioners. And the blood of the innocent will fall on the hard-hearted, and they will not be forgiven by the Lord…

Gorky did not believe in eyes, and ears too. And this is his friend, and so indifferent to the fate of ordinary people? He said that he was not a journalist and poet, but a cruel teenager, pulling feathers out of the wing of only a caught sparrow!

— Why are you… Or also succumbed to the hypnosis of Father George?

— It’s not about him, Alexey Maksimovich… Not he so someone else would lead the workers. Even this one, Vasiliev. Another is incomprehensible, Mr. Gorky… And it scares even more… Do you know that there are no leaders of social democrats and socialist-revolutionaries in St. Petersburg? Sorry, it seems that these gentlemen know more than ours…

— That’s it? Strange speculation…

— I would call it differently, causation… There’s a fashion writer, Conan-Doyle, who’s British, and that’s important… — and he laughed — have you heard of a cannon being fired during the water blessing? On January 6, when the shell hit the tents, and wounded the city, and by the way, also Romanov?

— Known. What kind of manner to pull?

— And, the sovereign left for Tsarskoye Selo, and the incident was called an accident?

— So what, Mr. Annsky?

— The goal was to remove the sovereign from the capital for the duration of the procession. And, undoubtedly, he will not be able to smear him with blood, and he himself, Nikolai, will not be able to do anything, and will never, never wash himself! I am sure the idea came from the British embassy, win-win. The Lion of Albion patronizes the Land of the Rising Sun. And, tomorrow’s disaster gives victory to this yellow mikado. And our fools will play along with foreigners, it’s like drinking to give…

— You are looking everywhere for conspiracies, sabotage, some kind of rotten… So, they are just fools there.

— Do you know, Alexey Maksimovich! By chance, I will report to you, it is absolutely impossible not to aim at the cannon! Yes, so that the shell would be put close, and not kill anyone! A great gunner was at the gun…

— Right word, I don’t know, and somehow… I don’t want to know! — almost shouted the interlocutor.

— And I will tell you firmly: Svyatopolk-Mirsky is going to shoot a demonstration of workers, that’s for sure. And his libels warned these of your «comrades» that they would not be in the city and spirit. Lenin is yours there, Martov and others.

Gorky blushed, frowned, waved his mighty hand, and began to quickly put on his coat. Hands, trembling, hesitantly fastened buttons, the knitted scarf lay in an uneven strip, really all one without closing the throat.

— Where are you, Alexey Maksimovich! — called Anennsky, — do not go! Hat — where! It’s too late already. Yes, and I swear, it would be better to go to Helsinfors right now, or Riga… Are you going there?

— Required audience with Home Secretary. Or, in extreme cases, from a fellow minister.

Annensky, and three writers rose, and began to dress too. Gorky looked at his friends, and even his heart warmed. Not such a hardened cynic, Annensky, a much better person than he wants to seem.

— Well, so I’ll pump with you. Once again, make sure that I am right, these… What to call them, I don’t even know? After all, I swear to you, Pobedonstsev and Trepov are much better, more moral, these Masons…

— Okay, — asked Gorky, — we went already…

— Wanting, I foresee a complete fiasco, — Anenkov ranted everything, wearing a coat with a beaver worm, — You can then call in to the railway ticket offices? You don’t mind, do you? We wave to Riga! And there, on the ship… I will also tell you, Alexey Maksimovich. We will argue with you on the «red» that we will be accused of everything. Say, we knocked Gapon to this procession.

— Father George he… Well, let’s go…

A friendly, but very sad company went down to the courtyard of the house, and then, on a snow-covered pavement, they caught a reckless driver.

— I will not go to the troika, — said Gorky, — this is the kingdom…

— Well, rather the games of our nouveau riche, Skorobateev. So in Moscow it’s more fun… Let’s get out of prison, Alexey Maksimovich, I invite you to Testov. Taste daily cabbage soup with a «leaflet,» on a currant leaf, pork, and Guryev porridge…

— I am semolina porridge, so, not very…

— This is a fabulous dessert, — Anenkov rolled his eyes almost dreamily, — and not just porridge… In four layers, with impregnation from whipped cream. With raspberries… Oh, what a thing… Where are the different eclairs from Filippov to such beauty. Swallow your tongue, I vouch to you!

— Drags you to all sorts…

— And I’m not ashamed, Alexey Maksimovich, imagine! I’m not ashamed at all. I am, you know, an inveterate decadent, and this, according to our position… It’s just that, without a doubt, I have to morally decay, otherwise even a loyal audience will not understand.

— What, we arrived… I’ll go, I’ll talk to the city. You look, the attendant will call. Probably, everything is here, in the service, — Gorky quickly said, hurriedly leaving the sled.

He shook his shoes off the snow, almost slipped, but confidently approached the gate. Here, he even took off his hat in front of the mayor, gave him a newspaper with his portrait. The serviceman shook his head in response, deftly and famously smoothed his mustache, and whistled into his pipe, calling for help. Two more policemen approached, led by the bailiff. He simply radiated superiority, was prominent and at ease, a beautifully sewn overcoat sat on him like a cast. A fur hat, famously knocked down on the side, covered thick black curls, and the curled mustache belligerently wrinkled upward. Everyone immediately understood, not just a police bailiff, but a true eagle!

— Bailiff Ipatov. Gentlemen, come with me. I will guide you, — the bailiff assured the late visitors, — and the attendant will come out to you. And there it will turn out. Time is later, and His Excellency left for Tsarskoye Selo with the Minister of Justice Muravyov. The most important things… And you, be kind, are at home tomorrow, in order to avoid, so to speak…

— What is it? Gorky answered calmly.

— Minister’s comrades Mr. Rydzewski. Instead of his ladyship. Chief of gendarmes, aware of all events.

«And so, apparently, well,» Gorky agreed, «we need to address an important question to his Excellency.

— Well, gentlemen, come in, I’ll escort you.

And a small deputation went to the front entrance of the building. At the entrance, a bright electric light burned, leaving the ceiling in such a light fog, as if there, in the height, light twilight came, or, Mistress Unknown herself reigned.

— What, sofas here, gentlemen, take a seat. Now I will report to my Excellency.

And the bailiff left them, rattling with horseshoes of heels and spurs on boots. Gorky even grinned, imagining that the bailiff had a long knight’s sword dragging along the floor.

— Well, what do you say, Alexey Maksimovich?

— Them, Mr. Annensky… We still need to talk.

— As you say, — and the writer, created a tired mine on his face, leaned back, leaning his back on the leather back of the sofa.

Here, on the right, the swing doors of the doors slammed, and a man quickly entered the hall, in the uniform of a gendarme colonel.

«Colonel Rydzewski, gentlemen. Warned that it was very urgent, right?

— That’s right, — said Gorky, — we, the deputation of the public, which wants to prevent the irreparable. After all, tomorrow. blood may be shed, thousands of innocent people! A peaceful demonstration, and the authorities pulled troops into the city?

— So what to do, Mr. Writer? Indulge the rioters?

— Not. Simply accept the deputation from the workers, take them to Tsarskoye Selo, people will immediately calm down. They will understand that they are respected, they will not go to extremes. Do you want to create a new riot in Russia? Just a petition from the workers, but drove those in power into such a panic? After all, «Petition from Zemstvo,» rearranged last fall, as we know, did the sovereign read?

— So this is not rioters, but…

— A clean audience, Your Excellency? — Gorky finished the thought of the gendarme with a grin, — and many noble and rich people signed the Petition from the zemstvo? So this is what we know. I ask you to familiarize yourself with your demand of Mr. Svyatopolk-Mirsky! And, Mr. Witte himself!

«I cannot say for sure, but the Minister of the Interior handed over the text of the Workers’ Petition to the sovereign. The Workers «Union should wait for an answer…

— You yourself know that this is impossible. And Father George personally visited Messrs. Fullon, Muravyov, Svyatopolk-Mirsky, and you too, begging to accept the Petition from the workers. If the government satisfies the Union’s demands, at least in part, we can deter workers from speaking out. And this, this procession, you yourself know, will not end well…

— Yes, Mr. Rydzevsky, let me intervene, — Annensky said, — I will be a prophet, and I will predict how everything will end for you and your patron… Will not fly overhead, no, do not even hope. Both you and your boss will be removed from office. And the mayor. Well, understand for yourself, someone must be to blame? Military, no, do not even hope, they will not be responsible for anything. Then they will put, in Peterurg, and Moscow, the governor general, not at all a liberal, but a populist like that.

— Do you care, Mr. Annensky?

«Yes, I would have done better than anyone. Here, Trepov will be discharged from Moscow, or Stolypin there, and maybe Prince Golitsyn. And these, I guarantee, personally, in a soft carriage, will bring a working deputation to Tsarskoye Selo. So what are you, good gentleman, in an imperial city, a bloody booth? What do you really want?

Rydzewski blushed like boiled cancer, jumped up, and pointed to the door with his hand. Then, barely audibly muttered:

— Off…

— So we will leave, of course. And the time will come, you will call us yourself, — Gorky answered calmly..

Already on the street, Annensky smiled rather, slapped his tall comrade on the shoulder and asked:

— Well, to Riga?

«I’ll stay in St. Petersburg until tomorrow evening. Maybe someone I can help..

— Right, you know where to look for me.

Annensky jumped into the cabman’s sleigh, and loudly commanded:

— To Moskovsky railway station! Yes, quickly! Ruble from me!

Gorky and his comrades slowly walked down the street. Everyone was silent, thought about his own, and judging by the gloomy faces, everyone had very sad thoughts.

Day 9 January. Semenov’s regiment barracks

The sound of the signal horn tore apart the cold morning. On the parade ground, the bugler gave a wake-up call.

— Rota, rise! — shouted the dozen sergeant major, lighting an electric light in the company’s location, — vividly, do not pillar! Mikhailov, Nikolaev, faster! Afanasyev, conversations!

Soldiers dressed quickly, equipped in palm uniforms with guards buttonholes, and regimental signs on the chest. And then, it was not a simple regiment, but the Life Guards, the famous Petrovsky Brigade, the oldest regiment, along with Preobrazhensky, in the Russian Imperial Army.

And the soldiers were all prominent and handsome, tall, white-haired or light-haired, like angels in the flesh. And then, after all, everyone knew that the recruits in the first four regiments of the Russian Life Guards, Cavalier Guards, Horse Guards, Preobrazhensky and Semenovsky, were personally selected by the Sovereign. So really, only the best of the best served here.

— Now, building in a company, we go to the dining room, to eat! — the sergeant major said loudly.

It was an old, honored non-commissioned officer, with patches on the sleeve. More than twenty years gave Evsey Nikolaevich Erofeev Life Guards Semyonovsky regiment. Rich and lush, already gray, sideburns, decorated the face of the old servant. Evsey served for twenty-five years, was married for a long time, had not only children, but also grandchildren. It was possible to retire an old servant, and the barracks of the regiment were more native than the house. So he still proudly wore the visor of his regiment.

Finally, the soldiers of the fourteenth company lined up, and Erofeev walked along the rows, and, it seems, was satisfied with everything. And then, and coats of palm, excellent cloth, yal boots, cleaned from each to a mirror shine. It is not a shame for such a sovereign to show how the sergeant major decided.

— We go to the dining room!

The soldiers, in order, descended from the third floor, and along the edge of the parade ground, in formation, in leg, went to the dining room building. The second company passed by them, and Erofeev famously trumped an old friend, sergeant major Ivanov, from the second. And, I noticed how the gentlemen of their fourth battalion, the chiefs of their company, captain von Timrot1st and second lieutenants von Kruzenshtern and von Minich, and ahead of them, and the chief, Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Karlovich Riman, were walking along the parade ground.

— Rota, smirnaaa! — commanded the sergeant major, and approached the officer, captain Timrot, with a combat step.

— Your nobility, fourteenth company goes to the dining room, for breakfast! Everything is in order, there are no dropouts.

— Great, well done!

— We wish you health, your nobility! — harked at once the whole soldier system.

Lieutenant Colonel Rieman examined the soldier, and apparently was completely satisfied. And then, well done to well done!

— Thank you, Evsey Nikolaevich, — the chief said calmly, — Lead the company, — and he himself saluted.

The company famously marched past the battalion chief. Finally, the line stood near the doors of the dining room. Chinno, platoon, soldiers came in and took their places. Erofeev himself was surprised, the cooks put up for Semenovites a chicken egg, and an additional half pound of meat. The soldiers quickly ate their porridge, and were glad to have additional rations. And the sergeant major frowned, suspecting the unkind.

— What is wrong, Evsey Nikolaevich, — asked sergeant major Unter Protopopov.

— Not a holiday, but so it should be fed during the campaign, or in battle when.

— Think, perform! Or, will they send us to Manchuria?

— You’re quiet… Let’s see what the deal is. So the authorities themselves will decide how it is better.

But now, the breakfast was over, and the company commander entered the hall. At the checker, with weapons, and loudly commanded:

— To receive weapons, cartridges in the zeichhaus, and is built on the parade ground!

— Do you understand? -added sergeant major, — quickly execute!

And, ten minutes later, the whole company, the soldiers, with rifles on their shoulders, with pouches full of cartridges, was being built on the parade ground. Erofeev habitually checked his rifle clips, loaded the soldier’s «gun,» put it in a black leather holster. He walked along the rows of his company, but the soldiers held the rifles «on the shoulder,» the bayonets dangled in the trousers.

Then the head of their fourth battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nikolai Karlovich Riman, came out. He turned to his messenger, and said that everyone would hear:

— Sergeev, take my horse to the regimental stables. I follow with my battalion.

Erofeev only sighed, but so that others would not notice. And gentlemen, officers, lieutenant and three warrant officers of the company, platoon leaders, stood on the right flank.

— So here, soldiers! We have been ordered not to let the rioters break into Palace Square! Yes, crowds of people are going to come to the palace of sovereign Nikolai Alexandrovich, deceived and seduced by various talkers there. And we must protect the king’s family, and prevent the villains from overthrowing the foundations of our state. Tsar himself, hopes for you, because you are part of the imperial family for him. Remember him, and the empress, that she did not forget us with her attention. And on Christmas, and on Easter, personally congratulated and gave every soldier! Surely now, you will leave them without your protection? Right now you need your courage, firmness and loyalty to the oath! The soldiers of the thirteenth and fourteenth companies, I will be with you, will stand on a par with you at the Police Bridge, on the Moika. The fifteenth and sixteenth companies remain in reserve, at the location of the regiment. And the thirteenth and fourteenth, to be built in a column!

Nobody said a word. The guards looked strictly in front of them, more than one did not flinch. In a couple of minutes, a marching column of four hundred people lined up from the soldiers, and quickly walked to that place, on the map of St. Petersburg.

Scary day

— So, Ivan Vasilievich… So ours came up, both from the factory and from the workshops.

— Young man, you are Lavrentiev, — the chairman answered with furrowed thick eyebrows, — well, show…

And an elderly artisan let down five dozen young guys. That’s it, today we dressed for an unprecedented occasion. New short coats, well-sewn trousers, and nice «Skorokhodov» boots.

«The eagles are simple,» Vasiliev praised, «I suppose the mothers played out new references from their chests. As if they were going to get married.

— Yes, it’s too early, — drilled the highest of them under my breath, — and you need to accumulate money.

— What’s your name, kid? — Laughing answered Ivan Vasilyevich, since young still?

— Deniska. Denis Sergeevich, — the guy recovered, and even the cartuse famously twisted on the back of his head

— Yes, Denis Sergeevich… And here we are, with Marya, we have been living together for fifteen years… Yes, everything is not thanks to the bourgeois, but in spite of. In spite of them. We need to live together, so we are trying to make everything work out for us. Two children survived, both sons now go to school, they master the necessary craft. Like this… You live not as you are ordered, or forced, but as your heart commands. Then you will be happy. And we will take our Petition to the king, you look, and we will heal well, okay, without officials and their arbitrariness. And you, Denis Sergeevich, say that it is too early to get married. No, it is necessary now, otherwise everything will pass by you, life will blink only, and you will not have time to turn around.

Vasiliev noted that his artisans are happy to listen. And better, more attentive than in the church.

— Vasiliy Ivanovich, look, what he got hold of, — Lavrentiev reminded of himself.

— She’s like, — Vasiliev was taken aback here now.

And then, in front of him stood the icon of the Mother of God, large. Dee and the craftsman’s companions were not empty-handed. Banners taken as for a religious procession, and one, Andryukha, has a large portrait of a uar in a beautiful, carved frame.

«Young man, Lavrentiev,» he praised, «I decided everything on the case.» Hear, well done, but I will carry this portrait.

The guy did not argue, and Vasiliev himself took up the bottom of the carved frame. Well, and the people were pulling up, there were a lot of strangers. This procession with the Petition turned out to be in the heart of ordinary Petersburgers, and no one had to be forced or agitated there.

Finally, they rolled the sleigh from which Father George came out, in a warm coat, and with a large pectoral cross on his chest, and in his hands the priest held a large icon. Next to him were two people unfamiliar to Vasiliev.

— Good day, Ivan Vasilievich. So, come on?

— As we decided, we will move to the Narva bridge. And so, and others, from different sides will go. All the cross kissed that they would not retreat, would not be afraid, until the very end they would stand up for our common cause. And who is with you, Father George, what kind of people?

— Good people, Ivan Vasilievich. Helped «Petition» to print, proclamations. It would be difficult without them. This is Pyotr Moiseevich Rutenberg, and this is Mr. Ionov. Pyotr Moiseevich serves as a draftsman at Putilovsky in the tool shop.

The chairman of the «Union» looked doubtfully at strangers, but did not object to Gapon, and even on such a day. And if people decided to go to death with them, who knows, maybe indeed, fellow travelers, or even comrades, turned out to be good. Well, or become comrades.

It is clear that the St. Petersburg worker did not know that in front of him was Pyotr Moiseevich Rutenberg, or rather, Pinchas Moiseevich Rutenberg, a well-known member of the party of socialist revolutionaries, socialist revolutionaries, and revolutionaries.

— Well, with God! — Father George exclaimed in a loud, delivered voice, and sang the psalm «Our Father.»

People picked up the prayer, and the column slowly moved along the road, to the embankment. Vasiliev and Lavrentiev walked in the first row, one with a portrait of the tsar in his hands, the other with the icon of the Mother of God.

***

The crowd of people moved slowly, menacingly and powerfully, as if heavy, but all sweeping away the sea wave in its path. And, in the open, admiring the blue surface, it is impossible to believe in its strength. And, another sailor is gaping, and the wave hits not only small ships, but also huge ships. Such vessels become victims not of sea waves, but of the stupidity of those who stood at the helm at such a crucial moment. The element, even human, is not to blame for its formidable strength, the one who stood against it is to blame, instead of turning in a smart way.

And the artisans, their wives, and just ordinary people, all went forward, under banners and under prayer, which curled like a bird over a crowd of people. The people looked at each other, everyone’s eyes burned, as if they still did not believe that they themselves, with their strength, intelligence, perseverance, were now doing the impossible. And, after all, without coercion, not for money or frightened by threats, they went. But because it is impossible otherwise. Often talked among themselves, could not keep silent. And after all, a silent question hung over all of them: «Why did this happen?»

And they spoke quietly, seriously, but did not whisper. They were not afraid of each other, they were not afraid of a trick or a trick, under these holy banners and icons. They tried to explain to another:

— Steel is completely bad to live. Everything is very expensive. Inexplicably at all. What’s the use of enduring, all one to die, that’s why we went. Here, everything is more fun than in the working barracks.

— So understandable and stupid that without a reason the people will not move. At home, it sits warmer.

«Won’t the King understand us now?» What are we like, gathered yes go?

— So the anointed of God, must take care of people, as the Savior himself is commanded, — a man with an icon in his hands spoke with edification.

This gentleman was dressed in a festive, in a new, judging by the appearance, drape coat, with a fox collar, in a rich boyar hat.

«And we, the whole world, carry an honest News,» answered the artisan who was walking nearby, «A word from the people.» He cannot but hear us, it cannot be! We need to get the truth, the true truth!

Such a person said, and his, as if frightened, a woman grabbed his hand, apparently, his wife. Which also walked nearby. The mistress of the house did not stay at the stove, she was not afraid, she went with her husband on this cold winter day.

Thought, thought, imagined. After all, they all saw the king only in portraits that somewhere he is, in an unknown height, almost like the Lord God. Not in Heaven, but here, in the Beautiful Palace, to which you can walk with your feet. And in fairy tales, it happened, because Ivan Tsarevich reached the Golden Palace, and now, everyone in his heart hoped that he would certainly reach, let him tell the King-intercessor about his troubles. And then everything will change, by all means. After all, it simply cannot be otherwise!

And the hotter such thoughts were, the hotter human hearts were made, the more adamant they went forward. They could not stop, not at all.

Vasiliev walked and listened to what people were saying. And, it seems, he should have liked everything, but it became alarming in the soul of the craftsman.

— Lavrentiev, do you have a list of those who should go as a deputation to Zimny?

— Yes, for sure, not lost. Don’t doubt it. Picked up people sensible, okay, with understanding. They will not let you down, — the elderly worker answered confidently.

— Well, good. Everything will be fine, — Vasiliev reassured himself.

And then, among the workers, as if a fire had started, a wild cry rang out in the crowd:

— Merries! Don’t kid yourself! The king will not accept you, he will drive you away. We ourselves must take freedom, we must go under the red flag!

Vasiliev turned around dissatisfied, blinked Lavrentiev, but reminded:

— Do you remember how they agreed to beat such troublemakers? Let the guys wake up! There is nothing to stir up the people!

— Let’s do it, Ivan Vasilievich!

And, soon screams were heard, and three people were thrown out of the column, and a torn red flag was thrown into the snow. Young people sat on the sidelines, and wiped their broken faces with white snow, which quickly turned pink from blood.

— Will you… — without anger said one of the beaten, in a student jacket — now, and you yourself will cry…

Only ordinary people, and ordinary people did not pay attention to them. The crowd rolled like a steam roller on the highway. Nothing seemed to stop them. As if everything here was intertwined into a single organism, or hive, a bee swarm, when bees recklessly follow their uterus, the queen. Now people did not think about themselves, but only about the general. As if each of them became part of a more important, larger, and not even family, but the People. Was it intended that way? Not at all. It just happened. Gradually, others approached, and the streams of demonstrators poured into this huge, still calm human river. And, as if feeling their own strength, the eyes of those who were walking forward in each other shone, hunched backs straightened, more self-confidence appeared in the words.

Appeared, as if by magic, passion in words and thoughts. They spoke no longer supplicantly, but evil and demanding.

— So we, too, people, after all, and humanly want to live!

— And the King will understand that we came for business, for a reason.

— I must understand, the procession after all!

— And Father George said that we are doing everything right… By honor, by conscience.

— The main thing is to reach the Palace, and submit our Petition. And there, everything will work out! The King will find out everything, punish the guilty!

And in the column they again sang a prayer, «Our Father» and the people picked up this psalm in agreement. And, the strained working hands were now holding the banners even more tightly, with bright canvases roaring over this procession.

Now people moved confidently, walking and quickly, without a doubt in the heart and with each step more and more deeply infected each other with the unity of mood. Intoxication came, which happens to experienced soldiers before the battle. And not alcohol, but adrenaline was now raging in the blood, raising strength, indomitability. And, the words of others, awakened memories from good tales that the king would certainly appreciate and judge. He will punish the villains, reward the innocent, but there is no other way, and there should not be. And, everyone knows. Not just a king, but his own, Orthodox and half-brother, father-intercessor…

Vasiliev looked sideways, where Father George walked like that, with a cross in his hands. And they approached the Narva bridge, and here it was restless…

The procession faced an obstacle in its path. Now it seemed so implicit and small, compared with tens of thousands of people in the convoy.

A small, gray and long, broken line of soldiers in gray overcoats, but with steel bayonets shiny in the sun. It looked like a weak hedge against cows trampling the master’s garden. And on the right, Beauty-Neva shone with ice, and it remained very close to go, there, in the distance, a huge fabulous Palace stretched along the embankment. And there, as if floating in the sky, above the Cathedral, sadly looked at everyone a beautiful Golden Angel.

— So what are we doing, Father George? Are we standing, or are we moving forward? Vasiliev asked anxiously.

— It is necessary to release… And, send a deputation. You can’t cross the bridge.

— Right…

Then they noticed two officers who came forward from the line of soldiers. There was a cry:

— Parse! Otherwise, we will shoot!

People in the column did not believe such words. And what happened for the need, there were conversations:

— You shoot?

— You won’t dare.

— What right, to shoot people?

Such speeches began among the artisans, people did not believe how this is so, according to what such law, can they just be killed? Why? But, the crowd froze, no one thought to disperse.

— Deputation must be sent. With white scarves, — Vasiliev was found here.

— Exactly, — agreed and Lavrentiev, — guys, this is the case for you!

— Andrey. you know what to say… Let the deputation be allowed to the palace, and then we will disperse… — the chairman of the Workers’ Assembly calmly said.

And what was to be done? It seemed now the most reasonable. And it was impossible to hesitate. A dozen people came forward, waving white scarves.

But there, on the other side, military mountains sang, and a whole horse squadron rolled out into the street with a frequent trot. Who did not see the dense horse formation approaching you, he could not understand how to resist such a force…

The roar of hundreds of savvy hooves just beat the ears. Riders, with their backs perfectly straight as in a parade, seemed like statues that came to life, not living people, of flesh and blood. And, this wall, like a live ram, crashed into the crowd, pushing back and knocking down the demonstrators. Horses wheezed, they themselves were afraid, noisily sucked in the frosty air. Then the bugle sounded again.

People faltered, but Father George himself raised the cross high, stopping people. And the huge horsemen, on tall horses, waving whips, began to beat the demonstrators with them, right and left, giving blows to both men and women.

It seemed that now people would succumb to fear, run. Instantly forget about their decisions, aspirations, dreams. Everything will fall into the mud, into the trampled snow. But no… The horse burned in fright, pricked with an awl, and five young artisans, turning the banners into sticks for a while, drove the horse trainer away.

— Beat them guys! Beat! — shouted in the crowd.

— Now, get your own! ’it sounded like a review.

People threw icicles, sticks, snowballs at proud and free riders. Some did not shy away and throw manure from the pavement at their offenders. This good lay richly on the road!

The indestructible system stumbled, got lost, and an offended bugle sounded on the pavement. The chief of the proud horsemen commanded the Appel, and his soldiers turned their horses, and slowly left the infantry formation.

— And what, we can, when we want, — Vasiliev said loudly, raising the royal portrait higher.

— And then, Ivan Vasilievich. Our guys, where how nimble! Lavrentiev answered gladly.

Father George again stepped forward, raising a cross high. He turned around, looked at the demonstrators standing firmly. People were not afraid, felt their strength, believed in the shoulder of a comrade.

— Well, that’s it… Let’s go ahead!

And, the priest almost ran to the rifle chain. The crowd, without hesitation, rushed after their leader. Nobody seems to have thought of danger this second.. But, then the street was torn apart by the loud and furious cry of the officer who came forward:

— Back! We will shoot!

The signal horn sounded fiercely, and the steel bayonets dropped, and their faceted points were now directed at the people walking forward.

— What are they? — not understanding, shouted Lavrentiev.

— Nothing… — chuckling, answered Vasiliev.

But then the officer waved his saber, as if he wanted to cut the railing of the bridge. There was a deafening crash of a rifle volley. Vasiliev felt the pavement hit him on the head, and for some reason Lavrentiev was lying nearby. And on the icon that fell out of his hands, blood poured from the old man’s neck. Ivan himself tried to get up, but did not feel either hands or feet. I only saw people rushing around, shouting, and closed his eyes in fatigue.

***

Father George, like cotton wool, sat in his ears. He squatted down, shaking his head for a long time. He got up, began to quickly dust off his coat with dirty palms. Nearby stood the gentleman, or rather, Comrade Rutenberg. He noticed that Peter Moiseevich’s hands were covered in blood, he wiped them for a long time and diligently. And Ionov too. And he looked at the priest with a fair grin.

— Where am I? ’the priest muttered. maybe deliberately loud.

— How are you, Father George? — he asked sympathetically, — we took you aside. You’re not angry. Here, it will be much better.

— I do not even know…

And, not understanding, he looked around the street. Here, people lay. Who is on his side, who is on his back. or simply face, buried in the snow. A little in the distance, two artisans helped the third, putting their shoulders on his comrade, and he moaned and shouted lingeringly:

— Oh you, my leg… And I can’t step!

And the eyes refused to believe in this… Battlefield, and nothing more. But not Mukden or Port Arthur there, but St. Petersburg. And it was not the enemies who fired at them, but the Russian soldiers. Or enemies? Father George’s thought flashed at once. You are looking, naughty! Who could order? Such words now simply tore the priest’s head apart.

And here, right in the middle of the street, in the trampled snow, between the dead, a woman calmly walked, incomplete, dressed in a solid fur coat, head covered with a colorful scarf. Her face grimaced with pain and regret. With her left hand she supported her right, nursed her like a small child. and she said everything as if in oblivion:

— What is it? How am I with one pen? What to do? And the kids, Anechka da Petka?

One of Rutenberg’s companions rushed to her, built a bandage for his hand from his waist belt, and almost forcibly dragged the woman away. Another, just nodded, and frowning, said:

— What happened… There is no law for the people. Shoot ordinary people who want to, like grouse on the hunt.

Rutenberg, well done. And, it seems, he was not lost even now. He began to slow down Gapon, and recalled:

— Father George, we need to leave… Now the officers will come to their senses, and in one fell swoop, to the Peter and Paul… Let’s go… Come on, I’ll throw your cloak on, otherwise they can find out.

Gapon hardly got up, incredibly dizzy. But, nevertheless, he said:

— How did I stay alive? All who walked ahead, the dead lie…

— Excuse me, so I made you a bandwagon, but threw it on the pavement. As I saw that the officer waved a saber… Here, you are alive and stayed. And your comrades, everyone is killed. I did not have time to warn them.

— Okay, well, — Gapon whispered, — I don’t understand…

He almost could not look at his feet now, barely walked, as if he had moved all over…

«Careful,» Rutentberg whispered.

And then, just noticed Vasiliev lying on his side, all with a royal portrait in his hands. Bullets pierced the image in three places. The hole in the forehead was black just disgusting, foreshadowing the bad. Father George crossed himself with feeling, and then, and again, having seen the murdered Lavrentiev, with the icon of the Mother of God covered in blood.

Eh, what a sin, a sin, — Gapon read, raising a sacred image, — how so…

«We’ll take it with us. And then, and this… Andrey! — Rutenberg shouted to the assistant, — take the picture and the icon to the safe house. Now they just have no price. Hurry up!

— I’ll do everything, don’t hesitate!

And, the young man, judging by the long hair, from the students, grabbed his prey and disappeared into the nearest gateway.

And Rutenberg dragged Gapon into the alley. Here, there was a sleigh with a chilled coachman sitting on the irradiation. Father George almost fell down on the seat, pulled the canopy to the chin itself. And Rutenberg loudly ordered:

— Drive to Nevsky, house eleven!

Gapon just sighed wearily when he heard these words. To Gorky, it means.. Alexey Maksimovich, he will not give out, for sure, not such a person… The priest could calm down and close his eyes…

— Go ahead, guys! — the sergeant major, walking to the left of the formation, encouraged the soldier — look more fun! We must show loyalty to the sovereign and the sovereign! And then, each of you, read, in the royal family! Remember, we are going for a reason, but to protect his majesty, from these monsters! We heard, I suppose, that they wanted to shoot the sovereign from the cannon, villains! Yes, that’s right, the Lord himself saved the king-father!

Sergeant Major Evseev knew how to talk. And then, for more than one year he pulled the strap, and saw how tense the soldiers were, looking in front of them, and their eyes seemed to have become tin. As if glazed, their faces icy, as if stretched out. But, the rifles hold their grip, but they walk cheerfully. So, he worked hard, hammering into his heads that the first thing, a holy duty for a soldier, is discipline. So, and the ability to keep the system. Whatever happens, at least Mother Earth will turn over, cling to the grass with your teeth, but don’t leave the system! And everything will be fine, soldier…

Evseev just sighed, remembering the old years, coughed up, but continued:

— Remember, the first villains, those revolutionaries Here, remember, there was a lesson, at gymnasium classes, when you were told about the explosion in the Winter Palace, which killed almost thirty people of the Life Guards. That villain, a Narodnaya Volya, put the bomb in the stove. And these. that go to the Winter Palace is no better. These rioters just to shed Orthodox blood, there is nothing sacred for them!

I saw how young guys catch his words. Indeed, everyone, about twenty years old, was taken to serve from the villages. The sergeant major did not see the kindred, so that urban or artisans would be taken into the army. They say that only the fleet is taken, where sailors with mechanisms and machines deal. Or there, with all sorts of electrics. I thought now, but good skill too! How Savelich with the stairs in their barracks changes the light bulbs. And it doesn’t hurt hard, but the salary goes, but a lot. Well, it doesn’t matter, and he, for his long service, is entitled to a pension from the treasury. He served twenty-five years, no way…

And the military system was approaching the Moika. Erofeev saw how the townsfolk looked at the soldiers through the windows, the cabmen with their sleighs stood on the side of the road, and in their thoughts they did not think to interfere with the Semenovites. Behind the ranks, as always, it was linked with the heels of the boys, strutting to the beat of the company drums. A couple of them even had wooden guns on their shoulders. The townspeople, standing at the pharmacy and the liquor store, rushed to the tomboys, and took their hands to the other side of the street. And that’s right, there is nothing for the boys to do with them, who knows how this day will end…

Feldwebel only smoothed his sideburns, touched his earlobes. It was cold that day, even unusual, as Evseev decided for himself. He looked at the boss, and he, as if he did not feel cold in his overcoat, and cap. True, the bashlyk covered his throat, but it is clear that the lieutenant colonel did not cover his head. What kind of officer, guardsman, without panache and dashing? So, just a crow on the fence.

But now, Rieman waved his checker, ordering him to stop. A messenger immediately ran up to him.

— So, the tenth company is with me, and the twelfth, here, on the street corner, will remain. Do not let the rioters pass! — Nikolai Karlovich cheerfully distributed orders, — and you, Evseev, lead the company to the Police Bridge! There is now our place!

Evseev out of habit famously trumped, and commanded:

— Rota!

And the soldiers famously stretched out into the string. Of course, not a long-tortured militia, but what a half-dead one, but the best infantry regiment of the Russian army.

— Attention! Step, maaarsh!

The company cheerfully walked along Morskaya Street to the place assigned to them by disposition. Feldwebel did not even think to doubt the orders of his superiors. Not his, soldier’s business, about orders to think, his business, without a doubt to fulfill them. And if, as Erofeev imagined, each soldier begins to discuss, but with an empty head to speculate on orders, so not the army, but the real bedlam will come out. Erofeev had no doubts about this. Then a police officer ran up to their boss, and spoke, respectfully and inquisitively:

— So, your nobility, the rebels have lost fear. They pounce on individual gentlemen of officers, and beat… And the police too… They even shot at the horse riding… They shout, scoundrels, «Down with the autocracy,»» To arms!.» Very bad…

— Beghom, march! — commanded already personally Lieutenant Colonel Riman.

The soldiers jumped from Morskaya to Moika, finding themselves face to face with a crowd of demonstrators. Red flags were already flying over the procession, it was clear that people were angry and ready for anything. Screams came:

— Slayers! Inhumans!

— What would you all die!

Feldwebel himself was already reaching for the holster of the revolver, saw how the face of his nobility went red spots, but he was still restrained. And then, and drove next to a luxurious cart, cleaned with sables, with thousandth stallions in a team. Erofeev already shook his head, ran up to the coachman, who stopped this miracle behind the soldiers’ ranks.

— Drive right! — the sergeant major shouted, — you can’t stand here! Here, free!

Gorodovoy, who was standing nearby, seemed to wake up and dragged the crew under the bridle. The canopy moved a little away, and Erofeev noticed how two pretty young ladies smiled at the soldiers, and waved their handles in like gloves. It happens, of course, anything, but such, rarely. But, immediately the soldiers perked up, even smiled. And then, a kind word and a cat is pleasant, and on such a day there is nothing better than a girl’s smile, as Erofeev firmly knew it. But now, the crew drove off, leaving them here, alone with angry rabble, Apparently, and Mr. Lieutenant Colonel was glad of this incident. Perhaps he knew these ladies, but did not show it with anything.

— Rota, build! The first and second platoons in the first line, the third-closing! Riemann commanded quickly now.

And then, there was no time to hesitate. The soldiers stood in even ranks, facing the demonstrators.

— Screws, to the leg!

The lieutenant colonel knew that the military article simply acts magnetically on civilian staff. And exactly, they froze, fascinated. They stopped throwing pieces of ice, looked just like they got into the circus..

— Bayonets, join! Rifles, on hand! — teams rushed.

And, the system of gray overcoats bristled with steel bayonets. Riemann, not afraid at all, stepped forward and shouted loudly:

— I order you to disperse! There is an order to prevent demonstrators from entering Palace Square!

Evseev, directly admired. Yes, their boss did not miss, otherwise the villains would shoot… And he himself, went ahead, stood next to the lieutenant colonel. So, help if necessary.

And two young men approached the formation of the company, very close. Such, more like carpet from performances, with stupid tricks. They stood as if they were skewed, broken sharp shoulders sticking out to the sides, one below the other, knitted white scarves covered thin chicken necks. Faces with sharp beards, with yellow gray skin. We got up, put our hands behind our backs, and started strange speeches:

— Who are you defending, comrade soldiers? The rich, not the people? Surely the inhabitants of the palaces are much more expensive for you, ordinary people? You are not our enemies, but friends. Let us through to the Palace, what does it cost you?

— A squint. We must follow orders, «one of the soldiers replied.

— So who was sworn in? To the king… And he, you see, has already ordered people to shoot at the Narva bridge… Both women and children died.