Folio 77: Rondeau to Harrington. Last week was one of great devotion and Count Osterman...

Folio 77: Rondeau to Harrington. Last week was one of great devotion and Count Osterman had no opportunity to show the Czarina a draft copy of the treaty. He is busy sending orders to the army, but insists that the Czarina still wishes for a strict and lasting alliance with HM Osterman hints that it is not specified whether it extends to HM's German dominions or to the Crown of Great Britain only. I said the words were very clear, that all HM's territories were included. Osterman said the German ones should be expressly stated. Secondly, this court will agree that HM should not assist Russia in the present war or in any she may have with the Turks, Persians, Tartars or any other eastern prople. Poland is another difficulty, for although Russia cannot conceive of being attacked by the Poles, she would expect help if that should happen. Osterman says the Swedes, Danes and Prussians, all of whom have a defensive alliance with Russia, have agreed to assist the Czarina if she is attacked by the Poles. Think of a way to overcome this difficulty, for Russia will not be satisfied by HM having a similar article with the Emperor. Perhaps HM could promise to send a squadron of men of war, if war with Poland likely, to help transport troops, ammunition or provisions. Thirdly, Russia may enquire into method of sending troops and to where. Glad to know answer, for if Russian troops are to be sent by sea it is unbelievable that it could be done unless HM sends some ships to help transportation. If troops to march by land, dragoons needed as well as infantry. Fourthly, Russia will want to know the number of ships of war. HM will send to take up the number of 800 guns. Duke of Courland and Count Osterman eager to know whether our treaty with Denmark is concluded. French so desirous to prevent it, they have offered carte blanche to the Danes not to enter into it with us. Dated StPetersburg, 17 Mar 1738/9.