Folio 122: Finch to Harrington. Guardianship of her son by Grand Duchess cannot fail...

Folio 122: Finch to Harrington. Guardianship of her son by Grand Duchess cannot fail to put affairs of this country on a more settled basis. If previous regent had followed wise advice of some rather than delusive flattery of others, he might have secured his retreat with safety and reputation to enjoy his wealth in his not inconsiderable duchy under Russia's protection, who would have had interest in supporting him there. Duchess's jewels and other possessions seized on order. Circular notification, sent to all foreign ministers said, that as the regent had departed from late Czarina's constitution, particularly in not showing respect for Imperial family and in framing several dangerous designs against the State, the senate found it necessary to hold him in this county until his past conduct could appear in a clearer light. Petzold, the Saxon secretary, thought it his duty to tell Field Marshal Munnich that as duke of Courland was feudatory to both king and republic of Poland proper attention should be given. Munnich replied that Russia would justify its conduct towards God and man. Keyserlingk, the minister of Wolfembuttel, who managed economic affairs of Courland, left here for unknown destination. Dated St Petersburg 15 Nov 1740.