Folio 156: Finch to Harrington. Late arrival of letters. Impossible to leave this...

Folio 156: Finch to Harrington. Late arrival of letters. Impossible to leave this court until new letters of revocation arrive. Journey to Moscow fixed tentatively for 3 Feb. The Eleven Council members have sat to inquire into the last High Council. Bestuzev probably to be in charge of Foreign Affairs with the title of Vice Chancellor. His brother probably to be Grand Marshal. Have spoken to both Grand Chancellor Prince Cerkasskoi and Bestuzev about affairs in my concern, but further meetings excused because of pressure of business. Bestuzev appears changed, sailing with `ye strong french wind which blows'. Czarina agreed something previously and concluded it secretly with de la Chetardie and another, but she may not be bound by these agreements. Sweden may be satisfied at expense of others, not Russia. Great Duchess is only twenty miles away and rumoured dangerously ill. Nothing can be confirmed. Duke of Holstein to be sent for; the new heir presumptive could be an instrument in a future revolution, when Janissaries get tired of present government. Dated St Petersburg, 5 Dec 1741.