THE CZAR.

Press, Volume LI, Issue 8932, 24 October 1894, Page 5

THE CZAR.

HIS STRENGTH DECREASING. WEDDING OF THE CZAREWITCH. THE QUESTION OF THE SUCCESSION. Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyngbt. St. Petersburg, Ootober 22. The public were taken by surprise by the bulletin announcing the desperate condition of the Czar. The secrecy .observed and the rigid censorship main* tamed over tbe press have given rise to a rumour that the Czar is nearly dead, but it is not generally believed. The Czar lost thirty-two pounds weight iv ten days. He ordered a telegram to be sent to the Princess Dolgorouki that his condition was weak, but that he hopes to recover. October 23. Princess Alix has arrived at Livadia, and it is reported that her marriage to the Czarewitch wili be celebrated on Wednesday. There is great excitement in Moscow owing to rumours which are current that the Czarewitch refuses to ascend the throne. The Czar, it is said, is hastening the marriage with a view to compel his son to abandon the idea of renunciation of the throne. Tbe Imperial Council advise tbat the second son, the Grand Duke George, should renounce bis rights as heir presumptive in favour of bis brother, tbe Grand Duke Michael. The Czarina is thoroughly prostrated. The only bulletin issued to-day states tbat the Czar slept intermittently for five hours, that he rose with bis usual appetite, but that his strength is decreasing. Otherwise, bis condition is not changed. Daily prayers are offered up in every church in Russia and also by the army and navy. Paris, Ootober 22. M. Flourensdoes not anticipate that the Czar's death will weaken ihe relations between France and Russia, but he considers it must, modify the general situation. The Czarewitch, having always been closely associated witb his father, has an intimate knowledge of the entire diplomacy followed by him, and will continue his policy.