LIBERTIES WITH A TSAR.

Clutha Leader, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 21, 15 September 1911, Page 3

LIBERTIES WITH A TSAR.

Paul I, the eccentric Tsar of Russia, assasinated in 1801, was very particular as to his dress, and considered trifling matters as of supreme importance. This peculiarity was once taken advantage of by an officer of the guard's, Major Vaksel, to win a wager. The major, the joker of the army, had set several hundred rubles that he would tweak the tail of the Emperor's wig on parade.

The next day, the story runs, the Kmperor happened to be present at early parade, and, as chance would have it, took position for a moment immediately in front of the daring major. Breathless with excitement and terror, Vaksel's companions beheld that rash officer's right hand steal slowly from his side, rise to the level of the Tsar's neck, and give the wig's hanging tail a most decided tweak.

In an instant the Emperor's face, pale with fury, was turned upon Vaksel's countenance, which, however, reflected only an expresion of child-like innocence, mingled Avith tlie most deferential astonishment. "Who dared do that?" demanded the enragfc! Tsar, his eyes flashing evidence that his most dangerous mood was upon liim. *

"I did. Your Majesty," said Vakscl, who, however his heart may have fluttered, managed to maintain outwardly unruffled calm, together with an expression of innocent surprise. "It was crooked, Your Majesty," he added in a confidential undertone, "and I straightened it for fear tlte younger officers should see it."

Paul's countenance cleared at once. He stared fixedly, however, at Vaksel's innocent-looking face for some seconds. Vakeel admitted afterwards that this was the trying moment; blithe had said to himself, "If I waver, I am lost!" Then the Tsar spoke, and spoke so that all might hear: "I thank you,' colonel!"

If ever a step in rank was gained by purest effrontery, it was*so acquired on this occasion, and 1 ] Vaksel left the field not only promoted to a coveted position in the guards, but richer by many hundred- roubles as the result of the wager.