The Czar Enlightened.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXIX, Issue XV, 11 October 1902, Page 904

The Czar Enlightened.

The Czar's scheme of reform for Russia continues to grow. We now learn of a most sensational incident which has occurred—namely, the Emperor’s refusal to see M. Pobiedonostseff, the Procurator of the Holy Synod, and the man who stands third among the Ministers of the Empire. Undoubtedly M. Pobiedonostseff is the evil genius of Russia. During the reigns of three Czars, extending over a period of forty years, he has exercised a magnetic but not too wholesome influence over those rulers. He invariably concluded his adviee with the laconic sentence : “ If anj one disturbs the community—kill him.” So great has been the influence of Pobiedonostseff on the Czar in the past, that, fearing that the former would obstruct his plan of reformation, Nicholas declined to invite him to a private conference, and even refused to grant him an audience on the first of July, when, as is usual on the first of each month, he came to the Court with his customary monthly report. M. Pobiedonostseff was received by the Czarina, who told him that the Czar could not see him. This was not because he did not realise his services

and devotion, but because he wished to oe entirely at liberty during the nearing of auvisers who had hitherto never appeared at Court.

Count Tolstoi’s letter to the Czar had a great effect on the Hmperor, and was, perhaps, the cause of the Czar's determination to learn the truth through other than official sources. It is probable that Count Tolstoi may—if he is physically able—come to St. Petersburg to see the Czar.

Meanwhile, at least one reform which was most needed in Russia is now on the high road to accomplishment. A special commission has now been organised with a view to studying the police systems of other countries. and applying the knowledge to the betterment of the Russian police force.