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THE TSAR'S WINDOW.

interest). "I expected it to be three times as large. How do you feel about it, Dorris?"

"I entirely agree with you."

"Life is full of disappointments," quoth George. "If we go to the hotel, rest well to-night, and visit this spot to-morrow, I have no doubt you will wonder that it could have made so little impression upon you to-day."

"Very well," said Grace, who is always willing to rest, "let us try your plan. We shall feel fresher to-morrow."

We passed the Holy Gate on our way out, and were told that every one, from the Tsar down, goes through it with bare heads.


March 3.

We had a spare hour before dinner yesterday. The rest of the party went to their various apartments. I took possession of the sitting-room and the guide-book.

Before long Tom and George appeared, with noses slightly red, and a general look of having been out in the frosty air.

"I thought you were both diligently writing letters," I declared.

They looked rather doleful, as if their expedition had not been altogether pleasant. Neither of them spoke, therefore I began to make inquiries, and elicited the information that they had been dropping cards on some acquaintances.

"But why so dismal over it?" I cried. "Were any of the people in?"