Antique Imperial Russian Signed Letter Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna of Russia 1939

Siocha" was the nickname for Ferdinand Thormeyer, a former tutor and a lifelong friend of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna of Russia, the youngest sister of Tsar Nicholas II.

Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna maintained a long correspondence with Thormeyer, especially after she went into exile following the Russian Revolution. Her letters to him, often written in French, discussed her daily life and activities, such as going to the cinema or walking in the morning. The correspondence highlights their close and enduring friendship.

In the letter she writes:

Ballerup, 5 September 1939

(Tomorrow is the anniversary of Nawa — she would have been 19 years old.)

My dear Siocha,

If you have received my letter, you’ll see it was written so poorly that you’ll understand why — it’s not from laziness, but because times are difficult. Thank God we are still in good health.

Our sons are safe — thank heaven. John was able to come home on Sunday, so we are all together. We can still go by bicycle, though gasoline is rationed. For now, we remain at home, with our worries, our prayers, and our faith.

This morning I had many things to do — writing letters, answering cards. Thank you, my friend, for your kind words. I see that for you it’s the same everywhere — tears, and yet no hatred. Here, we haven’t wept, but our hearts ache.

We’re all thinking of the soldiers — I see that they are receiving what they need to eat. Many people have been rushing to buy everything they can, but the government has already put an end to panic buying — which is best.

I reread Pushkin’s “Captain’s Daughter” — it comforts me. While one reads, one forgets this chaos of anxious thoughts.

What troubles me most, I think, are people who talk too much, who love to tell stories of war and horror. I avoid them as much as I can.

Yesterday, I went for a walk and met our dear neighbor — she had a headache and felt weak. I gave her a little lavender for her temples, and that helped her.

Today my own head hurts — a dull ache that passes slowly. I’m writing to you from the garden; the weather is fine, the sun warm and golden.

A bird is singing nearby; it feels strange that such peace can exist when elsewhere, there is so much destruction.

I am drinking my coffee while writing — black, as always. A little butterfly has just landed on the table beside me — so delicate and alive.

My thoughts go to your soul, dear Siocha, and to your kindness, which comforts me across the distance.

⸻

My dearest friend, I hope you continue to take care of yourself and that God keeps you and your dear husband safe. I thank you for your prayers and for your faithful friendship — it warms my heart more than I can say.

May peace return soon.

With all my heart,

Olga