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, 25 October 1939

My dear Siocha,

Your letter of the 19th arrived this morning, the 23rd. It was such a long and kind letter — I was so happy to receive it! It is always such a comfort to be able to write to you.

You remind me how we used to spend long hours talking when I came to visit you — how quickly time passed, as though it were almost spring again, though winter is nearly upon us now.

Yes, my dear Siocha, we must not think too much of the sad things of this world. Life is always a mixture of joy and pain; but when one can give joy to another, one forgets one’s own worries for a while.

I was delighted to hear about your household and your dear husband. I can imagine how charmingly you’ve arranged everything. You must not tire yourself — take care of your health, for you are precious to so many hearts.

You say that you often think of Ruth — she is here now. She sleeps at our home and stays until Sunday. I like having her with us. She plays the piano beautifully and helps the children with their German. John gives her lessons in music theory.

She’s learned to read and write German quite well — she and the children work together on small exercises. It’s simple, but they enjoy it.

We spend quiet evenings — reading, playing the piano, sometimes chatting by the table lamp. It’s peaceful.

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Page II

You mention telepathy — that’s a funny word to my ears! I think it’s like what we Russians call “reperdara moumne” — the silent transmission of thoughts from one mind to another. Perhaps it exists — who knows?

On Thursday morning I went by bicycle to the large Rigshospital in Copenhagen to visit poor Cosacque, who suffers from nerve inflammation in his back. He was cheerful, though tired. I stayed about an hour, then came home to prepare lunch.

Yesterday brought me a wonderful surprise — a visit from dear Ulrika de Mylius. What a noble soul she is, so kind and warm-hearted! She never comes empty-handed — she brought me fresh flowers and a pot of jam.

We spoke of you, of course. She said how much she admires your spirit and how she feels so close to you, even without ever meeting you.

She has a remarkable serenity — one can tell she lives by faith. She’s happy in her quiet work and her devotion to others.

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Page III

This morning, Friday, the weather was so beautiful — clear and sunny. We took a walk together, and it did us good.

Later, we received a telegram from our son. He’s well, though he must remain a little longer where he is for his duties. He writes with good spirits, and that makes me so happy.

We’re now preparing for All Saints’ Day — there will be a special service at church. I’m to help decorate the altar with flowers and candles.

The minister asked me to read a passage, which touches me deeply. I’m always a little nervous reading aloud in public, but faith gives courage.

After church, we’ll dine with some old friends — it will be simple but joyful.

My husband, thank God, is well. He still works long hours but always finds time to walk with me in the garden at sunset. Those moments of peace are so precious to me.

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Page IV

On Sunday evening we went to the cinema, where they showed recent newsreels from all over the world. It was very interesting, but also terribly sad — the world seems so full of turmoil and despair.

When we left, my husband sighed and said, “How fortunate we are to live in peace here.” Yes, we are — and yet, the suffering of others weighs on me. I pray every night for all those in danger, without distinction of nation or faith.

Our old friends the Schaffes came yesterday; they’re always cheerful. The lady brought homemade cake, and we talked about the old days in Russia. The nostalgia never fades.

Tomorrow we’ll go for a small walk to pick some greens for soup — and radishes, which have grown beautifully. It’s so simple, but it makes me happy.

I end this letter now, my dear Siocha, sending you all my affection. I wish I could sit beside you again, talk, and laugh together as before.

May God bless you and your dear husband, and keep you both in His peace.

With all my heart,

Olga