374 
ODESSA. 
chap. every one knew that the number of disaffected 
— v - persons by far exceeded the list of those whom 
fear or mercenary consideration kept in sub- 
ordination, it was apprehended that the whole 
empire, in consequence of the slightest emotion, 
would be thrown into disorder. The first con- 
sequence of any such disturbance would have 
been the massacre of all the nobles: a regard 
for their own safety was the only bond, on the 
part of the nobility, which held them from 
betraying their disaffection. Still it was evident 
that the life of the Sovereign would soon atone 
for his disgraceful tyranny; and the result has 
proved that his death was even nearer than we 
then apprehended. 
During the time that Admiral Ribas held the 
direction of affairs at Odessa, a plan was pro- 
jected for the construction of a pier, calculated 
to render the port alike an object of utility and 
of grandeur. This project was submitted to the 
Emperor’s consideration, who ordered it to be 
put in execution. It was therefore naturally 
expected, that the Sovereign, who was to reap 
every advantage from the proposed undertaking, 
would so far patronize it, as to advance the 
money for its completion. Paul however hesi- 
tated, and the work ceased. In the mean time, 
the commerce of Odessa languished ; the rising 
