36 
VISIT OF THE GRAND DUKE MICHAEL. 
lery moving out in every direction ; the whole having more the 
air of a place preparing to repulse an enemy, than a city opening 
; its gates to receive a highly honoured prince. But thus one 
dominant colour casts its own hue over all others: the people 
of the Don are a nation of warriors ; and every man was under 
arms. The Attaman’s regiment, the elite of the country, was 
posted about three miles on the Moscow road. Parties of dis¬ 
mounted Cossacks lined this road on each side, closing upon the 
gate of the city, where a splendid tent was pitched. It contained 
Count Platoff, and all the general officers in attendance, ready to 
greet the illustrious visitor. Twelve pieces of cannon were 
planted on a height directly over the ground, which commanded 
a view to the very horizon. The whole face of the hill, down to 
the tent or pavilion, presented various groups, consisting of 
natives, Tartars, Kalmucks, and Russians ; while the plain itself 
was covered with a vast concourse of people of all ages, sexes, 
conditions, and nations, on foot, in carriages, in waggons, on 
horseback, &c. Every countenance beamed with animation ; 
and there only wanted the appearance of the expected guest 
to give voice to their impatient enthusiasm. The suspense of 
the anxious multitude continued from hour to hour. The even¬ 
ing began to close in ; the sun gradually dropt behind the 
horizon, and it became nearly dusk. Disappointment was draw¬ 
ing its shades also over every face, when at last, by a distant and 
scarcely perceptible cloud of dust, the approach of their prince 
was descried. It was instantly announced by a discharge of 
cannon. A universal shout echoed the welcome news; and, in 
the midst of the eager throng, pressing towards the immediate 
point of sight, His Imperial Highness reached the gate. The 
Attaman was ready, with his officers, to hail the brother of their 
