We often regret, but we dare not refuse to carry them out." "Russian rule is a disgrace to our modern civilization," I declared hotly.

"I have every sympathy with those who are fighting for freedom." "Ah, you are not alone in that," he sighed, speaking in a low whisper, and glancing around.

"His Majesty would order reforms and ameliorate the condition of his people, if only it were possible.

But he, like his officials, are powerless.

Here we speak of the great uprising with bated breath, but we, alas! know that it must come one day--very soon--and Finland will be the first to endeavor to break her bonds--and the Baron Oberg the first to fall." For nearly an hour I sat with him, surprised to find how, although his exterior was so harsh and uncouth, yet his heart really bled for the poor starving people he was so constantly forced to oppress.
"I have ruined this town of Abo," he declared, quite frankly.