| | | 10 August |
Chefoo, Aug. 10
My Dear Amy,
I telegraphed Russell yesterday that -- "Emperor refuses consent Marriage postponed" -- & there is not much more to say. I received yesterday a letter from von Brandt to that effect, & saying that he would be here on the 20th. He says he considers Max released though he is indissolubly bound. He shall hand in his resignation and on its acceptance shall again ask her if she is willing to join his more modest fortunes. He evidently ??? it as the end of his career & feels bitterly such treatment after 33 years of faithful & honorable service. There is a reglement that ministers shall not marry without this consent, but it has been looked upon as a matter of form, & I know myself many marriages Germans in official life and American women.
Max bears it very well and seems to be fonder of him then ever. I told her she had an oppy now of knowing whether her affection was more to the office or the man, & her answer is not doubtful. But it is a great blow to her & her resistance to it shows the active strength of her character. I am quite proud of her.
It seems a wanton piece of heartless cruelty, & you know my feelings perfectly without the necessity of any big words on my part. No one is more astonished than other Germans in govt service, who knew Brandt's ??? to consideration & how rarely this right has been exercised by the Sovereigns. I do hope somebody will tap the head of this wretched Emperor, & let some of the wind out, & I am dispirited to ln that Russia seems of late disposed to make friends with him.
There is no objection to giving the reason for the postponement of the marriage, but without comment. There is no use to embitter the situation, or make a change of opinion more difficult and for the same reason it is not for us to make any allusion to B's intention to hand in his resignation. So please do not mention it. There is nothing to be done or said -- but wait.
Max will have to spend another winter in Korea! I shan't be sorry, but she will!
There is nothing more to add. We are all pretty well & shall be happy to get back to our own roof ???. Though Chefoo has done us good.
Much love & kisses to the children from your mother & myself.
Yours evr
A.H.
| | | 10 August |