A story illustrating the rigid discipline of the Russian Army, in which the Emperor played a leading part, is told by Mr 0. Johnston in the Eastern and Western Review. One of the Grind Dukes told the Czar that a sentinel on the level crossing at Peterbof had refused to raise the toll bar for his cimage, although the train was not due for three or four minutes. ‘lt is against orders, your Imperial Highness ! 1 can’t do it, your Imperial Highness !’ the soldier had replied, the rule being that, once the toll bar is shut, it must not be opened until after the train has passed The Czar said he was glad to hear that the soldiers knew how to obey orders, as discipline was the ve y life of the Army. The Grand Duke laughed, but said he was certain, if the Czar himself had been present, discipline would have given way before the imperial presence The Emperor did not reply, but a few days afterwards put the matter to the test by d iving up with the Empress to the level crossing just after the toll bar was crossed The Emperor called to the sentinel of the day to let him pass. The sentinel, in dire t epidation, saluted, but did nob move to the bar. ‘ Open the bar, I tell you !’ cried the Erap ror. * Don’t you know who lam f Ye*, your Imperial Majesty—l know your Imperial Majesty ; but I can’t, your Imperial Majesty ! It’s against orders, your Imperial Majesty !' answered the sentinel, still saluting and turning almost blue with anxiety, but not moving an inch from his place. *I am the Emperor, and I command you to open !’ cried the Czar again. * Can’t do it, your Imperial Majesty !’ despairing cried the sentinel, still standing firm, but to disconcerted to note the smile in the Emperor’s eres. Just then the train passed, the Emperor buret into a fit of Homeric laughter, and, warmly commending the astonished sentry, presented him with a t venty-five rouble note and drove back to the palace.
