After Count Stroganov detailed Queen Mary's attitude, Catherine II eagerly asked:
"What does the French political sector think of this matter?"
Such significant matters as a marriage alliance between two countries are never decided by the King or Queen alone but reflect the political will of the entire nation.
"As for this, most ministers have yet to state their position," the Ambassador to France replied, "however, I've mentioned many times in previous reports that the Crown Prince is already the true holder of power at the Palace of Versailles.
"And according to the news I heard from the Countess of Debreninac, it was because the Crown Prince was deeply fond of the Princess that the Queen decided to propose the alliance.
"Hence, I judge that the core ministers of France are unlikely to oppose it."
The Tsar laughed happily: "Ha ha, Sasha is so likable wherever she goes."
