No. 555.
Mr. Hoffman to Mr. Evarts.
St. Petersburg, February 27, 1880. (Received March 16.)
Sir: In my dispatch No. 136 of September 13th last I had the honor to inform you that certain changes among the high officers of Russia had been determined upon, and that among others General Loris Melikoff was to succeed General Gourko as military governor of this city. This change was announced yesterday. General Melikoff is set not only over St. Petersburg, but over the whole empire, as regards crimes against the state. Every one is made subordinate to him, even the minister of war. He is to report to and receive orders from the Emperor alone, and he is empowered to associate with himself, as a commission, such persons as he may see fit. His title is “Chief of the Supreme Executive Commission.”
As you have probably learned from telegrams in the public journals a printing press was lately seized in a house on Vassily Ostroff, and the persons connected with it arrested. It appears that the “dvornik,” or porter of the house, having observed suspicious circumstances, gave notice to the police, who thereupon made their descent. The “dvornik” received a hundred roubles for his services. Two days ago he was found murdered.
Great excitement prevails at present in this city. Many persons are leaving town, going to their country places, or to neighboring cities. Others have telegraphed to their families not to return at present. The police is visiting every house, inspecting the cellars and attics, and [Page 872] giving instructions to keep the gas burning all night, to look well to the water and gas pipes, and to have tubs of water ready for instant use. In short, every precaution is being taken against an outbreak, which the Nihilists threaten for Tuesday next.
I have, &c.,