CHAPTER XXI.
RUSSIA ORIENTALIZED--EASTERN QUESTION As Alexander left no sons, by the law of primogeniture his brother Constantine, the next oldest in the family of Paul I., should have been his successor.

But Constantine had already privately renounced the throne in favor of his brother Nicholas.

The actual reason for this renunciation was the Grand Duke's deep attachment to a Polish lady for whom he was willing even to relinquish a crown.

The letter announcing his intention contained these words: "Being conscious that I have neither genius, talents, nor energy necessary for my elevation, I beg your Imperial Majesty to transfer this right to my brother Nicholas, the next in succession." The document accepting the renunciation and acknowledging Nicholas as his successor was safely deposited by Alexander, its existence remaining a profound secret even to Nicholas himself.
At the time of the Emperor's death Constantine, who was Viceroy of Poland, was residing at Cracow.

Nicholas, unaware of the circumstances, immediately took the oath of allegiance to his brother and also administered it to the troops at St.Petersburg.