the lion of the russian army - Florida State University

[Suvorov] very weak… he lapsed into a coma. His attendants rubbed
spirits on his temples and gave him smelling salts, which brought him to
his senses. He looked at me, but the old fire no longer burned in his eyes.
He continued to stare as if trying to recognize me, then called out, “Ah! It
is you, Peter. It is good to see you!” He fell silent and then looked at me
again and I reported my commission from Emperor. Alexander
Vasilievich came to life again, but his speech was halting. “Convey my
respects… my deepest respects.. to the Emperor… please do.. Peter…
Ah… so much pain!” He said no more and fell into a delirium.” 9
Death was approaching fast and, on 18 May 1800, Suvorov whispered his last
words. Huge crowds followed the remains of Suvorov during the funeral. It seemed the
whole population of the capital was in attendance. However, Paul persecuted Suvorov
even in the death. On his insistence, the date of the funeral was moved one day later; the
newspapers were not allowed to publish obituaries and the military honors accorded to
Suvorov were listed one grade below his rank. 10 The emperor did not attend the funeral
of his best commander and instead reviewed the Guard regiments. 11
The death of Suvorov was an important date in Bagration’s career. He served for
three campaigns under Suvorov and achieved his rank and positions because the field
marshal supported him. 12 Returning to St. Petersburg, Bagration found himself famous
and accepted in the upper social circles. He was often invited to the palace and met
members of the royal family. On one occasion, he was introduced to future Emperor
Alexander and a group of aristocrats. One of them, Prince Eugene of Wuttemberg,
greeted him, “Here comes the famous Prince Bagration.” Prince Peter responded with a
9 Razskazi starogo voina o Suvorove, 270-71.
10 Kvostov to Ambrosius, Kvostov to Pahlen, 18-20 May 1800, Pahlen to Kvostov, 20 May
1800, Russkaya Starina, May 1900, 331-336; Petrushevsky, Generalissimo Prince Suvorov, 744-
45; Meerovich, Suvorov in Petersburg, 278-84.
11 Some witnesses put Paul in the crowd walking behind the carriage with Suvorov’s coffin.
Razskazi starogo voina o Suvorove, 271-72; Petrushevsky, Generalissimo Prince Suvorov, 746;
Meerovich, Suvorov in Petersburg, 278-84.
12 Bagration was often compared to Suvorov and called “general po obrazu i podobiu
Suvorova” [general resembling Suvorov in appearance and strategy].
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