Konrad and Alexandra (pdf) - Rolf Gross

Ilia Chavchavadze, Tiflis, 1900 (Wikipedia)
Deda appeared and lovingly embraced her old cousin Ilia. Olga Guramishvili, slightly
taller than her husband, a few grey strands in her dark hair apologized. "Forgive us, Tamunia,
we are late. Had we arrived during daylight hours, half of Tiflis would have stood singing
patriotic songs in front of your door. The last thing we need. Did you read the article On
Occasion of Ilia Chavchavadze’s Return from Exile in yesterday’s issue of Iveria? The
Russians may not be able to read Georgian, but we received two death threats since yesterday
—in Russian."
"Let’s forget my worries tonight," pleaded Ilia with a short laugh making an effort to
recover his usual, boisterous self. "Let us eat your good food, drink Irakli’s wine, and be happy
that I once more returned alive to my beloved but sad Motherland." He rummaged in his bag
and pulled out a fat, German, mail order catalogue and two fashion magazines from France
and Italy. "Alexandra, I hear your are getting married. I brought you something."
Alexandra thanked him and eagerly snatched the journals out of his hand. They were
still standing in the foyer when Irakli and Konrad joined them.
Alexandra put her arm in Konrad’s and with a sweet smile presented him to Ilia. "May I
introduce my fiancé, professor Konrad Rost from Berlin and St. Petersburg—Ilia
Chavchavadze, poet, politician, and revolutionary, but above all my very preferred uncle."
Ilia sized up Konrad with a trace of easy mockery in his eyes. "Professor Rost, are you
worthy of this exceptional daughter of our beautiful land? We don’t give away our young
women lightly to foreigners."
Alexandra stepped forward, as if to protect Konrad. "Ilia, this man is a unique person,
and I love him."
Ilia smiled indulgently. "I see, your love makes him special?"
60