Konrad and Alexandra (pdf) - Rolf Gross

The Chavchavadze manor house, located in a large park, was full of children. Some
belonged to David, the philosopher and statesman, the others to George, the practical of
Tamunia’s two brothers. They all lived under the same roof.
The Chavchavadze of Tsinandali around 1895 (Wikipedia)
Anna Chavchavadze, the grande dame de la maison, with her beautiful, knowing eyes,
had graciously inquired about the couple's plans for their Italian honeymoon and their life in St.
Petersburg. She knew both places well. "Alexandra, with your interest in the arts and your
visual gifts, don’t miss the Accademia in Venice! I still remember how my first visit to this
gallery opened my eyes."
Alexandra had been truly happy, and Deda smiled seeing Konrad’s surprise.
Alexandra’s brothers, Otar and Niko, had arrived from St. Petersburg a few days earlier.
They had spent two days with Irakli in Kvareli to help him and Ilia prepare the wedding in
Alaverdi. Niko, who was a year younger than Alexandra, would carry the rings that Konrad had
made. Konrad had shown them to Alexandra. Her ring fit perfectly, and she liked them as much
as he had hoped.
Konrad had been put in a fabulous morning coat in the English style, complete with a
white silk handkerchief in the breast pocket, a red rose in the buttonhole, an elegant bowler hat
made in London, and English shoes without pointed horns.
He felt funny but had to admit that all was in style. He and Bredow would be the only
men in European clothes. Well, he thought, I am the representative of the "other" world that
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