FROM THE HEAD OF THE RUSSIAN IMPERIAL HOUSE

To Irina Viktorovna Kuznetsova,

Director of the Military Historical Library of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation

Dear Irina Viktorovna,

I wish the thank you very much for the invitation to attend the celebrations of the 205th anniversary of the Military Historical Library of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.  Unfortunately, circumstances do not permit me to come to Russia at this time.

Even so, I wish to send my congratulations and very best wishes to you, your colleagues, and all those participating in these celebrations and presenting their research at the Volkonsky Readings marking the founding of the Library.  May God help you all in your service to the nation.

I of course know about the important successes you have had growing your unique manuscript collection and expanding the activities of the Military Historical Library, including the many new and important exhibitions you have organized.  I also know that you have developed many new collaborations with the Russian Military and Historical Society, which have strengthened both the Library and the Society.  I greatly appreciate the work you do and I hope to visit the Library soon and to see with my own eyes all that you are accomplishing.

My son and heir, the Grand Duke George of Russia, also sends his greeting and congratulations to you all.

With assurances of our continuing support and favor, we remain sincerely yours,

H.I.H. the Grand Duchess of Russia

Madrid, October 26/November 8, 2016