Item 142 - Letter from Maria Germanova to R. C. Trevelyan

14 rue Nungesser et Coli, Paris XVI. - Bob and Bessie are very kind to 'our young people'; thanks them very much. Andrusha got their letter yesterday, on his and his wife's return from their civil marriage. Does not think they will be back in Zurich until 20 Mar; will write to Bob when she knows definitely. Bev will be 'very happy and satisfied to have the Shakespeare'. Mrs Robinson [Bev's mother] arrived with her daughter and son arrived in Paris on Friday; they all came to tea, and Maria decorated the flat with spring flowers 'to meet our bride'. Andrusha came on Saturday with his friend; she did not get much sleep that night due to excitement. The necessary civil marriage took place in the morning, after which she gave Andrusha 'a glass of Champagne and a Russian 'pirujak' [gateau] and mandarines'. Her husband took Bev's family to the Russian church, while she accompanied the young couple and their witnesses. Describes the religious ceremony, which everyone found very touching and charming. Mrs Robinson then gave the family lunch at her hotel, and the young couple took a taxi to the Gare de l'Est at five.