Zubov bowed slightly to Count Osterman, asking, "What exactly has made you so angry?"
The latter waved his hands vigorously, his voice lowering slightly: "Just now, His Majesty the Emperor has decided to negotiate with the Persians on the distribution of Transcaucasia to exchange for Persia's continued support in the expedition to India."
Zubov's face turned dark, and he quickly asked again, "Did you persuade His Majesty?"
"Of course! Both Count Kutaisov and General Arakcheev tried to persuade His Majesty, but it was completely ineffective. Some people were even whipped as punishment."
Zubov and Balik exchanged glances, hesitated for a few seconds, then simultaneously turned and walked toward the palace exit.
Kutaisov was the Tsar's confidant. If even his words had no effect, then they, who were not favored by the Tsar, had no need to try.
October 26, 1797.
