My Dear Brother!

I have read Your letter with due attention. Having always appreciated the noble feelings of Your heart, the letter was no surprise to Me. It has provided Me with still further proof of Your sincere love for the State and of your concern for its constant tranquility.

In accordance with Your wish, I showed Your letter to Our Dearest Mother. She read it with the same feelings as I had, of gratitude for the honorable motives which have guided You.

It remains now for Us Both, respecting the reasons that You have articulated, to give You full freedom to follow the firm decision which You have made, praying to Almighty God that He might bless Your so very pure intentions.

I forever remain Your affectionate Brother.

(The original is signed in His Imperial Majesty's own hand:)

Alexander

(On the copy is inscribed:)

Correct. Constantine Tsesarevich.

St. Petersburg

2 February 1822