Nicholas prepares to return home for birth for child

July 9, 1904

Russian Emperor Nicholas II departed tonight for the Volga region "to bid farewell to the Reservists, many of whom are the fathers of families," reports the New York Times.  As an "imperial heir" is due any day now,  Nicholas' visit is seen as a mark of "deep personal sympathy with the soldiers."

The "approaching birth" has such "deep interest and importance" to the  Imperial family.   The Queen of the Hellenes and members of the Imperial family have "assembled to welcome the expected heir."

There are also large crowds gathered outside the Peterhof, where Empress Alexandra prepares to give birth to her fifth child.    It seems the nation is "drawing nearer to the sovereign."