History of the Russian State, Vol. 9

A.D. 1560 — 1561.

more reliably than science, more reliably than learned wisdom, guides people toward the great. Obligated to Ivan’s grace by a certain abundance, Adashev knew only the luxury of beneficence: he fed the poor, kept ten lepers in his house, and washed them with his own hands, zealously fulfilling the duty of a Christian and always remembering the poverty of humanity (20).

Beginning of evil.

From here began the evil, and in the following manner. The two main actors of the blessed reign of Ivan were no longer present; but their friends, thoughts, and rules remained: it was necessary, having destroyed Adashev, to destroy also his spirit, which was dangerous to the slanderers of virtue and contrary to the Sovereign himself in these new circumstances. They demanded an oath from all Boyars high-ranking aristocrats and noble people not to take the side of the removed, punished traitors and to be faithful to the Sovereign (21). They swore the oath, some with joy, others with sadness, guessing the consequences, which were revealed immediately. Everything that was previously considered a virtue and a way to please the Tsar became reprehensible, reminding people of Adashev and Sylvester. They said to Ivan: "Will you always weep for your spouse? You will find another, equally charming; but you may damage your invaluable health through excess in your grief. God and the people demand that you seek earthly consolation in your earthly sorrow."