History of History

Empress Catherine the First Influential Painters Hated
In the wake of Alexander Menshikov’s “scoop” there were undeniable evidence that he was printing fake money – popular gold reds. The Boyars demanded the immediate arrest and trial of Menchikov. The Empress was in a difficult position: Menchikov had almost departed from state affairs, engaged in various financial machinations, and the princes and the boyars who demanded executions over him occupied major state posts, were the direct support of her throne. On the other hand, it was Menchikov after the death of Peter, in opposition to the same influential boyar tribes, who almost alone raised her to the throne.
Catherine hesitated for a long time, but under the pressure of state husbands did not resist and ordered the arrest of the "brilliant prince".
However, Menchikov had his own informants at the Court - he immediately joined the palace and fell to the Empress's feet: he reminded her of his merits to her and stated that he was scorned by their common enemies.
They struck a bottle (the lovers once were) by old memory, and
Catherine relaxed a little.
I don’t believe you anyway, but I cancel your arrest. In exchange, you must
three days to destroy their underground production factories
fake money, fake black people to surrender to the treasury and pay a fine in
Hundreds of thousands of gold.
Menchikov kissed the Empress's hand and vowed to fulfill her will.
Three days later, Catherine calls the treasurer:
Did Menchikov send the fake reds to the treasury?
Give up your Majesty.
Have you paid a fine of 100,000 gold rubles?
You have paid, Your Majesty.
The Empress breathed relieved, but the Treasurer immediately added:
They paid for the same fake money.