Under the prior arrangement of Stanisław II, the news that he "paid respects" to the Tsar occupied the headlines of all major newspapers in Saint Petersburg the very day, with many newspapers even publishing his cloying speech in full.
Saint Petersburg instantly became a place of joy and celebration. Although the Russians had always regarded Poland as their "little follower," the sight of the King of Poland personally demonstrating extreme humility was a completely different feeling.
Catherine II was also very pleased with Stanislaw II's attitude, lavishly praised him, and set up a sumptuous dinner to entertain him.
However, the young man with a distinguished air beside the Tsar was constantly on guard, watching the King of Poland closely. Whenever the latter got slightly closer to Catherine II, he would use various methods to stand between them.
Stanisław II was very polite to him and even gifted him several valuable presents.
