[Father Basil E. Popoff, Chaplain of the Russian Embassy.] Autograph Letter Signed to 'Mrs Kapoustin'

4pp., 12mo. Bifolium. In very good condition, lightly aged. Neatly and closely written. There has been a Russian Orthodox Church serving the Embassy in London since 1725, and this was a purpose-built 'Embassy Chapel' at 32 Welbeck Street from 1866 to 1922. Popoff writes that in 'the absence of my father [Eugene Popoff], who is now in St. Petersburg', he is answering Mrs Kapoustin's letter. What follows concerns 'the ecclesiastical status of the Russian clergy', with reference to 'some of the changes lately introduced by the Holy Synod' divided into six numbered paragraphs, topics including the 'electoral principle', the 'former privilege accorded to the Bishops to certain families in the clergy', the 'minor order of clerk', deacons, 'Deacons-widowers', 'Theological Colleges'. He concludes by sending his regards 'to Miss Dixon, and Mr. Dixon'.