Catherine's Dilemma

Although I was born and raised among German aristocracy, I feel I have blended rather well with Russian nobility. My name changed when I converted to Russian Orthodoxy. I am now called Catherine. I was once known as Sophie. Despite my mother being banished from the country, Tsarina Elizabeth looks quite favorably upon me. However, one major item exists where I must disagree. Duke Peter of Holstein-Gottorp is matched up with me. Since his aunt Tsarina Elizabeth called him to court, he has been consistent with each unwitting retort. This buffoon has alienated many as we have few friends. Unfortunately, he will become tsar when Elizabeth’s life ends. He is obnoxious, overbearing, and possesses the dullest mind. Peter can only become a tsar of the worst kind. Besides, he is ugly with all those scars from smallpox. He has them on his face, arms, legs, and even his buttocks. Peter is supposed to be the sovereign of the Russians. However, he surrounds himself with Holsteins and Prussians. I should dispose of this menace. There has to be a way. I must rule Russia alone as a tsarina one day. Catherine II (aka Catherine the Great) ruled Russia from 1762 to 1796.