Page "Alexei Petrovich, Tsarevich of Russia" Paragraph 12

Immediately on his return from Finland, Alexei was dispatched by his father to Staraya Russa and Lake Ladoga to see to the building of new ships.

This was the last commission entrusted to him, since Peter had not been satisfied with his son's performance and his lack of enthusiasm.

Nevertheless, Peter made one last effort to " reclaim " his son.

On 11 October 1715, Charlotte died, after giving birth to a son, the grand-duke Peter, future tsar Peter II.

On the day of the funeral, Peter sent Alexei a stern letter, urging him to take interest in the affairs of the state.

Peter threatened to cut him off if he did not acquiesce in his father's plans.

Alexei wrote a pitiful reply to his father, offering to renounce the succession in favour of his infant son Peter.

Peter would agree but on the condition that Alexei remove himself as a dynastic threat and become a monk.