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The Empress, though initially delighted with her daughter-in-law, realized that there was something wrong. Natalia was interested in French poetry, theater and most of all, politics. Being brought up in the free spirit of Europe, Natalia manifested independence in her statements, adhering to liberal ideas, and every now and then spoke in favor of the release of the peasants. This certainly didn't please the Empress. She commented that Natalia "loves extremes in all things" and that "she listens to no advice". Natalia's disappointment in her marriage prompted her to influence Paul to keep him distant to all, except to a small circle of friends."