back then this one word of sympathy, only sympathy, I swear
to you; and oh! do not be angry with the audacity of despair, with the
drowning man who has dared to make this last effort to save himself from
perishing beneath the waters.

"G.L."

"This man assures me," said Aglaya, scornfully, when the prince had
finished reading the letter, "that the words 'break off everything'
do not commit me to anything whatever; and himself gives me a written
guarantee to that effect, in this letter. Observe how ingenuously he
underlines certain words, and how crudely he glosses over his hidden
thoughts. He must know that if he 'broke off everything,' FIRST, by
himself, and without telling me a word about it or having the slightest
hope on my account, that in that case I should perhaps be able to change
my opinion of him, and even accept his--friendship. He must know that,
but his soul is such a wretched thing. He knows it and cannot make
up his mind; he knows it and yet asks for guarantees. He cannot bring
himself to TRUST, he wants me to give him hopes of myself before he lets
go of his hundred thousand roubles. As to the 'former word' which he
declares 'lighted up the night of his life,' he is simply an impudent
liar; I merely pitied him once. But he is audacious and shameless. He
immediately began to hope, at that very moment. I saw it. He has tried
to catch me ever since; he is still fishing for me. Well, enough of
this. Take the letter and give it back to him, as soon as you have left
our house; not before, of course."

"And what shall I tell him by way of answer?"

"Nothing--of course! That's the best answer. Is it the case that you are
going to live in his house?"

"Yes, your father kindly recommended me to him."

"Then look out for him, I warn you! He won't forgive you easily, for
taking back the letter."

Aglaya pressed the prince's hand and left the room. Her face was serious
and frowning; she did not even smile as she nodded good-bye to him at
the door.

"I'll just get my parcel and we'll go," said the prince to Gania, as he
re-entered the drawing-room. Gania stamped his foot with impatience. His
face looked dark and gloomy with rage.

At last they left the house behind them, the prince carrying his bundle.

"The answer--quick--the answer!" said Gania, the instant they were
outside. "What did she say? Did you give the letter?" The prince
silently held out the note. Gania was struck motionless with amazement.