for. I have learned
a good deal in the last four years, and, besides, I read a great many
Russian books."

"Russian books, indeed? Then, of course, you can read and write quite
correctly?"

"Oh dear, yes!"

"Capital! And your handwriting?"

"Ah, there I am _really_ talented! I may say I am a real caligraphist. Let
me write you something, just to show you," said the prince, with some
excitement.

"With pleasure! In fact, it is very necessary. I like your readiness,
prince; in fact, I must say--I-I-like you very well, altogether," said
the general.

"What delightful writing materials you have here, such a lot of pencils
and things, and what beautiful paper! It's a charming room altogether.
I know that picture, it's a Swiss view. I'm sure the artist painted it
from nature, and that I have seen the very place--"

"Quite likely, though I bought it here. Gania, give the prince some
paper. Here are pens and paper; now then, take this table. What's
this?" the general continued to Gania, who had that moment taken a large
photograph out of his portfolio, and shown it to his senior. "Halloa!
Nastasia Philipovna! Did she send it you herself? Herself?" he inquired,
with much curiosity and great animation.

"She gave it me just now, when I called in to congratulate her. I asked
her for it long ago. I don't know whether she meant it for a hint that
I had come empty-handed, without a present for her birthday, or what,"
added Gania, with an unpleasant smile.

"Oh, nonsense, nonsense," said the general, with decision. "What
extraordinary ideas you have, Gania! As if she would hint; that's
not her way at all. Besides, what could you give her, without having
thousands at your disposal? You might have given her your portrait,
however. Has she ever asked you for it?"

"No, not yet. Very likely she never will. I suppose you haven't
forgotten about tonight, have you, Ivan Fedorovitch? You were one of
those specially invited, you know."

"Oh no, I remember all right, and I shall go, of course. I should think
so! She's twenty-five years old today! And, you know, Gania, you must
be ready for great things; she has promised both myself and Afanasy
Ivanovitch that she will give a decided answer tonight, yes or no. So be
prepared!"

Gania suddenly became so ill at ease that his face grew paler than ever.

"Are you sure she said that?" he asked, and his voice seemed to quiver
as he spoke.

"Yes, she promised. We both worried her s