You say that all should be as it is. I understand what that means. But listen: we’re the same age, you’ve known a greater number of women perhaps than I have. But I’m married, and believe me, in getting to know thoroughly one’s wife, if one loves her, as someone has said, one gets to know all women better than if one knew thousands of them.


We’re coming directly!


And here’s my opinion for you. Women are the chief stumbling block in a man’s career. It’s hard to love a woman and do anything. There’s only one way of having love conveniently without its being a hindrance—that’s marriage. How, how am I to tell you what I mean? Wait a minute, wait a minute! Yes, just as you can only carry a fardeau and do something with your hands, when the fardeau is tied on your back, and that’s marriage. And that’s what I felt when I was married. My hands were suddenly set free. But to drag that fardeau about with you without marriage, your hands will always be so full that you can do nothing. Look at Mazankov, at Krupov. They’ve ruined their careers for the sake of women.


What women!


The firmer the woman’s footing in society, the worse it is. That’s much the same as—not merely carrying the fardeau in your arms—but tearing it away from someone else.


You have never loved,


Perhaps. But you remember what I’ve said to you. And another thing, women are all more materialistic than men. We make something immense out of love, but they are always terre-à-terre. Directly, directly!


A man brought it from Princess Tverskaya. My head’s begun to ache; I’m going home,


Oh, good-bye then. You give me carte blanche!


We’ll talk about it later on; I’ll look you up in Petersburg.


I’m happy, very happy!


Get on, get on! I want nothing, nothing but this happiness. And as I go on, I love her more and more. Here’s the garden of the Vrede Villa. Whereabouts will she be? Where? How? Why did she fix on this place to meet me, and why does she write in Betsy’s letter?


You’re not angry that I sent for you? I absolutely had to see you,


I angry! But how have you come, where from?


Never mind, come along, I must talk to you.


What is it? what?


I did not tell you yesterday, that coming home with Alexey Alexandrovitch I told him everything ... told him I could not be his wife, that ... and told him everything.


Yes, yes, that’s better, a thousand times better! I know how painful it was,


It was not in the least painful to me. It happened of itself, and see....


I understand, I understand. The one thing I longed for, the one thing I prayed for, was to cut short this position, so as to devote my life to your happiness.


Why do you tell me that? Do you suppose I can doubt it? If I doubted....


Who’s that coming? Perhaps they know us!


Oh, I don’t care! I tell you that’s not the point—I can’t doubt that; but see what he writes to me. Read it.


You see the sort of man he is, he....


Forgive me, but I rejoice at it. For God’s sake, let me finish! I rejoice, because things cannot, cannot possibly remain as he supposes.


Why can’t they?


It can’t go on. I hope that now you will leave him. I hope that you will let me arrange and plan our life. Tomorrow....


But my child! You see what he writes! I should have to leave him, and I can’t and won’t do that.


But, for God’s sake, which is better?—leave your child, or keep up this degrading position?


To whom is it degrading?


To all, and most of all to you.


You say degrading ... don’t say that. Those words have no meaning for me. Don’t you understand that from the day I loved you everything has changed for me? For me there is one thing, and one thing only—your love. If that’s mine, I feel so exalted, so strong, that nothing can be humiliating to me. I am proud of my position, because ... proud of being ... proud....


Is not a divorce possible? Couldn’t you take your son, and still leave him?


Yes; but it all depends on him. Now I must go to him,


On Tuesday I shall be in Petersburg, and everything can be settled.


Yes. But don’t let us talk any more of it.


I am very glad you have come. Is Seryozha quite well? I shan’t be dining at home today, and I have got to go out directly.


I had thought of going to Moscow,


No, you did quite, quite right to come,


Alexey Alexandrovitch. I’m a guilty woman, I’m a bad woman, but I am the same as I was, as I told you then, and I have come to tell you that I can change nothing.


I have asked you no question about that, that was as I had supposed. But as I told you then, and have written to you. I repeat now, that I am not bound to know this. I ignore it. Not all wives are so kind as you, to be in such a hurry to communicate such agreeable news to their husbands. agreeable. I shall ignore it so long as the world knows nothing of it, so long as my name is not disgraced. And so I simply inform you that our relations must be just as they have always been, and that only in the event of your compromising me I shall be obliged to take steps to secure my honor.


But our relations cannot be the same as always. I cannot be your wife while I....


The manner of life you have chosen is reflected, I suppose, in your ideas. I have too much respect or contempt, or both ... I respect your past and despise your present ... that I was far from the interpretation you put on my words. Though indeed I fail to comprehend how, with the independence you show, —announcing your infidelity to your husband and seeing nothing reprehensible in it, apparently—you can see anything reprehensible in performing a wife’s duties in relation to your husband.


Alexey Alexandrovitch! What is it you want of me?


I want you not to meet that man here, and to conduct yourself so that neither the world nor the servants can reproach you ... not to see him. That’s not much, I think. And in return you will enjoy all the privileges of a faithful wife without fulfilling her duties. That’s all I have to say to you. Now it’s time for me to go. I’m not dining at home.


Don’t trouble, your honor, sure, the womenfolks will pitch it quick enough.


Do what you will to me, your honor.


I can’t ask her to be my wife merely because she can’t be the wife of the man she wanted to marry. I should not be able to speak to her without a feeling of reproach; I could not look at her without resentment; and she will only hate me all the more, as she’s bound to. And besides, how can I now, after what Darya Alexandrovna told me, go to see them? Can I help showing that I know what she told me? And me to go magnanimously to forgive her, and have pity on her! Me go through a performance before her of forgiving, and deigning to bestow my love on her!... What induced Darya Alexandrovna to tell me that? By chance I might have seen her, then everything would have happened of itself; but, as it is, it’s out of the question, out of the question!


I’m told you have a side-saddle. I hope you will bring it over yourself.


Would you like the samovar?


Yes, please.


Look sharp, my girl! Well, sir, are you going to Nikolay Ivanovitch Sviazhsky? His honor comes to us too,


What have they been ploughing?


Ploughing up the potatoes. We rent a bit of land too. Fedot, don’t let out the gelding, but take it to the trough, and we’ll put the other in harness.


Oh, father, the ploughshares I ordered, has he brought them along?


There ... in the outer room. You can put them on, while they have dinner. Well, I have had some today already. But just a glass for company.


What have the wenches to do? They carry it out in bundles to the roadside, and the cart brings it away.


Well, we landowners can’t manage well with our laborers,


Thank you. They’re simple destruction. Look at Sviazhsky’s, for instance. We know what the land’s like—first-rate, yet there’s not much of a crop to boast of. It’s not looked after enough—that’s all it is!


But you work your land with hired laborers?


We’re all peasants together. We go into everything ourselves. If a man’s no use, he can go, and we can manage by ourselves.


Father, Finogen wants some tar,


Yes, yes, that’s how it is, sir!


You say, that my husband cannot be interested in what’s Russian. It’s quite the contrary; he is always in cheerful spirits abroad, but not as he is here. Here, he feels in his proper place. He has so much to do, and he has the faculty of interesting himself in everything. Oh, you’ve not been to see our school, have you?


I’ve seen it.... The little house covered with ivy, isn’t it?


Yes; that’s Nastia’s work,


You teach in it yourself?


Yes; I used to teach in it myself, and do teach still, but we have a first-rate schoolmistress now. And we’ve started gymnastic exercises.


No, thank you, I won’t have any more tea. I hear a very interesting conversation,


If I’d only the heart to throw up what’s been set going ... such a lot of trouble wasted ... I’d turn my back on the whole business, sell up, go off like Nikolay Ivanovitch ... to hear La Belle Hélène,


But you see you don’t throw it up, so there must be something gained.


The only gain is that I live in my own house, neither bought nor hired. Besides, one keeps hoping the people will learn sense. Though, instead of that, you’d never believe it—the drunkenness, the immorality! They keep chopping and changing their bits of land. Not a sight of a horse or a cow. The peasant’s dying of hunger, but just go and take him on as a laborer, he’ll do his best to do you a mischief, and then bring you up before the justice of the peace.


But then you make complaints to the justice too,


I lodge complaints? Not for anything in the world! Such a talking, and such a to-do, that one would have cause to regret it. At the works, for instance, they pocketed the advance-money and made off. What did the justice do? Why, acquitted them. Nothing keeps them in order but their own communal court and their village elder. He’ll flog them in the good old style! But for that there’d be nothing for it but to give it all up and run away.


But you see we manage our land without such extreme measures. Levin and I and this gentleman.


Yes, the thing’s done at Mihail Petrovitch’s, but ask him how it’s done. Do you call that a rational system?


My system’s very simple, thank God. All my management rests on getting the money ready for the autumn taxes, and the peasants come to me, ‘Father, master, help us!’ Well, the peasants are all one’s neighbors; one feels for them. So one advances them a third, but one says: ‘Remember, lads, I have helped you, and you must help me when I need it—whether it’s the sowing of the oats, or the haycutting, or the harvest’; and well, one agrees, so much for each taxpayer—though there are dishonest ones among them too, it’s true.


Then what do you think? what system is one to adopt nowadays?


Why, manage like Mihail Petrovitch, or let the land for half the crop or for rent to the peasants; that one can do—only that’s just how the general prosperity of the country is being ruined. Where the land with serf-labor and good management gave a yield of nine to one, on the half-crop system it yields three to one. Russia has been ruined by the emancipation!


The point is, don’t you see, that progress of every sort is only made by the use of authority,


Take the reforms of Peter, of Catherine, of Alexander. Take European history. And progress in agriculture more than anything else—the potato, for instance, that was introduced among us by force. The wooden plough too wasn’t always used. It was introduced maybe in the days before the Empire, but it was probably brought in by force. Now, in our own day, we landowners in the serf times used various improvements in our husbandry: drying machines and thrashing machines, and carting manure and all the modern implements—all that we brought into use by our authority, and the peasants opposed it at first, and ended by imitating us. Now, by the abolition of serfdom we have been deprived of our authority; and so our husbandry, where it had been raised to a high level, is bound to sink to the most savage primitive condition. That’s how I see it.


With laborers.


The laborers won’t work well, and won’t work with good implements. Our laborer can do nothing but get drunk like a pig, and when he’s drunk he ruins everything you give him. He makes the horses ill with too much water, cuts good harness, barters the tires of the wheels for drink, drops bits of iron into the thrashing machine, so as to break it. He loathes the sight of anything that’s not after his fashion. And that’s how it is the whole level of husbandry has fallen. Lands gone out of cultivation, overgrown with weeds, or divided among the peasants, and where millions of bushels were raised you get a hundred thousand; the wealth of the country has decreased. If the same thing had been done, but with care that....


That the standard of culture is falling, and that with our present relations to the peasants there is no possibility of farming on a rational system to yield a profit—that’s perfectly true,


I don’t believe it, all I see is that we don’t know how to cultivate the land, and that our system of agriculture in the serf days was by no means too high, but too low. We have no machines, no good stock, no efficient supervision; we don’t even know how to keep accounts. Ask any landowner; he won’t be able to tell you what crop’s profitable, and what’s not.


Italian bookkeeping,


Why do they spoil things? A poor thrashing machine, or your Russian presser, they will break, but my steam press they don’t break. A wretched Russian nag they’ll ruin, but keep good dray-horses—they won’t ruin them. And so it is all round. We must raise our farming to a higher level.


Oh, if one only had the means to do it, Nikolay Ivanovitch! It’s all very well for you; but for me, with a son to keep at the university, lads to be educated at the high school—how am I going to buy these dray-horses?


Well, that’s what the land banks are for.


I don’t agree that it’s necessary or possible to raise the level of agriculture still higher. I devote myself to it, and I have means, but I can do nothing. As to the banks, I don’t know to whom they’re any good. For my part, anyway, whatever I’ve spent money on in the way of husbandry, it has been a loss: stock—a loss, machinery—a loss.


That’s true enough,


And I’m not the only one. I mix with all the neighboring landowners, who are cultivating their land on a rational system; they all, with rare exceptions, are doing so at a loss. Come, tell us how does your land do—does it pay?


Possibly it does not pay. That merely proves either that I’m a bad manager, or that I’ve sunk my capital for the increase of my rents.


Oh, rent! Rent there may be in Europe, where land has been improved by the labor put into it, but with us all the land is deteriorating from the labor put into it—in other words they’re working it out; so there’s no question of rent.


How no rent? It’s a law.


Then we’re outside the law; rent explains nothing for us, but simply muddles us. No, tell me how there can be a theory of rent?...


Will you have some junket? Masha, pass us some junket or raspberries.


Extraordinarily late the raspberries are lasting this year.


What makes you think that it’s impossible to find some relation to the laborer in which the labor would become productive?


That never could be so with the Russian peasantry; we’ve no power over them,


How can new conditions be found? All possible relations to the labor force have been defined and studied. The relic of barbarism, the primitive commune with each guarantee for all, will disappear of itself; serfdom has been abolished—there remains nothing but free labor, and its forms are fixed and ready made, and must be adopted. Permanent hands, day-laborers, rammers—you can’t get out of those forms.


Dissatisfied, and seeking new ones. And will find them, in all probability.


That’s just what I was meaning. Why shouldn’t we seek them for ourselves?


Because it would be just like inventing afresh the means for constructing railways. They are ready, invented.


But if they don’t do for us, if they’re stupid?


Oh, yes; we’ll bury the world under our caps! We’ve found the secret Europe was seeking for! I’ve heard all that; but, excuse me, do you know all that’s been done in Europe on the question of the organization of labor?


No, very little.


That question is now absorbing the best minds in Europe. The Schulze-Delitsch movement.... And then all this enormous literature of the labor question, the most liberal Lassalle movement ... the Mulhausen experiment? That’s a fact by now, as you’re probably aware.


I have some idea of it, but very vague.


No, you only say that; no doubt you know all about it as well as I do. I’m not a professor of sociology, of course, but it interested me, and really, if it interests you, you ought to study it.


But what conclusion have they come to?


Excuse me....


What are you looking at there? Oh, yes, there’s a very interesting article here. It appears, that Friedrich was not, after all, the person chiefly responsible for the partition of Poland. It is proved....


What is there inside of him? And why, why is he interested in the partition of Poland? Well, and what then? He’s a clever fellow, and said a lot that was true.


Oh, get along with you! An inveterate supporter of serfdom at heart, like all of them!


Whose marshal you are. Yes, only I marshal them in the other direction,


I’ll tell you what interests me very much. He’s right that our system, that’s to say of rational farming, doesn’t answer, that the only thing that answers is the money-lender system, like that meek-looking gentleman’s, or else the very simplest.... Whose fault is it?


Our own, of course. Besides, it’s not true that it doesn’t answer. It answers with Vassiltchikov.


A factory....


But I really don’t know what it is you are surprised at. The people are at such a low stage of rational and moral development, that it’s obvious they’re bound to oppose everything that’s strange to them. In Europe, a rational system answers because the people are educated; it follows that we must educate the people—that’s all.


But how are we to educate the people?


To educate the people three things are needed: schools, and schools, and schools.


But you said yourself the people are at such a low stage of material development: what help are schools for that?


Do you know, you remind me of the story of the advice given to the sick man—You should try purgative medicine. Taken: worse. Try leeches. Tried them: worse. Well, then, there’s nothing left but to pray to God. Tried it: worse. That’s just how it is with us. I say political economy; you say—worse. I say socialism: worse. Education: worse.


But how do schools help matters?


They give the peasant fresh wants.


Well, that’s a thing I’ve never understood. In what way are schools going to help the people to improve their material position? You say schools, education, will give them fresh wants. So much the worse, since they won’t be capable of satisfying them. And in what way a knowledge of addition and subtraction and the catechism is going to improve their material condition, I never could make out. The day before yesterday, I met a peasant woman in the evening with a little baby, and asked her where she was going. She said she was going to the wise woman; her boy had screaming fits, so she was taking him to be doctored. I asked, ‘Why, how does the wise woman cure screaming fits?’ ‘She puts the child on the hen-roost and repeats some charm....’


Well, you’re saying it yourself! What’s wanted to prevent her taking her child to the hen-roost to cure it of screaming fits is just....


Oh, no! that method of doctoring I merely meant as a simile for doctoring the people with schools. The people are poor and ignorant—that we see as surely as the peasant woman sees the baby is ill because it screams. But in what way this trouble of poverty and ignorance is to be cured by schools is as incomprehensible as how the hen-roost affects the screaming. What has to be cured is what makes him poor.


Well, in that, at least, you’re in agreement with Spencer, whom you dislike so much. He says, too, that education may be the consequence of greater prosperity and comfort, of more frequent washing, as he says, but not of being able to read and write....


Well, then, I’m very glad—or the contrary, very sorry, that I’m in agreement with Spencer; only I’ve known it a long while. Schools can do no good; what will do good is an economic organization in which the people will become richer, will have more leisure—and then there will be schools.


Still, all over Europe now schools are obligatory.


And how far do you agree with Spencer yourself about it?


No; that screaming story is positively capital! Did you really hear it yourself?


Yes, I ought to have said to him: You say that our husbandry does not answer because the peasant hates improvements, and that they must be forced on him by authority. If no system of husbandry answered at all without these improvements, you would be quite right. But the only system that does answer is where laborer is working in accordance with his habits, just as on the old peasant’s land half-way here. Your and our general dissatisfaction with the system shows that either we are to blame or the laborers. We have gone our way—the European way—a long while, without asking ourselves about the qualities of our labor force. Let us try to look upon the labor force not as an abstract force, but as the Russian peasant with his instincts, and we shall arrange our system of culture in accordance with that. Imagine, I ought to have said to him, that you have the same system as the old peasant has, that you have found means of making your laborers take an interest in the success of the work, and have found the happy mean in the way of improvements which they will admit, and you will, without exhausting the soil, get twice or three times the yield you got before. Divide it in halves, give half as the share of labor, the surplus left you will be greater, and the share of labor will be greater too. And to do this one must lower the standard of husbandry and interest the laborers in its success. How to do this?—that’s a matter of detail; but undoubtedly it can be done.


If you would take a rent for the land, it would save you trouble, and we should be more free.


But Kauffmann, but Jones, but Dubois, but Michelli? You haven’t read them: they’ve thrashed that question out thoroughly.


I have only to go stubbornly on towards my aim, and I shall attain my end, and it’s something to work and take trouble for. This is not a matter of myself individually; the question of the public welfare comes into it. The whole system of culture, the chief element in the condition of the people, must be completely transformed. Instead of poverty, general prosperity and content; instead of hostility, harmony and unity of interests. In short, a bloodless revolution, but a revolution of the greatest magnitude, beginning in the little circle of our district, then the province, then Russia, the whole world. Because a just idea cannot but be fruitful. Yes, it’s an aim worth working for. And its being me, Kostya Levin, who went to a ball in a black tie, and was refused by the Shtcherbatskaya girl, and who was intrinsically such a pitiful, worthless creature—that proves nothing; I feel sure Franklin felt just as worthless, and he too had no faith in himself, thinking of himself as a whole. That means nothing. And he too, most likely, had an Agafea Mihalovna to whom he confided his secrets.


I must write that down. That ought to form a brief introduction, which I thought unnecessary before.


What’s the use of being dreary? Come, why do you stay on at home? You ought to go to some warm springs, especially now you’re ready for the journey.


Well, I am going away the day after tomorrow, Agafea Mihalovna; I must finish my work.


There, there, your work, you say! As if you hadn’t done enough for the peasants! Why, as ’tis, they’re saying, ‘Your master will be getting some honor from the Tsar for it.’ Indeed and it is a strange thing; why need you worry about the peasants?


I’m not worrying about them; I’m doing it for my own good.


Of one’s soul’s salvation we all know and must think before all else. Parfen Denisitch now, for all he was no scholar, he died a death that God grant everyone of us the like. Took the sacrament and all.


That’s not what I mean. I mean that I’m acting for my own advantage. It’s all the better for me if the peasants do their work better.


Well, whatever you do, if he’s a lazy good-for-nought, everything’ll be at sixes and sevens. If he has a conscience, he’ll work, and if not, there’s no doing anything.


Oh, come, you say yourself Ivan has begun looking after the cattle better.


All I say is, that you ought to get married, that’s what I say.


Well, here’s visitors come to us, and you won’t be dull,


You see, I’ve come to you. I’ve been meaning to a long while, but I’ve been unwell all the time. Now I’m ever so much better,


Yes, yes!


Of course he was quite old. Well, I’ll spend a month or two with you, and then I’m off to Moscow. Do you know, Myakov has promised me a place there, and I’m going into the service. Now I’m going to arrange my life quite differently. You know I got rid of that woman.


Marya Nikolaevna? Why, what for?


Oh, she was a horrid woman! She caused me all sorts of worries. Besides, I want to turn over a new leaf completely now. I’ve done silly things, of course, like everyone else, but money’s the last consideration; I don’t regret it. So long as there’s health, and my health, thank God, is quite restored.


Oh, my God! Ah, the devil!


I work, I want to do something, but I had forgotten it must all end; I had forgotten—death. But I am alive still. Now what’s to be done? what’s to be done?


And now that bent, hollow chest ... and I, not knowing what will become of me, or wherefore....


K...ha! K...ha! Damnation! Why do you keep fidgeting, why don’t you go to sleep?


Oh, I don’t know, I’m not sleepy.


I have had a good sleep, I’m not in a sweat now. Just see, feel my shirt; it’s not wet, is it?


Why, he’s dying—yes, he’ll die in the spring, and how help him? What can I say to him? What do I know about it? I’d even forgotten that it was at all.


You’re dying, you’re dying!


I know I’m dying, but I’m afraid, I’m afraid, I’m afraid!


You’ve simply borrowed an idea that’s not your own, but you’ve distorted it, and are trying to apply it where it’s not applicable.


But I tell you it’s nothing to do with it. They deny the justice of property, of capital, of inheritance, while I do not deny this chief stimulus. All I want is to regulate labor.


Which means, you’ve borrowed an idea, stripped it of all that gave it its force, and want to make believe that it’s something new,


But my idea has nothing in common....


That, anyway, has the charm of—what’s one to call it?—geometrical symmetry, of clearness, of definiteness. It may be a Utopia. But if once one allows the possibility of making of all the past a tabula rasa—no property, no family—then labor would organize itself. But you gain nothing....


Why do you mix things up? I’ve never been a communist.


But I have, and I consider it’s premature, but rational, and it has a future, just like Christianity in its first ages.


All that I maintain is that the labor force ought to be investigated from the point of view of natural science; that is to say, it ought to be studied, its qualities ascertained....


But that’s utter waste of time. That force finds a certain form of activity of itself, according to the stage of its development. There have been slaves first everywhere, then metayers; and we have the half-crop system, rent, and day laborers. What are you trying to find?


I am trying to find means of working productively for myself and for the laborers. I want to organize....


You don’t want to organize anything; it’s simply just as you’ve been all your life, that you want to be original to pose as not exploiting the peasants simply, but with some idea in view.


Oh, all right, that’s what you think—and let me alone!


You’ve never had, and never have, convictions; all you want is to please your vanity.


Oh, very well; then let me alone!


And I will let you alone! and it’s high time I did, and go to the devil with you! and I’m very sorry I ever came! Ah, generosity! If you want to be right, I can give you that satisfaction. You’re in the right; but I’m going all the same. Anyway, don’t remember evil against me, Kostya!


What’s the matter with you?


Oh, nothing; there’s not much happiness in life.


Not much? You come with me to Paris instead of to Mulhausen. You shall see how to be happy.


No, I’ve done with it all. It’s time I was dead.


Well, that’s a good one! why, I’m only just getting ready to begin.


Yes, I thought the same not long ago, but now I know I shall soon be dead.


Brainless beef! can I be like that?


I am ill and unhappy. I cannot come out, but I cannot go on longer without seeing you. Come in this evening. Alexey Alexandrovitch goes to the council at seven and will be there till ten.


What was it? What? What was the dreadful thing I dreamed? Yes, yes; I think a little dirty man with a disheveled beard was stooping down doing something, and all of a sudden he began saying some strange words in French. Yes, there was nothing else in the dream. But why was it so awful? What nonsense! She is coming to me, and better she should. I don’t like going into that house. But no matter; I can’t hide myself,


What a position! If he would fight, would stand up for his honor, I could act, could express my feelings; but this weakness or baseness.... He puts me in the position of playing false, which I never meant and never mean to do.


No. No; if things are to go on like this, the end will come much, much too soon.


What is it, dear one?


What? I’ve been waiting in agony for an hour, two hours ... No, I won’t ... I can’t quarrel with you. Of course you couldn’t come. No, I won’t. You met him? You’re punished, you see, for being late.


Yes; but how was it? Wasn’t he to be at the council?


He had been and come back, and was going out somewhere again. But that’s no matter. Don’t talk about it. Where have you been? With the prince still? But it’s over now? He is gone?


Thank God it’s over! You wouldn’t believe how insufferable it’s been for me.


Why so? Isn’t it the life all of you, all young men, always lead?


I gave that life up long ago. And I confess, this week I’ve been, as it were, looking at myself in a glass, seeing that life, and I didn’t like it.


This morning Liza came to see me—they’re not afraid to call on me, in spite of the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, and she told me about your Athenian evening. How loathsome!


I was just going to say....


It was that Thérèse you used to know?


I was just saying....


How disgusting you are, you men! How is it you can’t understand that a woman can never forget that, especially a woman who cannot know your life? What do I know? What have I ever known? what you tell me. And how do I know whether you tell me the truth?...


Anna, you hurt me. Don’t you trust me? Haven’t I told you that I haven’t a thought I wouldn’t lay bare to you?


Yes, yes. But if only you knew how wretched I am! I believe you, I believe you.... What were you saying?


Well, well, what was it you were going to say about the prince? I have driven away the fiend. What did you begin to tell me about the prince? Why did you find it so tiresome?


Oh, it was intolerable! He does not improve on closer acquaintance. If you want him defined, here he is: a prime, well-fed beast such as takes medals at the cattle shows, and nothing more,


No; how so? He’s seen a great deal, anyway; he’s cultured?


It’s an utterly different culture—their culture. He’s cultivated, one sees, simply to be able to despise culture, as they despise everything but animal pleasures.


But don’t you all care for these animal pleasures?


How is it you’re defending him?


I’m not defending him, it’s nothing to me; but I imagine, if you had not cared for those pleasures yourself, you might have got out of them. But if it affords you satisfaction to gaze at Thérèse in the attire of Eve....


Again, the devil again,


Yes; but I can’t help it. You don’t know what I have suffered waiting for you. I believe I’m not jealous. I’m not jealous: I believe you when you’re here; but when you’re away somewhere leading your life, so incomprehensible to me.... How was it, then? Where did you meet Alexey Alexandrovitch?


We ran up against each other in the doorway.


And he bowed to you like this?


I don’t understand him in the least. If after your avowal to him at your country house he had broken with you, if he had called me out—but this I can’t understand. How can he put up with such a position? He feels it, that’s evident.


He? He’s perfectly satisfied.


What are we all miserable for, when everything might be so happy?


Only not he. Don’t I know him, the falsity in which he’s utterly steeped?... Could one, with any feeling, live as he is living with me? He understands nothing, and feels nothing. Could a man of any feeling live in the same house with his unfaithful wife? Could he talk to her, call her ‘my dear’? Anna, ma chère; Anna, dear! He’s not a man, not a human being—he’s a doll! No one knows him; but I know him. Oh, if I’d been in his place, I’d long ago have killed, have torn to pieces a wife like me. I wouldn’t have said, ‘Anna, ma chère’! He’s not a man, he’s an official machine. He doesn’t understand that I’m your wife, that he’s outside, that he’s superfluous.... Don’t let’s talk of him!...


You’re unfair, very unfair, dearest. But never mind, don’t let’s talk of him. Tell me what you’ve been doing? What is the matter? What has been wrong with you, and what did the doctor say? I imagine that it’s not illness, but your condition. When will it be?


Soon, soon. You say that our position is miserable, that we must put an end to it. If you knew how terrible it is to me, what I would give to be able to love you freely and boldly! I should not torture myself and torture you with my jealousy.... And it will come soon, but not as we expect. It won’t come as we suppose. I didn’t mean to say this to you, but you’ve made me. Soon, soon, all will be over, and we shall all, all be at peace, and suffer no more.


How absurd! What absurd nonsense you are talking!


No, it’s the truth.


What, what’s the truth?


That I shall die. I have had a dream.


A dream?


Yes, a dream. It’s a long while since I dreamed it. I dreamed that I ran into my bedroom, that I had to get something there, to find out something; you know how it is in dreams, and in the bedroom, in the corner, stood something. And the something turned round, and I saw it was a peasant with a disheveled beard, little, and dreadful looking. I wanted to run away, but he bent down over a sack, and was fumbling there with his hands.... Il faut le battre, le fer, le broyer, le pétrir In childbirth you’ll die, ma’am, you’ll die....


What nonsense, what nonsense!


But don’t let’s talk of it. Ring the bell, I’ll have tea. And stay a little now; it’s not long I shall....


What do you want? Your lover’s letters,


They’re not here,


Sit down! I have to speak to you. I told you that I would not allow you to receive your lover in this house.


I had to see him to....


I do not enter into the details of why a woman wants to see her lover.


I meant, I only.... Surely you must feel how easy it is for you to insult me?


An honest man and an honest woman may be insulted, but to tell a thief he’s a thief is simply la constatation d’un fait.


This cruelty is something new I did not know in you.


You call it cruelty for a husband to give his wife liberty, giving her the honorable protection of his name, simply on the condition of observing the proprieties: is that cruelty?


It’s worse than cruel—it’s base, if you want to know!


No! Base! If you care to use that word, what is base is to forsake husband and child for a lover, while you eat your husband’s bread!


You cannot describe my position as worse than I feel it to be myself; but what are you saying all this for?


What am I saying it for? what for? That you may know that since you have not carried out my wishes in regard to observing outward decorum, I will take measures to put an end to this state of things.


Soon, very soon, it will end, anyway,


It will end sooner than you and your lover have planned! If you must have the satisfaction of animal passion....


Alexey Alexandrovitch! I won’t say it’s not generous, but it’s not like a gentleman to strike anyone who’s down.


Yes, you only think of yourself! But the sufferings of a man who was your husband have no interest for you. You don’t care that his whole life is ruined, that he is thuff ... thuff....


I came to tell you....


No, it was my fancy,


I have come to tell you that I am going tomorrow to Moscow, and shall not return again to this house, and you will receive notice of what I decide through the lawyer into whose hands I shall intrust the task of getting a divorce. My son is going to my sister’s,


You take Seryozha to hurt me. You do not love him.... Leave me Seryozha!


Yes, I have lost even my affection for my son, because he is associated with the repulsion I feel for you. But still I shall take him. Good-bye!


Alexey Alexandrovitch, leave me Seryozha! I have nothing else to say. Leave Seryozha till my ... I shall soon be confined; leave him!


What are you wanting? He is engaged. Can’t he spare time to see me? Then I must trouble you to give him my card,


Coming immediately,


Before beginning to speak of my business. I ought to observe that the business about which I have to speak to you is to be strictly private. I should not be a lawyer if I could not keep the secrets confided to me. But if you would like proof.... You know my name? I have the misfortune, Alexey Alexandrovitch began, “to have been deceived in my married life, and I desire to break off all relations with my wife by legal means—that is, to be divorced, but to do this so that my son may not remain with his mother. Yes, precisely so; but I ought to warn you that I may be wasting your time and attention. I have come simply to consult you as a preliminary step. I want a divorce, but the form in which it is possible is of great consequence to me. It is very possible that if that form does not correspond with my requirements I may give up a legal divorce. Though in their general features our laws on this subject are known to me. I should be glad to have an idea of the forms in which such things are done in practice. You would be glad,


Divorce by our laws, is possible, as you are aware, in the following cases.... Wait a little! ... In the following cases: physical defect in the married parties, desertion without communication for five years, adultery subdivided as follows physical defect of the husband or of the wife, adultery of the husband or of the wife. This is the theoretical view; but I imagine you have done me the honor to apply to me in order to learn its application in practice. And therefore, guided by precedents, I must inform you that in practice cases of divorce may all be reduced to the following—there’s no physical defect, I may assume, nor desertion?... —May be reduced to the following: adultery of one of the married parties, and the detection in the fact of the guilty party by mutual agreement, and failing such agreement, accidental detection. It must be admitted that the latter case is rarely met with in practice. The most usual and simple, the sensible course, I consider, is adultery by mutual consent. I should not permit myself to express it so, speaking with a man of no education, but I imagine that to you this is comprehensible. People cannot go on living together—here you have a fact. And if both are agreed about it, the details and formalities become a matter of no importance. And at the same time this is the simplest and most certain method.


That is out of the question in the present case. Only one alternative is possible: undesigned detection, supported by letters which I have.


Kindly consider, cases of that kind are, as you are aware, under ecclesiastical jurisdiction; the reverend fathers are fond of going into the minutest details in cases of that kind. Letters may, of course, be a partial confirmation; but detection in the fact there must be of the most direct kind, that is, by eyewitnesses. In fact, if you do me the honor to intrust your confidence to me, you will do well to leave me the choice of the measures to be employed. If one wants the result, one must admit the means.


If it is so....


Tell her we don’t haggle over fees! And so you were saying?...


I will communicate my decision to you by letter. From your words I may consequently conclude that a divorce may be obtained? I would ask you to let me know what are your terms.


It may be obtained if you give me complete liberty of action. When can I reckon on receiving information from you?


In a week’s time. Your answer as to whether you will undertake to conduct the case, and on what terms, you will be so good as to communicate to me.


Very good.


I think it very noble. Why take money for posting-horses when everyone knows that there are railways everywhere now?


It’s all very well for you to talk, when you have I don’t know how many millions; but I am very glad when my husband goes on a revising tour in the summer. It’s very good for him and pleasant traveling about, and it’s a settled arrangement for me to keep a carriage and coachman on the money.


Well, what a shame not to have let us know! Been here long? I was at Dussots’ yesterday and saw ‘Karenin’ on the visitors’ list, but it never entered my head that it was you, or I should have looked you up. I am glad to see you! What a shame of you not to let us know!


I had no time; I am very busy,


Come to my wife, she does so want to see you.


Why, Alexey Alexandrovitch, what are you cutting us like this for?


I was very busy. Delighted to see you! How are you?


Tell me, how is my darling Anna?


I tell you what we’ll do tomorrow. Dolly, ask him to dinner. We’ll ask Koznishev and Pestsov, so as to entertain him with our Moscow celebrities.


Yes, please, do come, we will expect you at five, or six o’clock, if you like. How is my darling Anna? How long....


She is quite well. Delighted!


You will come?


I shall come round tomorrow! Queer fish!


Stiva! Stiva! I must get coats, you know, for Grisha and Tanya. Give me the money.


Never mind; you tell them I’ll pay the bill!


I can not come at the beginning of the ballet, he promised he would come for the last act and take her to supper.


Good-day, Vassily, why, you’ve let your whiskers grow! Levin, number seven, eh? Take me up, please. And find out whether Count Anitchkin is receiving.


Yes, sir. You’ve not been to see us for a long while.


I was here yesterday, but at the other entrance. Is this number seven? What! you killed him? Well done! A she-bear? How are you, Arhip!


Come, take off your coat and stay a little,


No, I haven’t time; I’ve only looked in for a tiny second. Come, tell me, please, what you did abroad? Where have you been?


Oh, I stayed in Germany, in Prussia, in France, and in England—not in the capitals, but in the manufacturing towns, and saw a great deal that was new to me. And I’m glad I went.


Yes, I knew your idea of the solution of the labor question.


Not a bit: in Russia there can be no labor question. In Russia the question is that of the relation of the working people to the land; though the question exists there too—but there it’s a matter of repairing what’s been ruined, while with us....


Yes, yes! it’s very possible you’re right. But I’m glad you’re in good spirits, and are hunting bears, and working, and interested. Shtcherbatsky told me another story—he met you—that you were in such a depressed state, talking of nothing but death....


Well, what of it? I’ve not given up thinking of death. It’s true that it’s high time I was dead; and that all this is nonsense. It’s the truth I’m telling you. I do value my idea and my work awfully; but in reality only consider this: all this world of ours is nothing but a speck of mildew, which has grown up on a tiny planet. And for us to suppose we can have something great—ideas, work—it’s all dust and ashes.


But all that’s as old as the hills, my boy!


It is old; but do you know, when you grasp this fully, then somehow everything becomes of no consequence. When you understand that you will die tomorrow, if not today, and nothing will be left, then everything is so unimportant! And I consider my idea very important, but it turns out really to be as unimportant too, even if it were carried out, as doing for that bear. So one goes on living, amusing oneself with hunting, with work—anything so as not to think of death!


Well, of course! Here you’ve come round to my point. Do you remember you attacked me for seeking enjoyment in life? Don’t be so severe, O moralist!


No; all the same, what’s fine in life is.... oh, I don’t know. All I know is that we shall soon be dead.


Why so soon?


And do you know, there’s less charm in life, when one thinks of death, but there’s more peace.


On the contrary, the finish is always the best. But I must be going,


Oh, no, stay a bit! Now, when shall we see each other again? I’m going tomorrow.


I’m a nice person! Why, that’s just what I came for! You simply must come to dinner with us today. Your brother’s coming, and Karenin, my brother-in-law.


You don’t mean to say he’s here? Whether she’s coming or not, I don’t care,


So you’ll come?


Of course.


At five o’clock, then, and not evening dress.


No matter, so much the better. I will inform him at once of my position in regard to his sister, and explain why it is I can’t dine with him. Come in!


There, you see, you’re talking nonsense, and he’s at home! Well, I’m awfully glad I’ve found you! So I hope....


I cannot come,


Why can’t you? What do you mean? Oh, but it’s a promise. And we’re all counting on you.


I want to tell you that I can’t dine at your house, because the terms of relationship which have existed between us must cease.


How? How do you mean? What for?


Because I am beginning an action for divorce against your sister, my wife. I ought to have....


No, Alexey Alexandrovitch! What are you saying?


It is so.


Excuse me, I can’t, I can’t believe it!


Yes, I am brought to the painful necessity of seeking a divorce,


I will say one thing, Alexey Alexandrovitch. I know you for an excellent, upright man; I know Anna—excuse me, I can’t change my opinion of her—for a good, an excellent woman; and so, excuse me, I cannot believe it. There is some misunderstanding,


Oh, if it were merely a misunderstanding!...


Pardon, I understand. But of course.... One thing: you must not act in haste. You must not, you must not act in haste!


I am not acting in haste, but one cannot ask advice of anyone in such a matter. I have quite made up my mind.


This is awful! I would do one thing, Alexey Alexandrovitch. I beseech you, do it! No action has yet been taken, if I understand rightly. Before you take advice, see my wife, talk to her. She loves Anna like a sister, she loves you, and she’s a wonderful woman. For God’s sake, talk to her! Do me that favor, I beseech you! You will go to see her?


I don’t know. That was just why I have not been to see you. I imagine our relations must change.


Why so? I don’t see that. Allow me to believe that apart from our connection you have for me, at least in part, the same friendly feeling I have always had for you ... and sincere esteem. Even if your worst suppositions were correct, I don’t—and never would—take on myself to judge either side, and I see no reason why our relations should be affected. But now, do this, come and see my wife.


Well, we look at the matter differently. However, we won’t discuss it.


No; why shouldn’t you come today to dine, anyway? My wife’s expecting you. Please, do come. And, above all, talk it over with her. She’s a wonderful woman. For God’s sake, on my knees, I implore you!


If you so much wish it, I will come,


Well, have you seen him?


Of course; he was at our sitting yesterday. He seems to know his work capitally, and to be very energetic.


Yes, but what is his energy directed to? Is he aiming at doing anything, or simply undoing what’s been done? It’s the great misfortune of our government—this paper administration, of which he’s a worthy representative.


Really, I don’t know what fault one could find with him. His policy I don’t know, but one thing—he’s a very nice fellow. I’ve just been seeing him, and he’s really a capital fellow. We lunched together, and I taught him how to make, you know that drink, wine and oranges. It’s so cooling. And it’s a wonder he didn’t know it. He liked it awfully. No, really he’s a capital fellow. Why, good heavens, it’s four already, and I’ve still to go to Dolgovushin’s! So please come round to dinner. You can’t imagine how you will grieve my wife and me.


I’ve promised, and I’ll come,


Believe me, I appreciate it, and I hope you won’t regret it. At five o’clock, and not evening dress, please,


Well, old boy, you have popped me down in a learned set! A drinking party now, or the Château des Fleurs, would be more in my line!


I’m not late?


You can never help being late!


Have you a lot of people? Who’s here?


All our own set. Kitty’s here. Come along, I’ll introduce you to Karenin.


What is she like, what is she like? Like what she used to be, or like what she was in the carriage? What if Darya Alexandrovna told the truth? Why shouldn’t it be the truth? Oh, please, introduce me to Karenin,


How long it is since we’ve seen each other!


You’ve not seen me, but I’ve seen you. I saw you when you were driving from the railway station to Ergushovo. When? You were driving to Ergushovo. And how dared I associate a thought of anything not innocent with this touching creature? And, yes, I do believe it’s true what Darya Alexandrovna told me,


Let me introduce you.


Very glad to meet you again,


You are acquainted?


We spent three hours together in the train, but got out, just as in a masquerade, quite mystified—at least I was.


Nonsense! Come along, please,


So, then, for the Russification of our foreign populations there is but one method—to bring up as many children as one can. My brother and I are terribly in fault, I see. You married men, especially you, Stepan Arkadyevitch, are the real patriots: what number have you reached?


Oh, yes, that’s the best method! This cheese is not bad. Shall I give you some? Why, have you been going in for gymnastics again?


I imagine great strength is needed for hunting bears,


Not at all. Quite the contrary; a child can kill a bear,


You have killed a bear, I’ve been told! Are there bears on your place?


No, we’ve been hunting in the Tver province. It was coming back from there that I met your beau-frère in the train, or your beau-frère’s brother-in-law. It was an amusing meeting. The conductor, forgetting the proverb, would have chucked me out on account of my attire; but thereupon I began expressing my feelings in elevated language, and ... you, too, at first would have ejected me on the ground of the old coat, but afterwards you took my part, for which I am extremely grateful.


The rights of passengers generally to choose their seats are too ill-defined,


I saw you were in uncertainty about me, but I made haste to plunge into intellectual conversation to smooth over the defects of my attire.


Oh, you may as well sit there,


I did not mean,


It seems to me,


But that’s just the question. In what are we to make higher development consist? The English, the French, the Germans, which is at the highest stage of development? Which of them will nationalize the other? We see the Rhine provinces have been turned French, but the Germans are not at a lower stage!


I fancy that the greater influence is always on the side of true civilization,


But what are we to lay down as the outward signs of true civilization?


I imagine such signs are generally very well known,


It is the accepted view now that real culture must be purely classical; but we see most intense disputes on each side of the question, and there is no denying that the opposite camp has strong points in its favor.


You are for classics, Sergey Ivanovitch. Will you take red wine?


I am not expressing my own opinion of either form of culture. I only say that both sides have strong arguments to support them,


The natural sciences have just as great an educational value,


It seems to me that one must admit that the very process of studying the forms of language has a peculiarly favorable influence on intellectual development. Moreover, it cannot be denied that the influence of the classical authors is in the highest degree moral, while, unfortunately, with the study of the natural sciences are associated the false and noxious doctrines which are the curse of our day.


One must allow that to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of classical and scientific studies is a difficult task, and the question which form of education was to be preferred would not have been so quickly and conclusively decided if there had not been in favor of classical education, as you expressed it just now, its moral—disons le mot—anti-nihilist influence. If it had not been for the distinctive property of anti-nihilistic influence on the side of classical studies, we should have considered the subject more, have weighed the arguments on both sides, we should have given elbow-room to both tendencies. But now we know that these little pills of classical learning possess the medicinal property of anti-nihilism, and we boldly prescribe them to our patients.... But what if they had no such medicinal property?


I can’t agree even, that the government had that aim. The government obviously is guided by abstract considerations, and remains indifferent to the influence its measures may exercise. The education of women, for instance, would naturally be regarded as likely to be harmful, but the government opens schools and universities for women.


The education of women is apt to be confounded with the emancipation of women, and that it is only so that it can be considered dangerous.


I consider, on the contrary, that the two questions are inseparably connected together, it is a vicious circle. Woman is deprived of rights from lack of education, and the lack of education results from the absence of rights. We must not forget that the subjection of women is so complete, and dates from such ages back that we are often unwilling to recognize the gulf that separates them from us,


You said rights, meaning the right of sitting on juries, of voting, of presiding at official meetings, the right of entering the civil service, of sitting in parliament....


Undoubtedly.


But if women, as a rare exception, can occupy such positions, it seems to me you are wrong in using the expression ‘rights.’ It would be more correct to say duties. Every man will agree that in doing the duty of a juryman, a witness, a telegraph clerk, we feel we are performing duties. And therefore it would be correct to say that women are seeking duties, and quite legitimately. And one can but sympathize with this desire to assist in the general labor of man.


Quite so. The question, I imagine, is simply whether they are fitted for such duties.


when education has become general among them. We see this....


I can say it before my daughter: her hair is long, because her wit is....


Just what they thought of the negroes before their emancipation!


What seems strange to me is that women should seek fresh duties, while we see, unhappily, that men usually try to avoid them.


Duties are bound up with rights—power, money, honor; those are what women are seeking,


Just as though I should seek the right to be a wet-nurse and feel injured because women are paid for the work, while no one will take me,


Yes, but a man can’t nurse a baby,


No, there was an Englishman who did suckle his baby on board ship,


There are as many such Englishmen as there would be women officials,


Yes, but what is a girl to do who has no family?


If the story of such a girl were thoroughly sifted, you would find she had abandoned a family—her own or a sister’s, where she might have found a woman’s duties,


But we take our stand on principle as the ideal. Woman desires to have rights, to be independent, educated. She is oppressed, humiliated by the consciousness of her disabilities.


And I’m oppressed and humiliated that they won’t engage me at the Foundling,


It was very, very early in the morning. You were probably only just awake. Your mother was asleep in the corner. It was an exquisite morning. I was walking along wondering who it could be in a four-in-hand? It was a splendid set of four horses with bells, and in a second you flashed by, and I saw you at the window—you were sitting like this, holding the strings of your cap in both hands, and thinking awfully deeply about something,


Wasn’t I dreadfully untidy? Really I don’t remember.


How nicely Turovtsin laughs!


Have you known him long?


Oh, everyone knows him!


And I see you think he’s a horrid man?


Not horrid, but nothing in him.


Oh, you’re wrong! And you must give up thinking so directly! I used to have a very poor opinion of him too, but he, he’s an awfully nice and wonderfully good-hearted man. He has a heart of gold.


How could you find out what sort of heart he has?


We are great friends. I know him very well. Last winter, soon after ... you came to see us, he felt so sorry for her that he stayed and began to help her look after the children. Yes, and for three weeks he stopped with them, and looked after the children like a nurse. I am telling Konstantin Dmitrievitch about Turovtsin in the scarlet fever,


Yes, it was wonderful, noble!


I’m sorry, I’m sorry, and I’ll never think ill of people again!


No, I don’t smoke. I imagine that such a view has a foundation in the very nature of things,


You heard, perhaps, about Pryatchnikov? Vasya Pryatchnikov, they told me today he fought a duel with Kvitsky at Tver, and has killed him.


What did Pryatchnikov fight about?


His wife. Acted like a man, he did! Called him out and shot him!


Ah!


How glad I am you have come. I must talk to you. Let’s sit here.


It’s fortunate, especially as I was meaning to ask you to excuse me, and to be taking leave. I have to start tomorrow.


Alexey Alexandrovitch. I asked you about Anna, you made me no answer. How is she?


She is, I believe, quite well, Darya Alexandrovna,


Alexey Alexandrovitch, forgive me, I have no right ... but I love Anna as a sister, and esteem her; I beg, I beseech you to tell me what is wrong between you? what fault do you find with her?


I presume that your husband has told you the grounds on which I consider it necessary to change my attitude to Anna Arkadyevna?


I don’t believe it, I don’t believe it, I can’t believe it! We shall be disturbed here. Come this way, please. I don’t, I don’t believe it!


One cannot disbelieve facts, Darya Alexandrovna,


But what has she done? What precisely has she done?


She has forsaken her duty, and deceived her husband. That’s what she has done,


No, no, it can’t be! No, for God’s sake, you are mistaken,


It is extremely difficult to be mistaken when a wife herself informs her husband of the fact—informs him that eight years of her life, and a son, all that’s a mistake, and that she wants to begin life again,


Anna and sin—I cannot connect them, I cannot believe it!


Darya Alexandrovna. I would give a great deal for doubt to be still possible. When I doubted, I was miserable, but it was better than now. When I doubted, I had hope; but now there is no hope, and still I doubt of everything. I am in such doubt of everything that I even hate my son, and sometimes do not believe he is my son. I am very unhappy.


Oh, this is awful, awful! But can it be true that you are resolved on a divorce?


I am resolved on extreme measures. There is nothing else for me to do.


Nothing else to do, nothing else to do.... Oh no, don’t say nothing else to do!


What is horrible in a trouble of this kind is that one cannot, as in any other—in loss, in death—bear one’s trouble in peace, but that one must act. One must get out of the humiliating position in which one is placed; one can’t live à trois.


I understand. I understand, I quite understand that,


But wait a little! You are a Christian. Think of her! What will become of her, if you cast her off?


I have thought, Darya Alexandrovna, I have thought a great deal. That was what I did indeed when she herself made known to me my humiliation; I left everything as of old. I gave her a chance to reform, I tried to save her. And with what result? She would not regard the slightest request—that she should observe decorum. One may save anyone who does not want to be ruined; but if the whole nature is so corrupt, so depraved, that ruin itself seems to be her salvation, what’s to be done?


Anything, only not divorce! No, it is awful! She will be no one’s wife, she will be lost!


What can I do? I am very grateful for your sympathy, but I must be going,


No, wait a minute. You must not ruin her. Wait a little; I will tell you about myself. I was married, and my husband deceived me; in anger and jealousy, I would have thrown up everything, I would myself.... But I came to myself again; and who did it? Anna saved me. And here I am living on. The children are growing up, my husband has come back to his family, and feels his fault, is growing purer, better, and I live on.... I have forgiven it, and you ought to forgive!


Forgive I cannot, and do not wish to, and I regard it as wrong. I have done everything for this woman, and she has trodden it all in the mud to which she is akin. I am not a spiteful man, I have never hated anyone, but I hate her with my whole soul, and I cannot even forgive her, because I hate her too much for all the wrong she has done me!


Love those that hate you....


Love those that hate you, but to love those one hates is impossible. Forgive me for having troubled you. Everyone has enough to bear in his own grief!


I thought you were going towards the piano. That’s something I miss in the country—music.


No; we only came to fetch you and thank you, for coming. What do they want to argue for? No one ever convinces anyone, you know.


Yes; that’s true, it generally happens that one argues warmly simply because one can’t make out what one’s opponent wants to prove.


I know: one must find out what he is arguing for, what is precious to him, then one can....


a girl may be so circumstanced that she cannot live in the family without humiliation, while she herself....


Oh, yes. Yes, yes, yes—you’re right; you’re right!


Ah! I’ve scribbled all over the table!


Wait a minute. I’ve long wanted to ask you one thing.


Please, ask it.


Here,


It means never, but that’s not true!


Then I could not answer differently.


Only then?


Yes,


Well, read this. I’ll tell you what I should like—should like so much! I have nothing to forget and to forgive; I have never ceased to love you.


I understand,


Yes.


Oh, so it’s not time to die yet? N-n-no!


How glad I am you have met Kitty again! One must value old friends.


Where are you going?


I’m going to a meeting.


Well, I’ll come with you. May I?


What for? Yes, come along. What is the matter with you today?


With me? Happiness is the matter with me! You don’t mind?—it’s so stifling. It’s happiness is the matter with me! Why is it you have never married?


I am very glad, she seems a nice gi....


Don’t say it! don’t say it! She’s a nice girl


Well, anyway, I may say that I’m very glad of it.


That you may do tomorrow, tomorrow and nothing more! Nothing, nothing, silence. I do like you so! Well, is it possible for me to be present at the meeting?


Of course it is.


What is your discussion about today?


Well, did you like it?


Very much. I never supposed it was so interesting! Capital! Splendid! Most delighted,


Well, Yegor, it’s hard work not sleeping, isn’t it?


One’s got to put up with it! It’s part of our work, you see. In a gentleman’s house it’s easier; but then here one makes more.


Wonderfully good-hearted fellow! Well, but you yourself, Yegor, when you got married, did you love your wife?


Ay! and why not? My life, too, has been a wonderful one. From a child up....


Well, it’s a long while since you’ve been to see us, Konstantin Dmitrievitch!


Are they up?


Pray walk in! Leave it here,


To whom shall I announce your honor?


The princess ... the prince ... the young princess....


Let us go to mamma!


Can it be true? I can’t believe you love me, dear!


Yes! I am so happy!


So it is all settled! I am glad. Love her. I am glad.... Kitty!


You’ve not been long settling things. I’ve long, always wished for this! Even when this little feather-head fancied....


Papa!


Well, I won’t! I’m very, very ... plea... Oh, what a fool I am....


When is it to be? We must have the benediction and announcement. And when’s the wedding to be? What do you think, Alexander?


Here he is, he’s the principal person in the matter.


When? Tomorrow. If you ask me, I should say, the benediction today and the wedding tomorrow.


Come, mon cher, that’s nonsense!


Well, in a week.


He’s quite mad.


No, why so?


Well, upon my word! How about the trousseau?


Oh, I know nothing about it; I only said what I should like,


We’ll talk it over, then. The benediction and announcement can take place now. That’s very well.


How I knew it would be so! I never hoped for it; and yet in my heart I was always sure. I believe that it was ordained.


And I! Even when.... Even when I thrust from me my happiness. I always loved you alone, but I was carried away. I ought to tell you.... Can you forgive that?


Perhaps it was for the best. You will have to forgive me so much. I ought to tell you.... No, not now, later!


Very well, later, but you must certainly tell me. I’m not afraid of anything. I want to know everything. Now it is settled.


Settled that you’ll take me whatever I may be—you won’t give me up? Yes?


Yes, yes.


Now we shall have sweetmeats to eat,


Well, I’m very glad. I advise you to get the bouquets from Fomin’s.


Oh, are they wanted? Oh, are presents wanted?


Take them, take these dreadful books! Why did you give them me? No, it was better anyway. But it’s awful, awful!


You can’t forgive me,


Yes, I forgive you; but it’s terrible!


Acted like a man, he did! Called him out and shot him!


But the matter is settled, it’s useless thinking about it,


Two telegrams. I beg your pardon, your excellency; I’d only just that minute gone out.


Quos vult perdere dementat. Something else in the same line,


I am dying; I beg, I implore you to come. I shall die easier with your forgiveness,


There is no deceit she would stick at. She was near her confinement. Perhaps it is the confinement. But what can be their aim? To legitimize the child, to compromise me, and prevent a divorce. But something was said in it: I am dying.... And if it is true? If it is true that in the moment of agony and nearness to death she is genuinely penitent, and I, taking it for a trick, refuse to go? That would not only be cruel, and everyone would blame me, but it would be stupid on my part. Piotr, call a coach; I am going to Petersburg,


If it’s a trick, then calm contempt and departure. If truth, do what is proper. How is your mistress?


A successful confinement yesterday.


And how is she?


Very ill. There was a consultation yesterday, and the doctor’s here now.


Take my things. Who is here?


The doctor, the midwife, and Count Vronsky.


Thank God you’ve come! She keeps on about you and nothing but you,


Make haste with the ice!


She is dying. The doctors say there is no hope. I am entirely in your power, only let me be here ... though I am at your disposal. I....


For Alexey—I am speaking of Alexey Alexandrovitch (what a strange and awful thing that both are Alexey, isn’t it?)—Alexey would not refuse me. I should forget, he would forgive.... But why doesn’t he come? He’s so good he doesn’t know himself how good he is. Ah, my God, what agony! Give me some water, quick! Oh, that will be bad for her, my little girl! Oh, very well then, give her to a nurse. Yes, I agree, it’s better in fact. He’ll be coming; it will hurt him to see her. Give her to the nurse.


Anna Arkadyevna, he has come. Here he is!


Oh, what nonsense! No, give her to me; give me my little one! He has not come yet. You say he won’t forgive me, because you don’t know him. No one knows him. I’m the only one, and it was hard for me even. His eyes I ought to know—Seryozha has just the same eyes—and I can’t bear to see them because of it. Has Seryozha had his dinner? I know everyone will forget him. He would not forget. Seryozha must be moved into the corner room, and Mariette must be asked to sleep with him. No, no! I am not afraid of him; I am afraid of death. Alexey, come here. I am in a hurry, because I’ve no time, I’ve not long left to live; the fever will begin directly and I shall understand nothing more. Now I understand, I understand it all, I see it all! Wait a minute, you don’t know ... stay a little, stay!... Yes, yes, yes, yes. This is what I wanted to say. Don’t be surprised at me. I’m still the same.... But there is another woman in me, I’m afraid of her: she loved that man, and I tried to hate you, and could not forget about her that used to be. I’m not that woman. Now I’m my real self, all myself. I’m dying now, I know I shall die, ask him. Even now I feel—see here, the weights on my feet, on my hands, on my fingers. My fingers—see how huge they are! But this will soon all be over.... Only one thing I want: forgive me, forgive me quite. I’m terrible, but my nurse used to tell me; the holy martyr—what was her name? She was worse. And I’ll go to Rome; there’s a wilderness, and there I shall be no trouble to anyone, only I’ll take Seryozha and the little one.... No, you can’t forgive me! I know, it can’t be forgiven! No, no, go away, you’re too good!


That is he. I knew him! Now, forgive me, everyone, forgive me!... They’ve come again; why don’t they go away?... Oh, take these cloaks off me! Remember one thing, that I needed nothing but forgiveness, and I want nothing more.... Why doesn’t he come? Do come, do come! Give him your hand. Uncover your face—look at him! He’s a saint. Oh! uncover your face, do uncover it! Alexey Alexandrovitch, do uncover his face! I want to see him.


Give him your hand. Forgive him.


Thank God, thank God! now everything is ready. Only to stretch my legs a little. There, that’s capital. How badly these flowers are done—not a bit like a violet. My God, my God! when will it end? Give me some morphine. Doctor, give me some morphine! Oh, my God, my God!


Better stay, she might ask for you,


Alexey Alexandrovitch. I can’t speak, I can’t understand. Spare me! However hard it is for you, believe me, it is more terrible for me.


I beg you to hear me out; it is necessary. I must explain my feelings, the feelings that have guided me and will guide me, so that you may not be in error regarding me. You know I had resolved on a divorce, and had even begun to take proceedings. I won’t conceal from you that in beginning this I was in uncertainty, I was in misery; I will confess that I was pursued by a desire to revenge myself on you and on her. When I got the telegram, I came here with the same feelings; I will say more, I longed for her death. But.... But I saw her and forgave her. And the happiness of forgiveness has revealed to me my duty. I forgive completely. I would offer the other cheek, I would give my cloak if my coat be taken. I pray to God only not to take from me the bliss of forgiveness! This is my position: you can trample me in the mud, make me the laughing-stock of the world, I will not abandon her, and I will never utter a word of reproach to you. My duty is clearly marked for me; I ought to be with her, and I will be. If she wishes to see you, I will let you know, but now I suppose it would be better for you to go away.


A sledge, sir?


Yes, a sledge. To sleep! To forget!


You may trample me in the mud,


To sleep! To forget! That is not and will not be, and she wants to wipe it out of her memory. But I cannot live without it. How can we be reconciled? how can we be reconciled?


Take away his hands,


I did not appreciate it, did not make enough of it. I did not appreciate it, did not make enough of it. What’s this? Am I going out of my mind? Perhaps. What makes men go out of their minds; what makes men shoot themselves? No, I must sleep! That’s all over for me. I must think what to do. What is left? Ambition? Serpuhovskoy? Society? The court? This is how people go mad, and how they shoot themselves ... to escape humiliation. Of course,


Of course,


Idiotic! Missed!


Who is here?


Princess Elizaveta Federovna Tverskaya,


The doctor said it was nothing serious, and he ordered a bath, sir.


But she is still in pain,


I think it’s the wet-nurse, sir,


What makes you think so?


It’s just as it was at Countess Paul’s, sir. They gave the baby medicine, and it turned out that the baby was simply hungry: the nurse had no milk, sir.


Still no better?


She’s very restless,


Miss Edwarde says that perhaps the wet-nurse has no milk,


I think so too, Alexey Alexandrovitch.


Then why didn’t you say so?


Who’s one to say it to? Anna Arkadyevna still ill....


You must ask the doctor to examine the wet-nurse,


Luckless child!


If he hadn’t been going away, I could have understood your answer and his too. But your husband ought to be above that,


It’s not for my husband; for myself I don’t wish it. Don’t say that!


Yes, but you must care to say good-bye to a man who has shot himself on your account....


That’s just why I don’t want to.


Ah! I’m very glad you’re at home. You never put in an appearance anywhere, and I haven’t seen you ever since Anna has been ill. I have heard all about it—your anxiety. Yes, you’re a wonderful husband!


Better, I think,


But you’ve rather a feverish-looking color,


We’ve been talking too much. I feel it’s selfishness on my part, and I am going away.


No, wait a minute, please. I must tell you ... no, you. I won’t and can’t keep anything secret from you. Betsy’s been telling me that Count Vronsky wants to come here to say good-bye before his departure for Tashkend.


You said, my dear, that it would depend on Alexey Alexandrovitch,


Oh, no, I can’t receive him; and what object would there.... In short, I don’t wish it....


I am very grateful to you for your confidence, but....


Well, good-bye, my darling. Alexey Alexandrovitch! I know you are a truly magnanimous man. I am an outsider, but I so love her and respect you that I venture to advise. Receive him. Alexey Vronsky is the soul of honor, and he is going away to Tashkend.


Thank you, princess, for your sympathy and advice. But the question of whether my wife can or cannot see anyone she must decide herself.


I am very grateful for your confidence in me. And I am very grateful for your decision. I, too, imagine that since he is going away, there is no sort of necessity for Count Vronsky to come here. However, if....


But I’ve said so already, so why repeat it? No sort of necessity,


I have just sent for the doctor. I am very well; what do I want the doctor for?


No, the little one cries, and they say the nurse hasn’t enough milk.


Why didn’t you let me nurse her, when I begged to? Anyway she’s a baby, and they’re killing her. I begged to nurse her, I wasn’t allowed to, and now I’m blamed for it.


I don’t blame....


Yes, you do blame me! My God! why didn’t I die! Forgive me, I’m nervous, I’m unjust, but do go away....


Ah! princess! what a delightful meeting!


I’ve been to see you.


A meeting for one minute, for I’m going,


Don’t put on your glove yet, princess; let me kiss your hand. There’s nothing I’m so thankful to the revival of the old fashions for as the kissing the hand. When shall we see each other?


You don’t deserve it,


Oh, yes, I deserve a great deal, for I’ve become a most serious person. I don’t only manage my own affairs, but other people’s too,


Oh, I’m so glad! He’s killing her. It’s impossible, impossible....


I’m so glad you think so, that’s what I’ve come to Petersburg for.


The whole town’s talking of it. It’s an impossible position. She pines and pines away. He doesn’t understand that she’s one of those women who can’t trifle with their feelings. One of two things: either let him take her away, act with energy, or give her a divorce. This is stifling her.


Yes, yes ... just so.... That’s what I’ve come for. At least not solely for that ... I’ve been made a Kammerherr; of course, one has to say thank you. But the chief thing was having to settle this.


Well, God help you!


Very, very miserably. Today and this morning and all past days and days to come,


I think you’re giving way to pessimism. You must rouse yourself, you must look life in the face. I know it’s hard, but....


I have heard it said that women love men even for their vices, but I hate him for his virtues. I can’t live with him. Do you understand? the sight of him has a physical effect on me, it makes me beside myself. I can’t, I can’t live with him. What am I to do? I have been unhappy, and used to think one couldn’t be more unhappy, but the awful state of things I am going through now, I could never have conceived. Would you believe it, that knowing he’s a good man, a splendid man, that I’m not worth his little finger, still I hate him. I hate him for his generosity. And there’s nothing left for me but....


You are ill and overwrought, believe me, you’re exaggerating dreadfully. There’s nothing so terrible in it.


No, Stiva. I’m lost, lost! worse than lost! I can’t say yet that all is over; on the contrary, I feel that it’s not over. I’m an overstrained string that must snap. But it’s not ended yet ... and it will have a fearful end.


No matter, we must let the string be loosened, little by little. There’s no position from which there is no way of escape.


I have thought, and thought. Only one....


Not at all. Listen to me. You can’t see your own position as I can. Let me tell you candidly my opinion. I’ll begin from the beginning. You married a man twenty years older than yourself. You married him without love and not knowing what love was. It was a mistake, let’s admit.


A fearful mistake!


But I repeat, it’s an accomplished fact. Then you had, let us say, the misfortune to love a man not your husband. That was a misfortune; but that, too, is an accomplished fact. And your husband knew it and forgave it.


I know nothing, nothing.


But you said yourself that you can’t endure him.


No, I didn’t say so. I deny it. I can’t tell, I don’t know anything about it.


Yes, but let....


You can’t understand. I feel I’m lying head downwards in a sort of pit, but I ought not to save myself. And I can’t....


Never mind, we’ll slip something under and pull you out. I understand you: I understand that you can’t take it on yourself to express your wishes, your feelings.


There’s nothing, nothing I wish ... except for it to be all over.


But he sees this and knows it. And do you suppose it weighs on him any less than on you? You’re wretched, he’s wretched, and what good can come of it? while divorce would solve the difficulty completely. I’m awfully sorry for you! And how happy I should be if I could arrange things! Don’t speak, don’t say a word! God grant only that I may speak as I feel. I’m going to him.


I’m not interrupting you?


Yes, I wished ... I wanted ... yes, I wanted to talk to you. I hope you believe in my love for my sister and my sincere affection and respect for you. I intended ... I wanted to have a little talk with you about my sister and your mutual position,


I think unceasingly of the same thing. And here is what I had begun writing, thinking I could say it better by letter, and that my presence irritates her,


I see that my presence is irksome to you. Painful as it is to me to believe it, I see that it is so, and cannot be otherwise. I don’t blame you, and God is my witness that on seeing you at the time of your illness I resolved with my whole heart to forget all that had passed between us and to begin a new life. I do not regret, and shall never regret, what I have done; but I have desired one thing—your good, the good of your soul—and now I see I have not attained that. Tell me yourself what will give you true happiness and peace to your soul. I put myself entirely in your hands, and trust to your feeling of what’s right.


That’s what I wanted to say to her,


Yes, yes.... Yes, yes, I understand you,


I want to know what she would like,


I am afraid she does not understand her own position. She is not a judge. She is crushed, simply crushed by your generosity. If she were to read this letter, she would be incapable of saying anything, she would only hang her head lower than ever.


Yes, but what’s to be done in that case? how explain, how find out her wishes?


If you will allow me to give my opinion, I think that it lies with you to point out directly the steps you consider necessary to end the position.


So you consider it must be ended? But how? I see no possible way out of it.


There is some way of getting out of every position. There was a time when you thought of breaking off.... If you are convinced now that you cannot make each other happy....


Happiness may be variously understood. But suppose that I agree to everything, that I want nothing: what way is there of getting out of our position?


If you care to know my opinion. She will never speak out about it. But one thing is possible, one thing she might desire, that is the cessation of your relations and all memories associated with them. To my thinking, in your position what’s essential is the formation of a new attitude to one another. And that can only rest on a basis of freedom on both sides.


Divorce,


Yes, I imagine that divorce—yes, divorce. That is from every point of view the most rational course for married people who find themselves in the position you are in. What can be done if married people find that life is impossible for them together? That may always happen. There’s only one point to be considered: is either of the parties desirous of forming new ties? If not, it is very simple,


She will join him, and in a year or two he will throw her over, or she will form a new tie. And I, by agreeing to an unlawful divorce, shall be to blame for her ruin.


The only question is on what terms you agree to give her a divorce. She does not want anything, does not dare ask you for anything, she leaves it all to your generosity.


My God, my God! what for?


You are distressed, I understand that. But if you think it over....


Whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if any man take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. Yes, yes! I will take the disgrace on myself, I will give up even my son, but ... but wouldn’t it be better to let it alone? Still you may do as you like....


Alexey Alexandrovitch, believe me, she appreciates your generosity. But it seems it was the will of God. This is an unhappy fatality, and one must accept it as such. I accept the calamity as an accomplished fact, and am doing my best to help both her and you,


But I’ll work it out better than that,


Varya. I shot myself by accident. And please never speak of it, and tell everyone so. Or else it’s too ridiculous.


Thank God! You’re not in pain?


A little here.


Then let me change your bandages.


I’m not delirious. Please manage that there may be no talk of my having shot myself on purpose.


No one does say so. Only I hope you won’t shoot yourself by accident any more,


Of course I won’t, but it would have been better....


To see her once and then to bury myself, to die. So much the better. It was a weakness, which would have shattered what strength I have left.


Yes, you have conquered me, and I am yours,


So it had to be. So long as we live, it must be so. I know it now.


That’s true. Still there is something terrible in it after all that has happened.


It will all pass, it will all pass; we shall be so happy. Our love, if it could be stronger, will be strengthened by there being something terrible in it. I don’t know you with this short hair. You’ve grown so pretty. A boy. But how pale you are!


Yes, I’m very weak,


We’ll go to Italy; you will get strong,


Can it be possible we could be like husband and wife, alone, your family with you?


It only seems strange to me that it can ever have been otherwise.


Stiva says that he has agreed to everything, but I can’t accept his generosity. I don’t want a divorce; it’s all the same to me now. Only I don’t know what he will decide about Seryozha.


Don’t speak of that, don’t think of it,


Oh, why didn’t I die! it would have been better,


Do what you choose, if it amuses you. I’m happy, and my happiness can be no greater and no less for anything you do,


But I say, have you a certificate of having been at confession?


No. But what of it?


You can’t be married without it.


Aïe, aïe, aïe! Why, I believe it’s nine years since I’ve taken the sacrament! I never thought of it.


You’re a pretty fellow! and you call me a Nihilist! But this won’t do, you know. You must take the sacrament.


When? There are four days left now.


Besides, what is it to you—two days? And he’s an awfully nice clever old fellow. He’ll pull the tooth out for you so gently, you won’t notice it.


Christ is present here unseen, receiving your confession. Do you believe in all the doctrines of the Holy Apostolic Church?


I have doubted, I doubt everything,


Doubt is natural to the weakness of mankind, but we must pray that God in His mercy will strengthen us. What are your special sins?


My chief sin is doubt. I have doubts of everything, and for the most part I am in doubt.


Doubt is natural to the weakness of mankind. What do you doubt about principally?


I doubt of everything. I sometimes even have doubts of the existence of God,


What sort of doubt can there be of the existence of God? What doubt can you have of the Creator when you behold His creation? Who has decked the heavenly firmament with its lights? Who has clothed the earth in its beauty? How explain it without the Creator?


I don’t know,


You don’t know! Then how can you doubt that God created all?


I don’t understand it at all,


Pray to God and beseech Him. Even the holy fathers had doubts, and prayed to God to strengthen their faith. The devil has great power, and we must resist him. Pray to God, beseech Him. Pray to God. You’re about, I hear, to marry the daughter of my parishioner and son in the spirit, Prince Shtcherbatsky? An excellent young lady.


Yes,


You are about to enter into holy matrimony, and God may bless you with offspring. Well, what sort of bringing-up can you give your babes if you do not overcome the temptation of the devil, enticing you to infidelity? If you love your child as a good father, you will not desire only wealth, luxury, honor for your infant; you will be anxious for his salvation, his spiritual enlightenment with the light of truth. Eh? What answer will you make him when the innocent babe asks you: ‘Papa! who made all that enchants me in this world—the earth, the waters, the sun, the flowers, the grass?’ Can you say to him: ‘I don’t know’? You cannot but know, since the Lord God in His infinite mercy has revealed it to us. Or your child will ask you: ‘What awaits me in the life beyond the tomb?’ What will you say to him when you know nothing? How will you answer him? Will you leave him to the allurements of the world and the devil? That’s not right. You are entering upon a time of life, when you must choose your path and keep to it. Pray to God that He may in His mercy aid you and have mercy on you! Our Lord and God, Jesus Christ, in the abundance and riches of His loving-kindness, forgives this child....


See, now, what a capable fellow was our friend Konstantin Dmitrievitch. I’m not speaking of present company, for he’s absent. At the time he left the university he was fond of science, took an interest in humanity; now one-half of his abilities is devoted to deceiving himself, and the other to justifying the deceit.


A more determined enemy of matrimony than you I never saw.


Oh, no, I’m not an enemy of matrimony. I’m in favor of division of labor. People who can do nothing else ought to rear people while the rest work for their happiness and enlightenment. That’s how I look at it. To muddle up two trades is the error of the amateur; I’m not one of their number.


How happy I shall be when I hear that you’re in love! Please invite me to the wedding. I’m in love now. Yes, with a cuttlefish! You know. Mihail Semyonovitch is writing a work on the digestive organs of the.... Now, make a muddle of it! It doesn’t matter what about. And the fact is, I certainly do love cuttlefish. But that’s no hindrance to your loving your wife. Why so?


Oh, you’ll see! You care about farming, hunting,—well, you’d better look out!


Arhip was here today; he said there were a lot of elks in Prudno, and two bears,


Well, you must go and get them without me.


And you may say good-bye to bear-hunting for the future—your wife won’t allow it!


Still, it’s a pity they should get those two bears without you. Do you remember last time at Hapilovo? That was a delightful hunt!


There’s some sense in this custom of saying good-bye to bachelor life. However happy you may be, you must regret your freedom.


Of course there is, but it isn’t confessed. Wait a bit, when you set it to rights a little, you’ll find it!


No; if so, I should have felt a little, apart from my feeling and happiness, a certain regret at losing my freedom.... On the contrary, I am glad at the very loss of my freedom.


Awful! It’s a hopeless case! Well, let’s drink to his recovery, or wish that a hundredth part of his dreams may be realized—and that would be happiness such as never has been seen on earth!


Freedom! What is freedom for? Happiness is only in loving and wishing her wishes, thinking her thoughts, that is to say, not freedom at all—that’s happiness!


But do I know her ideas, her wishes, her feelings?


What if she does not love me? What if she’s marrying me simply to be married? What if she doesn’t see herself what she’s doing?


She may come to her senses, and only when she is being married realize that she does not and cannot love me.


No, this can’t go on!


I’ll go to her; I’ll ask her; I’ll say for the last time: we are free, and hadn’t we better stay so? Anything’s better than endless misery, disgrace, unfaithfulness!


Ah! Kostya! Konstantin Dmitrievitch! I didn’t expect you! I’m going through my wardrobe to see what’s for whom....


Oh! that’s very nice!


You can go, Dunyasha, I’ll call you presently. Kostya, what’s the matter?


Kitty! I’m in torture. I can’t suffer alone. I’ve come to say that there’s still time. This can all be stopped and set right.


What? I don’t understand. What is the matter?


What I have said a thousand times over, and can’t help thinking ... that I’m not worthy of you. You couldn’t consent to marry me. Think a little. You’ve made a mistake. Think it over thoroughly. You can’t love me.... If ... better say so. I shall be wretched. Let people say what they like; anything’s better than misery.... Far better now while there’s still time....


I don’t understand, you mean you want to give it up ... don’t want it?


Yes, if you don’t love me.


You’re out of your mind! What are you thinking? tell me all.


I am thinking you can’t love me. What can you love me for?


My God! what can I do?...


Oh! what have I done?


How is it you don’t see? She’s a brunette, and it won’t suit her.... I’ve worked it all out.


As it is, she’s been eating nothing lately and is losing her looks, and then you must come and upset her with your nonsense. Get along with you, my dear!


Come, I’ll tell you how we’ll manage: you drive in our carriage to fetch him, and Sergey Ivanovitch, if he’ll be so good, will drive there and then send his carriage.


Of course; I shall be delighted.


We’ll come on directly with him. Are your things sent off?


Yes,


It really is strange, though!


Was ever a man in such a fearful fool’s position?


Yes, it is stupid. But don’t worry, it’ll be brought directly.


No, what is to be done! And these fools of open waistcoats! Out of the question! And what if the things have been taken on to the railway station!


Then you must put on mine.


I ought to have done so long ago, if at all.


It’s not nice to look ridiculous.... Wait a bit! it will come round.


But the shirt!


You’ve got a shirt on,


Only just in time. They were just lifting it into the van,


You won’t help matters like this. It will come round, it will come round ... I tell you.


They’ve come! Here he is! Which one? Rather young, eh? Why, my dear soul, she looks more dead than alive!


I was beginning to think you meant to run away,


It’s so stupid, what happened to me, I’m ashamed to speak of it!


This is a pretty story of yours about the shirt!


Yes, yes!


Now, Kostya, you have to decide, a weighty question. You are at this moment just in the humor to appreciate all its gravity. They ask me, are they to light the candles that have been lighted before or candles that have never been lighted? It’s a matter of ten roubles. I have decided, but I was afraid you might not agree. Well, how’s it to be then?—unlighted or lighted candles? that’s the question.


Yes, yes, unlighted.


Oh, I’m very glad. The question’s decided! How silly men are, though, in this position,


Kitty, mind you’re the first to step on the carpet. You’re a nice person!


Aren’t you frightened, eh?


Are you cold? You’re pale. Stop a minute, stoop down,


Take the bride’s hand and lead her up,


Blessed be the name of the Lord,


Blessed is the name of our God, from the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,


Vouchsafe to them love made perfect, peace and help, O Lord, we beseech Thee,


Eternal God, that joinest together in love them that were separate, who hast ordained the union of holy wedlock that cannot be set asunder, Thou who didst bless Isaac and Rebecca and their descendants, according to Thy Holy Covenant; bless Thy servants, Konstantin and Ekaterina, leading them in the path of all good works. For gracious and merciful art Thou, our Lord, and glory be to Thee, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, now and ever shall be.


Amen!


The servant of God, Konstantin, plights his troth to the servant of God, Ekaterina.


Thou who didst from the beginning create male and female, from Thee woman was given to man to be a helpmeet to him, and for the procreation of children. O Lord, our God, who hast poured down the blessings of Thy Truth according to Thy Holy Covenant upon Thy chosen servants, our fathers, from generation to generation, bless Thy servants Konstantin and Ekaterina, and make their troth fast in faith, and union of hearts, and truth, and love....


Why is it Marie’s in lilac, as bad as black, at a wedding?


With her complexion, it’s the one salvation. I wonder why they had the wedding in the evening? It’s like shop-people....


So much prettier. I was married in the evening too....


They say if anyone’s best man more than ten times, he’ll never be married. I wanted to be for the tenth time, but the post was taken,


She ought not to have worn a chignon. I don’t like such grandeur.


Your brother may feel proud of himself. She’s a marvel of sweetness. I believe you’re envious.


Oh, I’ve got over that, Darya Dmitrievna,


The wreath wants setting straight,


What a pity she’s lost her looks so. Still he’s not worth her little finger, is he?


Oh, I like him so—not because he’s my future beau-frère. And how well he’s behaving! It’s so difficult, too, to look well in such a position, not to be ridiculous. And he’s not ridiculous, and not affected; one can see he’s moved.


You expected it, I suppose?


Almost. She always cared for him.


Well, we shall see which of them will step on the rug first. I warned Kitty.


It will make no difference, we’re all obedient wives; it’s in our family.


Oh, I stepped on the rug before Vassily on purpose. And you, Dolly?


It’s terribly strange,


Why has she been crying? Is she being married against her will?


Against her will to a fine fellow like that? A prince, isn’t he?


Is that her sister in the white satin? Just listen how the deacon booms out, ‘And fearing her husband.’ And fearing her husband.


Are the choristers from Tchudovo?


No, from the Synod.


I asked the footman. He says he’s going to take her home to his country place at once. Awfully rich, they say. That’s why she’s being married to him.


No, they’re a well-matched pair.


I say, Marya Vassilievna, you were making out those fly-away crinolines were not being worn. Just look at her in the puce dress—an ambassador’s wife they say she is—how her skirt bounces out from side to side!


What a pretty dear the bride is—like a lamb decked with flowers! Well, say what you will, we women feel for our sister.


Endow them with continence and fruitfulness, and vouchsafe that their hearts may rejoice looking upon their sons and daughters. and for this cause a man shall leave father and mother, and cleave unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh, this is a great mystery


That’s all splendid, all that’s just as it should be. Put it on quite. Put it on!


Kiss your wife, and you kiss your husband,


Ah! I’m glad to hear it. Is madame at home or not?


Madame has been out for a walk but has returned now,


This gentleman is a Russian, and was inquiring after you,


Golenishtchev!


Vronsky!


How glad I am to meet you!


I heard the name Vronsky, but I didn’t know which one. I’m very, very glad!


Let’s go in. Come, tell me what you’re doing.


I’ve been living here for two years. I’m working.


Ah! let’s go in. Do you know Madame Karenina? We are traveling together. I am going to see her now,


Ah! I did not know Have you been here long?


Four days. Yes, he’s a decent fellow, and will look at the thing properly. I can introduce him to Anna, he looks at it properly.


It’s in the guide-book. There’s a first-rate Tintoretto there. One of his latest period.


I tell you what: it’s a lovely day, let’s go and have another look at it,


I shall be very glad to; I’ll go and put on my hat. Would you say it’s hot?


No, not very. Well then, so you’re settled here? You’re still at the same work, then?


Yes, I’m writing the second part of the Two Elements, that is, to be exact, I am not writing it yet; I am preparing, collecting materials. It will be of far wider scope, and will touch on almost all questions. We in Russia refuse to see that we are the heirs of Byzantium,


I am very glad of one thing. Alexey will have a capital atelier. You must certainly take that room,