Page 125 - the-idiot

bles. As to the ‘former word’ which he declares ‘lighted up
the night of his life,’ he is simply an impudent liar; I merely
pitied him once. But he is audacious and shameless. He im-
mediately began to hope, at that very moment. I saw it. He
has tried to catch me ever since; he is still fishing for me.
Well, enough of this. Take the letter and give it back to him,
as soon as you have left our house; not before, of course.’
‘And what shall I tell him by way of answer?’
‘Nothing—of course! That’s the best answer. Is it the case
that you are going to live in his house?’
‘Yes, your father kindly recommended me to him.’
‘Then look out for him, I warn you! He won’t forgive you
easily, for taking back the letter.’
Aglaya pressed the prince’s hand and left the room. Her
face was serious and frowning; she did not even smile as she
nodded goodbye to him at the door.
‘I’ll just get my parcel and we’ll go,’ said the prince to
Gania, as he re-entered the drawing-room. Gania stamped
his foot with impatience. His face looked dark and gloomy
with rage.
At last they left the house behind them, the prince car-
rying his bundle.
‘The answer—quick—the answer!’ said Gania, the in-
stant they were outside. ‘What did she say? Did you give
the letter?’ The prince silently held out the note. Gania was
struck motionless with amazement.
‘How, what? my letter?’ he cried. ‘He never delivered it!
I might have guessed it, oh! curse him! Of course she did
not understand what I meant, naturally! Why-why-WHY

1 The Idiot