Page 130 - the-idiot

rudely. I do not like this sort of thing, and especially so at
the first time of meeting a man, and, therefore, as we hap-
pen to be at this moment standing at a crossroad, don’t you
think we had better part, you to the left, homewards, and I
to the right, here? I have twentyfive roubles, and I shall eas-
ily find a lodging.’
Gania was much confused, and blushed for shame ‘Do
forgive me, prince!’ he cried, suddenly changing his abusive
tone for one of great courtesy. ‘For Heaven’s sake, forgive
me! You see what a miserable plight I am in, but you hardly
know anything of the facts of the case as yet. If you did, I
am sure you would forgive me, at least partially. Of course
it was inexcusable of me, I know, but—‘
‘Oh, dear me, I really do not require such profuse apol-
ogies,’ replied the prince, hastily. ‘I quite understand how
unpleasant your position is, and that is what made you
abuse me. So come along to your house, after all. I shall be
delighted—‘
‘I am not going to let him go like this,’ thought Gania,
glancing angrily at the prince as they walked along. ‘ The
fellow has sucked everything out of me, and now he takes
off his mask— there’s something more than appears, here
we shall see. It shall all be as clear as water by tonight, ev-
erything!’
But by this time they had reached Gania’s house.

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