Page 197 - the-idiot

people about, that there were only money-grubbers—and
here they are quite close at hand, these honest and good
people, your mother and Varia! I think there is a good deal
of moral strength in helping people in suchcircum stances.’
‘Varia does it from pride, and likes showing off, and giv-
ing herself airs. As to my mother, I really do admire her—yes,
and honour her. Hippolyte, hardened as he is, feels it. He
laughed at first, and thought it vulgar of her—but now, he
is sometimes quite touched and overcome by her kindness.
H’m! You call that being strong and good? I will remember
that! Gania knows nothing about it. He would say that it
was encouraging vice.’
‘Ah, Gania knows nothing about it? It seems there are
many things that Gania does not know,’ exclaimed the
prince, as he considered Colia’s last words.
‘Do you know, I like you very much indeed, prince? I
shall never forget about this afternoon.’
‘I like you too, Colia.’
‘Listen to me! You are going to live here, are you not?’
said Colia. ‘I mean to get something to do directly, and earn
money. Then shall we three live together? You, and I, and
Hippolyte? We will hire a flat, and let the general come and
visit us. What do you say?’
‘It would be very pleasant,’ returned the prince. ‘But we
must see. I am really rather worried just now. What! are
we there already? Is that the house? What a long flight of
steps! And there’s a porter! Well, Colia I don’t know what
will come of it all.’
The prince seemed quite distracted for the moment.

1 The Idiot