Page 41 - the-idiot

‘Then you have no one, absolutely NO one in Russia?’ he
asked.
‘No one, at present; but I hope to make friends; and then
I have a letter from—‘
‘At all events,’ put in the general, not listening to the
news about the letter, ‘at all events, you must have learned
SOMETHING, and your malady would not prevent your
undertaking some easy work, in one of the departments, for
instance?
‘Oh dear no, oh no! As for a situation, I should much like
to find one for I am anxious to discover what I really am fit
for. I have learned a good deal in the last four years, and, be-
sides, I read a great many Russian books.’
‘Russian books, indeed ? Then, of course, you can read
and write quite correctly?’
‘Oh dear, yes!’
‘Capital! And your handwriting?’
‘Ah, there I am REALLY talented! I may say l am a real
caligraphist. Let me write you something, just to show you,’
said the prince, with some excitement.
‘With pleasure! In fact, it is very necessary. I like your
readiness, prince; in fact, I must say—I-I-like you very well,
altogether,’ said the general.
‘What delightful writing materials you have here, such
a lot of pencils and things, and what beautiful paper! It’s a
charming room altogether. I know that picture, it’s a Swiss
view. I’m sure the artist painted it from nature, and that I
have seen the very place—‘
‘Quite likely, though I bought it here. Gania, give the

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