Page 42 - the-idiot

prince some paper. Here are pens and paper; now then, take
this table. What’s this?’ the general continued to Gania,
who had that moment taken a large photograph out of his
portfolio, and shown it to his senior. ‘Halloa! Nastasia Phili-
povna! Did she send it you herself? Herself?’ he inquired,
with much curiosity and great animation.
‘She gave it me just now, when I called in to congratulate
her. I asked her for it long ago. I don’t know whether she
meant it for a hint that I had come empty-handed, without
a present for her birthday, or what,’ added Gania, with an
unpleasant smile.
‘Oh, nonsense, nonsense,’ said the general, with decision.
‘ What extraordinary ideas you have, Gania! As if she would
hint; that’s not her way at all. Besides, what could you give
her, without having thousands at your disposal? You might
have given her your portrait, however. Has she ever asked
you for it?’
‘No, not yet. Very likely she never will. I suppose you
haven’t forgotten about tonight, have you, Ivan Fedoro-
vitch? You were one of those specially invited, you know.’
‘Oh no, I remember all right, and I shall go, of course. I
should think so! She’s twenty-five years old today! And, you
know, Gania, you must be ready for great things; she has
promised both myself and Afanasy Ivanovitch that she will
give a decided answer tonight, yes or no. So be prepared!’
Gania suddenly became so ill at ease that his face grew
paler than ever.
‘Are you sure she said that?’ he asked, and his voice
seemed to quiver as he spoke.

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