Page 268 - ANNA KARENINA

Anna Karenina

‘Nothing, father,’ answered Dolly, understanding that
her husband was meant. ‘He’s always out; I scarcely ever
see him,’ she could not resist adding with a sarcastic smile.
‘Why, hasn’t he gone into the country yet—to see

about selling that forest?’
‘No, he’s still getting ready for the journey.’
‘Oh, that’s it!’ said the prince. ‘And so am I to be
getting ready for a journey too? At your service,’ he said
to his wife, sitting down. ‘And I tell you what, Katia,’ he
went on to his younger daughter, ‘you must wake up one
fine day and say to yourself: Why, I’m quite well, and
merry, and going out again with father for an early
morning walk in the frost. Hey?’
What her father said seemed simple enough, yet at
these words Kitty became confused and overcome like a
detected criminal. ‘Yes, he sees it all, he understands it all,
and in these words he’s telling me that though I’m
ashamed, I must get over my shame.’ She could not pluck
up spirit to make any answer. She tried to begin, and all at
once burst into tears, and rushed out of the room.
‘See what comes of your jokes!’ the princess pounced
down on her husband. ‘You’re always...’ she began a
string of reproaches.

267 of 1759