Page 840 - ANNA KARENINA

Anna Karenina

result of larger measures which ought to be introduced by
the Russian government.
Pestsov insisted that one country can only absorb
another when it is the more densely populated.

Koznishev admitted both points, but with limitations.
As they were going out of the drawing room to conclude
the argument, Koznishev said, smiling:
‘So, then, for the Russification of our foreign
populations there is but one method—to bring up as many
children as one can. My brother and I are terribly in fault,
I see. You married men, especially you, Stepan
Arkadyevitch, are the real patriots: what number have you
reached?’ he said, smiling genially at their host and holding
out a tiny wine glass to him.
Everyone laughed, and Stepan Arkadyevitch with
particular good humor.
‘Oh, yes, that’s the best method!’ he said, munching
cheese and filling the wine-glass with a special sort of
spirit. The conversation dropped at the jest.
‘This cheese is not bad. Shall I give you some?’ said the
master of the house. ‘Why, have you been going in for
gymnastics again?’ he asked Levin, pinching his muscle
with his left hand. Levin smiled, bent his arm, and under
Stepan Arkadyevitch’s fingers the muscles swelled up like a

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