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 understood that others might find difficulties in transacting business, but that he never could.

As he entered the library, Rabinin glanced about as if his eyes were in search of the holy image; but when he caught sight of it, he did not cross himself. He glanced at the bookcases and the shelves lined with books, and with the same air of doubt that the snipe had caused, he smiled scornfully and shook his head disapprovingly, as if this kind of game also were not worth the candle.

"Well, did you bring the money?" asked Stepan Arkadyevitch. "Sit down."

"The money will come all in good time, but I came to see you and have a talk."

"What have we to talk about? However, sit down."

"May as well sit down," said Rabinin, taking a chair, and leaning back in it in the most uncomfortable attitude. "You must give in a trifle, prince; it would be sinful not to do it. As to the money, it is all ready, absolutely and finally even to the last kopek; as far as the money goes, there will be no delay."

Levin, who had been putting his gun away in the armory, and was just leaving the room, stopped as he heard the last words.

"You bought the wood for a song," said he. "He came to visit me too late; I would have got a good price for it."

Rabinin arose and smilingly contemplated Levin from head to foot, but said nothing.

"Konstantin Levin is very sharp," said he, at length, turning to Stepan Arkadyevitch. "One never succeeds in arranging a bargain finally with him. I have bought wheat, and paid good prices."

"Why should I give you my property for a song? I did not find it in the ground, nor did I steal it."

"Excuse me; at the present day it is absolutely impossible to be a thief, everything is done, in the present day, honestly and openly. Who could steal, then? We have spoken honestly and honorably. The wood is too