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 It implied an entreaty for forgiveness and expression of faith in him, a sweet and timid caress, and a promise, and a hope, and love for him, and he could not help believing in it and his heart was filled with happiness.

"Oh, no! we were hunting in the government of Tver; and on my way from there, I met your brother-in-law—Stiva's brother-in-law—in the train," said he, smiling. "The meeting was very funny."

And he gave a lively and amusing description of how, after having been awake all night, he forced his way into Karenin's car in his sheepskin jacket.

"The conductor, contrary to the proverb, judging by first impressions wanted to put me out, and there I was beginning to express myself in sublime style and.... well, sir, you also—"said he, addressing Karenin and not recollecting his name, "you got your first impression from my polushubok and were for expelling me, but afterward you took my part, for which I felt very grateful to you."

"Travelers' rights to their choice of place are generally too little considered," said Alekseï Aleksandrovitch, wiping the ends of his fingers with his napkin.

"Oh! I noticed that you were dubious about me," replied Levin, smiling good-naturedly; "that was why I hastened to open a serious subject of conversation, to make you forget my sheepskin."

Koznuishef, who was talking with the mistress of the house, and at the same time listening with one ear to what his brother said, glanced at him.

"What is the matter with him to-night? What makes him look so triumphant?" he asked himself.

He did not know Levin felt as if he had wings. Levin knew that she was listening to him, she was taking pleasure in what he said; and this was the only thing that interested him. He was alone with her, not only in this room, but in the whole world. He felt that he was on a dizzy height, and there far below him were