Page:Anna Karenina.djvu/85

 begun by making tables write, and by summoning spirits to them, and it is only afterward they began to say it is an unknown force."

Vronsky listened attentively, as he always listened, and was evidently interested in Levin's words.

"Yes; but the spiritualists say, 'We do not yet know what this force is, but it is a force, and acts under certain conditions.' Let the scientists find out what it is. I don't see why it may not be a new force if it .... "

"Because," interrupted Levin again, "every time you rub resin with wool, you produce a certain and invariable electrical phenomenon; while spiritism brings no such invariable result, and so it cannot be a natural phenomenon."

Vronsky, evidently perceiving that the conversation was growing too serious for a reception, made no reply; and, in order to make a diversion, smiled gayly, and addressing the ladies said:—

"Countess, let us make the experiment now?"

But Levin wanted to finish saying what was in his mind:—

"I think," he continued, "that the attempts made by spiritual mediums to explain their miracles by a new medium is most abortive. They claim that it is a supernatural force, and yet they want to submit it to a material test."

All were waiting for him to come to an end, and he felt it.

"And I think that you would be a capital medium," said the Countess Nordstone. "There is something so enthusiastic about you!"

Levin opened his mouth to speak, but he said nothing, and turned red.

"Come, let us give the tables a trial," said Vronsky; "with your permission, princess." And Vronsky rose, and looked for a small table.

Kitty was standing by a table, and her eyes met Levin's. Her whole soul pitied him, because she felt that she was the cause of his pain. Her look said, "Forgive me, if you can, I am so happy."