Page:Complete Works of Count Tolstoy - 18.djvu/248

 (Aside.) That is nice. Kápchich can't be here to-day, so we will test him— No, my dear, don't be afraid, he will make you a good husband, and all that. This is a special power which is in everybody,—only weaker in some, and stronger in others.

. Very much obliged to you. I sha'n't give it any thought now. But before, I was afraid. This comes from our ignorance!

. No, no, don't be afraid! Fédor!

. I am going away. Have everything ready for the séance this evening!

. But Kápchich cannot be here.

. That does not matter. We will have it all the same. (Puts on his overcoat.) There will be a trial séance with our own medium. (Exit. Fédor Iványch sees him off.)

. He believed me, he believed me! (Squeaks and leaps about.) Upon my word, he believed me! What a wonder! (Squeaks.) I will do it now, if only Semén is not shy.

. Well, have you told him your secret?

. I have. I will tell it to you, too, only later. I have a request to make of you, Fédor Iványch.

. What request is it?

(abashed). You have been like a second father to me, and so I will tell you everything, as before God.