Page:Complete Works of Count Tolstoy - 18.djvu/340

 "Yes, no doubt there are critical episodes in marital life," said the lawyer, wishing to put an end to the indecently heated conversation.

"I see you have found out who I am," the gray-haired gentleman said, softly, and almost quietly.

"No, I have not the pleasure."

"It is not a great pleasure. I am Pózdnyshev, the man to whom that critical episode has happened, at which you have hinted, that episode which has led to his killing his wife," he said, casting a rapid glance upon us.

Nobody knew what to say, and all kept silent.

"Well, it makes no difference," he said, emitting his strange sound. "However, excuse me! I will not trouble you."

"Why, no, not at all," said the lawyer, himself not knowing what it was that was "not at all."

But Pózdnyshev paid no attention to him, rapidly turned around, and went back to his seat. The lawyer and the lady whispered together. I sat by Pózdnyshev's side and was silent, not being able to find anything to talk about. It was too dark to read, and so I closed my eyes and pretended that I wished to fall asleep. Thus we rode in silence to the next station.

At this station the lawyer and the lady went to another car, having first spoken about it to the conductor. The clerk settled himself on the bench and fell asleep. Pózdnyshev continued smoking all the time and drank the tea which he had prepared for himself at the previous station.

When I opened my eyes and looked at him, he suddenly turned to me with determination and irritation:

"Maybe it is not agreeable to you to be sitting with me, knowing who I am? In that case, I will go out."

"Oh, not at all!"

"Well, then won't you have a glass? It is rather strong."