Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/15

 8 humankind indicated in the adage of "the beggar on horseback." A man having arisen from the level of a serf to the dignity of superintendent of a noble's estate becomes even more cruel and tyrannical in his treatment of the unfortunate slaves than those masters who had experienced no other condition than that of being born into the Russian nobility. The alleged efficacy of the burning candle in exorcising evil spirits is shown in the conquest of this man's wickedness by the religious act of a humble peasant.

It is hoped that this little book will do much toward dissipating the many aspersions which, by some writers, have been cast against the alleged religious convictions of Count Tolstoï, for it shows that the author is a man whose interpretation of the Gospel is based upon common sense and human experience—rather than upon any spiritual revelation or the ritualism of ecclesiastics.

For the charming literary flavor that pervades these stories thanks are due to my accomplished wife, whose bright editorial skill in the revision of the manuscripts has been of invaluable service.

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