Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/173

 166 you to-morrow.' This occurred twice in the same night. Well, my friend, you will scarcely believe me when I tell you that I conceived the idea that the Saviour might really visit me. I reproach myself—and yet I cannot help expecting him."

The old soldier looked long and earnestly at Martin, but only shook his head without speaking. Having finished his tea, he silently turned his glass upside down. But Martin, without asking him if he wanted more, took the glass and filled it again, saying:

"Drink some more tea, Stepanovitch; it is good for you. My friend, I believe that when Christ was here upon earth he loved every one—but especially the poor and humble. It was the meek and lowly he went among. He chose his disciples from the working class, from poor fishermen, and sinners like ourselves. He also tells us that whoso exalts himself shall be humbled, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. 'You,' he said, 'call me Lord, and