Page:Leo Tolstoi - Life Is Worth Living and Other Stories - tr. Adolphus Norraikow (1892).djvu/53

 46 "He is the master shoemaker about whom you have heard so much," Simeon answered, "and it is he who will make your boots."

Looking at Michael, the distinguished customer said: "You must be careful with my work. Remember, the boots have been guaranteed to last a year without break or blemish. You know the consequences if they do not turn out as I expect."

Simeon looked at Michael to learn, if possible, what effect the nobleman's words had on him; but he found him looking into space, apparently far beyond the customer. It seemed as if he were holding communion with some unseen person. After looking for some time, Michael smiled, and instantly his face brightened and seemed transformed.

The customer, on seeing Michael smile, became angry and said: "You fool! What are you grinning at? You had better attend to the making of my boots and see that they are done in time."