Page:Rudin - a novel (IA rudinnovel00turgrich).pdf/194

RUDIN sincere, we regard as impertinent and disingenuous and indiscreet. What is clear and simple to you, is involved and obscure to us. You boast of what we conceal. How are we to understand you! Excuse me, I can neither regard you as a friend, nor will I give you my hand. That is petty, perhaps, but I am only a petty person.’

Rudin took his hat from the window seat.

‘Sergeï Pavlitch!’ he said sorrowfully, ‘goodbye; I was mistaken in my expectations. My visit certainly was rather a strange one but I had hoped that you  (Volintsev made a movement of impatience). Excuse me, I will say no more of this. Reflecting upon it all, I see indeed, you are right, you could not have behaved otherwise. Good-bye, and allow me, at least once more, for the last time, to assure you of the purity of my intentions. I am convinced of your discretion.’

‘That is too much!’ cried Volintsev, shaking with anger, ‘I never asked for your confidence; and so you have no right whatever to reckon on my discretion!’ 156