Allow me to believe that apart from our connection you have for me, at least in part, the same friendly feeling I have always had for you...and sincere esteem," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, pressing his hand.

" Even if your worst suppositions were correct, I don't--and never would--take on myself to judge either side, and I see no reason why our relations should be affected.

But now, do this, come and see my wife.

" "Well, we look at the matter differently," said Alexey Alexandrovitch coldly.

" However, we won't discuss it.