On the contrary. "You're showing off," was my thought; "so I am not going to spare you!" And there and then I proceeded straightway to enlarge upon the mischief of yielding to impulsive feelings, upon the duty of every man to respect the freedom and personal life of another man--in short, I proceeded to enunciate useful and appropriate counsel. Holding forth in this manner, I walked up and down the room, to be more at ease. Tarhov did not interrupt me, and did not stir from his seat; he only played with his fingers on his chin.

"I know," said I . . . (Exactly what was my motive in speaking so, I have no clear idea myself--envy, most likely; it was not devotion to morality, anyway!) "I know," said I, "that it's no easy matter, no joking matter; I am sure you love Musa, and that Musa loves you--that it is not a passing fancy on your part. . . . But, see, let us suppose! (Here I folded my arms on my breast.) . . . Let us suppose you gratify your passion--what is to follow? You won't marry her, you know. And at the same time you are wrecking the happiness of an excellent, honest man, her benefactor--and--who knows? (here my face expressed at the same time penetration and sorrow)--possibly her own happiness too. . . ."

And so on, and so on!

For about a quarter of an hour my discourse flowed on. Tarhov was still silent. I began