“Horizon, let’s say...”
“So I propose to you, Mr. Horizon—could you find some innocent girls among yours? There’s an enormous demand for them now. I’m playing an open hand with you. We won’t stop at money. Now it’s in fashion. Notice, Horizon, your lady clients will be returned to you in exactly the same state in which they were. This, you understand, is a little depravity, which I can in no way make out...”
Horizon cast down his eyes, rubbed his head, and said:
“You see, I’ve a wife ... You’ve almost guessed it.”
“So. But why almost?”
“I’m ashamed to confess, that she—how shall I say it ... she is my bride ...”
Barsukova gaily burst into laughter.
“You know, Horizon, I couldn’t at all expect that you’re such a nasty villain! Let’s have your wife, it’s all the same. But is it possible that you’ve really refrained?”
“A thousand?” asked Horizon seriously.
“Ah! What trifles; a thousand let’s say. But tell me, will I be able to manage her?”