"You speak vaguely, sir."
"Well, I may be able to speak more plainly by and by. But in the meantime I will take particular pains to teach you the Russian language."
"I thank you, but mournfully, since you lead me to believe that my only use for it will be here in Siberia."
"I would not banish hope."
"Of what?"
"Of your ultimate escape from here."
"How?"
"That will be a future consideration."
"But do you believe there is a chance?"
"Yes. While the springs and muscles of youth are potent, there is always a chance–always a hope."