"Well, sir, I think it only natural that I should do so. I abhor this place, as you must know, and even a temporary change would be agreeable, and make me more reconciled to my fate when I return with you."
"But I may not return at all."
"And, Providence keeping me, I will not," thought Barnwell.
"If I can get the ear of the Czar, and his favor, I shall never return to this accursed place," said Kanoffskie, shuddering.
"I do not blame you for not wishing to."
"But on arriving at St. Petersburg I must report to the Prefect of Police, and procure a permit from him to retain a convict as my servant."
"Yes."
"Your number and personal description will have to agree with your sentence and commitment, and ever after that, while you remain, you will be under police surveillance."
"True, I dare say."
"So you must not become elated with the idea of liberty."