Marta was about to rejoice but suddenly flushed violently and said in confusion:
"Oh, Vladimir Ivanovitch, I didn't mean that! I can't take it. Really you are ..."
"Now, don't offend me by refusing it," said Mourin with a laugh, not taking up the money. "Let's say that your dream has become realised."
"No, but how can I? I feel ashamed. I wouldn't take it for anything." Marta resisted, looking with desirous eyes upon the hundred-rouble note.
"Why do you protest when it's given to you?" said Vitkevitch. "It's good luck falling right into your hands," he continued with an envious sigh.
Mourin stood in front of Marta and said in a persuasive voice:
"My dear Marta Stanislavovna, believe me, I give it with all my heart—please take it! And if you don't want to take it for nothing, then take it for looking after Vaniushka. As to my agreement with Natalya Afanasyevna, let that stand. But this is for you—for looking after Vanya."
"But how can I, it's too much," said Marta irresolutely.
"It's for the first half-year," and he bowed very low to Marta. "Don't offend me by refusing it. Take it and be a sister to Vaniushka."
"Well, Marta, you'd better take it," said Vershina. "And thank Vladimir Ivanitch."