The voice came more clearly now and something in its cadences caused Tanya to listen more intently. It was curiously like one that she had once known; but where--when----?
"Aye, immortal----" went on Markov contemplatively, "but to a hurdy-gurdy man the seat of soul is in the stomach. For without food the stomach sickens and thus, the soul. What becomes of your immortality then, holy Father?"
She heard the priest laugh to himself--that laugh!
"Your philosophy and your theology are from the same piece of goods, my son. If it keeps you warm you are wise to wear it." And then in a change of tone, "You came along the Landberg road?"
"Yes, Father."
"You see many people. Has there been much talk about the rising of the Socialist elements in Munich?"
"You've heard----?" There was a pause, and then:
"Merely that a meeting was broken up--that there was shooting, a fire, people were killed and some of them--my friends--wounded. And you, Father--what have you been told?"
"The facts have been suppressed. The newspapers say nothing. You were not questioned by the police when you left Munich?"
"Oh, no. I merely showed my papers. I am well known in these parts. I--I had nothing to do with the disturbance, though my heart is with those who have rebelled--for I, too, am a Revolutionary."