"May the deuce take these times," cried Ladislaus. "A man is always in a situation from which there is no escape."
"As is usual between two anarchies," answered Gronski. "After all, this is a slight illustration."
Further conversation was stopped by the entrance of a servant who handed to Gronski a visiting card and he, glancing at it, said:
"Ask him to step in."
Afterwards he asked Ladislaus:
"Do you know Swidwicki?"
"I have heard the name, but am not acquainted with the man."
"He is a relative of Pani Otocka's deceased husband. A very peculiar figure."
At that moment Swidwicki entered the room. He was a man of forty years, bald, tall, lean, with an intelligent and sour face, and at the same time impudent. He was attired carelessly in a suit which appeared to fit him too loosely. He had, however, something which betrayed his connection with the higher social spheres.
"How is Swidwa?" Gronski began.