My heart beat like a sledge-hammer. Inside there were only ten rubles—my pay for the month that was not yet complete.
Good-bye, lesson!
XXIII
THE POOR LITTLE BOY
(Told by a "man" on a "committee")
"Give me five kopeks for a night's shelter!"
"No!" I answer sharply and walk away. He runs after me with a look of canine entreaty in his burning eyes, he kisses my sleeve—in vain!
"I cannot afford to give so much every day...."