“Why do you beat her?” asked Raisky. “I have been intending for a long time to advise you to leave her alone.”
“I don’t beat her any more.”
“Since when?”
“For the last week, since she has stayed quietly at home.”
“Go, I have no orders. But do not beat Marina. It will be better both for you and her if you give her complete liberty.”
Raisky passed on his way with bent head, glancing sadly at Vera’s window. Savili’s eyes too were on the ground, and he had forgotten to put his cap on again in his amazement at Raisky’s last words.
“Passion once more!” thought Raisky. “Alas, for Savili, and for me!”