"I implore you to do it; in that way alone can we expiate ... everything which has taken place. Think it over—and you will not refuse me."
"Liza, for God's sake,—you are demanding the impossible. I am ready to do everything you command; but become reconciled to her now!... I agree to everything, I have forgotten everything; but I cannot force my heart to.... Have mercy, this is cruel!"
"I do not require from you ... what you think; do not live with her, if you cannot; but become reconciled,"—replied Liza, and again raised her hand to her eyes.—"Remember your little daughter; do this for me."
"Very well,"—said Lavrétzky, through his teeth:—"I will do it; let us assume that thereby I am fulfilling my duty. Well, and you—in what does your duty consist?"
"I know what it is."
Lavrétzky suddenly started.
"Surely, you are not preparing to marry Pánshin?"—he asked.
Liza smiled almost imperceptibly.
"Oh, no!"—she said.
"Akh, Liza, Liza!"—cried Lavrétzky:—"how happy we might have been!"