Mariana went out of the room and Solomin was about to follow her when Nejdanov stopped him.
“Solomin!”
“What is it?”
“Give me your hand. I must thank you for your kindness and hospitality.”
Solomin smiled.
“What an idea!” He extended his hand.
“There’s another thing I wished to say,” Nejdanov continued. “Supposing anything were to happen to me, may I hope that you won’t abandon Mariana?”
“Your future wife?”
“Yes ... Mariana!”
“I don’t think anything is likely to happen to you, but you may set your mind at rest. Mariana is just as dear to me as she is to you.”