“So, my Steccho has learned to perch safely and sensibly upon the fence between the warring factions, yes? The rain falls on the just and the unjust, therefore we must be merciful likewise.” He sat up and reached for his violin, playing stray chords, bits of folk-songs and haunting Czech melodies in minors.
Steccho listened moodily, his eyes almost closed as he clasped arms about his knees, and bent his head on them. Dmitri played in silence for nearly half an hour. When he stopped, the boy looked up at him wistfully.
“When the cause is right, the way must be right too.”
“What do you mean by the cause?” Dmitri asked genially. “We live in a day when causes are hung for sale in any market-place. You may buy them like indulgences from pilgrim friars. I would pick my cause with caution.”
“I mean this. No matter what we do, if it is for some great, beautiful purpose, then it does not matter, eh?”
“You will stub your toe on that rock, the end that justifies the means; that is all it comes to when you are through with reasoning and sophistry. And I do not like any reasoning which may be diverted by the idiot Chance, to his own blind folly. Can you tell me frankly why you are here? I will keep silent and help you if I may.”
Steccho threw away his last cigarette and rose, stretching himself like an animal impatient for a run.
“I am here so that my mother and Maryna may dwell in the yellow castle forever,” he answered with a slow smile. “You cannot help, but I should like to come here and rest now and then.”
“You will come again soon, my friend,” Dmitri laid both hands on his shoulders warmly. “Come often, when you like. If I am out, look for me over in the squares, or open the door and be happy as you can until I return. Light the fire yourself. It awaits you. If you will come back to-night, I can promise you such a meal of broiled lamb and rice as you have not tasted since the home days.”
“Not to-night.” Steccho shook his head. “I might take you from your friends. I could hear you singing while I stood in the park there to-day. The girl had a fine voice.”