"What do you mean?"
"As I have said, it would depend on yourself. Of course you would not do it until you felt convinced she would take it more quietly than she has to-day. That will be sure to come with time. The first outburst over, she will remember her duties; there may be children to be cared for. Of course you would have to leave the country immediately."
"What the devil do you mean?"
"It has only just passed through my brain. I have only mentioned it out of friendship, but you can make your own decision. The poor devil will do it for you gladly, for he was saved by your aid, and will hold his tongue in his own interests."
"Who?"
"You remember the affair with your farmer, Afanasiewicz? Well, that Ignatius Tondka--"
The count winced. He trembled in every limb.
"Silence!" he shouted.
"Pardon me. It was only a suggestion. But it is late." He looked at the clock. "Really, it is past midnight."
"It would be criminal."