"I cannot in the least comprehend your joy in this event," said Krasavin wagging his ears. "Although it was instructive, as many say, still so much Russian blood was shed and the insufficiency of our strength was made so apparent."
"And who is to blame?"
"The Japs. What do they want? Every country ought to live within itself."
They started a discussion, to which Yevsey, rejoiced over Maklakov's attitude, did not pay any attention. He looked into the spy's face, and thought it would be well to live with him instead of Piotr, who scolded at the authorities, and maybe would be arrested as they had arrested the Smokestack.
Krasavin left. Maklakov took out the letter, read it once more, and burst into a laugh, looking at Yevsey.
"Now don't say a word about it to anybody. Do you understand? He came out himself?"
"Yes. He came out, and said, 'Get away from here.'" Yevsey smiled guiltily.
"You see another one in his place would have stroked you with a cat's paw." Screwing up his eyes the spy looked through the window, and said slowly, "Yes, you ought to take to peddling wares. I told you so. To-day you are free. I have no more commissions for you. Be off with you. Have a good time. I'll try one of these days to fix you up differently. Good-by."
Maklakov held out his hand. Yevsey touched it gratefully, and walked away happy.