"But that is not playing at cards; there can be no chance or shuffling; all depends upon ingenuity. I must even tell you beforehand, that I am no player at all, and that you might as well give me a price in advance."
Tchichikoff thought to himself, "Well, I'll venture to play a game with him! I used to play once at draughts tolerably well, besides, there is no chance for him to cheat. Very well, then, in order to oblige you I'll play you a game."
"My dead serfs against a hundred roubles."
"Why? it will be high enough, if I lay fifty against them?"
"No, fifty roubles is quite a ridiculous stake. I would rather, in order to make up a round sum, include a couple of my thorough-bred dogs, or a gold watch-guard."
"Very well," Tchichikoff answered.
"How many draughtsmen will you give me in advance?" demanded Nosdrieff.
"How did you come upon this idea? certainly none."
"At least give me the two first moves."
"No, I won't, I am a bad player myself."