Each one then fixed the probable duration of his stay.
"Well, your permit will be given you."
Here a pause. The policeman gives the necessary order, then resumes the conversation.
"Well, what do you think of St. Petersburg?"
"It is an admirable city."
"Are not our theatres as fine as those of Paris?"
"Most assuredly."
"Is not the perspective from Newski a superb view?"
"Truly."
"Do they not tell idle stories of us in Paris, and are they any freer than we?"