“ Russian books, indeed? Then, of course, you can read and write quite correctly?”
“ Oh dear, yes!”
“ Capital! And your handwriting?”
“ Ah, there I am really talented! I may say I am a real caligraphist. Let me write you something, just to show you,” said the prince, with some excitement.
“ With pleasure! In fact, it is very necessary. I like your readiness, prince; in fact, I must say—I—I—like you very well, altogether,” said the general.
“ What delightful writing materials you have here, such a lot of pencils and things, and what beautiful paper! It’s a charming room altogether. I know that picture, it’s a Swiss view. I’m sure the artist painted it from nature, and that I have seen the very place—”
“ Quite likely, though I bought it here. Gania, give the prince some p
