My responsibility of course is immense; the happiness of children depends, no doubt, on parts; still I may say, up till now, for better or for worse I have done everything, I alone have been everywhere with them, that is to say, I have educated my children and taught them everything myself.

Now, indeed, I have written for a French governess from Madame Boluce." Marya Dmitrievna launched into a description of her cares and anxieties and maternal sentiments.

Lavretsky listened in silence, turning his hat in his hands.

His cold, weary glance embarrassed the gossiping lady.
"And do you like Lisa ?" she asked.
"Lisaveta Mihalovna is an excellent girl," replied Lavretsky, and he got up, took his leave, and went off to Marfa Timofyevna.

Marya Dmitrievna looked after him in high displeasure, and thought, "What a dolt, a regular peasant! Well, now I understand why his wife could not remain faithful to him." Marfa Timofyevna was sitting in her room, surrounded by her little court.