Why, they're ready to forgive me everything now, just because the clever fellow who used to publish manifestoes out there turns out to be stupider than themselves--that's so, isn't it?
From your smile I see you approve." Nikolay Vsyevolodovitch was not smiling at all, however.
On the contrary, he was listening with a frown and some impatience.
"Eh?
What?
I believe you said 'no matter.'" Pyotr Stepanovitch rattled on.

(Nikolay Vsyevolodovitch had said nothing at all.) "Of course, of course.

I assure you I'm not here to compromise you by my company, by claiming you as my comrade.

But do you know you're horribly captious to-day; I ran in to you with a light and open heart, and you seem to be laying up every word I say against me.

I assure you I'm not going to begin about anything shocking to-day, I give you my word, and I agree beforehand to all your conditions." Nikolay Vsyevolodovitch was obstinately silent.
"Eh?
What?
Did you say something?
I see, I see that I've made a blunder again, it seems; you've not suggested conditions and you're not going to; I believe you, I believe you; well, you can set your mind at rest; I know, of course, that it's not worth while for me to suggest them, is it?
I'll answer for you beforehand, and--just from stupidity, of course; stupidity again....