The action, moreover, is demonstrative, which makes the Russian different from other northern nations of an older civilization and a completer self-control.
"Then," said Vassili, "if I understand M.le Baron aright, it is a question of private and personal affairs that suggests this journey to--Russia ?" "Precisely." "In no sense a mission ?" suggested the other, sipping his liqueur thoughtfully.
"In no sense a mission.

I give you a proof.

I have been granted six months' leave of absence, as you probably know." "Precisely so, mo' cher Baron." Vassili had a habit of applying to every one the endearing epithet, which lost a consonant somewhere in his mustache.

"When a military officer is granted a six months' leave, it is exactly then that we watch him." De Chauxville shrugged his shoulders in deprecation, possibly with contempt for any system of watching.
"May one call it an affaire de coeur ?" asked Vassili, with his grim smile.
"Certainly.

Are not all private affairs such, one way or the other ?" "And you want a passport ?" "Yes--a special one." "I will see what I can do." "Thank you." Vassili emptied his glass, drew in his feet, and glanced at the clock.
"But that is not all I want," said De Chauxville.
"So I perceive." "I want you to tell me what you know of Prince Pavlo Alexis." "Of Tver ?" "Of Tver.