To whom am I most indebted, to the world which has turned its back on me during a temporary embarrassment and loss of fortune, or to my friend Vjera who has been faithfully kind all along?
The question itself is foolish.

I owe everything to Vjera, and nothing to the world.

The case is simple, the argument is short and the verdict is plain.

I will not take the riches and the dignities which will be mine by this time to-morrow to the feet of some high-born lady who, to-day, would look coldly on me because I am not--not quite in the fashion, so far as outward appearance is concerned.

But I will and I do offer all, wealth, title, dignity, everything to Vjera.