The Count himself kept his composure admirably, only glancing coldly at Akulina, and then looking at his cigarette.

Akulina is a broad, fat woman, with a flattened Tartar face, small eyes, good but short teeth, full lips and a dark complexion.
She reminds one of an over-fed tabby cat, of doubtful temper, and her voice seems to reach utterance after traversing some thick, soft medium, which lends it an odd sort of guttural richness.

She moves quietly but heavily and has an Asiatic second sight in the matter of finance.

In matters of thrift and foresight her husband places implicit confidence in her judgment.

In matters of generosity and kindness implying the use of money, he never consults her.
"It is amazing to see how much people will believe," she said, putting out her candle and snuffing it with her thumb and forefinger.