Nikitin seems to despise him--I think he despises all of us." "Oh no.

That's only his manner.

Many Russians look as though they were despising their neighbours when, as a matter of fact, they're really despising themselves.

They're very fond of despising themselves: their contempt allows them to do what they want to." "I don't think Nikitin despises himself.

He looks too happy--at least, happy is not the word.