ngs were a risk, and
there was nothing more to settle.

"We have said everything to each other by now, Kirylo Sidorovitch,"
said the high official feelingly, pressing Razumov's hand with that
unreserved heartiness a Russian can convey in his manner. "There is
nothing obscure between us. And I will tell you what! I consider myself
fortunate in having--h'm--your..."

He glanced down his beard, and, after a moment of thoughtful silence,
handed to Razumov a half-sheet of notepaper--an abbreviated note of
matters already discussed, certain points of inquiry, the line of
conduct agreed on, a few hints as to personalities, and so on. It was
the only compromising document in the case, but, as Councillor Mikulin
observed, "it could be easily destroyed. Mr. Razumov had better not see
any one now--till on the other side of the frontier, when, of course, it
will be just that.... See and hear and..."

He glanced down his beard; but when Razumov declared his intention
to see one person at least before leaving St. Petersburg, Councillor
Mikulin failed to conceal a sudden uneasiness. The young man's studious,
solitary, and austere existence was well known to him. It was the
greatest guarantee of fitness. He became deprecatory. Had his dear
Kirylo Sidorovitch considered whether, in view of such a momentous
enterprise, it wasn't really advisable to sacrifice every sentiment....

Razumov interrupted the remonstrance scornfully. It was not a young
woman, it was a young fool he wished to see for a certain purpose.
Councillor Mikulin was relieved, but surprised.

"Ah! And what for--precisely?"

"For the sake of improving the aspect of verisimilitude," said Razumov
curtly, in a desire to affirm his independence. "I must be trusted in
what I do."

Councillor Mikulin gave way tactfully, murmuring, "Oh, certainly,
certainly. Your judgment..."

And with another handshake they parted.

The fool of whom Mr. Razumov had thought was the rich and festive
student known as madcap Kostia. Feather-headed, loquacious, excitable,
one could make certain of his utter and complete indiscretion. But that
riotous youth, when reminded by Razumov of his offers of service some
time ago, passed from his usual elation into boundless dismay.

"Oh, Kirylo Sidorovitch, my dearest friend--my saviour--what shall I
do? I've blown last night every rouble I had from my dad the other day.
Can't you give me till Thursday? I shall rush round to all the usurers
I kn