ANNA KARENINA

COUNT LYOF N.
TOLSTOI.

KAEENINA.
BY

COUNT LYOF

N.

TOLSTOI.

IN EIGHT PARTS.

TRANSLATED BY

NATHAN HASKELL

DOLE.

NEW YORK

THOMAS

Y.
13

CROWELL

& CO.,

ASTOK PLACE.

COPYRIGHT,

1886,

BY

T. Y.

CEOWELL &

CO.

ELECTROTYPED AND PRINTED

BY RAND, AVERY, AND COMPANY,

BOSTON.

INTRODUCTION.

preserve, so far as possible, the spirit and style of the has been the translator's aim in presenting, for the first time to English readers, Count Tolstoi's great novel,
original,

To

"ANNA KAKENINA."

After the present translation was begun, an anonymous French paraphrase appeared. In order to hasten the preparation of this volume for the press, that version has been used in a few passages, but always with the Russian It is a novel which, in spite of some original at hand. faults of repetition, easily stands in the front rank of the Its moral lesson is wonderful, great romances of the world.
Rornola. perhaps equalled only by that of George Eliot's The sympathy of the reader will doubtless be moved by the Married without love to a passion of the ill-fated Anna. man old enough to be her father, falling under the fascination of one whom, under happier auspices, she might have wedded with happiness and honor, she takes the law into her own hands. As a recent French critic says, the loves of But lovely though Vronsky and Anna are almost chaste. she be, intellectual and brilliant, the highest type of a woman of the best society, she finds that she cannot defy the law. The mills of the gods grind slowly, but the end is
inevitable.
' ' ' '

Polevoi, in his illustrated "History of Russian Litera" Count Tolstoi dwells with ture," says of this story especial fondness on the sharp contrast between the frivolity, the tinsel brightness, the tumult and vanity, of the worldly life, and the sweet, holy calm enjoyed by those who, possessing the soil, live amid the beauties of Nature and the This contrast will strike the pleasures of the family." It is the outgrowth of Count attention of every reader.
:

iii

2032473

IV
Tolstoi's
able.

INTRODUCTION.
own
life,

a brief sketch of which

may be

accept-

Count Lyof Nikolayevitch Tolsto'i was born on the 2sth of August, o. s. 1828, at Yasnaia Polyana, in the Government of Tula. His father was a retired lieutenant-colonel, who traced his ancestry to Count Piotr Andreyevitch Tolstoi, His mother a friend and companion of Peter the Great. was the Princess Marya Nikolayevna Volkonska'ia, the only She daughter of Prince Nikolai Sergeyevitch Volkonsky. died when he was but two years old and a distant relative, of the Tatyana Aleksandrovna Yergolskaia, took charge In 1838 they all went to live in of the family. training Moscow, where the eldest sou, Nikolai, was pursuing his But the following summer the studies in the university. father died suddenly, leaving his affairs in confusion and Theodore Russell, the German tutor, and Prosper Saint Thomas, the French tutor, both of whom figure in Count and the family was Tolstoi's novels, had to be dismissed The two elder brothers remained in Moscow with divided.
;

their

Ilinishna paternal aunt, the Countess Aleksandra Osten-Sacken; and Lyof, with his brother Dmitri and his sister Marya, were taken back to Yasnaia Polyana by Madame Yergolskaia. Here they enjoyed a rather desultory now under German tutors, and now under Ruseducation, Jn 1840 the Countess Osten-Sacken died sian seminarists. and all the Tolstois were taken by their paternal aunt, with her husband Pelagia Ilinishna Yushkovaia, who lived Nikolai left the University of Moscow, and at Kazan. entered that of Kazan. In 1843 Count Lyof also entered the university, and took a up the study of Oriental languages but at the end of year he exchanged that course for the law, which occupied his But when his brothers passed attention for two years more. their final examination, and went back to the old estate, he without gradusuddenly determined to leave the university he lived until ation, and returned to Yasnaia Polyana, where
; ;

1851.

He inspired from the Caucasus, where he was serving. Count Lyof with "the desire to see new lands, and new found the splendid people." He returned with Nikolai', and life of this region, scenery and the wild, unconventional which Pushkin, Lermontof, and other great Russian poets had described in their verse, so fascinating, that he entered

In that year his favorite brother, Nikolai, came

home

INTRODUCTION.

the service, as a yuiiker in the fourth battery of the Twentieth Artillery Brigade, where his brother held the rank of
captain.

Here
fiction.

in the

He

Caucasus, Count Tolstoi' first began to write planned a great romance, which should embrace

his

early

recollections
stories,

and the

traditions

of

his

family.

His three

"Infancy"

(Dyetstoo),

" Contemporary (Sovremennik) published in 1852, in the In the Caucasus he also wrote his popular sketches of war"The Incursion" (Nabyey), "The Cutting of the life,
.

(O'rotchestvo),

and "Youth" (Tunost). "

"Adolescence" "Youth" was

Forest" (Rubka Lyesa), and

(Kazaki)
,

which did not appear

his novel, till later.

"The

Cossaks

"

Count Tolstoi lived nearly three years in the Caucasus, taking part in numerous expeditions, and enduring all the He privations which fell to the lot of the common soldiers. thus gathered the materials for his remarkable " War When the Eastern Sketches" (Voyennuie Razskazui). war broke out, Count Tolstoi was transferred, at his own request, to the army of the Danube, and was on Prince M. D. Gortchakof's staff. Later he took part in the famous defence of Sevastopol, and was promoted to the rank of After the storming of Sevastopol, he division commander. was sent as special courier to St. Petersburg. At this time he wrote his two sketches, "Sevastopol in December," and " Sevastopol in May." After the war he retired to private life, and for several years spent the winter months in Petersburg and Moscow, and his summers on his estate. These years were the culmination of his literary activity. His story, "Youth" (Yurtost), which he had written in Cir" The " cassia, as well as the tales, Sevastopol in August,"

Two

Hussars," and

"The Three Deaths,"

appeared about

He began to be recogthe same time, in the magazines. nized as one of Russia's greatest writers. The emancipation of the serfs [fcrefyanw], in 1861, stirred his interest in agronomic questions and, like Konstantin Levin, he went to study these questions in other countries of Europe. He also felt it his duty to live constantly on his estate and he became justice, or judge, of the peace [mirovoi' sudyd], and was interested in the establishment of a pedagogical journal, called after the name of the place, " Yasnaia Polyana." In 1862 he married Sofia Andreyevna Beers, the daughter of a Moscow doctor, who held a chair in the
; ;

Vi
university,

IN TR OD UCTION.

and whose wife's family estates were situated He had alread}' published his which described the story, "War and Peace" [Voind t'3//r], Great things events of the year 1812 with a master-hand. were predicted and expected of Count Tolstoi but he devoted himself with renewed interest to his efforts in the direction of popular education, and, for more than ten years, for the use of published nothing but spellers and readers
not far from Yasnaia Polyana.
;

district schools.

In 1873 a famine was raging in a distant province and Count Tolstoi wrote a brief and telling letter to one of the Moscow newspapers, drawing public attention to it. He also went personally to the famine-stricken province, and made a report upon the condition of the peasantry, and what he saw. The letter had its effect, and help was sent, both by government and by private individuals. " Anna In 1875 Count Tolstoi began the publication of " in the of the "Russian Messenger" Karenina pages The publication of this work con\_Rnsxki Vyestnik'}. tinued, not for months alone, but for years, and still kept Not even a break of some months bepublic attention. tween two of the parts was sufficient to cool the interest of its readers. Its power is immense. After reading it, real There is life seems like fiction, and fiction like real life. not a detail added that does not increase the effect of this
;

realism. In certain scenes, indeed, the realism is too intense for our Puritan taste and, perforce, several of these scenes have been more or less modified in the present translation. For the most part, the translation follows the original. In order to preserve, so far as possible, the Russian flavor of
;

the story, many characteristic Russian words have been emand generally ployed, always accompanied by their meaning, accented properly. glossary of those used more than once This use of Russian words was adopted after will be found. some deliberation, and in spite of the risk of seeming affecThe spelling of these words, and of the proper tation. names, is a bog in which it is almost impossible not to get foundered. Consistency would seem to demand one of two either to spell all words as they are spelled in courses, Russian, or to spell them as they are pronounced. Accordbe spelled ing to the first method, the name Catherine would Ekaterina; according to the other, Yekatyerina. According to the one, the word for father would be otets; according to

INTRODUCTION.

vii

The translator lays not the slightest claim the other, atyets. The same letter he has sometimes repreto consistenc}'. He has also sented by the diphthong ia, sometimes by ya. used the numerous diminutives for proper names, which are so characteristic of Russian and, in order that there may be no confusion, he has made a list of the principal characters,
;

with their aliases.

The Russians use many

interjections

and the simpler of them have been introduced, for the same
purpose of imparting the foreign flavor. In some cases, the terms "Madame" and "Mr." have been used; but in Russian, the difference in sex is shown by the termination. Thus, the wife of Alekse'i Aleksaudrovitch Kare"nin is spoken
of either as Anna Arkadyevna, or simply as Kare"nina. Thus, Prince Tverskoi and the Princess Tverskai'a. 'It will be noticed that all characters bear two names besides the The first is the baptismal name, the second family name. is the patronymic. Thus, Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch means Anna Arkadyevna means Alexis, the son of Alexander Anna, the daughter of Arcadius. This nomenclature is a relic of the patriarchal family system, and is paralleled in many countries as, for example, in Scotland, where Tarn MacTavish means Thomas Davidson or in Wales, where every man has an Ap to his name. The term translated " A Russian prince," perhaps, needs some explanation. The word kniaz prince may be a boot-black or a ferryman. denotes a descendant of any of the hundreds of petty rulers, who, before the time of the unification of Russia, held the land. They all claim descent from the semi-mythical Rurik and as every son of a kniaz bears the title, it may be easily imagined how numerous they are. The term prince, there: : ; ;

fore, is really a too high-sounding title to represent it. It need scarcely be added, after what has been said of the

author, that he has evidently painted himself in the character of Levin. His fondness for the muzhik, his struggles with doubts, his final emergence into the light of faith, are all
paralleled in this country proprietor, whose triumph brings " the book to a close. It is interesting to turn from Religion" to the evolution of this character, who seems vaguely to forebode some such spiritual transformation. At all events, the teaching of the story cannot fail to be considered in the highest degree moral and stimulating.

My

NATHAN HASKELL DOLE.

CHIEF PERSONS OF THE STORY.

Alekse"! Aleksandrovitch Karenin.

Anna Arkadyevna
Count Aleksei

Karenina.

Kirillovitch

Vronsky (Alosha).

His mother, Countess Yronskaia. Prince (Kniaz) Stepan Arkadyevitch Oblonsky (Stiva). Princess (Kniayina) Darya Aleksandrovna Oblonskaia (Dolly, D6linka, Dashenka). Konstantin (Kostia) Dmitriyevitch (Dmitritch) Levin, proprietor of Pokrovsky. His half-brother, Sergei Ivanovitch (Ivanuitch, Ivanitch) Koznuishef. Prince Aleksander Shcherbatsky.

Princess Shcherbatska'ia.

Their daughter, Ekaterina (Kitty, Katyonka, Katerina, Katya) Aleksandrovna Shcherbatska'ia, afterwards Levina.

ANNA KARENINA.
PART
" Vengeance
is I.

mine, I

win

repay."

I.

families resemble one another, every unhappy family unhappy after its own fashion. Confusion reigned in the house of the Oblonskys. The wife had discovered that her husband was too attentive to the French governess who had been in their employ, and she declared that she could not live in the same house with him. For three days this situation had lasted, and the torment was felt by the parties themselves and by all the members of the All the members of the family family and the domestics. and the domestics felt that there was no sense in their trying
T

ALL happ3
is

to live together longer, and that in every hotel people who meet casually had more mutual interests than they, the members of the family and the domestics of the house of Oblonsky. Madame did not come out of her own rooms it was now the third day that the husband had not been at home. The children ran over the whole house as though they were crazy the English maid quarrelled with the housekeeper and wrote to a friend, begging her to find her a new The head cook went off the evening before just at place. dinner-time the black cook and the coachman demanded
: ; ;

day after the quarrel, Prince Stepan ArkadStiva, as he was known in society yevitch Oblousky awoke at the usual hour, that is to say about eight o'clock, not in his wife's chamber, but in his library, on a leather5

their wages. On the third

ANNA

KABtiNINA.

covered lounge. He turned his pampered form over on the In his efforts to catch another nap, springs of the lounge. he took the cushion and hugged it close to his other cheek. But suddenly he sat up and opened his eyes. " " he thought, recalling a dream. Well, well how was it? how was it? Yes! Alabin gave a dinner at Darm"Yes, stadt no, not at Darmstadt, but it was something American. but this Darmstadt was in America. Yes, Alabin gave res, II mio a dinner on glass tables, yes, and the tables sang, ti-xnro : no, not II mio tesoro,' but something better; and " said some little decanters, they were women he, continuing
!

'

'

'

his recollections.

Prince Stepan's eyes gleamed with 303" and he smiled as he thought, " Yes, it was good, very good. It was extremely elegant, but you can't tell it in words, and you can't express Then noticing a ray of sunthe reality even in thought." light that came through the side of one of the heavy curtains, he gayly set foot down from the lounge, found his gilt leather slippers they had been embroidered for him by his wife the

and according to the old year before as a birthday present custom which he had kept up for nine years, without rising, he stretched out his hand to the place where in his chamber lie hung his dressing-gown. And then he suddenly remembered how and why he had slept, not in his wife's chamber, but in the library the smile vanished from his face and he frowned. " Ach ach ach ah," he groaned, recollecting every thing that had occurred. And before his mind arose once more all the details of the quarrel with his wife, all the hopelessness of his situation, and most lamentable of all, his own
;
! ! !

fault.

she will not and she can not forgive me. And it, 'twas all my own fault my own fault, and yet I am not to blame. It's all like a drama," he "Ach! ach! ach!" he kept murmuring in his thought. desp.-iir, as he revived the unpleasant memories of this

"No!
is

what

the worst of

quarrel.

Most disagreeable of all was that first moment when returning from the theatre, happy and self-satisfied, with a monstrous pear for his wife in his hand, he did not find her in the sitting-room, did not find her in the library, and at last saw her in her chamber holding the fatal letter which revealed all.

ANNA
She, his Dolly, this forever busy and fussy and foolish creature as he always looked upon her. sat motionless with the note in her hand, and looked at him with an expression of terror, despair and wrath. "What is this? This?" she demanded, pointing to the note.

Prince Stepan's torment at this recollection was caused by the fact itself than by the answer which he gave to His experience at that moment these words of his wife. was the same that other people have had when unexpectedly caught in some shameful deed. He was unable to prepare his face for the situation caused by his wife's discovery of Instead of getting offended, or denying it, or jushis sin. tifying himself, or asking forgiveness, or showing indifference any thing would have been better than what he really in spite of himself, b}" a reflex action of the brain as did Stepan Arkadyevitch explained it, for he loved Physiology, absolutely in spite of himself he suddenly smiled with his
less

ordinary good-humored and therefore stupid smile. He could not forgive himself for that stupid smile. When Dolly saw that smile, she trembled as with physical pain, poured forth a torrent of bitter words, quite in accordance with her natural temper, and fled from the room. Since that time she had not wanted to see her husband. "That stupid smile caused the whole trouble," thought

Stepan Arkadyevitch. " But what is to be done about despair, and found no answer.

it?

" he asked himself

in

II.

STEPAN ARKADYEVITCH was a sincere man as far as he himwas concerned. He could not deceive himself and persuade himself that he repented of what he had done. He could not feel sorry that he. a handsome, susceptible man of four and thirty, did not now love his wife, the mother of his seven children, five of whom were living, though she was He regretted only that he had not only a year his junior. succeeded in hiding it better from her. But he felt the whole weight of the situation and pitied his wife, his children and himself. Possibly he would have had better success in deceiving his wife had he realized that this news would have
self

H-

ANNA

view of it had had such an effect upon her. Evidently this but he had a dim idea that his never occurred to him before, at it through her wife was aware of his infidelity and looked As she had lost her freshness, was beginning to finders. from distinguished look old, was no longer pretty and far maand entirely commonplace, though she was an excellent that she would allow her innate sense tron, he had thought But it proved to be quite the of justice to plead for him.
contrary.

" O bow wretched

himself over and over.

said Prince Stepan to ay! ay! ay!" He could not collect his thoughts.
!

" And how

well every thing was going until this happened How delightfully we lived! She was content, happy with I the children; I never interfered with her in any way, to do as she pleased with the children and the allowed her household! To be sure it was bad that she had been our

own governess

common

something trivial and But own governess Rowhat a governess [He gave a quick thought to Mile. But as long as she land's black roguish eyes and hei* smile.] was here in the house with us I did not permit myself any
;

'twas bad.
!

There

is

in playing the gallant to

one's

liberties.

And

the worst of all

is

that she

is
!

already.
! !

But to Every thing happens just " spite me. Ay ay ay what, what is to be done? There was no answer except that common answer which life gives to all the most complicated and insoluble questions. Her answer is this: You must live according to circumBut as you cannot stances, in other words, forget yourself. at least till night, as you cannot forget yourself in sleep return to that music which the decanter-women sang, therefore you must forget yourself in the dream of life "We shall see by and by," said Stepan Arkadyevitch to himself, and rising he put on his gray dressing-gown with blue silk lining, tied the tassels into a hast}" knot, and took
!

a full breath into his ample lungs. Then with his usual firm step he went over to the window, where he lifted the curtain and loudly rang the bell. It was answered by his old friend, the valet de chambre Matv6, bringing his clothes, boots and a Behind Matve" came the barber with the shaving telegram.
utensils.

"Are there any papers from the court-house?" asked Stepan Arkadyevitch, taking the telegram and placing himself before the mirror.

ANNA KAR&NINA.
. . .

"On the breakfast- table," replied Matv6, looking with inquiry and interest at his master, and after an instant's "I just came from the pause added with a cunning smile, boss of the livery-stable." Stepan Arkadyevitch answered not a word, but he looked In their interchange of glances it at Matve in the mirror. The look of could be seen how they understood each other. " Stepan Arkadyevitch seemed to ask, Why did you say that? Don't you know?" Matve thrust his hands in his sack-coat pockets, kicked out his leg, and with an almost imperceptible smile on his goodnatured face, looked back to his master " I ordered him to come next Sunda}-, and till then that you and I should not be annoyed without reason," said he, with a phrase apparently ready on his tongue. Prince Stepan perceived that Matv6 wanted to jest and
:

attract attention to himself. He tore open the telegram and read it, guessing at the words that were written in -cipher, and his face brightened.

Matve", sister Anna Arkadyevna is coming," said he, staying for a moment the plump, gleaming hand of his barber who was trying to make a pink path through his long,

..."

" Thank God," cried Matve, showing by this exclamation that he understood as well as his master the significance of this arrival, that it meant that Anna Arkadyevna, Prince Stepan 's loving sister, might effect a reconciliation between husband and wife. " Alone or with her husband? " asked Matv. Stepan Arkadyevitch could not speak, as the barber was
engaged on his upper lip, but he lifted one finger. Matv nodded his head toward the mirror. " " Alone. Get her room ready? " to Darya Aleksaudrovua, and let her decide." Report "To Darya Aleksandrovna? " reported Matve" rather
sceptically.

curly whiskers.

" Yes

report to her.

And

here, take the telegram, give

and do as she says." "You want to tiy an experiment," was the thought in Matve's mind, but he only said, " I will obey " By this time Stepan Arkadyevitch had finished his bath and his toilet, and was just putting on his clothes, when Matv6, stepping slowly with squeaking boots, and holding the
it

to her

10

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
. . .

telegram in his hand, returned to the room. was no longer there.

"

The barber
is

Darya Aleksandrovna bade me

. .
.

tell

you she

going

please about it," said Matv6 with a smile lurking in his eyes. Thrusting his hands in his pockets, and bending his head to one side, he looked at his master. Stepan Arkadyevitch was silent. Then a good-humored and rather pitiful smile lighted up his

away.

To do

just as they

as you

handsome face. " " he Hey? Matve" ?

t;

It's

nothing,

sir;

said, shaking his head. she will come to her senses," an-

come to her senses? " " JStysactly." " Do "Who is there?" asked Stepan Aryou think so? kadyevitch, hearing the rustle of a woman's dress behind
'

swered

Matv.

Will

the door.

" It's me," said a powerful and pleasant female voice, and in the door-way appeared the severe and pimply face of Matriona Filimonovna, the nurse. " " asked Stepan ArkadyeWell, what is it, Matriosha? her at the door. vitch, meeting Notwithstanding the fact that Stepan Arkadyevitch was
entirely in the wrong as regarded his wife, as he himself confessed, still almost every one in the house, even the old nurse, Daiya's chief friend, was on his side.

" Well, what?" he asked gloomily. " You go down, sir, ask her forgiveness, just once. Perhaps the Lord will bring it out right. She is tormenting herself grievously, and it is pitiful to see her and every thing in the house is going criss-cross. The children, sir, you must have pity on them. -Ask her forgiveness, sir What is to be done? If you like to coast down hill you've got
;
!

to

."
sir:

u But she won't accept an apology ..." "But you do your part. God is merciful,

pray to

God."
" Very
well, then,

suddenly blushing.
dressing-gown.

come on," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, " Very well, let me have my things,"
and resolutely throwing
off his
all ready for him, and stood from the shirt stiff as a horse

said he, turning to Matve",

Matve had every thing

blowing
off

invisible dust

ANNA
collar,

KARfiNINA.

11

in

which he proceeded with evident satisfaction to

invest his master's luxurious form.

III.

HAVING dressed, Stepan Arkadyevitch sprinkled himself with cologne, straightened the sleeves of his shirt, according to his wont, filled his pockets with cigarettes, portemonnaie, matches, and his watch with its locket and double chain, and shaking out his handkerchief, feeling clean, well-perfumed, healthy and happy in body, if not in mind, went out to the
dining-room, where his coffee was already waiting for him, and next the coffee his letters and the papers from the courthouse. from He read his letters. One was very disagreeable, a merchant who was negotiating for the purchase of a forest on his wife's estate. It was necessary to sell this wood, but now there could be nothing done about it until a reconMost unpleasant it was ciliation was effected with his wife. to think that his interests in this approaching transaction were complicated with his reconciliation to his wife. And the thought that this interest might be his motive, that his desire for a reconciliation with his wife was caused by his desire to sell the forest, this thought worried him. Having finished his letters Stepau Arkadyevitch took up the papers from the court-house, rapidly turned over the leaves of two deeds, made several notes with a big pencil, and then pushing them away, took his coffee. While he was drinking it he opened a morning journal still damp, and

began to read. It was a liberal paper which Stepan Arkadyevitch subscribed to and read. It was not extreme in its views, but advocated those principles which the majority hold. And in spite of the fact that he was not interested in science or art or politics, in the true sense of the word, he strongly adhered to the views on all such subjects, as the majority, including this paper, advocated, and he changed them only when the majority changed or more correctly, he did not change them, but they changed themselves imperceptibly. Prince Stepan never chose a line of action or an opinion, but thought and action were alike suggested to him, just as he never chose the shape of a hat or coat, but took those
;

12

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.
for one

that were fashionable.

And

who

lived in the

upper

vative direction which some of his circle followed, it was not that he found a liberal tendency more rational, but that it The liberal party said that better suited his mode of life. every thing in Russia was wretched and the fact was, that Stepan Arkadyevitch had a good many debts and was decidThe liberal party said that marriage edly short of money. was a defunct institution and that it needed to be remodelled. And the fact was, that domestic life afforded Stepan Arkad;

ten, through the necessity of some mental activity, it was as If there was indispensable to have views as to have a hat. reason why he preferred a liberal rather than the conserany

yevitch very little pleasure, and compelled him to lie, and to assume that it was contrary to his nature. The liberal party said, or rather took it for granted, that religion was only a curb on the barbarous portion of the community and the fact was, that Stepan Arkadyevitch could not bear the shortest prayer without pain, and he could not comprehend the necessity of all these awful and high-sounding words about the other world when it was so very pleasant to live in this. And moreover Stepan Arkadyevitch, who liked a merry jest, was sometimes fond of scandalizing a quiet man by saying that any one who was proud of his origin ought not to the monkey. stop at Rurik and deny his earliest ancestor Thus the liberal side had become a habit with Stepan Arkadyevitch, and he liked his paper, just as he liked his cigar after dinner, because of the slight haziness which it caused in his brain. He now read the leading editorial, which explained how in our day a cry is raised, without reason, over the danger that radicalism may swallow up all the conservative elements, and that government ought to take measures to crush the hydra of revolution, and how, on the contrary. " according to our opinion, the danger lies not in this imaginary hydra of revolution, but in the inertia of traditions which block progress," and so on. He read through another article on finance in which Bentham and Mill were mentioned and which dropped some sharp hints for the With ministry. his peculiar quickness of comprehension he appreciated each
;

point,

from whom and against whom and on what occasion each was directed; and this as usual afforded him some

amusement. But his satisfaction was poisoned by the remembrance of Matriona's advice and by the chaos that He read also that Count von Beust reigned in the house.

ANNA KARNINA.
was reported
;

13

to have left for Wiesbaden, that there was to be uo more gray hair he read about the sale of a light carBut these items did riage and the offer of a young person. not afford him quiet satisfaction and ironical pleasure as
ordinarily.

Having finished his paper, his second cup of coffee, and a buttered kalatch, he stood up, shook the crumbs of the roll from his vest, and filling his broad chest, smiled joyfully, not because there was any thing extraordinarily pleasant in his mind, but the joyful smile was caused by good digestion. But this joyful smile immediately brought back the memory of every thing, and he sank into thought. Two children's voices Stepan Arkadyevitch recognized the voice of Grisha, his youngest boy, and Tania, his eldest were now heard behind the door. They brought daughter
put passengers on top," cried the you, you ki Now pick 'em up." English. "Every thing is at sixes and sevens," thought Stepan " " Now here the children are, running wild Arkadyevitch. Then going to the door, he called to them. They dropped the little box which served them for a railway train, and ran
little girl in
!

something and dropped it. " I tell can't

to their father.

The little girl, her father's favorite, ran in boldly, embraced him and laughingly clung around his neck, enjoying as usual the odor which exhaled from his whiskers. Then kissing his face reddened by his bending position, and beaming with tenderness, the little girl unclasped her hands and wanted to run away again, but her father held her back. " What is mamma doing?" he asked, caressing his daugh" " How are ter's smooth, soft neck. he added, smiling 3'ou? He acknowledged he at the boy who stood saluting him. had less love for the little boy, yet he tried to be impartial. But the boy felt the difference, and did not smile back in

Mamma? She's up," answered the little girl. " It shows that Stepan Arkadyevitch sighed, and thought, she has spent another sleepless night."
' '

reply to his father's chilling smile.

What ?
little

is

she happy ?

' '

that there was trouble between her girl father and mother, and that her mother could not be happy, and that her father ought to know it, and that he was dissem-

The

knew

14

ANNA

And she blushed for bling when he asked her so lightly. He instantly perceived it and also blushed. her father. "I don't know," she said: ''she told me not to study,
me to go with Miss Hull over to grandmother's." Oh, yes, "Well, then, run along, TanchurotcKka moya. her delicate wait," said he, still detaining her and smoothing
but she told

hand. took down from the mantel-piece a box of candy that he had placed there the day before, and gave her two pieces, and vanilla. selecting her favorite chocolate " For Grisha? " she asked, pointing at the chocolate. "Yes, yes;" and still smoothing her soft shoulder he kissed her on the neck and hair, and let her go. " The carnage is at the door," said Matve, and he added, " A woman is here to ask a favor." "Has she been here long?" demanded Stepan Arkady elittle

He

vitch.

" Half an hour." " How many times have you been told never to keep any " one waiting? "I had to get your coffee ready," replied Matv6 in his kind, rough voice, at which no one could ever take offence. " Well, ask her up instantly," said Prince Stepan with an angry face. The petitioner, the wife of Captain Kalenin, asked some impossible and nonsensical favor but Prince Stepan. accord;

ing to his custom, gave her a comfortable seat, listened to her story without interrupting, and then gave her careful advice to whom and how to apply, and in lively and eloquent
style wrote in his big, scrawling, but handsome and legible hand a note to the person who might be able to aid her. Hav-

ing dismissed the captain's wife, Stepan Arkadyevitch took his hat and stood for a moment trying to remember whether he had not forgotten something. The result was that he forhis wife. got nothing except what he wanted to forget " " He dropped his head, and a gloomy expresAh, yes " To sion came over his handsome face. go, or not to go," said he to himself and an inner voice told him that it was not advisable to go, that there was no way out of it except through falsehood, that to straighten, to 'smooth out their
!

relations was impossible, because it was impossible to make her attractive and lovable again, or to make him an old man insensible to passion. Nothing but falsehood and lying could

ANNA
come of
nature.
it,

KARtiNINA.

15
his

and falsehood and lying were opposed to

later
;

" But

it

must be done sooner or

it

can't remain so

always," he said, striving to gain courage. He straightened himself, took out a cigarette, lighted it, inhaled the smoke two or three times, threw it into a pearl-lined ash-tray, went with quick steps towards the sitting-room, and opened the door into his wife's sleeping- room.

IV.
dressed in a kofiotchka (or jersey) thrown in confusion, was standing in the room before an open chest of drawers from which she was removing the contents. She had hastily pinned back her hair, which now showed thin, but had once been thick and beautiful, and her great eyes staring from When she her pale, worn face had an expression of terror. heard her husband's steps she turned to the door, and vainly She knew that tried to put on a stern and forbidding face. she feared him and. that she dreaded the coming interview. She was in the act of doing what she had attempted to do a dozen times during the three days, and that was to gather up her own effects and those of her children and escape to her mother's house. Yet she could not bring herself to do it. Now, as before, she said to herself that things could not remain as they were, that she must take some measures to punish, to shame him in partial expiation for the pain that he had caused her. She still said that it was her duty to it was imposleave him, but she felt that it was impossible sible to get rid of the thought that he was still her husband and she loved him. Moreover she confessed that if in her own home she had barely succeeded in taking care of her five children, it would be far worse where she was going with them. Her youngest was already suffering from the effects of a poorly made broth, and the rest had been obliged to go without dinner the night before. She felt that it was impossible to go. yet for the sake of deceiving herself she was collecting her things under the pretence of going. AVheu she saw her husband, she thrust her hands into the drawers of the bureau and did not lift her head until he was close to her. Then in place of the severe and determined

DARYA ALEKSANDROVXA,
all

and surrounded by

sorts of things

16

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

look which she intended to assume, she turned to him a face

of pain and indecision. She lifted voice. "Dolly," said he in a gentle subdued her head, and gazed at him, hoping to see a humble and subbut he was radiant with fresh life and health. missive mien She surveyed him from head to foot with his radiant life and "He is happy and contented healthy face, and she thought, but I ? Ah, this good nature which others find so pleas" Her mouth ant in him is revolting to me grew firm, the muscles of her right cheek contracted nervously, and she
full
;
!

looked straight ahead.

ral tone.

" " What do she demanded you want?

in a quick,

unnatu-

" Anna Dolly," he repeated with a quaver in his voice, coming to-day." " Well, what is that to me? I cannot receive her." " Still, it must be done, Dolly." " she cried without look" Go away go away go away ing at him, and as though her words were torn from her by Stepan Arkadyevitch might be able to pei physical agony. suade himself that all would come out right according to Matve's prediction, and he might be able to read his mornbut when he saw ing paper and drink his coffee tranquill} his wife's anguish, and heard her piteous ciy, he breathed hard, something rose in his throat, and his eyes filled with "
is
!
! !

tears.

I done? for the love of God! could not say another word for the sobs that choked him. She shut the drawer violently, and looked at him.

"My

God!

What have

See

..."

He

"Dolly, what can I say? Only one thing: forgive me. Just think Cannot nine years of my life pay for a single minute, a minute? She let her eyes fall, and listened to what he was going to say, as though she hoped that she would be undeceived. single moment of temptation," he ended, and was going to continue but at that word, Dolly's lips again closed tight as if from physical pain, and again the muscles of her right cheek contracted.
!

"...

"A

away, go away from here," she cried still more " and don't speak to me of your temptations and your wretched conduct." She attempted to leave the room, but she almost fell, and
impetuously,

"Go

ANNA
was obliged to lean upon face grew melancholy, his
with tears.

KARtiNINA.
a chair for support.
lips

17
Oblonsky's
filled

trembled, and his eyes

... I am ready to do any thing. I am sorry AVords " can't express how sorry I am. Now, Dolly, forgive me She sat down. He heard her quick, hard breathing, and his soul was filled with pity for her. She tried more than once to speak, but could not utter a word. He waited. " You think of the children, because you like to play with them ; but I think of them, too, and I know what they have lost," said she, repeating one of the phrases that had been in her mind during the last three days. She had used the familiar tui (thou), and he looked at her with gratitude, and made a movement as though he would take her hand, but she avoided him with abhorrence. " I have consideration for my children, and 1 will do all in but I am not sure in my own mind the world for them whether I ought to remove them from their father or to leave them with a father who is a libertine, . . . yes, a libertine Now tell me after this, this that has happened, whether we " Is it possible? can live together. Tell me, is it possible? " When she demanded, raising her voice. husband, the my father of my children, makes love to their governess ..." "But what is to be done about it? what is to be done?" said he, interrupting with broken voice, not knowing what he said, and feeling thoroughly humiliated. "You are revolting to me, you are insulting," she cried with increasing anger. ;t Your tears .water! You never loved me you have no heart, no honor. You are abominable, revolting in my eyes, and henceforth you are a stranger to me, yes, a stranger," and she repeated with spiteful " " which was so terrible to her own anger this word stranger
fault.
! ! :
!

" for the love of " God, Dolly," said he, almost sobbing, think of the children. They are not to blame I am the one Tell me how I can atone for my Punish me to blame.
; !

ears.

He looked at her with surprise and fear, not realizing how he exasperated his wife by his pity. It was the only feeling, as Dolly well knew, that he retained for her all his love for her was dead. " No, she hates me, she will not forgive me," was the thought in his mind. " " This is he cried. terrible, terrible At this moment one of the children iu the next room be:
!

18

ANNA

KAIttfNINA.

face softened. She gan to cry, and Darya Aleksandrovna's to collect her thoughts for a second like a person who seemed returns to reality then as if remembering where she was, she
;

hastened to the door. " At any rate she loves my child," thought Oblonsky, who had noticed the effect on her face of the little one's sorrow. " " My child how then can I seem so revolting to her? " he said, following her. Dolly one word more," " If you follow me, I will call the domestics, the children As so that everybody may know that you are infamous for me, I leave this very day, and you may keep on with and she went out and slammed the door. your Stepan Arkadyevitch sighed, wiped his brow, and softly " Matv left the room. says this can be settled but how? Ach Ach how terrible and I don't see the possibility. how foolishly she shrieked," said he to himself as he recalled the epithets which she applied to him. Perhaps the chamber-maids heard her horribly foolish horribly It was Friday, and in the dining-room the German clock;
!

..."

'

' '

maker was winding the clocks. Stepan Arkadyevitch remembered a pleasantry that he had made about this accurate German how he had said that he must have been wound up himself for a lifetime for the purpose of winding clocks, and " Perhe smiled. Stepan Arkadyevitch loved a good joke. it will come out all 'twas a good little word haps right it will come out all right," he thought. .Matve'!" he shouted; and when the old servant ap" Have peared, he said, Marya put the best room in order for Anna Arkadyevna." " Very well." Stepan Arkadyevitch took his fur coat, and started down
; !

the steps. " Shall you dine at

home? " asked Matve

as he escorted

be enough?
'

Here, take this if you need to spend any li thing," said he, taking out a bill of ten rubles. Will that "

him down. " That depends.

Whether it is enough or not, it will have to do," said Matve', as he shut the carriage-door and went back to the house.

Meantime Darya Aleksandrovna, having pacified the child and knowing by the sound of the carriage that he was gone, came back to her room. This was her sole from the
refuge

AXXA K All XIX A.

19

domestic troubles that besieged her when she went out. Even during the short time that she had been in her child's room the English maid and Matriona Filimonovna asked her all sorts of questions, which she alone could answer What clothes should they put on the children? should they give them milk? should they try to get another cook? " " Ach leave me she cried, and alone, leave me alone hastened back to the chamber and sat down in the place where she had been talking with her husband. Then clasping her thin hands, on whose fingers the rings would scarcely stay, she reviewed the whole conversation. " He has But has he broken with her? " she asked gone herself. "Does he still continue to see her? Why didn't I ask him? No, no, we cannot live together. And if we continue to live in the same house, we are only strangers, " she repeated, with a strong emphasis strangers forever! on the word that hurt her so cruelly. " How I loved him! How I loved him and even my God, how I loved him now do I not love him? Do I not love him even more tlfan " before? and what is most terrible she was interrupted by Matriona Filimonovna, who said as she stood in the door" Please he will way, give orders to have my brother come If you doi't, it will be like yesterday, when the get dinner. children did not have any thing to eat for six hours."
:
.

" Very good, I will come and give the order. Have you " sent for some fresh milk? And Darya Aleksandrovna entered into her daily tasks, and for the time beiu; forgot her sorrow.

V.

STEFAN ARKADYEVITCH had done well at school, thanks to was lazy and idle, and conAlthough he sequently had been at the foot of his class. had always been gay, and took a low rank in the Tchin, and was still quite young, he nevertheless held an important salaried position as nutchalnik, or president of one of the courts in Moscow. This place he had won through the good offices of his sister Anna's husband, Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch Karenin, who was one of the most influential members of the ministry. But even if Karenin had not been able to get this place for Stiva Arkady evitch, a hundred other people
his excellent natural gifts, but he

20

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

would have got brothers, sisters, cousins, uncles, aunts fur him, or found him some place as good, together with the six thousand rubles' salary which he needed for his establishment, his affairs being somewhat out of order in spite
il

Half the people of fortune. Petersburg were relatives or friends of Stepau Arkadyevitch he was born into the society of the rich third of the officials attached and powerful of this world. to the court and in government employ had been friends of his father, and had known him from the time when he wore the second third addressed him familiarly the petticoats He had, therefore, on others were " hail fellows well met."
of
his

wife's

considerable

Moscow and

St.

only asked for what his companions wen? obtaining, and he felt that he was as capable as any of them of doing the work. Stepan Arkadyevitch was liked by every one, not only on account of his good and amiable character and his unimpeachable honesty, but for his brilliant and attractive personThere was something in his bright, sparkling, keen ality. eyes, his black brows, his hair, his vivid coloring, which exercised a strong physical influence on those with whom he came in contact. " Aha, Stiva Oblonsky Here he is " people would say, with a smile of pleasure, when they saw him and, though the results of meeting him were not particularly gratifying, nevertheless people were just as glad to meet him the second day and the third. After he had filled for three years the office of natchalnik, Stepan Arkadyevitch had gained not only the friendship but also the respect of his colleagues, both those above and those below him in station, as well as of the citizens with whom he had come in contact. The qualities which gained him this universal esteem were, first, his extreme indulgence for every one, which was founded on the knowledge of \vhat was lacking in himself secondly, his absolute liberality, which was
! !
!

whose function it is to dispense the blessings of the land in the form of places, leases, concessions, and such things, and who could not afford to neglect their own friends. Oblonsky had no trouble in obtaining an excellent His only aim was to avoid jealousies, quarrels, place. offences, which was not a difficult thing because of his natural good temper. He would have thought it ridiculous if lie had beeu told that he could not have any place that he wanted, with the salary attached, because it did not seem to him that he demanded any thing extraordinary. He
his side all those

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

21

not the liberalism for which his journal was responsible, but that which flowed naturally in his veins, and caused him to be agreeable to every one, in whatever station in life and thirdly and principally, his perfect indifference to the business which he transacted, so that he never lost his temper, and therefore never made mistakes.
;

as he reached his tribunal, he retired to his private solemnly accompanied by the Swiss guard who bore his portfolio, and, having put on his uniform, went to the court-room. The employes all stood up as he passed, and Stepan Arkadyevitch, greeted him with respectful smiles. iu accordance with his usual custom, hastened to his place, and after shaking hands with the other members of the He uttered a few familiar words, council, he sat down. full of good humor, and suitable to the occasion, and then opened the session. No one better than he understood how to preserve the official tone, and, at the same time, give his words that impression of simplicity and good nature which
office,
is

As soon

so

useful
to all

in

the

expedition

secretary

came up, and with

The of official business. the free and yet respectful air

common
him

who surrounded Stepan Arkadyevitch. handed

" Now, then, genpushing the papers away with his linger. ." And the proceedings began. tlemen " If they only knew," he thought, as he bent his head with an air of importance while the report was read, " how much their president, only a half-hour since, looked like a naughty " and his school-boy eyes shone with merriment as he
.

and spoke in the familiarly liberal tone which Stepan Arkadyevitch had introduced. tk We have at last succeeded in obtaining reports from the Government of Penza. Permit me to hand them to you." tk So we have them at last," said Stepau Arkadyevitch,
his papers,
.

listened to the report. The session generally lasted till two o'clock without interruption, and w^s followed by recess and luncheon. The hour had not yet struck, when the great glass doors of the hall were thrown open, and some one entered. All the members of the council, glad of any diversion, turned round to look but the door-keeper instantly ejected the in;

truder, and shut the door upon him. After the matter under consideration

was settled, Stepan Arkadyevitch arose, and in a spirit of sacrifice to the liberalism of the time took out his cigarette, while still in the courtroom, and then passed into his private office. Two of his

22

ANNA

KARtiNIXA.

and the hammer-junker colleagues, the aged veteran Xikitin, Grinevitch, followed him. "There'll be time enough to finish after lunch," said
Oblonsky.

" I think so," replied Xikitin. " This Famin must be a precious rascal," said Grinevitch,

in the matter which they alluding to one of the characters had been investigating. Stepan Arkadyevitch knit his brows at Grinevitch's words, as though to signify that it was not the right thing to form snap-judgments, and he remained silent. "Who was it came into the court-room?" he demanded

of the door-keeper.
lency, while
said,
'

" Some one who entered without permission, your Excelwanted to see you I my back was turned. He "
:

When

the session

is

over, then
:

'

Where
"

is

he?"
in the vestibule

Ah!

he was there a moment ago. here he is," said the door-keeper, pointing to a faircomplexioned, broad-shouldered man with curly hair, who,

Probably

neglecting to remove his sheep-skin shapka, was lightly and quu-kl}' running up the well-worn steps of the stone staircase. An employe, on his way down, with portfolio under his arm, stopped to look, with some indignation, at the feet of the young man, and turned to Oblonsky with a glance of inquiry. Stepan Arkadyevitch stood at the top of the stairhis bright face, set off by the broad collar of his unicase form, was still more radiant when he recognized the visitor. " Here he is at last," he cried with a friendly though " What! slightly ironical smile, as he looked at Levin. you tired of waiting for me, and have come to find me in this got " den? he said, not satisfied with pressing his friend's hand, " " When did but kissing him. affectionately. 3-011 arrive? " I and was very anxious to see you," said just got here, Levin timidly, as he looked about him with distrust and scorn.
:

"All
3'evitch, visitor
;

right!

Come

who was aware

into my office," said Stepau Arkadof the egotistic sensitiveness of his

and, as though he wanted to avoid some danger, he took him by the hand to show him the way. Stepan Arkadyevitch addressed almost all his acquaintances with the familiar "tui" ("thou"), old men of threescore, young men of twenty, actors and ministers, mer-

ANNA
champagne

KABtiNINA.

23

chants and generals, all with whom he had ever drunken and with whom had he not drunken champagne? Among the people thus brought into his intimacy in the two extremes of the social scale, there would have been some astonishment to know that, thanks to him, there was someBut when in presence of his thing in common among them. inferiors, he came in contact with any of his shameful intimates, as he jestingly called some of his acquaintances, he had the tact to save them from disagreeable impressions. Levin was not one of his shameful intimates. He was a but Oblonsky felt that it might be friend of his boyhood unpleasant to make a public exhibition of their intimacy, and therefore he hastened to withdraw with him. Levin was about the same age as Oblonsky, and their intimacy arose not only from champagne, but because, in spite of the difference in their characters and their tastes, they were fond of each other in the way of friends who had grown up together. But. as often happens among men who move in different spheres, each allowed his reason to approve of the character of the other, while each at heart really despised the other, and believed his own mode of life to be the only rational way At the sight of Levin, Oblonsky could not repress of living. an ironical smile. How many times had he seen him in Moscow just in from the country, where he had been doing something great, though Oblonsky did not know exactly what, and scarcely took any interest in it. Levin always came to Moscow anxious, hurried, a trifle vexed, and vexed because he was vexed, and generally bringing with him new and un;

expected ideas about life and things. Stepan Arkadyevitch laughed at this and yet liked it. Levin for his part despised the life which his friend led in Moscow, treated his official employment with light scorn, and made sport of him. But Oblousky took this ridicule in good part, like a man sure of being in the right while Levin, because he was not assured in his own mind, sometimes got angry. "We have been expecting you for some time," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, as he entered his office, and let go his " I am friend's hand to show that the danger was past. " How to see you," he continued. goes it? very, very glad how are you ? When did you come? " Levin was silent, and looked at the unknown faces of Oblonsky's two colleagues. The elegant Grinevitch was completely absorbed in studying his white hands, and his fin;

24

ANNA

KATttiNINA.

and pointed nails, and his cuffs gers with their long, yellow, with their huge, gleaming cuff-buttons. Oblousky noticed what he was doing, and smiled. " allow me to make " Ah, you acquainted yes," said he, mv colleagues, Filipp Ivanuitch Nikitin, Mikhail Stanisla" then " landed provitch Grinevitch turning to Levin, a rising man, a member of the zemstvo, and a prietor, gymnast who can lift five puds [two hundred pounds] with one hand, a raiser of cattle, a celebrated hunter, and my friend, Konstantin Dmitrievitch Levin, the brother of Sergei
:

" I have " Very happy," said the oldest of the company. the honor of knowing your brother, Sergei Ivanuitch," said Levin's face grew Grinevitch, extending his delicate hand. dark he coldly shook hands, and turned to Oblonsky. Although he had much respect for his half-brother, a writer universally known in Russia, it was none the less unpleasant for him to be addressed, not as Konstantin Levin, but as the brother of the famous Koznuishef. " No, I am not doing any thing any more. I have quarrelled with everybody, and I don't go to the assemblies," said he to Oblousky. 'This is a sudden change," said the latter with a smile.
:

Ivanuitch Koznuishef."

On the one hand, they try to piny Parliament, and I am not young enough and not old enough to amuse myself with toys he and, on the other hand," " this serves the coterie of the district to make hesitated, a few pennies. There used to be guardianships, judgments but now we have the zemstvo, not in the way of bribes, but in the way of He said these absorbing salaried offices." words with some heat and with the manner of a man who expects to be contradicted. " Aha here we find you in a new phase you are becoming a conservative," said Stepan Arkady eviteh. "Well,
provincial assemblies.
;

It is a long story, and I will tell it some other time," replied Levin; but he nevertheless went on to say, make a long story short, I am convinced that no action amounts to any thing, or can amount to any thing, in our

"But how? why?" "

"To

we'll speak about this

by and by."

Yes, by and by. But I want to see you particularly," said Levin, looking with scorn at Grinevitch 's hand. Stepan Arkadyevitch smiled imperceptibly. " Didn't you

ANNA

KABfiNINA.

25

say that you would never again put on European clothes? he asked, examining the new suit made by a French tailor, which his friend wore. "Indeed, I see: 'tis a new

"

phase." Levin suddenly blushed, not as grown men blush without and it perceiving it, but as timid and absurd boys blush
;

gave his intelligent, manly face such a strange appearance that Oblonsky ceased to look
still

made him grow

redder.

It

at him.

" But where can we meet? I must have a talk with you,"
said Levin.

" How is this? We will Oblonsky reflected. go and take lunch at Gurin's, and we can talk there. At three o'clock I shall be free." " No," answered Levin after a moment's thought " I've to take a drive." got
:

"Well, then, let us dine together." "Dine? But I have nothing very particular to say, only two words, a short sentence afterwards we can gossip." "In that case, speak your two words now: we will talk while we are dining." "These two words are But, however, they are not very important." His face assumed a hard expression, due
:

" What are the Shcherhis timidity. " as they used to? batskys doing? just had long known that Levin was in Stopan Arkadyevitch He smiled, and his eyes love witli his sister-in-law Kitty. " You have said flashed gayly. your say in two words but
to his efforts to

conquer

cannot answer

in

two words, because

excuse

me

moment." The secretary came

in at this juncture with his familiar but respectful bearing, and with that modest assumption peculiar to all secretaries that he knew more about business than his superior. He brought some papers to Oblonsky and under the form of a question, he attempted to explain some difficulty. Without waiting to hear the end of the
;

explanation, Stepan Arkadyevitch laid his hand confiden" No, do as I asked tially on the secretary's arm. you to," said he, tempering his remark with a smile and, having briefly given his own explanation of the matter, he pushed " away the papers, and said, Do it so, I beg of 3-011, Zakhar Nikititch." The secretary went off confused. Levin during this little interview had collected his thoughts and, standing
;

20

ANNA KARNINA.

behind a chair on which he rested his elbows, he listened

with ironical attention. " I don't understand, I don't understand," he said. " What is it that you don't understand? " asked Oblonsky, He was expecting for a cigarette. smiling, and hunting some sort of strange outbreak from Levin. "I don't understand what you are up to," said Levin, " How can his shoulders. you take this sort of

shrugging

thing seriously?"

"

Why not?"
Why,

"You

it doesn't mean any thing." because, because think so? On the contrary, we have more work

than we can do." " Business on paper Well, yes, you have a special gift for such things," added Levin. . " there is something that I lack? You mean that I
!

'

Perhaps so, yes. However, I cannot help admiring your high and mighty ways, and rejoicing that I have for a friend a man of such importance. Meantime, you have not answered my question," he added, making a desperate effort
to look

"

Well, then, very good, very good Keep it up, and you will succeed. 'Tis well that you have three thousand desyatins of land in the district of Karazinsk, such muscles, and the complexion of a little girl of twelve but you will succeed all the same. Yes, as to what you asked me. There is no change, but I am sorry that it has been so long since you were in town." " Why?" demanded Levin.
!
;

"

Oblonsky

full in the face.

"Because"

replied
b}-.

Oblonsky;

"but we

brought you now? " Ach! we will speak also of that by and by," said Levin, blushing to his very ears. "Very good. I understand you," said Stepan Arkadye" Do vitch. I should have invited you to dine 3'ou see? with me at home, but my wife is not well to-day. If you want to see them, you will find them at the Zoological Gardens from four to five. Kitty is off skating. Good-by now I will join you later, and we will go and get dinner together."
:

things over by and

What

"

will

talk

Au revoir! " Levin left the room, and onby remembered when he had passed the door that he had forgotten to salute Oblonsky 's
" Excellent.
colleagues.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

27

" That must be a man of great energy," said Grinevitch,

after Levin had taken his departure. " " Yes, bdtiuslika (papa), said IS tepan Arkady evitch, throw'" He is a likely fellow. Three thousand his head bade. ing
!

He has a desyatins (8,100 acres) in the Karazinsk district! He is not like the future before him, and how young he is rest of us."
tk

What have you

to

complain about, Stepan Arkady e-

vitch?"
k%

vitch,

Yes, every thing goes wrong," replied Stepan Arkadyedrawing a deep sigh.

VI.

WHEN Oblonsky asked Levin what had brought him to Moscow, Levin blushed, and he was angry because he blushed; but how could he have replied, "I have come to ask the hand of your sister-in-law"? Yet that was what
had brought him. The Levin and Shcherbatsky families, belonging to the old nobility of Moscow, had always been on friendly terms. While Levin was studying at the university the intimacy had grown closer, on account of his friendship with the young Prince Shcherbatsky, the brother of Dolly and Kitty, who w:is following the same course of stud}*. At that time Levin was a frequent visitor at Shcherbatsky's house, and, strange as it may seem, was in love with the whole family, Konstantin Levin had lost especially the feminine portion. his mother when he was a baby and as he had only a sister, who was much older than he was, he found in the house of the Shcherbatskys that charming life so peculiar to the old nobilit}*, and of which the death of his parents had deprived
;

him.
ladies,

All the members of this

family, but especially the

him to be surrounded with a mysterious and poetic halo. Not only did he fail to discover any faults in them, but he gave them credit for the loftiest sentiments and the most ideal perfections. Why these three young ladies were obliged to speak French and English every day why they had, one after the other, to play for hours at a time on the piano, the' sounds of which floated up to their brother's room, where the young students were at work why professors of French literature, of music, of dancing, of
to
;
;

seemed

28

ANNA KARNINA.
;

the three young drawing, came to give them lessons why Mile. ladies, at a fixed hour in the day, accompanied by were obliged to stop their carriage on the Tverskoi Linon, Imnli'mrd, and, under the protection of a liveried valet with a gilt cockade on his hat, walk up and down in their
satin shubkas, Dolly's very long. Natalie's of half length, and Kitty's very short, showing her shapely ankles and red all these things and many others were absostockings, him. But he felt that all that lutely incomprehensible to
piissi-d in this

mysterious sphere was perfect, and from the

his love.

mystery arose

Even while he was a student he felt his first passion for Dolly, the eldest she married Oblonsky then he imagined that he was in love with the second, for he felt it to be a But Natali entered necessity to love one of the three. Kitty was society, and soon married the diplomat, Lvof. Shortly after onl}' a child when Levin left the university. young Shcherbatsky joined the fleet, and was drowned in the Baltic and Levin's relations with the familj* became more distant, in spite of the friendship which attached him to Oblonsky. At the beginning of the winter, however, after a year's absence in the countiy, he had met the Shcherbatskys again, and learned for the first time which of the three he was destined to love. It seemed as if there could be nothing easier for a young man of thirty-two, of good family, possessed of a handsome fortune, and likely to be regarded as an eligible suitor, than to ask the young Princess She herbatskaia in marriage, and probably Levin would have been received with open arms. But he was in love. Kitty in his eyes was a creature so accomplished, her superiority was so ideal, and he judged himself so severely, that he was unwilling to admit, even in thought, that others or Kitty herself would allow him to aspire to her hand.
:
;

Having spent two months in Moscow, ac in a dream, meeting Kitty every day in society, which he allowed himself to frequent on account of her, he suddenly took his departure for the country, having concluded that this alliance was imHis decision was reached after reasoning that in possible. the eyes of her parents he had no position to offer that was worthy of her, and that Kitty herself did not love him. His comrades were colonels or staff-officers, distinguished professors,

bank

directors, railway officials, presidents of tribunals

ANNA
like

KAKfiNINA.

29

and he knew very well how he was Oblonsky, but he was only a pomyeshchik, or country regarded by his friends proprietor, busy with his land, building farmhouses, and hunting woodcock in other words, he had taken the direction of those who, in the eyes of society, have made a failure. He was not full of illusions in regard to himself he knew that he was regarded as a good-for-nothing. And, moreover, how could the charming and poetic Kitty love a man as illfavored and dull as he was? His former relations with her, while he had been intimate with her brother, were those of a grown man with a child, and seemed to him only an additional
:
:

obstacle.
like himself

he thought, for a girl to love a stupid man but he must be good-looking, and show high qualities, if he is to be loved with a love such as he felt for He had heard of women falling in love with illKitty. favored, stupid men, but he did not believe that such would be his own experience, just as he felt that it would be impossible for him to love a woman who was not beautiful, brilliant,
It is possible,
;

and

poetic.

But, having spent two months in the solitude of the country, he became convinced that the passion which consumed him was not ephemeral, like his youthful enthusiasms, and that he could not live without settling this mighty question whether she would, or would not, be his wife. After all, there was no absolute certainty that she would refuse him. He therefore returned to Moscow with the firm intention of . he could marrying her if she would accept him. If not not think what would become of him.
. .

VII.

COMING to Moscow by the morning train, Levin had After stopped at the house of his half-brother, Koznuishef making his toilet, he went to the library with the intention of making a clean breast of it, and asking his advice but his brother was engaged. He was talking with a famous
. ;

professor of philosophy who had come up from Kharkof expressly to settle a vexed question that had arisen between them on some scientific subject. The professor was waging a bitter war on materialism, and Sergei Koznuishef followed his argument with interest and, having read a recent article
;

30
in

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

which the professor promulgated his views, he raised He blamed the professor for having made objections. concessions to the claims of materialism, and the too large to explain what he meant. professor had come on purpose The conversation turned on the question then fashionable Is there a dividing line between the psychical and the physiis it to be phenomena of man's action ? and where-

some

ological

found ?
Ivanovitch welcomed his brother with the same bestowed on all, and, after coldlybenevolent smile which he continued the discussion. introducing him to the professor, The professor, a small man with spectacles, and narrow forehead, stopped long enough to return Levin's bow, and then Levin sat down till continued without noticing him further. the professor should go, and soon began to feel interested in He had read in the reviews articles on these the discussion. that general intersubjects, but he had read them with only est which a man who has studied the natural sciences at the but he had university is likely to take in their development never appreciated the connection that exists between these learned questions of the origin of man, of reflex action, of and those which touched on the purbiology, of sociology
Sergei
; :

and the meaning of death, more and more engaged his attention as he grew older. He noticed, as he took up the line of the arguments, that his brother and the professor agreed to a certain kinship between scientific and psychological questions. At times he but felt sure that they were going to take up this subject each time that they trended in that direction, they seemed possessed with the desire to avoid it as much as possible, and take refuge in the domain of subtile distinctions, explanations, quotations, references to authorities, and he could scarcely understand what they were talking about. " I cannot accept the theory of Keis," said Sergei Ivanovitch in his elegant and correct manner of speech, " and I cannot admit that my whole conception of the exterior world is derived entirely from my sensations. The principose of
life
;

ple of all knowledge, the sentiment of being, of existence, does not arise from the senses: there is no special organ by

which

this

conception

is

produced."

will reply, that you have gained the knowledge that you exist absolutely and entirely from an accumulation of sensations in a word,
;

"Yes; but Wurst and Knaust and Pripasof

ANNA KAK&NINA.
that
it is

31

only the result of sensations. "Wurst himself says where sensation does not exist, there is no consciousness of existence." " I will say, on the other hand ..." replied Sergei Ivanexplicitly, that

ovitch.

But here Levin noticed that once more just as they were about to touch the root of the whole matter, they started off in a different direction, and he determined to put the following question to the professor: "In this case, suppose my sensations ceased, if my body were dead, would further existence be possible?" The professor, angry at this interruption, looking at the strange questioner as though he took him for a clown (burlak) rather than a philosopher, turned his eyes to Sergei " Ivanovitch as if to ask, " What does this mean? But Sergei, who was not quite so narrow-minded as the professor, and was able to see the simple and rational point of the question, answered with a smile, have not yet gained the right to answer that question." " Our capacities are not sufficient," continued the pro" No, I insist fessor, taking up the thread of his argument. as Pripasof says plainly that sensations are based upon this, upon impressions, and that we cannot too closely distinguish between the two notions." Levin did not listen any longer, and waited until the professor took his departure.

"We
.

VIII.

WHEN
make

the professor

to his brother.

" I

his brother took little interest in the affairs and so he of the estate, and only asked out of politeness refrained from giving more than a short report on the sale It had of wheat, and the money which he had received. been his intention to speak with his brother about his marriage project, and to ask his advice but after the conversation with the professor, and in consequence of the involuntarily patronizing tone in which his brother had asked about their affairs, he lost his inclination to speak, and felt that his brother would not look upon the matter as he should
; ;

a long stay? Levin knew that

was gone, Serg6i Ivanovitch turned Shall you very glad to see you. How are things on the estate? "

am

wish him

to.

32 "

ANNA
How
is it

KAEtiNINA.
"

who took a

asked Sergei Ivanovitch, with the zemstvo ? to lively interest in these provincial assemblies,

which he attributed great importance. " Fact is, I don't know " " " What aren't you a member of the assembly? " No, I'm no longer a member: I don't go an}* more,"
!

said Levin.
It's too bad," murmured Sergei Ivanovitch, wrinkling brows. In order to defend himself, Levin described what had taken place at the meetings of his district assembly. " But it is forever thus," interrupted Sergei Ivanovitch. " We Russians are always like this. Possibly it is one of the good traits of our character that we are willing to conwe take delight in fess our faults, but we exaggerate them If the rights irony, which comes natural to our language. which we have, if our provincial institutions, were given to any other people in P^urope, Germans or English, I tell you, they would derive liberty from them but we only turn them

"

his

into sport."

"But what
contrition.

is

"
it
:

It

heart into less."

air of I put my whole attempt. I could not do another thing. I was help-

to be

done?" asked Levin with an

last

was

my

" said Sergei Ivanovitch Helpless you did not look at the matter in the right light." " Perhaps not," replied Levin in a melancholy tone. " Did you know that our brother Nikolai' has just been in
!

"

"

town? "

" you know? " Prokofi saw him on the street." " Here in Moscow? Where is he? " and Levin stood up,

Nikolai was Konstantin Levin's own brother, and Sergei Ivanovitch 's half-brother, standing between them in age. He was a ruined man, who had wasted the larger part of his fortune, and had quarrelled with his brothers on account of the strange and disgraceful society which he frequented. " What did " How did you say?" cried Levin startled.

as though with the intention of instantly going to find him. " I am sorry that I told you this," said Sergei Ivanovitch, shaking his head when he saw his younger brother's emotion. " I sent out to find where he was staying and I sent him his letter of credit on Trubiu, the amount of which I But paid.
;

ANNA
this is

KARfiNINA.

33

what he wrote me," and Sergei Tvanoviteh handed which he took from a letter-press. Levin read the letter, which was written in the strange hand which he knew so well: " I humbly beg to be left in peace. Nikolai Levin." It is all that I ask from my dear brothers.
his brother a note

Konstantin, without lifting his head, stood motionless The desire before his brother with the letter in his hand. arose in his heart entirely to forget his unfortunate brother, and at the same time he felt that it would be wrong. "He evidently wants to insult me," continued Sergei but that is impossible. I wish with all my Ivauovitch soul to help him, and yet I know that I shall not succeed." " "I Yes, yes," replied Levin. understand, and I apprebut I am going to him." ciate your treatment of him " Go by all means, if it will give }"ou any pleasure," said " but I would not advise it. Not because Sergei Ivanovitch I fear, that, as far as I am concerned, he might make a quarrel between us, but on your own account, I advise you not to go. You can't do any thing. However, do as it seems best to yon." u . . Perhaps I can't do any thing, but I feel especially at this moment ... I feel that I could not be con'
;
;

Do you know what he has done? " abjectness.' " Ach it is terrible, terrible," replied Levin. Having obtained from his brother's servant, Nikolai's address, Levin set out to find him, but on second thought changed his mind, and postponed his visit till evening. Before all, he must decide the question that had brought him to Moscow, in order that his mind might be free. He therefore went directly to find Oblonsky and, having learned where he could find the Shcherbatskys, he went where he was told that he would meet Kitty.
people call
!

tented. ..." " I don't understand " but you," said Sergei Ivanovitch ; one thing I do understand," he added. " and that is, that this is a lesson in humility for us. Since our brother Nikolai has become the man he is, I look with greater indulgence on what
'

ABOUT four o'clock Levin left his izvoshcliik (driver) at the entrance of the Zoological Garden, and with beating heart followed the path that led to the ice-mountains, near the

34

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

place where there was skating, for he knew that he should find Kitty there, having seen the Shcherbatskys' carriage at At the entrance It was a beautiful frosty day. the gate. of the garden there were crowds of carriages, sleighs, hired drivers, policemen. Hosts of fashionable people, gayly glancing in the bright sunlight, were gathered at the entrance and on the paths cleared of snow, between the Russian The ancient birchizbas with their carved woodwork. trees, their branches laden with snow and icicles, seemed clothed in new and solemn chasubles. As Levin followed the foot-path, he said to himself, "Be What do you calm there is no reason for being agitated Be quiet, you fool!" Thus Levin desire? what ails you? addressed his heart. But the more he endeavored to calm his agitation, the more he was overcome by it till at last he could hardly breathe. An acquaintance spoke to him as he He drew passed, but Levin did not even notice who it was. near the ice-mountains. The sledges flashed down the There was a inclines, and were drawn up again by ropes. gay rush of creaking salazkas (sleds), and the confusion of happy voices. At a little distance there was skating, and among the skaters he soon discovered her. He knew that he was near her from the joy and terror that seized his heart. She was standing on the opposite side, engaged in conversation with a lady and neither by her toilet nor by her position was she remarkable among the throng that surrounded her, but for Levin she stood out from the rest like a rose
! ! ;

Her presence brightened all around her. " I brave enough the place with glory. to go and meet her on the ice?" he thought. The place where she was seemed like a sanctuary, which he did not dare to approach, and he was so distrustful of himself that lie almost turned to go away again. Mastering himself by a supreme effort, he brought himself to think that, as she was surrounded by people of every sort, he had as much right as the rest to watch her skate. He therefore went down upon the ice, looking away from her as though she were the sun but he saw her, as he saw the sun, though he did not look at her. This day the ice formed a common meeting-ground for people in society. There were also masters in the art of others were skating, who came to show off their talents learning to skate by holding on chairs, and making awkward

among nettles. Her smile filled

Am

ANNA KAENINA.
; :

35

and distressing gestures there were young lads and old peoall seemed to Levin ple who skated as a matter of health to be the favorites of heaven, because they were near
Kitty.

And these skaters all glided around her, came close to her, even spoke to her, and nevertheless seemed to enjoy themselves, as though they were absolutely fancy-free, and as though it was enough for them that the ice was good and the weather splendid.
Nikolai Shcherbatsk}', Kitty's cousin, in jacket and knickerbockers, was seated on a bench with his skates on, when he saw Levin. " Ah " he cried, " the best skater in Russia there he is Have you been here long ? Put on your skates quick the ice
!

is first-rate

' ' !

have not my skates with me," replied Levin, surprised that one could speak with such freedom before Kitty, and not losing her out of his sight a single instant, although he did not look at her. He felt that the sun was shining upon him. She, evidently not quite at ease on her high skates, glided towards him from the place where she had been standing, followed by a young man in Russian costume, who was trying to get ahead of her, and making the desperate gestures of an unskilful skater. Kitty herself did not skate with much confidence. She had taken her hands out of the little muff which hung around her neck by a ribbon, and was wavI

"

ing them wildly, ready to grasp the first object that came in her way. She looked at Levin, whom she had just seen for the first time, and smiled at her own timidity. As soon as she had got a start, she struck out with her little foot, and glided up to her cousin, Shcherbatsky, seized him by the arm, and gave Levin a friendly welcome. Never in his imagination had she seemed so charming. Whenever he thought of her, he could easily recall her whole appearance, but especially her lovely blond head, set so gracefully on her pretty shoulders, and her expression of childlike frankness and goodness. The combination of childlike

grace and feminine beauty had a special charm which Levin thoroughly appreciated. But what struck him like something always new and unexpected, was her modest, calm, sincere face, which, when she smiled, transported him to a world of enchantment, where he felt at peace and at rest, with thoughts like those of his childhood.

3G

ANNA
"When
did yon

come?" she asked, giving him her hand. she added, MS he stooped to pick up her handkerchief, which had dropped out of her muff. " I ? Oh a little while ago that is, to-day," yesterday answered Levin, so disturbed that he did not know what he was saying. "I wanted to call upon you," said he; and when he remembered what his errand was, he blushed, and was more distressed than ever. " I did not know that you

"Thank YOU,"
!

skated, and so well."

She looked at him closely, as though to divine the reason " Your tradiof his embarrassment. praise is precious. tion of your skill as a skater is still floating about," said she, brushing off with her daintily gloved hand the pine-needles that had fallen on her muff. "Yes: I used to be passionately fond of skating. I had the ambition to reach perfection." " Seems to me that you do all things with all your heart," " I should like to see said she with a smile. you skate. Put on your skates, and we will skate together." " he " Is " Skate thought, as he looked at her. together

it

" I will go and put them right on," he said and he hastened to find a pair of skates. "It is a long time, sir, since you have been with us," said the katalshchik (the man who rents skates), as he lifted " Since his foot to n't on the skate. your day, we have not had any one who deserved to be called a master in the art. Are they going to suit you?" he asked, as he tightened the
;

possible?"

strap.

"It's all right; only make haste," said Levin, unable to hide the smile of joy, which, in spite of him, irradiated his " face. Yes," thought he, " this is life, this is happiness. ' We will skate together,' she said. Shall I speak now? But I am afraid to speak, because I am happy, happy with hope. But when ? But it must be, it must, it must. Down with

weakness "
!

off his cloak, and, after trying his skates he struck out across the glare ice and without effort, allowing his will to guide him, he directed his course toward Kitty. He felt timid about coming up to her, but a smile assured him. She gave him her hand, and they skated side by side, gradually increasing speed and the faster they went, the closer she held his hand.

Levin arose, took

in the little house,

ANNA
"

KAEtiNlNA.
you," she
said.

37

I should learn very quickly with

feel confidence in

"

somehow

you."

"I am confident in myself when you lean on my arm," he answered, and immediately he was startled at what he had said, and blushed. In fact, he had scarcely uttered the words, when, just as the sun goes under a cloud, her face lost all its kindliness, and Levin saw on her smooth brow a wrinkle that indicated what her thought was. " Has any thing disagreeable happened to you ? but I have no right to ask," he added quickly. "Why so? No, nothing disagreeable has happened to
me," she said coolly, and immediately continued, "Have you seen Mile. Linou yet?" " Not yet." " Go to see her she is so fond of you."
:

does this mean? I have offended her! O God! " have pity upon me thought Levin, and skated swiftly towards the old French governess, with little gray curls, who was watching them from a bench. She received him like an old friend, smiling, and showing her false teeth. "Yes, but how we have grown up," she said, turning her " and how demure we are Tiny bear has eyes to Kitty continued the old governess, still smiling and grown large," she recalled his jest about the three young ladies whom he . had named after the three bears in the English story. .

"What

" Do you remember that you called them so?" He had entirely forgotten it, but she had laughed at this " Now pleasantry for ten years, and still enjoyed it. "go, go and skate. Doesn't our Kitty take to it beautifully? When Levin rejoined Kitty, her face was no longer severe her eyes had regained their fresh and kindly expression but it seemed to him that in her very kindliness, there was something that was not exactly natural, and he felt troubled. After speaking of the old governess and her eccentricities, " Don't she asked him about his own life. }~ou get tired of living in the country?" she asked. " No, I don't get tired of it, I am very busy," he replied, feeling that she was bringing him into the atmosphere of indifference, which she had resolved henceforth to throw about her, and which he could not escape now, any more than he
;

could at the beginning of the winter. " asked " Shall Kitty. you stay long? " I do not know," he answered, without regard to what he

38 was saying. " "

ANNA KAKNINA.

The idea of falling back into the tone of calm without reaching friendship, and perhaps of returning home decision, was revolting to him. any
don't you know:' It depends on you," he said, and I don't know why. he was horrified at his own words. instantly She either did not understand his words, or did not want to understand them, but, seeming to stumble once or twice, she made an excuse to leave him and, having spoken to Mile. Linon, she went to the little house, where her skates

Why

"

were removed by the waiting-women. I "Good heavens! what have " done? O God have pity was Levin's secret prayer me. and come to my aid upon and feeling the need of taking some violent exercise, he began to describe a series of intricate curves on the ice.
!
!

At this Instant a young man, the best among the recent skaters, came out of the cafe with his skates on, and a cigarwithout stopping he ran towards the stairette in his mouth way, and without even changing the position of his arms ran down the steps and darted out upon the ice. "That is a new trick," said Levin to himself, and he
:

climbed the staircase to imitate

it.

"Don't you

kill

yourself!

it

needs practice," shouted

Nikolai Shcherbatsky.

Levin went up the steps, got as good a start as he could, and then flew down the stairway, preserving his balance with but at the last step, he stumbled, made a violent his hands effort to recover himself, regained his equilibrium, and glided out gaily upon the ice. "Charming, glorious fellow," thought Kitty, at this moment coming out of the little house with Mile. Linon, and looking at him with a gentle smile, as though he were a " Is it beloved brother. my fault? Have I done any thing bad? People say, 'Coquetry.' I know that I don't very love him, but it is pleasant to be with him, and he is so charming. But what made him say that? "... Seeing Kitty departing with her mother, who had come for her, Levin, flushed with his violent exercise, stopped and pondered. Then he took off his skates, and joined the mother and daughter at the gate. " Very glad to see you," said the princess "we receive on Thursdays, as usual." "To-day, then?" " We shall be delighted to see you," she answered dryly.
;

ANNA

KAJlfiNINA.

39

This haughtiness troubled Kitty, and she could not restrain herself from tempering the effect of her mother's chilling manner. She turned to Levin, and said with a smile, " shall see yon, I hope."

We

At this moment Stepan Arkactyevitch with hat on one side, with animated face and bright eyes, entered the garden. At the sight of his wife's mother, he assumed a melancholy and humiliated expression, and replied to the questions which she asked about Dolly's health. When he had finished speaking in a low and broken voice with his mother-in-law, he straightened himself up, and took Levin's arm. " Now, then, shall we go? I have been thinking of you all the time, and I am very glad that you came," he said with a significant look into his eyes. "Come on, come on," replied the happy Levin, who did not cease to hear the sound of a voice saying, " We shall see you, I hope," or to recall the smile that accompanied the words. " At the English hotel, or at the Hermitage?" "It's all one to me." "At the English hotel, then," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, who chose this restaurant because he owed more there than at the Hermitage, and it seemed unworthy of him, so to "You have an izvoshchik? So much speak, to avoid it. the better, for I sent off m}' carriage." While they were on the way, not a word was spoken. Levin was thinking of how Kitty's face had changed, and he passed through alternations of hope and despair, all the time saying that there was no sense in despairing. Nevertheless he felt that he was another man since he had heard those words, " We shall see you, I hope," and seen that reassuring smile.

Stepan Arkadyevitch made out the menu. "You like turbot, don't you?" were his
entering the restaurant.

first

words on
Yes, I ana

" What?" exclaimed Levin. excessively fond of turbot."

"Turbot?

X.
LEVIN could not help
rant,

how Stepan Arkadyevitch's

noticing, as they entered the restauface and whole person

seemed

to shine with restrained happiness.

Oblonsky took

40

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

with hat on one side, marched towards the dining-room, giving, as lie went, his orders to the Tartar, who in swallow-tail, and with his napkin under his arm, came
off his ovorooat, nncl,

Bowing to right and left to his acquaintances, as usual seemed delighted to see him, he went directly The to the bar and took a gmall glass of vodka (brandy). bar-maid, a pretty French girl with curly hair, who was painted, and covered with ribbons and lace, listened to his merry jest, and burst into a peal of laughter. As for Levin, the sight of this French creature, all made up of false hair, rice-powder, and vinaigre de toilette, as he said, took away
to

meet him.

who

He turned away from her quickly, with dishis appetite. His heart was filled with gust, as from some horrid place. memories of Kitty, and in his eyes shone triumph and happiness.
" This way, your excellency come this way, and you will not be disturbed," said the old obsequious Tartar, whose monstrous waist made the tails of his coat stick out behind. " Will you come this way, your excellency ?" said he to Levin, as a sign of respect for Stepan Arkadyevitch, whose guest he was. In a twinkling he had spread a fresh cloth on the round table, which, already covered, stood under the bronze chandelier then, bringing two velvet chairs, he stood wait; ;

ing for Stepan Arkadyevitch's orders, holding in one hand his napkin, and his order-card in the other. " If your excellency would like to have a private room, one will be at your service in a few moments Prince Galuitsin and a lady. have just received fresh oysters."

"

Ah,

"

We

o}"sters

Stepan Arkadyevitch reflected. Supposing we change our plan, Levin," said he with his finger on the bill of fare. His face showed serious hesitation.

"

" But
"

"They

are they good? Pay attention are from Flensburg, your excellency:
!

"

there are

none from Ostend."

" Fleusburg oysters are well enough, but are they fresh? came yesterday." "They " What do you say? to begin with oysters, Very good and then to make a complete change in our menu? What say you ? " It makes no difference to me. I'd like best of all some shchi (cabbage soup) and kasha (wheat gruel), but you can't get them here."
!

' '

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

41

" Kasha el la russe, if you would like to order it," said the Tartar, bending over towards Levin as a nurse bends towards a child.
" No. I have Jesting aside, whatever you wish is good. been skating and am almost famished. Don't imagine," he added as he saw an expressioju of disappointment on " that I do not I appreciate your menu. Oblonsky's face, can eat a good dinner with pleasure." " Jt should be more than that You should say that it is one of the pleasures of life," said Stepau Arkadyevitch.
!

"In

that's not

case, little brother mine, give us two, or three dozen oysters, vegetable soup " Printaniere," suggested the Tartar.
this

enough

" no,

But Stepan Arkadyevitch did not allow him the pleasure of enumerating the dishes in French, and continued, "Vegetable soup, you understand then turbot, with a sauce not too thick then roast beef, but see to it that it be done to a
; ;

turn.

Yes, some capon, and lastly, some preserve." The Tartar, remembering that Stepan Arkadyevitch
;

did not

by their French names, waited till lie had finished then he gave himself the pleasure of repeating " the bill of fare according to the rule Potage printaniere, sauce Beaumarchais, poularde a I'estragon, macedoine turbot, de fruits." Then instantly, as though moved by a spring, he substituted for the bill of fare the wine-list, which he
like to call the dishes
:

presented to Stepan Arkadyevitch. " What shall we drink? "

" Whatever you please, only

Levin.

let it

be champagne," said
all,

" What

Do you "

at the very beginning?

' '

But after

why not?

like the white seal

" Good with Now. as we have oysters that will go well. settled on this brand for the oysters, bring that." "It shall be done, sir. And what vin de table shall I " bring you? " Some hold us some classic chnblis."
:

Cachet blanc," repeated the Tartar.

Nuits; no,

on,

give

"It

shall be done, sir;

your cheese? " Yes, some parmesan.

"

and

shall I give

you some

of

Or do you prefer some

otlit

kind?"

"No,

it's all

the

not keep from smiling.

same to me," replied Levin, who could The Tartar disappeared on the trot,

42

ANNA KAKNINA.

Five minutes later with his coat-tails flying out behind him. he came with a platter of oysters and a bottle. Stepan Arkadyevitch crumpled up his napkin, tucked it in his waistcoat, calmly stretched out his hands, and began to attack "Not bad at all," he said, as he lifted the the oysters. succulent oysters from their shells with a silver fork, and swallowed them one by one. " Not at all bad," he repeated, looking from Levin to the Tartar, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. Levin ate his oysters, although he would have preferred bread and cheese but he could not help admiring
;

Oblousky. Even the Tartar, after uncorking the bottle, and pouring the sparkling wine into delicate glass cups, looked at Stepan Arkadyevitch with a contented smile while he " You aren't adjusted his white neck-tie. very fond of are you?" asked Oblonsky, draining his glass. oysters, "Or 3~ou are pro-occupied? Hey?" He was anxious to get Levin into good spirits but the latter was anxious, if he was not downcast. His heart being so full, he found himself out of his element in this restaurant, amid the confusion of guests coming and going, surrounded by the private rooms where men and women were dining together every
;

the gas, the mirrors, thing was repugnant to his feelings, even the Tartar. He feared that the sentiment that occupied his soul would be defiled. "I? Yes, I am a little absent-minded; but besides, everything here confuses me. Yon can't imagine," he said, " how strange all these surroundings seem to a countryman like myself. It's like the finger-nails of that gentleman
I met at your office." Yes, I noticed that poor Grinevitch's finger-nails interested you greatly," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, laughing. "I cannot," replied Levin. "You are a puzzle to me. I cannot get you into the focus of a man accustomed to livThe rest of us try to have hands to ing in the country. work with therefore, we cut off our finger-nails, and oftentimes we even turn back our sleeves. Here, on the other hand, men let their nails grow as long as possible, and so as to be sure of not being able to do any work, they fasten their sleeves with plates for buttons." Stepan Arkadyevitch smiled gayly. " That proves that there is no need of manual labor: it is brain- work."

whom
"

"Perhaps

so.

Yet

it

thisthat we are doing here.

seems strange to me, no

In the country we

less than

make

haste

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

43

to get through our meals so as to be at work again ; but here you and I are doing our best to eat as long as possible without getting satisfied, and so we are eating oysters."

Well, there's something in that," replied Stepan Arkad"but isn't it the aim of civilization to translate yevitch " every thing into enjoyment? " If that is the aim of civilization, I prefer to remain a
;

"

barbarian."

"And

you are a barbarian!

Come, now, you are

all

savages in your family." Levin sighed. He thought of his brother Nikolai', and but felt mortified and saddened, and his face grew dark Oblonsky introduced a subject which had the immediate effect of diverting him. " Very well, come this evening to our house. I mean to
;

the Shcherbatskys'," said he, winking gayly, and pushing away the oyster-shells, so as to make room for his cheese. " " though it did not seem that Certainly," replied Levin the princess was very cordial in her invitation." " What an idea It was only her grande dame manner," " I shall come there immedireplied Stepan Arkady evitch. How after a musicale at the Countess Boniua's. ately can we help calling you a savage? How can you explain
;
!

your flight from Moscow? The Shcherbatskys have more than once besieged me with questions on your account, as if I only know this, I were likely to know any thing about it. that you are always likely to do things that no one would expect you to do." "Yes," replied Levin slowly, and with emotion: "you but it was not my departure, but are right, lama savage " I have come now return, that proves me one. my
;

"Are you happy?"

interrupted Oblousky, looking into

Levin's eyes.

"Why'?" "I know fiery horses by their brand, and I know young people who are in love by their eyes," said Stepan Arkadye" the future is vitch dramatically yours." " " And have you a future before 3~ou also? yourself, " I have the present, and this present is not all only
:

roses."

"What

is

the matter?

"

I don't want to talk about myself, "Nothing good. especially as I cannot explain the circumstances," replied

But

44

ANNA
!

KAKtiNINA.

" What did you come to Moscow " he cried to the Tartar. Here clear off the things "Can't you imagine?" answered Levin, not taking his eyes from his friend's face. " I can but it is not for me to be the first to
Stepan Arkadyevitch.
for?
!

imagine,
it.

speak about
right in

By

this detail

you can

tell

whether

am

my conjecture," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, looking at Levin with a cunning smile. " Well, what have you to tell me?" asked Levin with a trembling voice, and feeling the muscles of his face quiver. " " How do you look upon the affair? Stepau Arkadyevitch slowly drank his glass of chdblis
while he looked steadily at Levin. " I? " said Stepan Arkadyevitch. but this one word nothing."

"

would say nothing

aren't you mistaken? Do you know what we are about?" murmured Levin, with his gaze fixed fevertalking " Do you believe that what you say ishly on his companion.

"But

' '

is

possible

No, do you really think that it is possible? No tell me if she should refuse me, and I what you really think. If am almost certain that "
!

"Why "

shouldn't

it

be ?"

should you be?" smiling at this emotion.

"Why
It is

asked Stepan Arkadyevitch,

terrible for

"

my
in

intuition.
I

It

would be

me and

for

her."

" Oh
for her

any case.

can't see that

is

a young girl

it would be very terrible always flattered to be asked in

marriage."

"

Young

girls in general,

Stepan Arkadyevitch

perhaps, but not she." smiled he perfectly understood

; :

Levin's feelings, and knew that for him all the young girls in the universe could be divided into two categories in the
one,
all

the

young

faults

common

girls in existence, participating in all the to humanity, in other words, ordinary girls ;

in the other, she alone, without the least imperfection, placed above the rest of humanity.
!

and

" Hold on take a little sauce," said he, stopping Levin's hand, who was pushing away the sauce-dish. Levin took the sauce in all humility, but he did not give " " I No, just wait, wait," said he Oblonsky time to eat. want you to understand me perfectly, for with me it is a
:

ANNA
question of
else
life

KARfiNINA.

45

and death. I have never spoken to any one and I cannot speak to any one else but you. I know we are very different from one another, have different tastes, and conflicting views but I know also that 3-011 love me, and that you understand me, and that's the reason I am so fond of you. In the name of Heaven be sincere with
about
it,
;

" I will tell yon what I think," said Stepan Arkadyevitch " But I will tell a most exsmiling. yon more : my wife " and Stepan Arkadyevitch stopped a traordinary woman moment to sigh, as he remembered how his relations with his wife were strained "she has a gift of second sight, and sees all that goes on in the hearts of others, but she is a prophetess when there is a question of marriage. Thus, she predicted that Brenteln would marry the Princess Shakhovska'ia : no one would believe it, and yet it came to pass. Well, my wife is on your side."
" " What do you mean ? " I mean that she likes you, and she says that Kitty
will

me!"

be your wife." As he heard these words, Levin's face lighted up with a " She said smile that was almost ready to melt into tears. " "I that he cried. always thought that your wife was au But enough, enough of this sort of talk," he added, angel. and rose from the table.
!

" Good

but

sit

little

while longer."

But Levin could not sit down. He walked two or three times up and down the room, winking his eyes to hide the tears, and then he came back to the table somewhat calmer. " Understand me," he said " this is not love. I have been in love, but it was not like this. This is more than a sentiment it is an inward power that controls me. I left Moscow because I had made up my mind that such happiness could not exist, that such good fortune could not be on earth. But I struggled in vain against myself: I find that my whole life is here. This question must be decided/' " " But why did you leave Moscow? ''Ach! stay! Ach! only think! only listen to me! If You cannot you only knew what your words meant to me imagine how you have encouraged me. I am so happy that I am becoming selfish, and forgetting every thiug and yet this very day I heard that my brother Nikolai" -you know him is here, and I had entirely forgotten him. It seems to
:
:

46

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

But this is like a fit of that he, too, ought to be happy. madness. But one thing seems terrible to me. You who It is terrible that are married ought to know this sensation. we who are already getting old dare not approach a pure and innocent being. Isn't it terrible? and is it strange that I " find that I am unworthy? " Nu! have not much to reproach yourself with." you "Ach!" said Levin; '* and yet, as I look with disgust upon my life, I tremble and curse and mourn bitterly

me

da!"
" But what can you do? the world is thus constituted," Arkady evitch. "There is only one consolation, and that is in the prayer Pardon me not according to my that I have always loved Thus only deserts, but according to Thy loving-kindness.' can she forgive me."
said Stepan
' :

XI.
LEVIN emptied
friends were

though.
vitch.
:

Do

and for a few minutes the two to tell you one thing, ought " asked Stepan Arkadyeyou know Vronsky ?
his glass,
silent.

"I

" " No why do you ask ? " us another bottle," said Oblonsky to the Tartar, Bring who was refilling their glasses. You must know that Vronsky is a rival of yours." 14 Who is this Vronsky?" asked Levin, whose face, a moment since beaming with youthful enthusiasm, suddenly grew dark. he is one of Count Kirill Ivanovitch Vron"Vronsky
' k

sky 's sons, and one of the finest examples of the gilded youth of Petersburg. I used to know him at Tver when I was on duty he came there for recruiting service. He is immensely rich, handsome, with excellent connections, an adjutant attached to the emperor's person, and, in spite of From what I have seen of him, all, a capital good fellow. he is more than a good fellow he is well educated and bright he is a rising man." Levin scowled, and said nothing. " Nu-sl he put in an appearance soon after you left and, if people -tell the truth, he fell in love with You Kitty. understand that her mother "
: ' ' ;
; ;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

47

"Excuse me, but I don't understand at all," interrupted He suddenly rememLevin, scowling still more fiercely. bered his brother Nikolai, and how ugly it was in him to forget him.
"Just wait," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, laying his hand on Levin's arm with a smile. " I have told you all that I know but I repeat, that, in my humble opinion, the chances
;

in this delicate affair are in }'our favor."

Levin
chair.

grew
I advise

pale,

and

leaned

on

the

back

of

the

" But
"

you
:

sible," suggested Oblonsky, handing

to settle the matter as quickly as poshim a glass.

Xo, thank 3-011 I cannot drink any more," said Levin, "It will go to my head. Nu! pushing away the glass. how are you feeling?" he added, desiring to change the
conversation.

" One word more in any case I advise you to act quickly. you to speak immediately," said Stepan Arkadye" Go to-morrow vitch. morning, make your proposal in classic style, and God be with you." "Why haven't you ever come to hunt with me as you promised to do? Come this spring," said Levin. He now repented with all his heart that he had entered upon this conversation with Oblonsky his deepest feelings were wounded by what he had just learned of the pretensions of his rival, the young officer from Petersburg, as well as by the advice and insinuations of Stepan Arkadyevitch. Stepan Arkadyevitch perceived his friend's thoughts, and " Yes, smiled. " I will come some day," he said. brother, woman She's the spring that moves every thing in this world. My own trouble is bad, very bad. And all on account of women. Give me your advice," said he, taking a cigar, and still holding his glass in his hand: "tell me frankly what you think." "But what about?" " Listen suppose you were married, that you loved your " wife, but had been drawn away by another woman " Excuse me. I can't such thing. As it looks imagine an}to me, it would be as though, in coming out from dinner, I should steal a loaf of bread from a bakeiy." Stepan Arkadyevitch's eyes sparkled more than usual. " Why not? Bread sometimes smells so good, that one can:

I advise

not resist the temptation

48

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

" Himmlisch isV wenn ich bezwunyen s, Meine irdiache Beyier : Aber dock wenns's nicht gelunyen, Hdtt ich auch recht huebsch Plaisir."

As he repeated these lines, Oblonsky smiled. Levin could not refrain from smiling also. " But a truce to pleasantries," " continued Oblousky. Imagine a charming, modest, lovely and alone in the world, who would sacrifice woman, poor, is it necessary to give her up, in case my herself for you were true? We'll allow that it is necessary to supposition break with her, so as not to disturb the peace of the family but ought we not to have pity on her, to make the separation " less painful, to look out for her future? know that for me, women are "Pardon me; but you divided into two classes, no, that is, there are women, and But I never yet knew a case of a beautiful there are repentant Magdalen and as to that French creature at the bar, with her false curls, she fills me with disgust, and so do all such."
:

" But woman

in the

New

Testament? "

Never would Christ have said hold your peace. those words if he had known to what bad use they would be Out of the whole gospel, only those words are taken. put. However, I don't say what I think, but what I feel, nothing more. I feel a disgust for fallen women just as you do for You did not have to study the manners of the criminals. criminal classes to bring about this feeling, nor I these." "It is well for you to say so it is a very convenient way to do as the character in Dickens did, and throw all embarrassing questions over the right shoulder with the left hand. But to deny a fact is not to answer it. Now tell me what
: !

"Ach!

done ? " Don't steal fresh bread." " O moralist Stepan Arkadyevitch burst out laughing. but please appreciate the situation. Here are two women one insists on her rights, and her rights means your love which you cannot give the other has made an absolute sacWhat can one do? How can rifice, and demands nothing. one proceed? Here is a terrible drama "
is

to be

' '

1 It

Yet

What my
if all

was heavenly when

gained

Still I

heart desired on earth: were not attained, had ray share of mirth.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

49

" If yon vrant me to confess what I think, I will tell you that I don't believe in this drama, and tin's is why. In my the two Loves which Plato describes in opinion, Love his " Symposium," you remember, serve as the touch-stone for men. The one class of people 'understands only one of them the other understands the other. Those who do not comprehend Platonic affection have no right to speak of this drama. In this sort of love there can be no drama. Much
:

'

obliyed to you for the pleasure you have given me;' and therein consists the whole drama. But Platonic affection

cannot make a drama, because it is bright and pure, and " because At this moment Levin remembered his own short-comings and the inward struggles which he had undergone, and he added in an unexpected fashion, " However, you may be
It is quite possible I know nothing absolutely nothing about it." "Do 3-011 see," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, "you are a man of perfect purity ? Your great virtue is your only fault. And because your character is thus constituted, you desire that all the factors of life should also be absolutely pure and this can never be. So you scorn the service of the state, because you see in it no service useful to society, and because, according to your idea, every action should correspond to an exact end and this can never be. You want conjugal life and love to be one and the same, and that cannot be. And besides, all the charm, the variety, the beauty of life consists in these lights and shades." Levin sighed, and did not answer: he did not even listen. He was absorbed in the thought of what concerned himself. And suddenly both of them felt that this dinner, which ought

right.

to have brought

them closer together, had widened the

dis-

tance between them, though they were still good friends. Each was thinking more of his own affairs, and was forgetting to feel interested in his friend's. Oblonsky understood this phenomenon, having often experienced it after dining and he also knew what his course of conduct would be. " Give me the account," he cried, and went into the next room, where he met an adjutant whom he knew, and with whom he began to talk about an actress and her lover. This conversation amused and rested Oblonsk}- after what had been said with Levin, who always kept his mind on the strain, and wearied him.
;

50

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
to

When the Tartar had brought the account, amounting not forgetting his fee, twenty-eight rubles and odd kopeks, who generally, in the honest country fashion, would Levin, have been shocked at the size of the bill, paid the fourteen rubles of his share without noticing, and went home to dress
for the reception at the Shcherbatskys',

where

his fate

would

be decided.

XII.

THE

Princess Kitty Shcherbatskaia was eighteen years old.

She was making her first appearance in society this winter, and her triumphs had been more brilliant than her elder sisAll the young ters, than even her mother had anticipated. men in Moscow, who danced at balls, were more or less in love with Kitty but, besides these, there were two who, during this first winter of her debut, were serious aspirants to her hand, Levin, and, sooii after his departure, Count
;

Vronsky.

were the

Levin's frequent visits and his unconcealed love for Kitty first subjects in regard to her future that gave cause for serious conversation between her father and mother. The prince and princess had livery discussions about it. The prince was on Levin's side, and declared that he could not The princess, with the skill which desire a better match. women have for avoiding the question, insisted that Kitty was very young that she did not show great partiality for Levin and, moreover, that he did not seem to be serious in his attentions. But she did not express what was in the bottom of her heart, that she was ambitious for a more brilliant marriage, that Levin did not appeal to her sympaAnd when thies, and that she did not understand him. Levin took a sudden leave for the country she was delighted, and said, with an air of triumph, to her husband, " You see, I was right." When Vronsky appeared upon the scene, she was still more delighted, and her hopes of seeing Kitty not only well but brilliantly married, were more than confirmed. For the princess there was no comparison between the two suitors. The mother disliked Levin's brusque and strange
; ;

of looking at things, his awkwardness in society, which she attributed to his pride and what she called his savage life in the country, occupied with his cattle and peasants. And she was still more displeased because Levin, though he

way

ANNA
was
in love

KARtiNINA.

51

with her daughter, and had been a frequent vishouse for six weeks, had appeared like a man who was hesitating, watching, and questioning whether, if he should offer himself, the honor which he conferred upon them would not be too great. Was it not customary for one who comes assiduously to a house where there was a marriageable daughter, to declare his intentions? And then his sudden " Jt is fortunate," departure without informing any one! the mother thought, " that he is so unattractive, and that Kitty has not fallen in love with him." Vronsky, on the other hand, satisfied all her requirements he was rich, intelligent, of good birth, with a brilliant career at court or in the army before him, and, moreover, he was charming. Nothing better could be desired. Vronsky was devoted to Kitty at the balls, danced with her, and called upon her parents there could be no doubt that his intentions were serious. And yet the poor mother had passed a winter full of doubts and perplexities. "When the princess herself was married, through the influence of an aunt, she was thirty years old. llerjiance, who was well known by reputation, came to see her and to show himself the interview was favorable, and the" intermediary announced the impression produced. On the following day the otlicial demand was made upon the parents, and granted,
itor at their
:
:

and
so
it

all

But when she came to see her own daughters married, she learned by experience how difficult and complicated in reality this

had passed off very simply and naturally. At seemed to the princess, as she looked back to it.

least,

What anxieties, what cares, apparently simple matter was. what waste of money, what collisions with her husband, when the time came for Dolly and Natali to be married And now she was obliged to pass through the same anxieties, and with even more bitter quarrels with her husband. The old prince, like all fathers, was excessively punctilious about every thing that concerned the honor and purity of his daughters he was distressingly jealous of them, especially of Kitty, his favorite, and at every opportunit}' he accused his wife of compromising his daughter. The princess had become accustomed to these scenes from the days of her
!

elder daughters, but she confessed that her husband's strictr ness was founded on reason. Many of the practices of society had undergone a change, and the duties of mothers

were becoming more and more

difficult.

She saw how

52

ANNA

KARfiNINA,

into society, rode horseKitty's yonng friends went freely were forward with men. went out to drive with them back, alone she saw that many of them no longer made courtesies, and, what was more serious, each of them was firmly convinced that the business of choosing a husband was incum" bent on her alone, and not at all on her parents. Marriages aren't made as they used to be," were the thoughts and remarks of these young ladies, and even of some of the older
:

"But how are marriages made nowadays?" and people. this question the princess could not get any one to answer. The French custom, which allows the parents full liberty to decide the lot of their children, was not accepted, w as even The English custom, which allows the bitterly criticised. The Russian absolute liberty, was not admissible. girls custom of marriage, through an intermediary, was regarded as a relic of barbarism everybody ridiculed it, even the But she was unable to decide what course princess herself. of action to take. Every one with whom the princess talked said the same thing: "It is high time to renounce those exploded notions it is the young folks and not the old who get married, and, therefore, it is for them to make their arrangements in accordance with their own ideas." It was well enough for those without daughters to say this but the princess knew well, that if she allowed Kitt}- to enjoy the society of young men, she ran the risk of seeing her fall in love w ith some one whom her parents would not approve, who would not make her a good husband, or would not dream of marrying her. According to the views of the princess, one might better give five-year-old children loaded pistols as playthings, than allow young people to marry according to their own pleasure, without the aid of their parr

And, therefore, Kitty gave her mother much solicitude than either of the other daughters had.
ents.

more

Just at present her fear was that Vronsky would content himself with playing the gallant. She saw that Kitty was in love with him, and she felt assured only when she thought that he was a man of honor but she could not hide the fact, that, through the new liberty allowed in society, it would be very easy for a man of the world to turn the head of a young girl, without feeling the least scruple at enjoying this new sort of intoxication. The week before Kitty had told her mother of a conversation which she had held with Vronsky during a mazurka, and this conversation seemed
;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

53

significant to the princess, though it did not absolutely satVronsky told Kitty that he and his brother were isfy her. both so used to letting their mother decide things for them,

that they never undertook any thing of importance without " And now," he added, " I am looking for consulting her. mother's arrival from Petersburg as a great piece of my

good fortune."
Kitty reported these words without attaching any importance to them, but her mother gave them a meaning conformShe knew that the old countess was able to her desire. expected from day to da} and that she would be satisfied with her son's choice; but it seemed strange to her that he had not offered himself before his mother's arrival, as though he feared to offend her. In spite of these contradictions, she gave a favorable interpretation to these words, so anxious was she to escape from her anxieties. Bitterly as she felt the unhappiness of her oldest daughter, Dolly, who was thinking of leaving her husband, she was completely absorbed in her anxieties about her youngest daughter's fate, which seemed to be trembling in the balance. Levin's arriShe feared lest Kitty, val to-day added to her troubles. through excessive delicacy, would refuse Vronsky out of respect to the sentiment which she had once felt for Levin.
T
,

His arrival promised to throw every thing into confusion, and to postpone a long desired consummation. "Has he been here long?" asked the princess of her daughter, when they reached home after their meeting with
Levin. " Since yesterday, maman." "I have one thing that I want to say to you," the princess began but at the sight of her serious and agitated face,
;

Kitty

" Mamma," said she blushing, and turning quickly to her, "don't speak about this, I beg of you, 1 beg of you. I " know, I know all She felt as her mother felt, but the motives that caused her mother to feel as she did were repugnant to her. " " I only want to say that as 3-011 have given hope to one " don't It's so terMamma,
!

knew what was coming.

galubchik [darling],

speak.

speak about this." "I will not," replied her mother, seeing the tears in her eyes: "only one word, moya dn$ha [my soul] you have promised to have no secrets from me."
rible to
^

54

AVNA

KARtiNINA.

" looking her mother full in the "Never, mamma, never! now. I face and blushing: "hut I have nothing to tell even if I wanted to, I could not say what and how I
I could not
'
' '

The princess the mother's thought, smiling at her emotion. smiled to think how momentous appeared to the poor girl the thoughts that were passing in her heart.
XIII.
dinner, and during the first part of the evening, a young man feels who is about to fight his first Her heart beat violently, and it was impossible for duel. She felt that her to collect and concentrate her thoughts. this evening, when they two should meet for the first time, would decide her fate. She saw them in her imagination,

No, with those eyes she cannot speak a falsehood," was

AFTER

Kitty

felt as

sometimes together, sometimes separately. When she thought of the past, pleasure, almost tenderness, filled her heart at The friendthe remembrance of her relations with Levin. ship which he had shown for her departed brother, their own childish confidences, invested him with a certain poetic charm. She found it agreeable to think of him, and to feel that he loved her, for she could not doubt that he loved her, and she was proud of it. On the other hand, she felt uneasy when she thought about Vrousky, and perceived that there was something false in their relationship, for which she blamed herself, not him for he had in the highest degree the calmness and self-possession of a man of the world, and always remained friendly and natural. All was clear and But while Vrousky simple in her relations with Levin. seemed to offer her dazzling promises and a brilliant future, the future with Levin seemed enveloped in mist. After dinner Kitty went to her room to dress for the re;

she stood before the mirror she felt that she loveliest, and, what was most important on this occasion, that she was mistress of her forces, for she
ception.

As

was looking her

felt at ease,

At

servant announced, " Konstautin Dmitritch Levin." The the prince had not yet come princess was still in her room down. "It has come at last," thought Kitty; aud all the
:

and entirely self-possessed. half-past seven, as she was descending to the sZon, the

ANNA KAR&NINA.
blood rushed to her heart.

55

As

she passed a mirror, she was

She knew now, for a startled to see how pale she looked. certainty, that he had come early, so as to find her alone and

whom she would give the pref.She felt that she was about to wound a man whom erence. she liked, and to wound him cruelly. Why, why was it that such a charming man loved her? Why had he fallen in love with her? But it was too late to mend matters it was fated
would make her happy, or to
:

And instantly the situation appeared to her It no longer confor the first time in a new, strange light. cerned herself alone nor was it a question of knowing who
offer himself.
;

to be so.

" Merciful heaven Is it possible that I myself have got to give him an answer?" she thought, "that I must tell him that I don't love him? It is not true But what can I
! !

That I love another? Impossible. I will run away, " I will run away She was already at the door, when she heard his step. " No, it is not honorable. What have I to fear? I have done Let come what will. I will tell the truth I nothing wrong. " shall not be ill at ease with him. she said Ah, here he is to herself, as she saw his strong but timid countenance, with She looked him full in the his brilliant eyes fixed upon her. face, with an air that seemed to implore his protection, and
say?
! !

extended her hand.

"I came rather earl}-, seems to me," said he, casting a glance about the empty room and when he saw that Ire was not mistaken, and that nothing would prevent him from speaking, his face grew solemn. " Oh. no " said Kitty, sitting down near a table. " But it is exactly what I wanted, so that I might find you alone," he began, without sitting, and without looking at her, lest he should lose his courage. " Mamma will be here in a moment. She was very tired
; !

to-day.

To-day"

She spoke without thinking what she said, and did not take her imploring and gentle gaze from his face. Levin turned to her she blushed, and stopped speaking. " I told you to-day that I did not know how long I should " that it depended on you stay Kitty drooped her head lower and lower, not knowing how she should reply to the words that he was going to speak. " That it depended upon you," he repeated. "I meant
:
;

56
I

ANNA KARNINA.

be my wife," he murI came for this, that meant mured, not kuowing what he had said, but feeling that he had got through the worst of the difficulty. Then he stopped, and looked at her. She felt almost suffocated: she did not raise her head. Her heart was full of happiness. Never could she have believed that the declaration of his love would make such a
lasted only deep impression upon her. But this impression She remembered Vronsky. She lifted her sina moment. cere and liquid eyes to Levin, whose agitated face she saw, and then said hastily, " This cannot be Forgive me How near to him, a moment since, she had been, and how and strange she necessary to his life and now how far away suddenly seemed to be "It could not have been otherwise," he said, without
'
!

looking at her.

He

bowed, and was about to leave the room.

XIV.

AT this instant the princess entered. Apprehension was pictured on her face when she saw their agitated faces, and Levin bowed low, and did not that they had been alone. did not raise her ayes. " Thank speak. Kitty was silent, and " God, she has refused him! thought the mother; and the smile with which she always received her Thursday guests She sat down, and began to ask re-appeared upon her lips. Levin questions about his life in the country. He also sat down, hoping to escape unobserved when the guests began to arrive. Five minutes later, one of Kitty's friends, who had been married the winter before, was announced, the Countess Nordstone. She was a dried-up, yellow, nervous, sickly woman, with great black eyes. She was fond of Kitty, and her affection, like that of every married woman for a young girl, was expressed by a keen desire to have her married in accordance with her own ideas of conjugal happiness. She wanted to marry her to Vronsky. Levin, whom she had often met at the Shcherbatskys' the first of the winter, was always distasteful to her, and her favorite occupation, after she had met him in society, was to make sport of him. " I am " when he looks down enchanted," she said, upon

ANNA KARNINA.
me from

57

his imposing loftiness, or when he fails to honor me with his learned conversation because I am too silly for him I am enchanted that he cannot endure to condescend to. me." She was right, because the fact was, that Levin could not endure her, and he despised her for being proud of what her nervous temperament, her inshe regarded as a merit, difference and delicate ecorn for all that seemed to her gross

and material.

The relationship between Levin and the Countess Nordstone was such as is often met with in society where two persons, friends in outward appearance, despise each other to such a degree that they cannot hold a serious conversation, or even clash with each other. The Countess Nordstone instantly addressed herself to Levin " Ah, Konstantin Dmitrievitch are }'ou back again in our abominable Babylon?" said she, giving him her little thin hand, and recalling his own jest that he had made at the beginning of the winter when he compared Moscow to Babylon. "Is Babylon converted, or have you been corrupted?" she added with a mocking smile in Kitty's direc: !

tion.

" I am greatly flattered, countess, that you kept such accurate account of my words," replied Levin, who, having had time to collect his thoughts, instantly entered into the facetiously hostile tone peculiar to his relations with the Countess Nordstone. "It seems that they have made a very deep
impression upon you." ''Ark! how so? But I shall make notes. Nu! how is it, And she began to Kitty, have you been skating to-day?" talk with her young friend. Although it was scarcely decent to take his departure now, Levin would have preferred to commit this breach of etiquette rather than endure the punishment of remaining through the evening, and to see Kitty, who was secretly watching him, though she pretended not to look at him. He therefore attempted to get np but the princess noticed his movement, and, turning toward him, she said, " Do you intend to remain long in Moscow? You are justice of the peace in your district, are you not? and I suppose that will prevent you from making a long stay." No. princess, I have resigned that office," he said. "I
;
'

have come to stay several days." " Something has happened to him," thought the Countess

58

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Nordstone, as she saw Levin's stern and serious face, " because he does not launch out into his usual tirades but I'll soon draw him out. Nothing amuses me more than to him ridiculous before Kitty." make " "Konstantin Dmitritch," she said to him, you who know at our estate in Kaluga all things, please explain this to me all the muzhiks [peasants] and their wives drink up all that owe us. You are always they own, and don't pay what they " this mean? praising the muzhiks: what does and Levin arose " Excuse At this moment a lady came in, me, countess, I know nothing at all about it, and I cannot answer your question," said he, looking at an officer, who entered at the same time with the lady. "That must be Vrousky," he thought, and to confirm his She had already had time to surmise he glanced at Kitty. and observe Levin. When he saw the perceive Vronsky, young girl's shining eyes, Levin saw that she loved that man, he saw it as clearly as though she herself had confessed whether But what sort of a man was he? Now it to him. Levin could not help remaining he must for good or ill find out for himself what sort of a man it was that she
; :

loved.

There are men who, in presence of a fortunate rival, are disposed to deny that there are any good qualities in him others, on the contrary, endeavor to discover nothing but the merits which have won him his success, and with sore Levin belonged hearts to attribute to him nothing but good. It was not hard for him to discover what to -the latter class. amiable and attractive qualities Vronsky possessed. They were apparent at a glance. He was dark, of medium stathis face was handsome, calm, ure, and well proportioned and friendly every thing about his person, from his black,
;
;

and his freshly shaven chin, to his new, welluniform was simple and perfectly elegant. Vronsky allowed the lady to pass before him, then he approached the It seemed to Levin that, princess, and finally came to Kitty. as he drew near her, her beautiful eyes shone with deeper tenderness, and that her smile expressed a joy mingled with He extended toward her his hand which was small, triumph. but rather wide, and bowed respectfully. After bowing and speaking a few words to each of the ladies to whom he was presented, he sat down without having seen Levin, who never once took his eyes from him.
short-cut hair,
fitting

ANNA
"Gentlemen, allow me
the

KARtiNINA.
to

59
said

make you acquainted,"

"
:

Konstantin Dmitritch princess turning to Levin Levin, Count Aleksei Kirillovitch Vronsky." Vronsky arose, and, with a friendly look into Levin's eyes, shook hands with him. "It seems," said he, with his frank and pleasant smile, " that I was to have had the honor of dining with you this winter but you went off unexpectedly to the country." " Konstantin Dmitritch despises and shuns the city, and us, its denizens," said the Countess Nordstone. " It must be that my words impress you deeply, since you remember them so well," said Levin and, perceiving that
;
;

he had already made this remark, he blushed deeply. Vronsky looked at Levin and the countess, and smiled " " he asked. " I So, then, you always live in the country? should think it would be tiresome in winter." "Not if one has enough to do besides, one does not get tired of himself," said Levin in a sour tone. "I like the country," said Vronsky, noticing Levin's tone, and appearing not to notice it. " But you would not consent to live always in the country, I hope," said the Countess Nordstone. "I don't know; I never made a long stay but I once " Never have I so eafelt a strange sensation," he added. for the country, the real Russian country with gerly longed its muzhiks, as during the winter that I spent at Nice with my mother. Nice, you know, is melancholy anywaA" and Naples, Sorrento, are pleasant only for a short time. It is then that one remembers Russia most tenderly, and espe:
; ; ;

He spoke, now addressing Kitty, now Levin, turning his calm and friendly face from one to the other, as he said whatever came into his head. As the Countess Nordstone seemed desirous to put in her word, he stopped, without finishing his phrase, and listened
attentively.

cially the country.

One would say

that

"

The conversation did not languish a single instant, so that the old princess had no need of advancing her unfailing classic and scientific educathemes, her two heavy guns, which she tion, and the general compulsory conscription, held in reserve in case the silence became prolonged. The countess did not even have a chance to rally Levin. He wanted to join in the general conversation, but was

60
unable.
still

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.
and
;

He kept saying to himsejf, "Now, I'll go;" he waited as though he expected something. The conversation turned on table-tipping and spiritism and the Countess Nordstone, who was a believer iu it, began to relate the marvels which she had seen. " Ach, countess! in the name of Heaven, take me to see them. I never yet saw any thing extraordinary, anxious as I have always been," said Vronsky smiling. "Good; next Saturday," replied the countess. "But believe in it?" she you, Konstantin Dmitritch, do you demanded of Levin. "Why did you ask me? You knew perfectly well what my" answer would be." Because 1 wanted to hear your opinion."
"

" that tableis simply this," replied Levin : that good society is scarcely more advanced tipping proves The muzhiks believe in the evil e}r e, in than the peasantry. " in sorceries, while we casting lots, " That means that believe in it." you don't " I cannot believe in it, countess." " " But if I myself have seen these things? " The babui [peasant women] also say that they have seen

My opinion

the domovo'i" [household spirits]. " Then, you think that I do not broke into an unpleasant laugh.

tell

the truth?

"

And

she

" But Konstantin Dmitritch simply says that no, Masha. he cannot believe in spiritism," interrupted Kitty, blushing for Levin and Levin understood her, and began to speak
;

irritated tone. But Vronsky came to the rescue, and with a gentle smile brought back the conversation, which threatened to go beyond the bounds of politeness. " " You do not admit at all the possibility of its being true ? he asked. " not? We admit the existence of
in a still

more

Why

willingly

which we do not understand. Why should there " not exist a new force, as yet unknown, which "When electricity was discovered," interruped Levin " eagerly, only its phenomena had been seen, and it was not known what produced them, nor whence the}- arose and centuries passed before people dreamed of making application of it. Spiritualists, on the other hand, have begun by making tables write, and calling spirits out of them, and it is only afterwards that it was proposed to explain it by an unelectricity,
;

known

force."

ANNA

KAEtiNlNA.

61

Vronsky listened attentively, as was his custom, and seemed interested in Levin's words. "Yes; but the spiritualists say, 'We do not yet know what this force is, and at the same time it is a force, and Let the scientists find out acts under certain conditions.' " should it not be a new force if it what it is.

Why " " Because," interrupted Levin again, every time you rub wood with resin, you produce a certain and invariable electri;

cal action

consequently

while spiritism brings no invariable result, and its effects cannot be regarded as natural phe-

nomena."
Vronsky, perceiving that the conversation was growing too serious for a reception, made no reply ; and, in order to make a diversion, said, smiling gayly, and turning to the ladies, " Countess, why don't you make the experiment right now?" But Levin wanted to finish saying what was in his
mind.
think," he continued, "that the attempts made by mediums to explain their miracles by a new force, cannot succeed. They claim that it is a supernatural force, and yet they want to submit it to a material test." All were waiting for him to come to an end, and he felt it. " And I think that you would be a capital medium," said "There is something so the Countess Marya Nordstone. " enthusiastic about you Levin opened his mouth to speak, but he said nothing, and blushed. " Come, ladies, let us arrange the tables, and give them a
spiritual
!

"I

trial,"

And Vronsky

Vronsky: "with your permission, princess." rose, and looked for a table. Kitty was standing by a table, and her e} es met Levin's". Her whole soul pitied him, because she felt that she was the cause of his pain. Her look said, " Forgive me if you can. I am so happy." And his look replied, " I hate the whole and myself." He went to get his hat. world, you But fate once more was unpropitious. Hardly had the guests taken their places around the table, and he was about to go out, when the old prince entered, and, after bowing to the ladies, went straight to Levin.
said
T

he cried joyfully. "What a stranger! I did " that you were here. Very glad to see you In speaking to Levin the prince sometimes used tui (thou) , and sometimes vui (you). He took him by the arm, and
flot

"Ah!"
know

62

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

her father at last acknowledged Vronsky 's bow, and how Vronsky seemed to ask himself, with good-humored surprise, what this icy reception meant, and she blushed.

while conversing with him, gave no notice to Vronsky, who was standing behind Levin, waiting patiently to bow as soon as the prince should see him. friendliness must seem hard to Kitty felt that her father's Levin after what had happened. She also noticed how coldly

"Prince," let us have Konstantin Dmitritch," said the " We want to Countess Nordstone. try an experiment." " What sort of an experiment? table-tipping? Nu! excuse me, ladies and gentlemen but, in my opinion, kaletchki more amusing," said the prince, [grace-hoops] would be of looking at Vronsky, whom he took to be the originator " At least there's some sense in grace-hoops." this sport. Vronsky, astonished, turned his steady eyes upon the old to speak with the Countess prince, and, gently smiling, began Nordstone about the arrangements for a ball to be given the following week. "I hope that you will be there," said he, turning to Kitty. As soon as the old prince had gone, Levin made his escape and the last impression which he bore away from this reception was Kitty's happy, smiling face, answering Vrousky in regard to the ball.
; ;

XV.
AFTER the reception, Kitty told her mother of her conversation with Levin ; and, in spite of all the pain that she had caused him, the thought that he had asked her to marry him flattered her. But while she felt the conviction that she had acted properly, it was long before she could One memory constantly arose in her mind go to sleep.
:

was Levin as he stood near her father, looking at her and Vronsky with gloomy, melancholy eyes. She could not keep back the tears. But, as she thought of him who had replaced Levin in her regards, she saw vividly his handsome, strong, and manly face, his self-possession, so digniit

fied, his air

of benevolence
;

she recalled his love for her,

and how she loved him and joy came back to her heart. She laid her head on the pillow, and smiled with happiness. " It is too bad, too bad; but I can't help it, it is not my fault," she said to herself, although an inward voice wins-

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

63

pered the contrary. Ought she to reproach herself for having been attracted to Levin, or for having refused him? She did not know, but her happiness was not unalloyed. " Lord, have pity upon me Lord, have pity upon me Lord, " have pity upon me she repeated until she went to sleep. Meantime there was going on in the prince's little library one of those scenes which frequently occurred between the
! ! !

parents in regard to their favorite daughter. "What? This is what!" cried the prince, raising his arms in spite of the awkwardness of his fur-lined dressing" You have neither gown. pride nor dignit}* you are ruining your daughter with this low and ridiculous manner of hunting a husband for her." " But, in the name of Heaven, prince, what have I done? ". said the princess in tears. She had come, as usual, to say good-night to her husband ; and feeling very happy over her conversation with her daughter, and though she had not ventured to breathe a word of Kitty's rejection of Levin, she allowed herself to allude to the project of her marriage with Vronsky, which she looked upon as settled, as soon as the countess should arrive. At these words the prince had fallen into a passion, and had addressed her with unpleasant reproaches. " What have you done? In the first place, you have decoyed a husband for her and all Moscow will say so, and with justice. If you want to give receptions, give them, by all means, but invite everybody, and not suitors of your own choice. Invite all these tiittkof" [dudes], thus the " have someprince called the young fellows of Moscow, to play, and let 'em dance but don't arrange such body interviews as you had to-night. It seems to me abomand you will get the worst of it. You inable, abominable have turned the girl's head. Levin is worth a thousand men. And as to this Petersburg idiot, who goes as if he were worked by machinery, he and all his kind are alike, all trash My daughter has no need of going out of her way, even for a prince of the blood."
: ;
;

the princess, "we shall never see our daughter married; and, in that case, we might just as well go into the country." " That certainly would be better."

"But what have I done?" " " cried the prince angrily. Why, this " I know well enough, that, if I listen to you," interrupted

64

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Have I made any advances? No, I have listen! But a young man, and a very handsome young man, not. and she, it seems," is in love with her " Yes, so it seems to should be in you. But suppose she love with him, and he have as much intention of getting married as I myself ? Och! Haven't I eyes to see? Ach, Here the prince, ball! spiritism! ac/i, Nice! ac/i, the a courtesy at every attempting to imitate his wife, made word. " We shall be very proud when we have made our Kationka unhappy, and when, on account of this very thing, " her head " " But what makes you think so? "I don't think so, I know so; and that's why we have I see a man who has serieyes, and you mothers haven't. Levin and I see a fine bird, like this goodous intentions, for-nothing, who is merely amusing himself." " Nu! you, too, have fine ideas in your head." "You will remember what I have said, but too late, as you did with Ddshenka." "JVtt/ very well, very well, we will not say any thing more about it," said the princess, who was cut short by the

"But

remembrance of Dolly. " So much the better, and good-night." The husband and wife, as they separated, kissed each other good-night, making the sign of the cross as usual but each remained unchanged in opinion. The princess had been firmly convinced that Kitty's fate was decided by the events of the evening, and she felt that Vronsky's designs were evident but her husband's words
; ;

her return to her room, as she thought in unknown future, she followed Kitty's example, and prayed from the bottom of her heart, " Lord, have pity

troubled her. terror of the

On

Lord, have pity

Lord, have pity

"

XVI.
VRONSKY had never experienced the enjoyment of family his mother, a woman of fashion, who had been very
:

life

had taken part in romantic adventures during her husband's lifetime, and after his death. Vronsky had never known his father, and his education had been given him in the School of Pages.
brilliant in her youth,

ANNA
As
began to move

KARfiNINA.
officer

65
had graduated, he
found

soon as the brilliant young

in the highest military circles of Petersburg.

Though he
It

nothing as yet to
of

occasional!}' went into general society, he stir the interests of his heart.

was at Moscow that for the first time he felt the charm familiar intercourse with a young girl of good family, lovely, naive, and evidently not averse to his attentions. The contrast with his luxurious but dissipated life in Petersburg enchanted him, and it never occurred to him that comAt plications might arise from his relations with Kitty. receptions he preferred to dance with her, he called upon her, talked with her in the light way common in society all that he said to her might have been heard by others, and yet he felt that these trifles had a different significance when spoken to her, that they established between them a bond which It was farthest from his every day grew closer and closer. thoughts that his conduct might be regarded as dishonorable,
;

since he did not dream of marriage. that he had discovered a new pleasure,

He

simply imagined
his

and he enjoyed

discovery.

What would have been his surprise could he have heard the conversation between Kitty's parents, could he have realized that Kitty would be made unhappy if he did not propose to her. He would not have believed that this frank and charming relationship could be dangerous, or that it He had never considered brought any obligation to marry. the possibility of his getting married. Not only was family life distasteful to him, but from his view as a bachelor, the family, and especially the husband, belonged to a strange, But though hostile, and, worst of all, ridiculous world. Vronsky had not the slightest suspicion of the conversation of which he had been the subject, he left the Shcherbatskys with the feeling that the mysterious bond which attached him to Kitty was closer than ever, so close, indeed, that he felt that he must make some resolution. But what resolution he ought to make, he could not tell for the life of him. " " How he thought, as he went to his rooms, charming as he always felt when he left the Shcherbatskys, a feeling deep impression of purity and freshness, arising from the fact that he had not smoked all the evening, and a new sensation of tenderness caused by her love for him. charming that, without either of us saying any thing, we understand each other so perfectly through this mute Ian!

"How

66

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

more than ever guage of glances and tones, so that to-day

before she told
!

me that she loves me! And how lovely, I feel that I was natural, and, above all, confidential she that I have a heart, and myself am better, purer. J feel Those gentle, lovely that there is something good in me. Nu I what did she say ? Nothing When she said eyes for me, and pleasant for her." but it was
!

much,

And

pleasant he reflected how he could best finish up the evening. " Shall it be the club,' a hand of bezique, and some chamThe Chateau des pagne with Ignatof? No, not there. Fteurs, to find Oblonsky, songs, and the cancan? No, it's a beAnd this is just why I like the Shcherbatskys, bore.
k

I'll go home! cause I feel better for having been there. He went to his room at Dusseaux's, ordered supper, and was sound scarcely touched his head to the pillow before he

"

asleep.

XVII.

THE
first

station to

next day, about eleven o'clock, Vronsky went to the meet his mother on the Petersburg train and the person whom he saw on the grand staircase was Oblou;

sky,

who had come

' '

"Ah!

to welcome his sister. your excellency," cried Oblonsky.

"Whom

are

you expecting ? "My matushka," replied Vronsky, with the smile with which people always met Oblonsky. And, after shaking " She was hands, they mounted the staircase side by side. to come from Petersburg to-da}-." " I waited for you till two o'clock this morning. Where " did you go after leaving the Shcherbatskys? " Home," replied Vronsky. " To tell the truth, I did not feel like going anywhere after such a pleasant evening at the
Shcherbatskys'."

know fiery horses by their brand, and young people are in love by their eyes," said Stepan Arkady evitch in the same dramatic tone in which he had spoken to Levin the evening before.
I

"

who

it

Vronsky smiled, as much as to say that he did not deny but he hastened to change the conversation. " he " And whom have asked. you come to meet?

"I?

"Ah!

a very pretty

woman,"

said Oblousky.

indeed!"

ANNA
" Horn
"vie/*
'

KARtiNINA.
!

67

soft

'Do you know her, then? no truth is, I don't "It seems to me that I do. Or think I do," replied Vrousky somewhat confused. The name Karnma brought to his mind a tiresome and affected
" But Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, my celebrated brother-inmust know him Everybody in creation knows him." " That I is, I know him by reputation, but not by sight. know that he is talented, learned, and something divine but not in my Zme," said Vronsky in you know that he is not
law, you
!

y pense qui My Madame Kaivnina? " asked Vrousky. "

sister

mal

Anna "
!

person.

" Yes: he is a remarkable man, somewhat conservative, but a famous man," replied Stepau Arkadyevitch. "A famous man." "Nti! so much the better for him," said Vronsky, smil"Ah! here you are," he cried, seeing his mother's ing. old lackey. "This way," he added, stationing him at the
door.

English.

Vronsky, besides experiencing the pleasure that everybody seeing Stepan Arkadyevitch, had for some time especially liked being in his society, because, in a certain way, it brought him closer to Kitty. Therefore he took him by the " Nu! what do arm, and said gayly, you say to giving the " diva a supper Sunday? " Ach! tell me, did you Certainly: I will pay my share. meet my friend Levin last evening?" " Yes but he went away very earl}-." " He is a famous " isn't he? " fellow," said Oblonsky, " I don't know " but all the it is," replied Vronsky, why Muscovites, present company excepted,". he added jestingly, " have something sharp about them. The}' all seem to be high-strung, fiery-tempered, as though they all wanted to make you understand " " " That is true enough it is replied Stepan Arkadyefelt in
; :

vitch, smiling pleasantly. " Is the train on time? "

demanded Vronsky of an employt. be here directly," replied the employ^. The increasing bustle in the station, the coming and going of the artelshchiks. the appearance of policemen and officials,
"
It will

the arrival of expectant friends, all indicated the approach

68
of the train.

ANNA KAlt

NINA.
;

The morning was frosty and through the steam, workmen could be seen, dressed in their winter costumes, silently passing in their felt boots amid the network The whistle of the coming engine was already of rails. heard, and a monstrous object seemed to be advancing with a heavy rumble. " No," continued Stepan Arkadyevitch, who was anxious to inform Vronsky of Levin's intentions in regard to Kitty. "No, j'ou are unjust towards my friend Levin. He is a very nervous man, and sometimes he can be disagreeable He is but, on the other hand, he can be very charming. Last evening such an upright, genuine nature, true gold there were special reasons why he should have been either very happy or very unhappy," continued Stepan Arkadyevitch with a significant smile, and entirely forgetting in his present sympathy for Vrousky, his sympathy of the evening before for his old friend. Vronsky stopped short, and asked point blank, " Do you mean that he proposed yesterday evening to jour
;
!

belle-soeur?" [sister-in-law]. " Possibly," replied Stepan Arkadyevitch me last evening. Yes, he went off so early,

"

this disturbed in

and was

such

He has been in seemed to me as if love with her for so long, and I am very angry with him." "Ah, indeed! I thought that she might, however, have aspirations for a better match," said Vronsky, turning around, and beginning to walk up and down. "However, I don't know him, but this promises to be a painful situation. That
bad
spirits, tliat it
is

why
is

so

many men

least with these ladies, there is

nary considerations
here
the train."
train

at prefer to be faithful to their Claras no suspicion of any merceyou stand on your own merits. But
;

was just rumbling into the station. The platform shook and the locomotive, driving before it the steam condensed by the cold air, became visible. Slowly and rhythmically the connecting rod of the great wheels rose and fell the engineer, well muffled, and covered with frost, leaped to
;

The

the platform.

Next the tender came the baggage-car,

;

still

a dog in its cage was violently shaking the platform yelping piteously ; finally appeared the passenger-cars, which jolted together as the train came to a stop.

more

A youthful-looking and somewhat pretentiously elegant conductor slowly stepped down from the car, and whistled,

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
travellers,

69

and behind him came the more impatient of the

;

an officer of the guard, with martial bearing a small, smiling merchant, with his grip-sack and a muzhik, with his bundle slung over his shoulder. Vronsky, standing near Oblonsky, watched the sight, and completely forgot his mother. What he had just heard about Kitty caused him emotion and joy he involuntarily straightened himself his eyes glistened he felt that he had won a
;
:

victory.

''The Countess Vronskai'a

is

in

that coach,"

said the

These words youthful-looking conductor, approaching him. awoke him from his revery, and brought his thoughts back
to his

mother and their approaching interview.

Without

ever having confessed as much to himself, he had no great But his respect for his mother, and he did not love her. education and the usages of the society in which he lived did not allow him to admit that there could be in his relations with her the slightest want of consideration. But the more he exaggerated the bare outside forms, the more he felt in his heart that he did not respect or love her.

XVIII.

VRONSKY followed the conductor and as he was about to enter the coach, he stood aside to allow a lady to pass him. With the instant intuition of a man of the world he saw that she belonged to the very best society. Begging her pardon, he was about to enter the door, but involuntarily he turned to give another look at the lady, not on account of her beauty, her grace, or her elegance, but because the expression of her lovely face, as she passed, seemed to him so gentle and sweet. She also turned her head as he looked back at her. With her gray eyes shining through the long lashes, she gave him a friendly, benevolent look as though she had seen in him a friend, and instantly she turned to seek some one in the Quick as this glance was, Vronsky had time to perthrong. ceive in her face a dignified vivacity which was visible in the half smile that parted her rosy lips, and in the brightness of her eyes. Her whole person was radiant with the overflowing spirits of youth, which she tried to hide but in spite of her, the veiled lightning of her eyes gleamed in her smile.
; ;

70

ANNA
little

KARtiNINA.

with

His mother, an old lady into the coach. and black eyes, received him with a slight She got up from her chair, handed srnile oh her thin lips. her bag to her maid, and extended her little thin hand to her son, who bent over it then she kissed him on the brow.

Vronsky went
curls

You received my telegram? You are well? Thank the Lord!" "Did you have a comfortable journey?" said the son, the same time listening to a sitting down near her, and at woman's voice just outside the door. He knew that it was
the voice of the lady

"

whom

he had met.

" However, I don't agree with you," said the voice. " It is a St. Petersburg way of looking at it, madame." " Not at all, but simply a woman's," was her reply. " Nu-s! allow me to kiss your hand." " Good-by, Ivan Petrovitch. Now look and see if my brother is here, and send him to me," said the lady at the
very door, and re-entering the coach. "Have you found your brother? " asked
skaia.

Madame Vron-

Vronsky now knew that it was Madame Kare"nina. " Excuse me I " Your brother is here," he said, rising. but our acquaintance was so short," did not recognize you he added with a bow, " that you were not exactly sure that you remembered me?" " Oh, no " she said. " I should have known you even if your mfftushJca and I had not spoken about you all the time that we were on the way." And the gayety which she had endeavored to hide lighted her face with a smile. " But my brother does not come." " Go and call him, Al6slia," said the old countess. " OblonVronsky went out on the platform and shouted, " here
:
; !

sky

But Madame Kare'nina did not wait for her brother as soon as she saw him she ran out of the car, went straight to him, and with a gesture full of grace and energy, threw one arm around his neck and kissed him affectionately. Vronsky could not keep his eyes from her face, and smiled without knowing why. At last he remembered that his mother was waiting, and he went back into the car. " " said the countess, referring Very charming, isn't she? " Her husband to Madame Kare'nina. put her in my charge, and I was delighted. We talked all the way. Na ! and you ?
;

ANNA KARENINA.
They say vans
clier,

71

filez

tant mieux."

Tant mieux, man le parfait amour. [" You are desperately in love. So much

dear, so much the better."] know what you allude to, maman," replied the " son coldly. Come, maman. let us go." At this moment Madame Karenina came back to take leave

the better,

"

my

don't

of the countess. " Nit vot, countess you have found your son, and 1 my " and I have exhausted brother," she said gayly my whole fund of stories. I shouldn't have had any thing more to
! ;

talk about."

"Nu! not so," said the countess, taking her hand. "I You should not object to travel round the world with you. are one of those agreeable women with whom either speech As to your son, I beg of you, don't or silence is golden. think about him we must have separations in this world." Madame Karenina's eyes smiled while she stood and lis:

tened.

" she has old," said the countess in explanation to her sou him before, and it troubles her." never been separated from " Yes, we have talked about our children all the time, the countess of her son, I of mine," said Madame Kare'nina turning to Vronsky and again her face broke out into the caressing smile which fascinated him. "That must have been very tiresome," tossing lightly back the ball in this little battle of coquetry. She did not continue in the same tone, but turned to the old countess " Thank you very much. I don't see where the day has gone. An revoir, countess." " Good"Let me by, my dear," replied the countess. kiss your pretty face, and tell you frankly, as it is permitted an old lady, that I am enraptured with you."
: ; :

" Anna Arkadyevna has a

little

boy about eight

j'ears

Hackneyed as this expression was, Madame Karenina appeared touched by it. She blushed, bowed slightly, and bent her face down to the old countess. Then she gave her hand to Vronsky with the smile that seemed to belong as much to her eyes as to her lips. He pressed her little hand, and, as though it were something wonderful, was
delighted to feel its answering Madame Kare'nina went out " Very charming," said the Her sou was of the same

pressure firm and energetic. with light and rapid step.

old lady again. and again his eyes opinion
;

72

ANNA K A 11^ NINA,

followed her graceful round form till she was out of sight, and a smile came over his face. Through the window he saw her join her brother, take his arm, and engage him in lively conversation, evidently about some subject in which Vronsk y had 110 connection, and the young man was vexed. "jVtt/ has every thing gone well, maman?" he asked, turning to his mother. " Very well, indeed, splendid. Alexandre has been charmShe is very interesting." ing, and Marie has been very good. And again she began to speak of what lay close to her the baptism of her grandson, the reasons that brought heart, her to Moscow, and the special favor shown her eldest son by the emperor. "And there is Lavronty," said Vronsky, looking out the window. ;i Now let us go, if you are ready." The old servant came to tell the countess that every thing was ready, and she arose to go. " Come, there are only a few people about now," said
Vronskj*. He offered his mother his arm, while the old servant, the maid, and a porter loaded themselves with the bags and other But just as they stepped down from the car, a things. number of men with frightened faces ran by them. The station-master followed in his curiously colored furnzhka (uniform-cap). An accident had taken place, and the people who had left the train were coming back again.
!

" What is it? What is it? Where? He was thrown " were the exclamations made down he is crushed by the
!

crowd.

Stepan Arkadyevitch with his sister on his arm had returned with the others, and were standing with frightened faces near the train to avoid the crush. The ladies went back into the car, and Vronsk}" with Stepan Arkadj'eviteh went with the crowd to see what had

A train-hand, cither from drunkenness, or because his ears were too closely muffled from the intense cold to allow him to hear the noise of a tram that was backing out, had been
crushed.

happened.

The ladies had already learned about the accident from the lackej- before Vronsky and Oblonsky came back. The latter had seen the disfigured body. Oblousky was deeply
moved, and seemed ready
to shed tears.

ANNA
!
!

EAS&fTINA.

73
!

" Ach, how horrible Ach, Anna, if you had only seen it " he repeated. Ach, ho\v horrible Vronsky said nothing his handsome face was serious, but
;

absolutely impassive.

" Ach,

if

Arkadyevitch,

" I will be Vronsky looked at her, and saying, right back, maraan," he left the car. When he came back at the end of a few minutes, Stepan Arkadyevitch was talking with the countess about a new singer, and she was impatiently watching the door for her son. " Now let us go," said Vronsky. They all went out together, Vronsky walking ahead with his mother, Madame Kare'uina. and her brother side by side. At the door the station-master overtook them, and said to

was terrible to She threw herself on his body. They say that he see her. " was the only support of a large family. How terrible " " Could said Madame Kar6nany thing be done for her? ina in a whisper.
It
!

you had only seen it, countess " and' his wife is there.

' ' !

continued Stepan

Vronsky, " You have

given my assistant two hundred rubles. Will you kindly indicate the disposition that we shall make of

them?"
widow," said Vronsky, shrugging his shoulders. why you should have asked me." " " Did asked Oblonsky and pressing his you give that? " sister's arm, he said, Very kind, very kind. Glorious
his
*'

For

"

don't see

I wish you good-morning, countess." delayed with his sister looking for her maid. When they left the station, the Vronskys' carriage had already gone. People on all sides were talking about the accident.

fellow, isn't he?

He

" What a

ing near them.

it

said a gentleman, passcut in two." " It seems to me, on the " that contrary," replied another,
horrible
' k

way of dying They say he was

!

"

was a

delightful

"Why
a third.

way death was instantaneous." weren't there any precautions taken?" demanded
: ;

Madame Kare'nina stepped into the carriage and Stepan Arkadyevitch noticed, with astonishment, that her lips trembled, and that she could hardly keep back the tears. What is the matter, Anna?" he asked, when they had
goue a
little

distance.
evil

"

It is

an

omen," she answered.

74

ANNA KAR&NINA.

nonsense!" said Stepan Arkadyevitch. "You You cannot realize how that is the main thing. much 1 hope from your visit." " " Have you known Vrousky long? she asked. " Yes. You know we hope that he will marry Kitty." " Na ! now let us talk about " Really," said Anna gently. she added, shaking her head as though she wanted yourself," " Let to drive away something that troubled and pained her. I received your letter, and here us speak about your affairs.

"What

are here,

am." " Yes: " JVw/

all
tell

my
me

hope
all."

is

in

you," said Stepan Arkadyevitch.

And Stepan Arkadyevitch began his story. When they reached the house he helped his sister from the carnage, shook hands with her, and hastened back to the councilchamber.
XIX.

WHEN Anna entered, Dolly was sitting in her little reception-room, with a handsome light-haired lad, the image of his father, who was learning a lesson from a French readingbook. The boy was reading aloud, and at the same time twisting and trying to pull from his vest a button that was hanging loose. His mother had many times reproved him, but the plump little hand kept returning to the button. At last she had to take the button off, and put it in her pocket.

" Keep your hands still, Grisha," said she, and again took up the bed-quilt on which she had been long at work, and which always came handy at trying moments. She worked nervously, jerking her fingers and counting the stitches. Though she had said to her husband the day before, that his sister's arrival made no difference, nevertheless, she was ready to receive her, and was waiting for her impatiently. Dolly was absorbed by her woes, absolutely swallowed up by them. Nevertheless, she did not forget that her sisterin-law, Anna, was the wife of one of the important persona Petersburg r/rande dame. ages of St. Petersburg, And, grateful for this fact, she did not finish her remark to her husband that is, she did not forget that her sister was com" After all, Anna is not to blame," she said to herself. ing. " 1 know nothing about her that is not good, and our relations have always been good and friendly." To be sure, she
;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

75

could not do away -with the impression left by her visits with the Karenins, at Petersburg, that their home did not seem there was something false in the to her entirely pleasant " But relations of their family life. why should I not receive her? Provided, only, that she does not take it into her head to console me," thought Dolly. " I know what these Christian exhortations and consolations mean I have gone over them a thousand times, and I know that they amount
:

to nothing at all."

Dolly had spent these last days alone with her children. She did not care to speak to any one about her sorrow, and under the load of it she felt that she could not talk about indifferent matters. She knew that now she should have to open her heart to Anna, and now the thought that at last she could tell how she had suffered, delighted her and now she was pained because she must speak of her humiliations before his sister, and listen to her reasons and advice. She had been expecting every moment to see her sister-in-law appear, and had been watching the clock but, as often happens in such ca.ses, she became so absorbed in her thoughts that she did not hear the door-bell, and when light steps and the
;
;

rustling of a dress caused her to raise her head, her jaded face expressed not pleasure, but surprise. She arose, and met her guest. " she " cried, kissing her. What, have you come? " " Dolly, how glad I am to see you " And I am to see you," replied Dolly, with a faint glad smile, and trying to read, by the expression of Anna's face,
!

how much she knew.

" She knows

" Nu ! as she saw the look of compassion on her features. let us go: I will show 3*011 to your room," she went on to say, trying to postpone, as long as possible, the time for ex"Is Anna,

all,"

was her thought,

How he has grown said Heavens Then, not taking her eyes from Dolly, kissing him. she added, with a blush, " No, please don't go yet." She took off herpZa/ofc (silk handkerchief), and shaking her head with a graceful gesture, freed her dark curly locks from the band which fastened her hat.
this

planations.

Grisha?

"

How brilliantly happy and healthy you look," said Dolly, almost enviously. "I?" exclaimed Anna. "Ah! Bozhe inoi! [Good heavens !] Tania! is that you, the playmate of my little

"

76
Serozha?

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

" said she, turning to the little girl who came run" What ning in. She took her by the hand, and kissed her. But you must show them a charming little girl Charming
! !

all to

me."

She recalled, not only the name and age of each, but their characteristics and their little ailments, and Dolly could not
help feeling touched. " Nu! let us go and see them: but Vasia is asleep; it's too bad." After they had seen the children they came back to the Anna sitting-room alone, for lunch, which was waiting. began to eat her soup, and then pushing it away, said,
Dolly, he has told me." Dolly looked at Anna coldly.

"

She expected some expres-

ble. But, dushenka [dear heart], I am sorry, sorry from " the bottom of my heart Under her long lashes her brilliant eyes suddenly filled with tears. She drew closer, and with her energetic little hand seized the hand of her sister-in-law. Dolly did not repulse her, though she looked cold and haughty. "It is impossible to console me. After what has hap!

sion of hypocritical sympathy, but Anna said nothing of the kind. " " I do not intend to speak Dolly, my dear," she said, to you in defence of him, nor to console you : it is impossi-

all is over for me, all is lost." she said these words, her face suddenly softened a little. Anna lifted to her lips the thin, dry hand that she held, and kissed it.

pened,

As
"

But, Dolly, what is to be done? what is to be done? can we escape from this frightful position? must think about it." "All is over! Nothing can be done!" Dolly replied. "And, what is worse than all, you must understand it, is that I cannot leave him the children I am chained to him " and I cannot live with him It is torture to see him " Dolly, galubchik [darling], he has told me but I should like to hear your side of the Tell me all." story. She Dolly looked at her with a questioning expression. could read sympathy and the sincerest affection in Anna's

How

We

face. " I should like to," she suddenly said.

" But

I shall tell

you every thing from the very beginning.

You know how

ANNA
I

KARfiNINA.

77

I know they said husbands told their wives all about thing. their past lives; but Stiva," she corrected herself, "Stepan Arkadyevitch never told me any thing. You would not believe it, but, up to the present time, I supposed that I

was married. With the education that maman gave me, was not only innocent, I was a goose. I did not know any

was the only woman with whom he was acquainted.

I lived with

Thus

see, I not only never suspected him of being unfaithful to me, but I believed such a thing to be impossible. And with such ideas, imagine how I suffered when I suddenly learned all this horror all this

him eight years.

You

dastardliness. To believe absolutely in Understand me. his honor," continued Doll}', struggling to keep back her " and a letter from him to sobs, suddenly to find a letter, his mistress, to the governess of my children. No : this is She took her handkerchief , and hid her face. too cruel!" "I might have been able to admit a moment of temptation," she continued, after a moment's pause " but this hypocrisy, this continual attempt to deceive me And for whom?
;

you cannot comprehend." Oh, yes I comprehend 1 comprehend, my poor Dolly," said Anna, squeezing her hand. " And do you imagine that he appreciates all the horror of my situation?" continued Dolly. "Certainly not: he is happy and contented." " " He is "Oh, no interrupted Anna warmly. thoroughly " he is filled with remorse repentant " demanded " Is he capable of remorse? Dolly, scrutinizing
It is frightful
:

"

her sister-in-law's face. "Yes: I know him. I could not look at him without both of us know him. He is feeling sorry for him. kind but he is proud, and now how humiliated What touched me most [Anna knew well enough that this would touch Doll}* also] are the two things that pained him In the first place, the children and secondly, because, loving you, yes. yes, loving you more than any one else in the world," she added vehemently, to prevent Dolly from

We

"he has wounded you grievously, has interrupting her, ' almost killed you. No, no, she will never forgive me! he repeats all the time." Dolly looked straight beyond her sister, but listened to what she was saying. " Yes, I comprehend what he suffers. The guilty suffers
'

78

ANNA

KAKfiNINA.

more than the innocent, if he knows that he is the cause of But how can I forgive him? How can 1 be all the trouble. To live with him henceforth would be all his wife after the greater torment, because I still love what I used to love " And the sobs prevented her from speaking. in him after she had become a little calmer, the subject which But hurt her most cruelly involuntarily recurred to her thoughts. "She is young, you see, she is pretty," she went on to
say.

" To whom have

?

sacrificed
!

my
;

youthfulness,

my

I have served my day, For him and his children beauty and now, naturally, I have given him the best that I had some one younger and fresher than I am is more pleasing to him. They have, certainly, discussed me between them,
or, worse,

have insulted me with their silence."

jealous}'.
. .

And again her eyes expressed her " And after this will he tell me?
it?

and could

I believe

over, all that gave me recompense for my sufferings, for my sorrows. . . . Would you believe It used to be a pleasit? just now I was teaching Grisha. should I take the now it is a torment. ure to me have I children ? It is terrible, because my trouble? whole soul is in revolt instead of love, tenderness, I am filled

No, never!

it is all

Why

Why

I could kill him and with nothing but hate, yes, hate " Diishenka I but don't torDolly! I understand you ment yourself so You are too excited, too angry to see things in their right light." Dolly grew calmer, and for a few moments not a word was said. " What is to be I done, Anna? Consider and help me. have thought of every thing, but I cannot see any help." Anna herself did not see any, but her heart responded to every word, to every sorrowful gesture of her sister-in-law. " I will tell " I am his you one thing," said she at last. and I know his character, his peculiarity, of forgetting sister, this peculiarity every thing [she touched her forehead] of his which is so conducive to sudden temptation, but also to repentance. At the present moment, he does not understand how it was possible for him to have done what he did." " Not so! He does understand and he did understand," "But I? you forget me: does that interrupted Dolly. make the pain less for me? " "Wait! when he made his confession to me, I acknowledge that I did not appreciate the whole extent of your suf!

"

ANNA KARNINA*
fering.
I
;

79

the disruption of the family. I only saw one thing, was grieved but after talking with you, I, as a woman, I see your grief, and look upon it in a very different light. I cannot tell you how sorry I am. But, Dolly, diishenka, while I appreciate your misfortune there is one thing which I I do not know to what degree do not know I do not know you still love him. You alone can tell whether you love him enough to forgive him. If 3*011 do, then forgive him."
: ;

" No," began Dolly but Anna interrupted her again. "I know the world better than you do," she said. "I know how such men as Stiva look on these things. You say Don't you that they have discussed you between them.
These men can be unfaithful to their marriage it. vows, but their homes and their wives remain no less sacred in their eyes. They draw between these women whom at heart they despise and their families, a line of demarcation, which is never crossed. I cannot understand how it can be, but so it is." " " Yes, but he has kissed her "Listen, Dolly, dushenka! I saw Stiva when he was in I remember the time when he used to come love with thee. I know to to me and talk about thee with tears in his eyes. what a poetic height he raised thee, and 1 know that the longer he lived with thee the more he admired thee. We always have smiled at his habit of saying at every opportuYou have been, Doll;/ is an extraordinary woman.' nity, and you always will be, an object of adoration in his eyes, " and this passion is not a defection of his heart " " But it should begin again? supposing " "
believe
'

forgiven him? Yes, I could," said Anna say. after a moment's thought and weighing the gravity of the " I situation. could, I could, I could Yes, I could forgive him, but I should not be the same but I should forgive him, and I should forgive him in such a way as to show that the
:
!

" Yes, but would you have " I don't know I can't

It is impossible, as

think

"

past was forgotten, absolutely forgotten." "JVz/ of course," interrupted Dolly impetuously, as "otherwise it though Anna hud spoken her own thought would not be forgiveness. If you forgive, it must be abJNu ! let me show you to your room," solutely, absolutely. said she, rising, and throwing her arm around her sister-inlaw.

80

ANNA
"

KARtiNINA.

My

dear,

already lighter,

how glad I am that you came. much lighter."

My

heart

is

XX.
ANNA spent the whole day at home, that is to say, with the Oblonskys, and excused herself to all visitors, who, having The whole morning learned of her arrival, came to see her.
was given to Dolly and the children. She sent word to her " brother that he must dine at home. Come, God is merciful," was her message. Oblonsky accordingly dined at home. The conversation was general and his wife, when she spoke to him, called him The relatui (thou), which had not been the case before. tions between husband and wife remained cool, but nothing
;

more was said about a separation, and Stepau Arkadyevitch saw the possibility of a reconciliation. Her acquaintance with Kitty came in soon after dinner. Anna Arkady evna was very slight, and she was not without solicitude as to the welcome which she would receive from this great Petersburg lady whose praise was in everybody's mouth. But she soon felt that she had made a pleasing impression on Anna Arkadyevna, who was impressed with her youth and beauty, and she, on her part, immediately fell under the charm of Anna's gracious manner, as young girls do when brought into relations with women older than themselves. Besides, there was nothing about Anna which suggested a society woman or the mother of an eight-year-old son but to see her graceful form, her fresh and animated face, one would have guessed that she was a young lady of twenty, had not a serious and sometimes almost melancholy expression, which struck and attracted Kitty, come into her
;

eyes.

Kitty felt that she was perfectly natural and' sincere, but she did not deny that there was something about her that suggested a whole world of complicated and poetic interest far beyond her comprehension. After dinner Dolly went back to her room, and Anna arose and went eagerly to her "brother who was smoking a cigar. " Stiva," said she, glancing towards the door, and mak" ing the sign of the cross, go, and God help you."

He understood her, and, throwing away his cigar, disappeared behind the door.

ANNA KARNINA.

81

As soon as he had gone, Anna sat down upon a sofa surrounded by the children. Either because they saw that their mamma loved this new aunt, or because they themselves felt a drawing to her, the two eldest, and therefore the younger, in the imitative manner of children, had taken possession of her even before dinner, and now they were enjoying the rivalry of getting next to
her, of holding her hand, of kissing her, of playing with her rings, or of hanging to her dress.

Nu! let us sit as we were before," said Anna, taking her place. And Grisha, proud and delighted, thrust his head under his aunt's hand, and laid it on her knees. " And when is the ball? " she asked of Kitty. one of those balls "To-night! it will be a lovely ball, where one always has a good time." " Then there are places where one alwa3's has a good " asked Anna in a tone of gentle irony. time? ki Strange, but it is so. always enjoy ourselves at the Bobrishchefs and at the Nikitins, but at the Mezhkofs it is " always dull. Haven't you ever noticed that?

" Nn!

We

" " No, dusha [my soul], no ball could be amusing to me and again Kitty saw in her eyes that unknown world, which had not yet been revealed to her. " For me they are all more or less tiresome." " " How could you find a ball tiresome?
;

" And why should not / find a

ball tiresome?

"

Kitty perceived that Anna foresaw what her answer be, " ' ' Because }"ou are always the loveliest of all
!

would

it

she blushed now, and said, " In the first and in the second, place, that is not true were, it would not make any difference."

Anna

blushed easily

if

to this ball? asked Kitty. think that I would rather not go. Here! take this," said she to Tania, who was amusing herself by drawing off her rings from her delicate white fingers. " I should be delighted if you would go I should like to see you at a ball." " Well, if I have to go, I shall console myself with the Grisha, don't pull thought that I am making you happy. my hair down! it is disorderly enough now," said she, adjusting the net with which the lad was playing.

" Won't you go

"

"I

82

ANNA
"
"
I should imagine

KARfiNINA.

you at a ball dressed in violet." " Nu! violet?" asked Anna, smiling. children, Don't you hear? Miss Hull is calling run away, run away. you to tea," said she, sending the children out to the dining-

Why in

room.

"I know why you want me

to

go

to the ball.

You

ex-

pect something wonderful to happen at this ball, and you are anxious for us all to be there.*' " " How did you know? You are right " "I " a lovely age is ours continued Anna. Oh, what remember well that purple haze which resembles that which you see hanging over the mountains in Switzerland. This haze covers every thing in that delicious time when childhood ends, and through it every thing looks beautiful and And then, by and by appears a footpath which joyous. leads up to those heights, where every thing is bright and Who has not passed through it? " beautiful. " How did she pass through Kitty listened and smiled. How I should like to know the whole romance of her it?
!
!

life

thought Kitty, remembering the uupoetic appearance of her husband, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. " Stiva told " I know a thing or two," continued Anna. me, and I congratulate you lie pleased me very much. I met Vronsky this morning, at the station."
!

"

"Ach! was he there?" asked Kitty, blushing. "What did Stiva tell you ? " Stiva told me the whole and I should be destory I came from Petersburg with Vronsky 's mother," lighted she continued; "and his mother never ceased to speak of him. He is her favorite. I know how partial mothers are,
' ' ;
!

but"
" What did " Ach!
his

mother
;

tell

you?

"

things and I know that he is her favorite. Nu! for example, But still, he has a chivalrous nature. she told me how he wanted to give up his whole fortune to his brother how he did something still more wonderful when he was a boy saved a woman from drowning. In a word, " said Anna, smiling, and remembering the two he is a hero hundred rubles which he had given at the station. But she did not tell about the two hundred rubles. The memory of it was not entirely satisfactory, for she felt that his action concerned herself too closely. "The countess urged me to come to see her," continued

many

ANNA
I will

KARtiNINA.

83

" and I should be Anna, very happy to meet her again and Thank the Lord, Stiva remains a long go to-morrow. time with Dolly in the library," she added, changing the
subject, and, as Kitty perceived, looking a little vexed. " I'll be the first. No, I," cried the children, who had just finished their supper, and came running to their aunt

Anna. " All

them.

She seized them and piled them and screaming with delight.

together," she said, laughing, and running to meet in a heap, struggling

XXI.

" I should like to have dressing Anna. you come down and be near me." "Ach! don't worry about me, I beg of you," repiied Anna, trying to divine by Dolly's face if there had been a
reconciliation.

AT tea-time Dolly came out of her room. Stepan Arkadyevitch was not with her he had left his wife's chamber by the rear door. "I am afraid you will be cold up-stairs," said Dolly, ad:

"Perhaps
sister-in-law.

it

would be too

light for

you here," said her

"
as a

assure you, I sleep anywhere and everywhere as sound

is

woodchuck."
it?" asked Stepan Arkadyevitch, coming
his wife.
in,

"What

and addressing

By the tone of his voice, both Kitty and Anna knew that the reconciliation had taken place. " I wanted to install Anna here, but we should have to put up some curtains. No one knows how to do it, and so I must," said Dolly, in reply to her husband's question. "God knows if they have made up," thought Anna, as she noticed Dolly's cold and even tone.
hills

" Ach! don't, Dolh', don't make mountains out of moleNu! if you like, I will fix ever3" thing " " " it must have been settled." Yes," thought Anna, " I know how fix things," said Dolly, with a mocking you " smile you give Matve an order which he does not understand, and then you go out, and he gets every thing into a
!

tangle."

84
"

ANNA
!

KAIltfNINA,

Anna.

and me?" said Stepan Arkadyevitch to his wife with an almost imperceptible smile. Throughout the evening Dolly, as usual, was lightly ironical towards her husband, and he was happy and gay, but within bounds, and as though he wanted to make it evident that even if he had obtained pardon he had not forgotten

Complete, complete reconciliation, complete," thought " Thank God " and, rejoicing that she had accomher purpose, she went up to Dolly and kissed her. plished "Not by any means. Why have you such scorn for

Matve

his sins.

About half-past nine a particularly animated and pleasant conversation was going on at the tea-table, when an incident occurred that, apparently of the slightest importance, seemed to each member of the family to be very strange. They were talking about some one of their acquaintances
in St. Petersburg,

when Anna suddenly

arose.

have her picture in my album," she said; "and at the same time I will show you my little Serozha," she added,
with a smile of maternal pride. It was usually about ten o'clock when she bade her son Oftentimes she herself put him to bed be foregood-night. she went out to parties, and now she felt a sensation of sadness to be so far from him. No matter what she was speaking about, her thoughts reverted alwaj'S to her little curly-haired Serozha, and the desire seized her to go and look at his picture, and to talk about him. She immediately left the room with her light, decided step. The stairs to her

"I

room

started from the landing-place in the large staircase, which led from the heated hall. Just as she went after the album the front door-bell rang. " Who can that be? " said Dolly. " It is too early to come after me, and too late for a call," remarked Kitty. "Doubtless somebody with papers forme," said Stepan

Arkadyevitch.

As Anna came down towards the staircase she saw the servant going to announce a visitor, while the latter stood in the light of the hall-lamp, and was waiting. Anna leaned over the railing, and saw that it was Vronsky. strange sensation of joy, mixed with terror, suddenly seized her He was standing with his coat on, and was searching heart. his pockets for something. At the moment that Anna

ANNA KAR&NINA.

85

reached the central staircase, he lifted his eyes, perceived her, and his face assumed an expression of humility and She bowed her head slightly in salutation and confusion. as she descended, she heard Stepan Arkadyevitch' s loud voice calling him to come in, and then Vronsky's low, soft,
;

and tranquil voice excusing himself.

When Anna reached the room with the album, he had gone, and Stepan Arkadyevitch was telling how he came to see about a dinner which they were going to give the next day in honor of some celebrity who was in town. "And nothing would induce him to come in. What a
said Stepan Arkadyevitch. queer fellow She thought that she alone understood Kitty blushed. what he had come for, and why he would not come in. " He must have been at our " and not house," she thought, but he did finding any one, have supposed that I was here not come in because it was late and Anna here." Everybody exchanged glances, but nothing was said, and they began to examine Anna's album. There was nothing extraordinary in a man coming about half-past nine o'clock in the evening to ask information of a friend, and not coming in yet to everybody it seemed
! ;

"

strange, and

than to

seemed more strange and unpleasant anybody else.

it

to

Anna

XXII.

THE ball was just beginning when Kitty and her mother mounted the grand staircase brilliantly lighted and adorned with flowers, on which stood powdered lackeys in red livery.
From
the ante-room, as they were giving the last touches to a noise like the humming of a bee-hive and the scraping of violins as the orchestra was tuning up for the first waltz. little old man who was laboriously arranging his thin white locks at another mirror, and who exhaled a penetrating odor of perfumes, looked at Kitty with admiration. He had climbed the staircase with them, and allowed them to beardless young man, such as the old pass before him. Prince Shcherbatsky would have reckoned among the simpletons, wearing a very low-cut vest and a white necktie which he adjusted as he walked, bowed to them, and then came to ask Kitty for a quadrille. The first dance was
their toilets before a mirror, they could hear

86

ANNA

KAIifiNlNA.

she was obliged to already promised to Vronsky, and so An officer buttoncontent the young man with the second. near the door of the ball-room ing his gloves was standing he cast a glance of admiration at Kitty, and caressed his
:

mustache.
her toilet, her dress, Kitty had been greatly exercised by but no one would have all the preparations for this ball ball-room in her imagined such a thing to see her enter the overdress. complicated robe of tulle with its rose-colored She wore her ruches and her laces so easily and naturally that one might almost believe that she had been born in this lace-trimmed ball-dress, and with a rose placed on the Kitty was looking her prettiest. top of her graceful head. Her dress was not too tight her rosettes were just as she liked to have them, and did not pull off; her rose-colored slippers with their high heels did not pinch her, but were agreeable to her feet. All the buttons on her long gloves which enveloped and enhanced the beauty of her hands fastened easily, and did not tear. The black velvet ribbon, attached to a medallion, was thrown daintily about and at home, as her neck. This ribbon was charming she saw it in her mirror adorning her neck, Kitty felt that this ribbon spoke. Every thing else might be dubious, but this ribbon was charming. Kitty smiled, even there at the As she saw her shoulders ball, as she saw it in the mirror. and her arms, Kitty felt a sensation of marble coolness which pleased her. Her eyes shone and her rosy lips could not refrain from smiling with the consciousness of how charming she was. She had scarcely entered the ball-room and joined a group of ladies covered with tulle, ribbons, lace, and flowers, who were waiting for partners. Kitty did not belong to the when she was invited to waltz with the best dancer, number, the principal cavalier in the whole hierarchy of the ball-room, the celebrated leader of the mazurka, the master of ceremonies, the handsome, elegant Yegorushka Korsunsky, a married man. He had just left the Countess Bonina, with whom he opened the ball, and as soon as he perceived Kitty, he made his way to her in that easy manner peculiar to leaders of the mazurka, and without even asking her permission put his arm around the young girl's slender waist. She looked for some one to whom to confide her fan and the mistress of the mansion, smiling upon her, took charge of it.

and

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

87

" How "I good of you to come early," said Korsunsky. don't like the fashion of being late." Kitty placed her left hand on her partner's shoulder, and her little feet, shod in rose-colored bashmaks, glided lightly and rhythmically over the polished floor. "It is restful to dance with you," said he as he fell into " the slow measures of the waltz charming such lightness " such precision ! This is what he said to almost all his
:
!

dancing acquaintances. Kitty smiled at this eulogium, and continued to study the This was not her ball-room across her partner's shoulder. first appearance in society, and she did not confound all faces in one magic sensation, nor was she so surfeited with balls as to know every one present, and be tired of seeing them. She noticed a group that had gathered in the left-

hand corner of the ball-room, composed of the very flowers of society. There was Korsunsky's wife, Lidi, a beauty in outrageously low-cut corsage there was the mistress of the mansion there was Krivin with shiny bald head, who was always to be seen where the cream of society was gathered. There also were gathered the young men looking on, and not Her eyes fell upon Stiva. and then venturing upon the floor. she saw Anna's elegant figure dressed in black velvet. And he was there. Kitty had not seen him since the evening when she refused Levin. Kitty discovered him from afar, and saw that he was looking at her. " " Shall we have one more turn? You are not fatigued? asked Korsunsky, slightly out of breath.
; ;

" lS o, thank you." " " "Where shall I leave you? " I think Madame Kardnina is here " Anywhere that you please."
r

take

me

to her."

And Korsunsky,
step,

still

made

his

he went, u Pardon, mesdames ; pardon, pardon, mesdames ; and steering skilfully through the sea of laces, tulle, and ribbons, placed her in a chair after a final turn, which gave a glimpse of dainty blue stockings, and threw her train over Krivin's knees, half burying him under a cloud of tulle. Korsunsky bowed, then straightened himself up, and offered Kitty his arm to conduct her to Anna Arkadyevna. Kitty, blushing a little, freed Krivin from the folds of her train and, just a trifle dizzy, went iu search of Madame Kareniua.
1

way toward

waltzing with Kitty but with a slower the group on the left, saying as "

88

ANNA

KAJttiNINA.

not dressed in violet, as Kitty had hoped, but in a low-cut black velvet gown, which showed her ivory shoulders, Her robe her beautiful round arms, and her dainty wrists. was adorned with Venetian guipure on her head, gracefully and a set on her dark locks, was a wreath of mignonette similar bouquet was fastened in her breast with a black ribbon. Her hair was dressed very simply there was nothing remarkable about it except the abundance of little natural curls, which strayed in fascinating disorder about her neck and She wore a string of pearls about her firm round temples. throat. Kitty had seen Anna every day, and was delighted with her; but now that she saw her dressed in black, instead of the violet which she had expected, she thought that she She saw her never before had appreciated her full beaut}'. She confessed that violet in a new and unexpected light. would not have been becoming to her, but that her charm consisted entirely in her independence of toilet that her toilet was only an accessory, and her black robe showing her splendid shoulders was only the frame in which she appeared simple, natural, elegant, and at the same time full of gayety and animation. When Kitty joined her, she was standing in her usual erect attitude, talking with the master of the house, her head lightly bent towards him. " No I would not cast the first stone," she was saying to him, and then, perceiving Kitty, she received her with an affectionate and re-assuring smile. With a quick, comprehensive glance, she approved of the young girl's toilet, and gave her an appreciative nod, which Kitty understood. "You even dance into the ball-room," she said. " She is the most indefatigable of my aids," said Korsun"The princess makes sky, addressing Anna Arkady evna. any ball-room gay and delightful. Anna Arkadyevna, will " you take a turn? he asked, with a bow. " " Ah said the host. you are acquainted? " Who is it we don't are like know, my wife and I? white wolves, everybody knows us," replied Korsunsky.

Anna was

We

Anna Arkadyevna? " " I don't dance when I can help it," she replied. " But you can't help it to-night." said Korsunsky. At this moment Vrousky joined them. "Nu! if I can't help dancing, let us dance," said she, placing her hand on Korsuusky's shoulder, and not replying
"

A little waltz,

to Vronsky's salutation.

ANNA
"Why
is

KARfiNINA.

89

him?" thought Kitty, noticing paid no attention to Vronsky's bow. Vronsky joined Kitty, reminded her that she was engaged to him for the first quadrille, and expressed regret that he had not seen her for so long. Kitty, while she was looking with admiration at Anna in the mazes of the waltz, listened to Vronsky. She expected that he would invite her but he did nothing of the sort, and she looked at him with astonishment. He blushed, and with some precipitation suggested that they should waltz but they had scarcely taken the first step,
she vexed with
that

Anna purposely

the music stopped. Kitty looked into his close to her own, and for many a long day, even after years had passed, the loving look which she gave him and which he did not return tore her heart with cruel

when suddenly face, which was

shame.

" Pardon! Pardon!

at the other

waltz

a waltz

end of the ball-room, and, seizing the lady at hand, he began once more to dance.

" cried Korsunsky first young

XXIII.

VRONSKY took a few turns with Kitty, then she joined her mother and after a word or two with the Countess Nordstoue, Vronsky came back to get her for the first quadrille. In the intervals of the dance they talked of unimportant trifles, now of Korsunsky and his wife whom Vronsky described
;

as amiable children of forty years, now of some private theand only once did his words give her a keen pang, when he asked if Levin were there, and added that he liked him very much. But Kitty counted little on the quadrille it was the mazurka which she waited for, with a violent beatShe had been told that the mazurka gening of the heart. erally settled all such questions. Though Vronsky did not ask her during the quadrille, she felt sure that she would be selected as his partner for the mazurka as in all preceding balls. She was so sure of it that she refused five invitaThis whole ball, even tions, saying that she was engaged. to the last quadrille, seemed to Kitty like a magical dream, full of flowers, of joyous sounds, of movement she did not cease to dance until her strength began to fail, and then she begged to rest a moment. But in dancing the last quadrille with one of those tiresome men whom she found it impossible
atricals
;

90
to refuse, she

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

found herself vis-a-vis to Vronsky and Anna.

Kitty had not fallen in with Anna since the beginning of the ball, and now she suddenly seemed to her in another new and

unexpected light. She seemed laboring under an excitement that of success, such as Kitty herself had experienced, which seemed to intoxicate her as though she had partaken too freely of wine. Kitty understood the sensation, and recognized the symptoms in Anna's brilliant and animated eyes, her joyous and triumphant smile, her parted lips, a'nd her harmonious and graceful movements. " Who has caused it? " she asked herself. " All, or one? " She would not come to the aid of her unhappy partner, who was struggling to renew the broken thread of conversation and though she submitted with apparent good grace to the loud orders of Korsunsky, shouting "Ladies' chain" and "All hands around," she watched her closely, and her heart " No, it is not the approval oppressed her more and more. of the crowd which has so intoxicated her, but the admiraWho is it? Can it be he? " Every time tion of the one.
;

" Can it be he? " She looked at him, thought Kitty. and was horror-struck. The sentiments that were reflected on Anna's face as in a mirror, were also visible on his.
face.

that Vronsky spoke to Anna, her eyes sparkled, and a smile of happiness parted her ruby lips. She seemed anxious to hide this joy, but nevertheless happiness was painted on her

Where were his coolness, his calm dignity, the repose which always marked his face? Now, as he addressed his partner, his head bent as though he were ready to worship her. and his look expressed at once humility and passion, as though " / would not it said, I would save my heart, and offend you. how can I? " Such was the expression of his face, and she had never before seen it in him. Their conversation was made up of trifles, and yet Kitty felt that every trifling word decided her fate. Strange as it might seem, they, too, in jesting about Ivan Ivanitch's droll French and of Miss Eletska's marriage, found in every word a peculiar meaning which they understood as well as Kitty. In the poor girl's mind, the ball, the whole evening, every thing, seemed enveloped in mist. Only the force of her education sustained her, and enabled her to do her duty, that is to say, to dance, to answer questions, even to smile. But as soon as the mazurka began, and the chairs had been arranged, and the smaller rooms were all deserted in favor of

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

91

the great ball-room, a sudden attack of despair and terror She had refused five invitations, she had no seized her. partner and the last chance was gone, for the very reason that her social success would make it unlikely to occur to any one that she would be without a partner. She would have to tell her mother that she was not feeling well, and go home, but it seemed impossible. She felt as though she would sink through the floor. She took refuge in a corner of a boudoir, and threw herThe airy skirts of her robe enveloped self into an arm-chair. One bare arm, as yet a her delicate figure as in a cloud. little thin, but dainty, fell without energy, and lay in the with the other she fanned folds of her rose-colored skirt herself nervously. But while she looked like a lovely butter; :

caught amid grasses, and read}- to spread its trembling wings, a horrible despair oppressed her heart. " But perhaps I am mistaken perhaps it is not so." And again she recalled what she had seen. " said the Countess Nord"Kitty, what docs this mean? stone, coming to her with noiseless steps. Kitty's lips quivered she hastily arose.
fly
: :

"

Kitty, aren't
I

" you dancing the mazurka?

no," she replied, with trembling voice. heard him invite her for the mazurka," said the count" She ess, knowing that Kitty would know whom she meant. What! aren't you going to dance with the Princess said, " Shcherbatskaia?'

"No,
"
'

it's all one to me," said Kitty. besides herself should learn of her trouble. No one should know that she had refused a man whom perhaps she refused him because she preferred some one else. loved, The countess went in search of Korsunskj', who was her partner for the mazurka, and sent him to invite Kitty. Fortunately, Kitty, who danced in the first figure, was not obliged to talk Korsunsky, in his quality of leader, was obliged to be ubiquitous. Vronsky and Anna were nearly opposite to her she saw them sometimes near, sometimes at a distance, as their turn brought them into the figures and as she watched them, she felt more and more certain that her cup of sorrow was full. She saw that they felt themselves alone even in the midst of the crowded room and on Vronsky's face, usually so impassive and calm, she remarked that mingled expression of humility and fear, such as strikes

" Ach!

No one

02
one
If
in

ANNA
an intelligent

KARtiNINA.

Anna

done wrong. clog, conscious of having smiled, his smile replied if she became thoughtful,
:

he looked serious. An almost supernatural power seemed She was charming to attract Kitty's gaze to Anna's face. in her simple black velvet charming were her round arms, clasped by bracelets charming her exquisite neck, encircled with pearls charming her dark, curly locks breaking from restraint charming the slow and graceful movements of her feet and hands charming her lovely face, full of animation but in all this charm there was something terrible and cruel. her pain Kitty admired her more than ever, even while
; ;
;

increased.

She

felt

crushed, and her face told the

story.

When Vronsky

passed her, in some figure of the mazurka, he hardly knew her, so much had she changed. " Lovely ball," he said, so as to say something. " Yes," was her reply. Towards the middle of the mazurka, in a complicated figure recently invented by Korsunsky, Anna was obliged to leave the circle, and call out two gentlemen and two ladies She looked at Anna, and approached her Kitty was one. with dismay. Anna, half shutting her eyes, looked at her with a smile, and pressed her hand then noticing the expression of melancholy surprise on Kitty's face, she turned to the other lady, and began to talk to her in animated tones. "Yes, there is some terrible, almost infernal attraction about her," said Kitty to herself. Anna did not wish to remain to supper, but the host in: ;

sisted.

"

Do
"

stay,

Anna Arkadj^evna,"
" Such a

her on the arm.

bijou!

cotillion

said Korsunsky, touching I have in mind! Un

[A jewel]. the master of the house, looking on with a smile, encouraged his efforts to detain her. "No, I cannot stay," said Anna, also smiling; but in spite of her smile the two men understood by the determination in her voice that she would not stay. " No, for I have danced here in Moscow at this single ball more than all winter in Petersburg " and she turned towards "one must rest Vronsky, who was standing near her:

And

" " And so he said. you must go back to-morrow? "Yes: I think so," replied Anna, as though surprised at the boldness of his question. But while she was speaking

after a journey."

ANNA KARNINA.
to him, the brilliancy of her eyes

93
set his heart

and her smile

on

fire.

Anna Arkadyevna
departure.

did not stay for supper, but took her

XXIV.
" YES, there must be something repulsive about me," thought Levin, as he left the Shcherbatskys, and went in I am not popular with men. search of his brother. They say it is pride. No, I am not proud if I had been proud, I should not have put myself in my present situation." And he imagined himself to be a happy, popular, calm, witty Vronsky, with strength enough to avoid such a terrible
' k
:

" Yes, position as he had put himself into on that evening. she naturally chose him, and I have no right to complain about any one or any thing. I am the only person to blame. What right had I to think that she would unite her life with mine? Who am I? and what am I? man useful to no

one,

a good-for-nothing."

Then the memory of his brother Nikolai' came back to " A\r as he not him. right in saying that every thing in this world was miserable and wretched? Have we been just in our judgment of brother Nikolai? Of course, in the eyes of Prokofi, who saw him drunk and in ragged clothes, he is a miserable creature but I judge him differently. I know
;

his heart, and I know that we are alike. And I, instead of " going to find him, have been out dining, and to this party
!

Levin read his brother's address in the light of a streetlamp, and called an izvoshchik (hack-driver). While on the way, he recalled one by one the incidents of Nikolai's life. He remembered how at the university, and for a year after
his graduation, he

had lived

like a

monk notwithstanding

the

ridicule of his comrades, strictly devoted to all the forms of religion, services, fasts, turning his back on all pleasures,

and especially women, and then how he had suddenly turned around, and fallen into the company of people of the lowest lives, and entered upon a course of dissipation and debauchery. He remembered his conduct towards a lad whom he had taken from the country to bring up, and whom he whipped so severely in a fit of anger that he narrowly escaped being transported for mayhem. He remembered his conduct towards a swindler whom he had given a bill of

94
exchange

ANNA
:

KAEfiNINA.

in payment of a gambling debt, and whom he had caused to be arrested this was, in fact, the bill of exchange which Sergei Ivanuitch had just paid. He remembered the on account of a night spent by Nikolai at the station-house the scandalous lawsuit against his brother Serg6i spree Ivanuitch, because the latter had refused to pay his share of and finally he recalled his last their maternal inheritance adventure, when, having taken a position in one of the Western governments, he was dismissed for assaulting a superior. All this was detestable, but the impression on Levin was less odious than it would be on those who did not know Nikolai', did not know his history, did not know his heart. Levin did not forget how at the time that Nikolai was seeking to curb the evil passions of his nature by devotions, fasting, prayers, and other religious observances, no one had approved of it, or aided him, but how, on the contrary, every one, even himself, had turned it into ridicule they had Then when mocked him, nicknamed him Noah, the monk he had fallen, no one had helped him, but all had fled from him with horror and disgust. Levin felt that his brother Nikolai at the bottom of his heart, in spite of all the deformity of his life, could not be so very much worse than those who despised him. " I will go and find him, and tell him every thing, and show him that I love him, and think about him," said Levin to himself, and about eleven o'clock in the evening he bade the driver take him to the hotel indicated on
; ; :
!

the address.

"Up-stairs, No. 12 and 13," said the Swiss, in reply to Levin's question. "Is he at home?"

"Probably." of No. 12 was ajar, and from the room came the dense fumes of inferior tobacco. Levin heard an unknown

The door

voice speaking
his cough.

then he recognized his brother's presence by

When
saying,
in

he entered the door, he heard the

unknown
is

voice

"All depends upon whether a proper and rational manner."

the affair

conducted

Konstantin Levin glanced through the doorwa}*, and saw

that the speaker was a

young man, clad like a peasant, and with an enormous shapka on his head. On the sofa was sitting a young woman, with pock-marked face, and dressed in a woollen gown without collar or cuffs. Konstantin' s heart

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

95

sank to think of the strange people with whom his brother No one heard him and while he was removing associated. his goloshes, he listened to what the man in the doublet said. He was speaking of some enterprise under consideration. "Nu! the Devil take the privileged classes!" said his brother's voice, after a n't of coughing. O O " Masha, see if you can't get us something to eat, and bring some wine if there's any left: if not, go for some." The woman arose, and as she came out of the inner room,
;

she saw Konstantin.

"A gentleman here, Nikolai Dmitritch," she cried. " What is wanted?" said the voice of Nikolai' Levin angrily" It's I," replied

Konstantin, appearing at the door. repeated Nikolai's voice, still more angrily. sound of some one quickly rising and stumbling against something, and then Konstantin saw his brother standing before him at the door, infirm, tall, thin, and bent, with great startled eyes. He was still thinner than when Konstantin last saw him, three years before. He wore a short overcoat.

"Who's

I?

"

His hands and his bony frame seemed to him more colossal His hair was cut close, his mustaches stood out straight from his lips, and his e} es glared at his visitor with
than ever.
T

" Ah, Kostia he cried, suddenly recognizing his brother, and his eyes shone with joy. But in an instant he turned towards his brother, and only made a quick, convulsive motion of his head and neck, as though his cravat choked him, a gesture well known to Konstantin, and at the same time an entirely different expression, savage and cruel, swept
!

a strange, uncanny light. "

over his pinched features. "I wrote both to you and to Sergei Tvanuitch that I do not know you, nor wish to know you. What dost thou, what do you, want? " He was not at all such as Konstantin had imagined him. The hard and wild elements of his character, which made family relationship difficult, had faded from Konstantiu Levin's memory whenever he thought about him and now when he saw his face and the characteristic convulsive motions of his head, he remembered it. " But I wanted nothing of you except to see you," he I only came to see you." replied, a little timidly.
;

'

His brother's diflideuce apparently disarmed

Nikolai'.

96

ANNA

"Ah! did you?" said he. "Nu! come in, sit down. Do you want some supper? Masha, bring enough for three. " he asked, pointing No, hold on Do you know who this is?
!

"This gentleman is Mr. in the doublet. Kritsky, a friend of mine from Kief, a very remarkable man. It seems the police are after him, because he is not a coward." And he looked, as he always did after speaking, at
to the

young man

all

who were in who stood at the

the room.

door,

Then seeing that the woman, was about to leave, he shouted,

"Wait, I tell you." Then with his blundering, ignorant mode of speech, which Konstantin knew so well, he began to narrate the whole story of Kritsky's life how he had been driven from the univer;

because he had tried to found an aid society and Sunday schools among the students how afterwards he had been appointed teacher in the primary school, only to be dismissed and how finally they had tried him for something or
sity,
;

other.

" Were asked Konstantin you at the University of Kief? of Kritsky, in order to break the awkward silence. "Yes, at Kief," replied Kritsky curtly, with a frown. " And this woman," cried Nikolai Levin, with a gesture, " is the companion of my life, Marya Nikolayevna. I found "but I love her, her," he said, shrugging his shoulders, and I esteem her and all who want to know me, must love her and esteem her. She is just the same as my wife, just the same. Thus you know with whom you have to do. And " if you think that And you lower yourself, there's the door again his questioning eyes looked about the room. "I do not understand how I should lower nryself." "All right, Masha, bring us up enough for three, some vodka and wine. No, wait no matter, though go
;
!

"

XXV. "As you see," continued Nikolai Levin, frowning, and speaking with effort. So great was his agitation that he did " " But do not know what to do or to say. and he you see? to the corner of the room where lay some iron bars pointed " Do attached to straps. you see that? That is the beginof a new work which we are This work ning undertaking. belongs to a productive labor association."

ANNA
sick,

KARtiNlNA.
:

97

Konstantin scarcely listened he was looking at his brother's consumptive face, and his pity grew upon him, and he could not heed what his brother was saying about the labor He saw that the work was only an anchor of association.
Nikolai' safety to keep him from absolute self-abasement. went on to say, " You know that capital is crushing the laborer : the laboring classes with us are the muzhiks, and they bear the whole weight of toil ; and no matter how they exert themselves, they can never get above their condition of laboring cattle. All the advantages that their productive labor creates, all that could better their lot, give them leisure, and therefore instruction, all their superfluous profits, are swallowed up by the capitalists. And society is so constituted that the harder they work, the more the proprietors and the merchants fatten at their expense, while they remain beasts of burden still. And this must be changed." He finished speaking, and looked at his brother. " Yes, of course," replied Konstantin, looking at the pink spots which burned in his brother's hollow cheeks. "And we are organizing an artel of locksmiths where all will be in common, work, profits, and even the tools." " Where will this artel be situated? " asked Konstantin. " In the village of Vozdrem, government of Kazan." " Yes, but why in a village? In the villages, it seems to me, there is plenty of work : why associated locksmiths in a

" Because the muzhiks are serfs, just as much as they ever were, and you and Serge" i Ivanuitch don't like it because we want to free them from this slavery," replied Nikolai, vexed by his brother's question. While he spoke, Konstantin was looking about the melancholy, dirty room he sighed, and his sigh made Nikolai' still more angry. " I know the aristocratic prejudices of such men as you and Sergei Ivanuitch. I know that he is spending all the strength of his mind in defence of the evils which crush us." " " No but why do you speak of Serge" Ivanuitch? asked
:

village?"

Levin, smiling. " This Serge"i Ivanuitch? mention of Serge" i Ivanuitch

is

is

"
!

why

" cried Nikolai

this is

why

the

good?

tell

You

despise

all

he cried, rising

what did you come this very good Go away, for God's sake," " from his chair, "go away go away
this
; !

me

at the yet what here for?

98
"
I don't despise

ANNA

KAKtiNINA.
:

any thing," said Konstantin gently

"

only refrain from discussing." At this moment Mary a Nikolayevna came in. Nikolai' turned towards her angrily, but she quickly stepped up to him, and whispered a few words in his ear. " I am not well, I easily become irritable," he explained, " and calmer, and breathing with difficulty, you just spoke to me about Sergei Ivanuitch and his article. It is so utterly How can a man, who insane, so false, so full of error. knows nothing about justice, write on the subject? Have

you read

said he, turning to Kritsky, and then, going to the table, he brushed off the half-rolled cigarettes. " 1 have not read it," replied Kritsky with a gloomy face, evidently not wishing to take part in the conversation.
his article?

"

" " Why? demanded Nikolai' irritably. " Because I don't care to waste my time." " That is, excuse me how do you know that it would be a waste of time? For many people this article is un-rjet-atBut I find it different I see able, because it is above them. the thoughts through and through, and know wherein it is weak." No one replied. Kritsky immediately arose, and took his
:
!

shapka.

Come "Won't you take some lunch? Nu! good-by to-morrow with the locksmith." Kritsky had hardly left the room, when Nikolai' smiled and winked. " " He is to be but I see pitied
;

Kritsky, calling at the door, interrupted him. "What do you want?" he asked, joining him in the corridor. Left alone with Mary a Nikolayevna, Levin said to
her,

" " Have you been long with my brother? " This is the second His health has become very year.
:

feeble

Yes," said she, looking timidly towards the door where was just entering. "What were you talking about?" he demanded with a scowl, and looking from one to the other with angry eyes. "Tell me."
Nikolai' Levin

" " " "

What do you mean? " He drinks vodka, and it is bad Does he drink too much? "

he drinks a great deal,'

'

she said.
for

him."

ANNA KAR&NINA.
!

99

" Oh nothing," replied Konstantin in confusion. " You don't want to answer: till But you right! don't.
have no business to be talking with her she is a girl, you a gentleman," he shouted with the twitching of his neck. "I see that you have understood ever}' thing, and judged every thing, and that you look with scorn on the errors of my
:

ways." He went on speaking, raising his voice. " "Nikolai Dmitritch Nikolai Dmitriteh close to him. Marya Nikolayevna, coming
! !

murmured

Supper, then? ah! very good, very good. a servant entering with a platter. "Here! put it here! " he said crossly, then, taking the vodka, he poured out a glass, and drank it eagerly. "Will you have a drink?" he asked his brother. The sudden cloud had passed. " Nu! no more about I am very glad Sergei Ivanuitch Henceforth people can't si\.y that we are not to see you. friends. Nu! drink! Tell me what you are doing," he said, taking a piece of bread, and pouring out a second glass.
. . .

"Nut
it

here

is," he said, seeing

"

How
"

do you

live?

"

alone in the country as I alwa}-s have, and busy myself with farming," replied Konstantiu, looking with terror at the eagerness with which his brother ate and drank, and trying to hide his impressions. " " Why don't you get married? " I have not come to that yet," replied Konstantin, blushI live

ing.

"Da! (Yes). Tell me what is doing at Pokrovsky. Is the house just the same ? and the birches and our study-room ? Is Filipp, the gardener^ still alive? How I remember the summer-house and the sofa Da ! don't let any thing in the house be changed, but get a wife right away, and begin to live as you used to. I will come to visit you if you will get a good wife."
!

so? For me I have wasted my it's all over! This I have said, and always shall say, that, if they had given me my share of the estate when I needed it, my whole life would have been different." Konstantin hastened to change the conversation. " Did you know that your Vaniushka [Jack] is with me at Pokrov" he said. Nikolai's neck twitched, and sky as book-keeper? he sank into thought.

"Why
!

life

100

ANNA KAR&NINA.
"How
well
' ' !

" Then come now with me," said Konstantin.

we would

get along together " 1 would come if I weren't afraid of meeting Sergei Ivauuitch." " You would not meet him I live absolutely independent of him."
:

"Yes; but whatever you say, you would have to choose between him and me," said Nikolai, looking timorously in This timidity touched Konstantin. his brother's eyes. " If you want to hear my whole confession as to this matI will tell you that 1 take sides neither with you nor You are both in the wrong but with him in your quarrel. in your case the wrong is external, while in his the wrong is

ter,

inward."

"Ha, ha! Do you understand it? do you understand it?" cried Nikolai with an expression of joy.
" But
I,

for

my

part,

if

your friendship higher because

you would "

like to

know, value

"Why? why?"
Konstantin could not say that it was because Nikolai was but Nikolai understood that sick, and heeded his friendship that was what he meant, and, frowning darkly, he betook himself to the vodka. " cried Marya Nikola"Enough, Nikolai Dmitritch her great pudgy hand on the decanter. yevna, laying " Let me alone don't bother me, or I'll strike you," he
; !
!

cried.

Marya Nikolayevna smiled with her gentle and goodnatured smile, which pacified NikolaY, and she took the vodka. "There! Do 3-011 think that she does not understand " " She understands this said Nikolai. thing better things? than all of you. Isn't there something about her good and
gentle?" " said Kon" Haven't you ever been in Moscow before? stantin, in order to say something to her. ".Do/ don't say vui [you] to her. It frightens her. No one said vui to her except the justice of the peace, when they had her up because she wanted to escape from the house of ill fame where she was. My God how senseless " he suddenly exclaimed. " These every thing is in this world
!

new

" what abominations

!

institutions, these

justices of the peace, the zemstoo,

ANNA KAll
And
tutions.

NINA.
new

101
insti-

he began to relate his experiences with the

;

and the criticisms on the Kunstantin listened to him absurdity of the new institutions, which he had himself often expressed, now that he heard them from his brother's lips, seemed disagreeable to him. shall find out all about it in the next world,' he said jestingly. " In the next world? Och! I don't like your next world, I don't like it," he repeated, fixing his timid, haggard eyes on his brother's face. " And }-et it would seem good to go from these abominations, this chaos, from this unnatural state of things, from one's self but I am afraid of death, horribly " He shuddered. " Da! drink afraid of death something Would you like some champagne ? or would you rather go out somewhere? Let's go and see the gypsies. You know I am very fond of gypsies and Russian folk-songs." His speech grew thick, and he hurried from one subject to another. Konstantin, with Masha's aid, persuaded him to

"We

home and they put him on his bed completely drunk. Masha promised to write Koustantin in case of need, and to persuade Nikolai Levin to come and live with his brother.
stay at
;

XXVI.
THE next forenoon Levin left Moscow, and towards evenOn the journey he talked with the people ing was at home. in the car about politics, about the new railroads, and, just as in Moscow, he felt oppressed by the chaos of conflicting opinions, weary of himself, and ashamed without knowing
why.

But when he reached his station, and perceived his one-eyed coachman, Ignat, in his kaftdii, with his collar above his ears when he saw, in the flickering light cast by the dim station-lamps, his covered sledge and his horses with their
;

neatly cropped tails and their jingling bells when Ignat, as he tucked the robes comfortably around him, told him all the news of the village, about the coming of the contractor, and how Pava the cow had calved, then it seemed to him that the chaos resolved itself a little, and his shame and dissatisfaction passed away. The very sight of Iguat and his horses was a consolation but as soon as he had put on his tulup (sheep-skin coat), which he found in the sleigh, and
;

102

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

enscoucecl himself in his seat, and began to think what orders he should have to give as soon he reached home, and at the same time examined the off-horse, which used to be his saddlehorse, a swift though broken-down steed, then, indeed, what
in an absolutely different himself again, and no longer wished to be a different person. He only wished to be better than he had In the first place, he resolved from that ever been before. day forth that he would never look forward to extraordinary joys, such as had led him to make his offer of marriage and, in the second place, he would never allow himself to be led away by low passion, the remembrances of which so shamed him when he had made his proposal. And lastly he promised not to forget his brother Nikolai again, or let him out of sight, and to go to his aid as soon as it seemed needful, and Then the conversation that seemed likely to be very soon. about communism, which he had so lightly treated with his reform brother, came back to him, and made him reflect. of economic conditions seemed to him doubtful, but he was none the less impressed by the unfair difference between the misery of the people and his own superfluity of blessings, and he promised himself that, though hitherto he had worked hard, and lived economically, he would in the future work still harder, and live with even less luxury than ever. And the effect upon himself of all these reflections was that throughout the long ride from the station he was the subject of the pleasantest illusions. With the full enjoyment of his hopes for a new and better life, he reached his house. The clock was just striking ten. From the windows of the room occupied by his old nurse, Agafya Mikhailovna, who fulfilled the functions of housekeeper, the light fell upon the snow-covered steps before his house. She was not yet asleep. Kuzma, wakened by her, barefooted, and with sleep}' eyes, hurried down to open the door. Laska, the setter, almost knocking Kuzma down in her desire to get ahead of him, ran to meet her master, and jumped upon him, trying to place her fore-paws on his breast. " You are back very soon, bdtiushka" [little father], said
light.

he had experienced came to him

He

felt

Agafya Mikhailovna. kt I was bored, Agafya Mikhailovna 'tis good to go visiting, but it's better at home," said he, as he went into his
:

library.

The

library

was soon lighted with wax candles brought

in

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

103

The familiar details little by little came home to him, haste. the great antlers, the shelves lined with books, the mirror, the stove with holes burned through and long ago beyond repair, the ancestral sofa, the great table, and on the table an
open book, a broken ash-tray, a note-book
tilled

with his

As he saw all these things, for the moment he bewriting. gan to doubt the possibility of any such change in his manner of life as he had dreamed of during his journey. All these signs of his past seemed to say to him, " No, thou shalt not leave us thou shalt not become another ; but thou with thy doubts, thy shalt still be as thou hast alwa3's been,
!

everlasting self-dissatisfaction, thy idle efforts at reform, thy failures, and thy perpetual striving for a happiness which will never be thine." But while these external objects spoke to him thus, a different voice whispered to his soul, bidding him cease to be a slave to his past, and declaring that a man has every possiAnd listening to this voice, he went to bility within him. one side of the room, where he found two dumb-bells, each weighing forty pounds. And he began to practise his gymnastic exercises with them, endeavoring to fill himself with At the door, a noise of steps was strength and courage. He instantly put down the dumb-bells. heard. It was the prikashchik (intendant), who carne to say that, thanks to God, every thing was well, but that the wheat in This provoked Levin. the new drying-room had got burnt. This new drying-room he had himself built, and partially invented. But the prikashchik was entirely opposed to it. and now he announced with a modest but triumphant expression that the wheat was burnt. Levin was sure that it was because he had neglected the precautions a hundred times sugHe grew angry, and reprimanded the prikashchik. gested. But there was one fortunate and important event: Pava, his best, his most beautiful cow, which he had bought at the cattle-show, had calved. " Kuzma, give me my tulup. And you," said he to the " I will go and see her." prikashchik, get a lantern. The stable for the cattle was not far from the house. Crossing the court-yard, where the snow was heaped under the lilac-bushes, he stepped up to the stable. As he opened the door, which creaked on its frosty hinges, he was met by the warm, penetrating breath from the stalls, and the kine, astonished at the unwonted light of the lantern, turned

104

ANNA KAR&NINA.

The shiny black around from their beds of fresh straw. and white back of his Holland cow gleamed in the obscurity.
Berkut, the bull, with a ring in his nose, tried to get to his but changed his mind, and only snorted when they approached his stanchion. The beautiful Pava, huge as a hippopotamus, was lying near her calf, snuffing at it, and protecting it by her back, as with a rampart, from those who would come too close. Levin entered the stall, examined Pava, and lifted the calf, spotted with red and white, on its long, awkward legs. Pava bellowed with anxiety, but was re-assured when the calf was restored to her, and began to lick it with her rough The calf hid its nose under its mother's side, and tongue.
feet,

frisked its tail. "Bring the light this wa}', Fyodor, this way," said Levin, examining the calf. "Like its mother, but its hair is like the sire, long and prettily spotted. Vasili Fyodorovitch, isn't it a beauty?" turning towards his priktishchik, forgetting, in his joy over the new-born calf,
the grief caused by the burning of his wheat.

"Why should it be homely? But Simon the contractor was here the day after you left. It will be necessary to come to terms with him, Konstautin Dmitriteh," replied the "I have already spoken to you about the prikashchik. machine." This single phrase brought Levin back to all the details of his enterprise, which was great and complicated and from the stable he went directly to the office, and after a long conversation with the prikashchik and Simon the contractor, he went back to the house, and marched
;

straight into the parlor.

XXVII.
LEVIN'S house was large and old, but, though he lived there alone, he occupied and warmed the whole of it. He knew that this was ridiculous he knew that it was bad, and contrary to his new plans but this house was a world of itself to him. It was a world where his father and mother had lived and died, and had lived a life, which, for Levin, seemed the ideal of all perfection, and which he dreamed of renewing with his own wife, with his own family.
; ;

Levin scarcely remembered his mother, but this remembrance was sacred and his future wife, as he imagined her, O
;

ANNA K A

It

NINA.

105

was to be the counterpart of the ideally charming and adorFor him, love for a woman could able woman, his mother. not exist outside of marriage but he imagined the family relationship first, and only afterwards the woman who would His ideas about marriage were be the centre of the family. therefore essentially different from those held by the majority of his friends, for whom it was only one of the innumerable actions of the social life for Levin it was the most important act of his life, whereon all his happiness depended, and now he must renounce it. AVhen he entered his little parlor where he generally took tea, and threw himself into his arm-chair with a book, while
; ;

his Agafya Mikhailovna brought him " cup, and sat down near But I'll sit down, bdtithe window, saying as usual,

then he felt, strangely enough, that he had not renounced his day-dreams, and that he could not live withWere it Kitty or another, still it would be. He out them. read his book, had his mind on what he read, and at the same time listened to the unceasing prattle of Agafya Mikhailovna, but his imagination was nevertheless filled with these pictures of family happiness which hovered before him. He felt that in the depths of his soul some change was going
tishka,"
on,

some modification

arising,

some

crystallization

taking

place.

He listened while Agafya Mikhailovna told how Prokhor had forgotten God, and, instead of buying a horse with the money which Levin had given him, had taken it and gone on a spree, and beaten his wife almost to death and while he listened he read his book, and again caught the thread of his It was a book of Tynthoughts, awakened by his reading. clall, on heat. He remembered his criticisms on Tyndall's
:

satisfaction in speaking of the results of his experiences, and his lack of philosophical views, and suddenly a happy thought crossed his mind: "In two years I shall have two

Holland cows, and perhaps Pava herself wall still be alive, and possibly a dozen of Berkut's daughters will have been added to the herd! Splendid!" And again he picked up " Nu! his book. veiy good: let us grant that electricity and heat are only one and the same thing, but could this one
quantity stand in the equations used to settle this question? No. What then ? The bond between all the forces of nature
is

felt,

like

instinct.

When

grows

into a

cow with red and white

spots,

Pocino's daughter what a herd I

106
shall

ANNA
I will

KARtiNlNA.
!
!

And my wife Admirable have with those three go out with our guests to see the herd come in and my wife will say, Kostia and I have brought this How can this interest you so? calf up just like a child.' All that interests him interests me the guest will say.
and
.
.
; '

'

'

'

But who will she be?" and he began to think also.' "Nu! What is to be of what had happened in Moscow. done about it? I am not to blame. But now every thing It is foolishness to let one's past life domwill be different. much One must struggle to live better inate the present. . He raised his head, and sank into thought. better." Old Laska, who had not yet got over her delight at seeing her
.
. .

She came into master, was barking up and down the court. the room, wagging her tail, and bringing the freshness of the open air, and thrust her head under his hand, and begged for
a caress, whining plaintively. "He almost talks," said Agafya Mikhai'lovna "he is only a dog, but he knows just as well that his master has come home, and is sad."
:

It's time I knew how see it, bdtiusJika? Grew up with my masters since they to read my masters. were children No matter, bdUuahka : with good health and
!

"Why sad?" " Da! don't I

in astonishment that she so divined his thoughts. "And shall I give you some more tea?" said she and she went out with the cup. Laska continued to nestle her head in her master's hand. He caressed her, and then she curled herself up around his feet, laying her head on one of her hind-paws and as a proof that all was arranged to suit her, she opened her mouth a little, let her tongue slip out between her aged teeth, and, with a gentle puffing of her lips, gave herself up to beatific Levin followed all of her movements. repose. " So will I " he said to himself " so will I all will be
; ;

" a pure conscience Levin looked at her earnestly,

well!"

XXVIII.

ON the morning after the ball, Anna Arkad}*evna sent her husband a telegram, announcing that she was going to leave
Moscow
that day.

ANNA
"No,
in

KAKtiNINA.

107

I must, I must go," she said to her sister-in-law, explanation of her change of plan, and her tone signified that she had just remembered something that demanded her " instant attention. No, it would be much better to-day." Stepan Arkadyevitch dined out, but he agreed to get back at seven o'clock to escort his sister to the train. Kitty did not put in an appearance, but sent word that she had a headache. Doll}' and Anna dined alone with the It was either because the children and the English maid. children were fickle or very quick-witted, and felt instinctively that Anna was not at all as she had been on the day of her arrival when they had taken so kindly to her, that they suddenly ceased playing with their aunt, seemed to lose their affection for her, and cared very little that she

was going away. Anna spent the whole morning in making She wrote a few notes the preparations for her departure. to her Moscow acquaintances, settled her accounts, and packed her trunks. It seemed to Dolly that she was now at rest in her mind, and that this mental agitation, which Dolly knew from experience, arose, not without excellent reason,
from dissatisfaction with herself. After dinner Anna went to her room to dress, and Dolly followed her. " " How said Dolly. strange you are to-day "I? You think so? I am not strange, but I am cross. This is common with me. I should like to have a good cry. It is very silly, but it will pass away," said Anna, speaking quickly, and hiding her blushing face in a little bag where
!

she was packing her toilet articles and her handkerchiefs. Her eyes shone with tears which she could hardly keep back. I was so loath to come from Petersburg, and now I " away don't want to go back "You came here and you did a lovely thing," said Dolly,
' k
!

attentively observing her. Anna looked at her with eyes wet with tears. " Don't say that, Dolly. I have done nothing, and could do nothing. I often ask myself why people say things to What have I done? What could I do? You spoil me. found that your heart had enough love left to forgive."

" Without

" All is serene and fortunate you are, Anna said Dolly. in your soul." pure " Every one has a skeleton in his closet, as the English
!

3'ou,

God knows what would have

"

been

How

say."

108

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
In you every thing
is

"What
serene."

skeletons have you, pray?

'"I have

mine!"

pected, crafty, of her tears.

cried Anna suddenly; and an unexmocking smile hovered over her lips in spite

" Nil! in your case the skeletons must be droll ones, and not grievous," replied Doll} with a smile. " No Do you know why I go to-day, they are grievous and not to-morrow? This is a confession which weighs me down, but I wish to make it," said Anna decidedly, sitting down in an arm-chair, and looking Dolly straight in the eyes. And to her astonishment she saw that Anna was blushing, even to her ears, even to the dark curls that played about the back of her neck.
7
: !

" Do " Da! " Anna proceeded. }'ou know why Kitty did it come to dinner? She is jealous of me. I spoiled not was through me that the ball last night was a torment and or not a joy to her. But truly, truly, I was not to blame, not much to blame," said she, with a special accent on the word nemn6zliko [not much] " remarked "Oh, how exactly you said that like Stiva
.
!

Dolly, laughing.

Anna was vexed. "Oh, no! Oh, no! I am not like " I have told Stiva," said she, frowning. you this, simply because I do not allow myself, for an instant, to doubt myself."

But the very moment that she said these words, she perceived how untrue they were she not only doubted herself, but she felt such emotion at the thought of Vronsky that she took her departure sooner than she otherwise would, so that she might not meet him again. "Yes, Stiva told me that you danced the mazurka with
:

him, and he "You cannot imagine how singularly it turned out. I thought only to help along the match, and suddenly it went " exactly opposite. Perhaps against my will, I She blushed, and did not finish her sentence. " Oh these things are felt instantly," said Dolly. " But I should be in despair if I felt that there could be " but I am any thing serious on his part," interrupted Anna convinced that all will be quickly forgotten, and that Kitty will not long be angry wilh me." " In the first place, Anna, to tell the truth, I should not be
!

"

ANNA KAR&NINA.

109

It would be vastly very sorry if this marriage fell through. better for it to stop right here if Vrousky can fall in love

with you

single day." " Achl Bozhe moi! that would be so idiotic " said Anna, and again an intense blush of satisfaction overspread her
!

in

arrange that, Dolly ? Da ?' Dolly could hardly refrain from smiling. She loved Anna, but it was not unpleasant to discover that she also had her weaknesses. "An enemy? That cannot be !" " And I should have been so glad to have you all love me but now 1 love you all more than ever," said as I love you Anna with tears in her eyes. " Ach! how absurd I am to'

face at hearing the thought that occupied her expressed in " And that is why I go away, though I have made an enemy of Kitty whom 1 loved so dearly. But you will

words.

day!"
She passed her handkerchief over her eyes, and began to get ready. At the very moment of depai'ture came Stepan Arkadyevitch with rosy, happy face, and smelling of wine and cigars. Anna's tender-heartedness had communicated itself to Dolly, who, as she kissed her for the last time, whispered, " Think, Anna what you have done for me, I shall never And think that I love you, and always shall love forget. " you as my best friend " I don't understand why," replied Anna, kissing her, and " You have understood me, and struggling with her tears. do understand me. ProsJicha'i [good-by], my dearest." you
!

XXIX.
"

Nu!

all

is

over.

Thank

the

Lord!" was Anna's

first

thought after she had said good-by to her brother, who had blocked up the entrance to the coach, even after the third bell had rung. She sat down on the little sofa next Annushka, her maid, and began to examine the feebly lighted compartment. ''Thank the Lord! to-morrow I shall see Serozha and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, and my good and commonplace life will begin again as of old." With the same agitation of mind that had possessed her all day, Anna attended most minutely to the preparations for

110

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

With her skilful little hands she opened her the journey. red bag, and took out a pillow, placed it on her knees, wrapped her feet warmly, and composed herself comfortably. an invalid, had already gone to lady, who seemed to be conversation and a fat, sleep. Two other ladies entered into
;

dame, well wrapped up, began to criticise the temperAnna exchanged a few words with the ladies, but, not taking any interest in their conversation, asked Annushka for her travelling-lamp, placed it on the back of her seat, and took from her bag a paper-cutter and an English novel. At first she could not read the going and coming disturbed her; when once the train had started, she could not help listening to the noises the snow striking against the window, and sticking to the glass the conductor, as he passed with the conversation carried the snowflakes melting on his coat on by her travelling companions, who were talking about the all distracted her attention. Afterwards it became storm, more monotonous always the same jolting and jarring, the same snow on the window, the same sudden changes from, warmth to cold, and back to warmth again, the same faces in the dim light, and the same voices. And Anna began to Annushka was read, and to follow what she was reading. already asleep, holding her little red bag on her knees with great, clumsy hands, clad in gloves, one of which was torn. Anna read, and understood what she read but the reading,
elderly ature.
;
:

the necessity of entering into the lives of other people, became intolerable to her. .She had too keen a desire to live herself. She read how the heroine of her story took care of the sick she would have liked to go with noiseless She read how an M. P. made a steps into the sick-room. she would have liked to make that speech. She speech read how Lady Mary rode horseback, and astonished every one by her boldness she would have liked to do the same. But she could do nothing and with her little hands she clutched the paper-cutter, and forced herself to read calmly. The hero of her novel had reached the summit of his Engis,
:

that

a baronetcy and an estate and Anna felt a desire to go and visit this estate, when suddenly it seemed to her that he ought to feel a sense of shame, and that she kt ought to share it. But why should he feel ashamed?
lish ambition,
;

Why " should I feel ashamed? she demanded of herself with astonishment and discontent. She closed the book, and, leaning back against the chair, held the paper-cutter tightly in both

ANNA KAR&NDTA.
: ;

Ill

hands. There was nothing to be ashamed of she reviewed all her memories of her visit to Moscow they were all pleasant and good. She remembered the ball, she remembered Vronsky and his humble and passionate face, she recalled her relations with him there was nothing to warrant a blush. And yet in these reminiscences the sentiment of shame was a growing factor and it seemed to her that inward voice, whenever she thought of Vrousky, seemed to say, " Warmly, "Nil! what is this ?" she very warmly, passionately." asked herself resolutely, as she changed her position in the " What does this mean? chair. I afraid to face these memories? Nu! what is it? Is there, can there be, any rela:

Am

tionship between that boy-officer and me beyond what exists between all the members of society? " She smiled disdainbut it was evifully, and betook herself to her book again dent that she did not any longer comprehend what she was She rubbed her paper-cutter over the frost-covered reading.
;

pane, and then pressed her cheek against its cool, smooth surface, and then she almost laughed out loud with the joy that suddenly took possession of her. She felt her nerves

grow more and more excited, her eyes open wider and wider, her fingers clasped convulsively, something seemed to choke her, and objects and sounds assumed an exaggerated importance in the semi-obscurity of the car. She kept asking herself at every instant, if they were going backwards or Was Annushforwards, or if the train had come to a stop. ka there, just in front of her, or was it a stranger? " What is that on the hook? And what am I? fur, or an animal? Am I myself, or some one else? " She was frightened at her own state she felt that her will-power was leaving her and,
;

in order to regain possession of her faculties, Anna arose, took her plaid and her fur collar, and thought that she had conquered herself, for at this moment a tall, thin muzhik, dressed

along nankeen overcoat, which lacked a button, came in, and she recognized in him the istopnik (stove-tender). She saw him look at the thermometer, and noticed how the wind and the snow came blowing in As he opened the door and then every thing became confused. The tall peasant began to draw fantastic figures on the wall the old lady seemed to stretch out her legs, and fill the whole car as with a black cloud then she thought she heard a strange thumping and then a red and rapping, a noise like something tearing blinding fire flashed in her eyes, and then all vanished in
in
; ; ;

112

ANNA KARNINA.

darkness. Anna felt as if she had fallen from a height. But these sensations were not at all alarming, but rather The voice of a man all wrapped up, and covered pleasant. She started up, with snow, shouted something in her ear. recovered her wits, and perceived that they were approachShe bade ing a station, and the man was the conductor. Annushka bring her shawl and fur collar, and, having put them on, she went to the door. " asked Annushka. " Do you wish to go out? "Yes: I want to get a breath of fresh air. Very hot here." And she opened the door. The snow-laden wind opposed her passage and she had to exert herself to open the door, which seemed amusing to her. The storm seemed to be waiting for her, eager to carry her away, as it gayly whistled by but she clung to the cold railing with one hand, and, holding her dress, she stepped upon the platform, and left the The wind was not so fierce under the shelter of the car. station, and she found a genuine pleasure in filling her lungs with the frosty air of the tempest. Standing near the car she watched the platform and the station gleaming with
;

lights.

XXX.
FURIOUS storm was raging, and drifting the snow between the wheels of the cars, and into the corners of the station. The cars, the pillars, the people, everything visible, were covered on one side with snow. few people were running hither and thither, opening and shutting the great doors of the station, talking ga}'ly, and making the planks of the walk creak under their feet. The shadow of a man passed rapidly by her, and she heard the blows of a hammer falling on the iron. " Let her go," cried an angry voice on the other side of the track. "This way, please, No. 28," cried other voices, and several people covered with snow hurried by. Two gentlemen, with lighted cigarettes in their mouths, passed near Anna. She was just about to re-enter the car, after getting one more breath of fresh air, and had already taken her hand from her muff, to lay hold of the railing, when the flickering light from the reflector was cut off by a man in a military

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

113

She looked up, and in an coat, who came close to her. instant recognized Vronsky's face. He saluted her, carrying his hand to the visor, and then asked respectfully if there was not some way in which he might be of service to her. Anna looked at him for some moments without ability to speak : although they were in the shadow, she saw, or thought that she saw, in his eyes the expression of enthusiastic ecstasy which had struck her on the evening of the How many times had she said to herself that Vronsky, ball. for her, was only one of the young people whom one meets' by the hundred in society, and who would never cause her and now, on the first instant to give him a second thought of seeing him again, a sensation of triumphant joy seized her. It was impossible to ask why he was there. She knew, as truly as though he had told her, that it was because she was there. "I did not know that you were coming. did you come?" said she. letting her hand fall from the railing. joy that she could not restrain shone in her face. Why did I come?" he repeated, looking straight into u You know that I came to be her eyes. simply for this,
!

Why

' k

where yon are," he said.

"

could not do otherwise."

at this instant the wind, as though it had conquered every obstacle, drove the snow from the roof of the car, and tossed in triumph a birch-leaf which it had torn off, and at the same time the whistle of the locomotive gave a Never had the horror of a ternmelancholy, mournful cry. She had just pest appeared to her more beautiful than now. beard what her reason feared, but which her heart longed to hear. She made no reply, but he perceived by her face how

And

she fought against herself. " Forgive me if what I said displeases you," he

murmured

humbly. He spoke respectfully, but

that for

in

such a resolute, decided tone,

;

some time she was unable to reply. " What you said was wrong and 1 beg of you,
it,

if

you are

a gentleman, to forget
kt

as

never forget, and " your words, any of your gestures " she " cried, vainly endeavoring to give Enough, enough an expression of severity to her face, at which he was pasI shall

shall forget it." I shall never be able to forget

an}* of

sionately gazing.

And

helping herself by the cold railing,

114

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

she quickly mounted the steps, and entered the car. But she stopped in the little entry, and tried to recall to her imagiShe found it impossible to nation what had taken place. bring back the words that had passed between them but she felt that that brief conversation had brought them closer toAt gether, and she was at once startled and delighted. the end of a few seconds, she went back to her place in the
;

car.

which tormented her" became more inbegan to fear that every moment something would snap within her brain. She did not sleep all night but in this nervous tension, aud in the fantasies which filled her imagination, there was nothing disagreeable or painful on the contrary, it was joyous, burning excitement. Toward morning, Anna dozed as she sat in her arm-chair and when she awoke it was bright daylight, and the train was approaching Petersburg. The thought of her home, her husband, her son, and all the little labors of the day and the

The nervous

strain

tense, until she

coming

da}'s, filled

her mind.

The train had hardly reached the station at Petersburg, when Anna stepped upon the platform and the first person that she saw was her husband waiting for her. " Achl Bozhe moi ! Why are his ears so long?" she
;

thought, as she looked at his reserved but distinguished face, and was struck by the lobes of his ears protruding from under the lappets of his round cap. When he saw her, he came to meet her at the car, with his habitual smile of irony, looking straight at her with his great, weary eyes. disagreeable thought oppressed her heart when she saw his She felt that she had expected to stubborn, weary look. find him different. Not only was she dissatisfied with herself, but she confessed to a certain sense of hypocrisy in her relations with her husband. This feeling was not novel she had felt it before without heeding it, but now she recognized it clearly and with distress. " Da! you see, I'm a tender husband, tender as the first year of our marriage I was burning with desire to see you," said he, in his slow, deliberate voice, aud with the light tone of raillery that he generally used in speaking to her, a tone of ridicule, as if any one could speak as he had done. " Is Serozha well? " she demanded. " And is this all the reward," he said, "for my ardor? He is well, very well."

ANNA KAR&NINA.
XXXI.

115

to sleep all that night. sat in his arm-chair, with eyes wide open, looking with for perfect indifference at those who came in and went out

VRONSKY had not even attempted

He

of no more account than things. People who were ordinarily struck by his imperturbable dignity, would him,

men were

have found him now tenfold more haughty and unapproachable. A nervous young man, an employe of the district court, sitting near him in the car, detested him on account of this The young man did his best to make him appreciate aspect. that he was an animated object he asked for a light, he spoke to him, he even touched him but Vronsky looked at him as though he had been the reflector. And the young man, with a grimace, thought that he should lose command of himself to be so ignored by Vronsky. Vronsky saw nothing, heard nothing. He felt as though he were a tsar, not because he saw that he had made an impression upon Anna, he did not fully realize that, as yet, but because of the power of the impression which she had made on him, and which filled him with happiness and pride. What would be the result of this, he did not know, and did not even consider but he felt that all his powers, which had been dissipated and scattered hitherto, were now tending with frightful rapidity towards one beatific focus. As he left his compartment at Bologoi, to get a glass of seltzer, he saw Anna, and almost from the first word had told her what he And he was glad that he had spoken as he did thought. glad that she knew all now, and was thinking about it. Returning to his car, he recalled, one by one, all his memories of her, the words that she had spoken, and his imagination painted the possibility of a future which overwhelmed
;

his heart.

reaching Petersburg, he dismounted from the car, and a sleepless night felt as fresh and vigorous as though he had just enjoyed a cold bath. He stood near his " I will see her once more," car, waiting to see her pass. 4t I will see her graceful he said to himself with a smile. bearing perhaps she will speak a word to me, will look at me, smile upon me." But it was her husband whom first he saw, politely escorted through the crowd by the station-mas" Ach ! da ! the husband " And then Vronskv for the ter.
in spite of
; !

On

116
first

ANNA KAE&N1NA.

time got a realizing sense that he was an important factor life. He knew that she had a husband, but had never realized the fact until now, when he saw his head, his shoulders, and his legs clothed in black pantaloons, and especially when he saw him unconcernedly go up to Anna, and take her hand as though he had the right of possession. The sight of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch with his Petersburgin

Anna's

and his solid, self-confident figure, his round cap, and his slightly stooping shoulders, confirmed the fact, and filled him with the same sensation that a man dying of thirst experiences, who discovers a fountain, but finds that a Aleksei dog, a sheep, or a pig has been roiling the water.
ish-fresh face,

Aleksandrovitch's
tasteful to

and heavy gait was exceedingly disdid not acknowledge that any one When she besides himself had the right to love Anna. appeared, the sight of her filled him with physical exultation. She had not changed, and his soul was touched and moved. He ordered his German body-servant, who came hunying up to him from the second-class car, to see to the baggage and while he was on his way towards her, he witnessed the meeting between husband and wife, and, with a lover's intuition,
stiff

Vronsky.

He

perceived the shade of constraint with which Anna greeted " her husband. No, she does not love him, and she cannot love him," was his mental judgment. As he joined them, he noticed with joy that she felt his approach, and was glad, and that she recognized him, though she went on talking with her husband. "Did you have a good night?" said he, when he was near enough, and bowing to her, but in such a manner as to include the husband, and allow AlekseT Aleksandrovitch the opportunity to acknowledge the salute, and recognize him, if it seemed good to him so to do. "Thank you, very good," she replied. Her face expressed weariness, and her eyes and smile lacked their habitual animation but the moment she saw Vronsky, something flashed into her eyes, and, notwithstand-* ing the fact that the fire instantly died away, he was overjoyed even at this. She raised her eyes to her husband, to see whether he knew Vronsky. Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch looked at him with displeasure, vaguely remembering who he was. Vronsky's calm self-assurance struck upon Aleksei Aleksandrovitrh's cool superciliousness as a feather on a rock. " Count Vronsky," said Anna.
;

ANNA
"Ah!
sei

KARtiNINA.

117

"We have met before, it seems to me," said AlekAleksandrovitch with indifference, extending his hand. " Went with the mother, and came home with the son," said he, speaking with precision, as though his words were worth " k> Back from a furlough, probably? a ruble apiece. And without waiting for an answer, he turned to his wife, in his ironical tone, " Did they shed many tears in Moscow to " have you leave them? toward his wife told Vronsk} that he wanted His manner to be left alone, and the impression was confirmed when he but Vronsky still touched his hat, and turned from him remained with Anna. "I hope to have the honor of calling upon you," said he. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, with weary eyes, looked at Vron" Very happy," he said coldly "we receive on Monsky. days." Then, leaving Vronsky entirely, he said to his wife, " And how fortunate that I still in a jesting tone, happened to have a spare half-hour to come to meet you, and show you my tenderness."
1
;

" You emphasize your affection too much for me to appreciate it," replied Anna, in the same spirit of raillery, although she was listening involuntarily to Vronsky's " But what is that to me?" she asked steps behind them. herself in thought. Then she began to ask her husband
dijring her absence. Mariette says that he has been very I am sorry to have to tell you that he did not good, and not so much as your husband. seem to miss you But again, Our dear Sammerci, my dear, that you came a day earlier. ovar will be delighted." He called the celebrated Countess Lidia Ivanovna by the nickname of the Samovar (tea-urn), because she was alwaj-s and everywhere bubbling and boiling. " She has and do you know, if I kept asking after you make bold to advise you, you would do well to go to see her You see, her heart is always sore on your account. to-day. At present, besides her usual cares, she is greatly concerned about the reconciliation of the Oblonskys." The Countess Lidia Ivanovna was a friend of Anna's husband, and the centre of a certain circle in Petersburg society, to which Anna, on her husband's account, more than for any other reason, belonged. " Da! But didn't I write her? " " She Go to her, my expects to have all the details.

how Serozha had got along

"Oh!

excellently.

118
dear,
if

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
call
I

you are not too tired. Na ! Kondrato will carriage, and I am going to a committee-meeting.

your
shall

not have to dine alone this time," continued Alekse'i Alek" You cannot sandrovitch, not in jest this time. imagine ." how used I am to And with a peculiar smile, giving her a long pressure of the hand, he led her to the carriage.
.

XXXII.

THE

first

face that

Anna saw when

she reached

home was

Rushing down the stairs, in spite of his nurse's reproof, he hastened to meet her with a cry of joy. " Mamma mamma " and sprang into her arms. " " I told he shouted to the governess. you it was mamma " 11 1 knew it was But the son, no less than the husband, awakened in Anna a feeling like disillusion. She imagined him better than he was in reality. She was obliged to descend to the reality in But in fact, he was order to look upon him as he was. lovely, with his curly head, his blue eyes, and his pretty plump She felt an almost legs in their neatly fitting stockings. physical satisfaction in feeling him near her, and in his caresses, and a moral calm in ^ looking into his tender, confiding, loving eyes, and in hearing his childish questions. She unpacked the gifts sent him by Dolly's children, and told him how there was a little girl in Moscow, named Tania, and how this Tania knew how to read, and was teaching the
her son's.
! ! !
!

other children to read. " " I not as good as she? " For are worth all the rest of the world." me, you " I know it," said Serozha, smiling. Anna had hardly finished her coffee, when the Countess Lidia Ivanovuawas announced. The countess was a robust, stout woman, with an unhealthy, sallow complexion, and handsome, dreamy black eyes. Anna liked her, but to-day, as for the first time, she seemed to see her with all her faults. " " Nn ! my dear, did you carry the olive-branch ? demanded the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, as she entered the room. " Yes it is all made " but it was not up," replied Anna so bad as we thought. As a general thing, my belle-sceur is too hasty."

Am

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

119

But the Countess Liclia, who was interested in all that did not specially concern herself, had the habit of sometimes not heeding what did interest her. She interrupted Anna. Da! This world is full of woes and tribulations, and I am all worn out to-day." " What is it? " asked Anna, striving to repress a smile. " I am beginning to weary of the useless strife for the
'

The work right, and sometimes I am utterly discouraged. of the Little Sisters [this was a philanthropical and religiously patriotic institution] is getting along splendidly, but there is nothing to be done with these men," added the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, with an air of ironical resignation to fate. ''They get hold of an idea, they mutilate it, and then they judge it so meanly, so wretchedly. Two or three men, your husband among them, understand all the meaning of this work but the others ouly discredit it. Yesterday " Pravdin wrote me Pravdin was a famous Panslavist, who lived abroad, and the Countess Lidia Ivanovna related what he had said in his letter. Then she went on to describe the troubles and snares which blocked the work of uniting the churches, and finally departed in haste, because it was the day for her to be present at the meeting of some society or other, and at the sitting of the Slavonic Committee. " All this used to exist, but why did I never notice it beWas she very irritable to-day ? fore ? said Anna to herself. But at any rate, it is ridiculous her aims are charitable, she is a Christian, and yet she is angry with everybody, and everybody is her enemy and yet all her enemies are working
; ' '

l '

for Christianity and charity." After the departure of the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, came a friend, the wife of a direktor, who told her all the news of the city. At three o'clock she went out, promising to be back in time for dinner. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch was at the meeting of the ministry. The hour before dinner, which

Anna

who spent alone, she employed sitting with her son, from the others, in arranging her things, and in catching up in her correspondence, which was in arrears. The sensation of causeless shame, and the trouble from which she had suffered so strangely during her journey, now Under the conditions of her ordicompletely disappeared. nary every-day life, she felt calm, and free from reproach, and she was surprised as she recalled her condition of the
ate apart

120
night before.

ANNA KAR&NINA.
" What was
it is

it?

Nothing.

Vronsky said a

husband is worse than useless. To about it would seem to attach too much importance to speak And she recalled a trifling episode which had occurred it." between her and a young subordinate of her husband's in him Petersburg, and how she had felt called upon to tell about it, and how Aleksei Aleksandrovitch told her that as she went into society, she, like all society women, might expect such experiences, but that he had too much confidence
in

foolish thing, to which To speak of it to my

idle to give an}' further thought.

"

Why

her tact to allow his jealousy to humiliate her or himself. Besides, I have nothing to tell." tell, then?

XXXIII.
ALEKSEI ALEKSANDROVITCII returned from the ministry about four o'clock, but, as often happened, he found no time He went directly to his library to give to speak to Anna. audience to some petitioners who were waiting for him, and

some papers brought him by his chief secretary. The Karenius always had at least three visitors to dine with them and to-day there came an old lady, a cousin of
to sign
;

Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch's, a

department director with his

wife, and a young man vitch for employment.

recommended to Aleksei AleksandroAnna came to the drawing-room to

The great bronze clock, of the time of Peter receive them. the Great, had just finished striking five, when Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch, in white cravat, and with two decorations on his
he had an engagement dress-coat, left his dressing-room immediately after dinner. Every moment of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's life was counted and occupied, and, in order to accomplish what he had to do every day, he was forced to " Without use the strictest regularity and punctuality. He entered the haste, and without rest," was his motto. salon, bowed to his guests, and, giving his wife a smile, led the way to the table. "Da! my solitude is over. You don't realize how irksome [he laid a special stress on the word nelovko, irksome] " it is to dine alone the dinner he talked with his wife about matters During
:
!

in Moscow, and, with his mocking smile, inquired especially about Stepau Arkadyevitch but the conversation remained
;

ANNA
for the

KARflNINA.

121

most on common subjects, about Petersburg society, and matters connected with the government. After dinner he spent a half-hour with his guests, and then giving his wife another smile, and pressing her hand, he left the room, and went to the council. Anna did not go this evening to the Princess Betsy Tverskai'a's, who. having heard of her arriand she did not go to the val, had sent her an invitation She did not go out, theatre, where she just now had a box. principally because a dress, which she had expected, was not
;

After the departure of her guests, Anna investigated done. her wardrobe, and was much disturbed to find that of the three dresses, which in a spirit of economy she had given to
the dressmaker to make over, and which ought to have been done three days ago, two were absolutely unfinished, and one was done in a way that Anna did not like. The dressmaker came with her excuses, declaring that it would be better so, and Anna reprimanded her so severely that afterwards she felt ashamed of herself. To calm her agitation, she went to the nursery, and spent the evening with her son, put him to bed herself, made the sign of the cross over him, and tucked the quilt about him. She was glad that she had not gone out, and that she had spent such a happy evening. It was so quiet and restful, and now she saw clearly that all that had seemed so important during her railway journey was only one of the ordinary insignificant events of social that she had nothing in the world of which to be life, ashamed. She sat down in front of the fireplace with her At half-past English novel, and waited for her husband. nine exactly his ring was heard at the door, and he came into the room. "Here you are, at last," she said, giving him her hand. He kissed her hand, and sat down near her. " Your journey, I see, was on the whole very successful," said he. " Yes, very," she replied and she began to relate all the details her journey with the old countess, her arrival, the accident at the station, the pity which she had felt, first for her brother, and afterwards for Dolly. " I do not see how it is possible to pardon such a man, even though he is your brother," said Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch severely. Anna smiled. She appreciated that he said this to show that not even kinship could bend him from the strictness
;

122

ANNA
and liked
it.

KAKtiNINA.
this trait in

of his honest judgment.

character,

She knew

her husband's

glad," he continued, "that all ended so satisfacand that you have come home again. Nu! what do they say there about the new measures that I introduced in " the council?
torily,

"I am

Anna had heard nothing said about this new measure, and she was confused because she had so easily forgotten something which to him was so important. 'Here, on the contrary, it has made a great sensation," said he, with a self-satisfied smile. She saw that Aleksei Aleksandrovitch wanted to tell her something very flattering to himself about this affair, and, by means of questions, she led him up to the story. And he, with the same self-satisfied smile, began to tell her of the congratulations which he had received on account of this
measure, which had been passed. " I was This proves that at last, reasonvery, very glad. able and serious views about this question are beginning to be formed among us." After he had taken his second cup of tea, with cream and bread, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch arose to

go
he

u But you did not go out

said.

to his library.

was

it

ver}' tiresome for

you?

"

"Oh, no!" she replied, rising with her husband, and going with him through the hall to the library. " " What are she asked. you reading now? " Just now I am the Due do Lille Poesie des reading "a very remarkable book." en/ens," he replied, Anna smiled, as one smiles at the weaknesses of those we
love, and, passing her arm through her husband's, nied him to the library-door. She knew that his

accompahabit of

reading in the evening had become inexorable, and that notwithstanding his absorbing duties, which took so much of his time at the council, he felt it his duty to follow all that seemed remarkable in the sphere of literature. She also knew, that while he felt a special interest in works on political economy, philosophy, and religion, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch allowed no book on art which seemed to him to possess any value, to escape his notice, and for the very reason that art

was contrary to his nature. She knew that in the province of political economy, philosophy, religion, Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch had doubts, and tried to solve them but in
;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

123

questions of art or poetry, particularly in music, the comprehension of which was utterly beyond him, he had the most He loved to speak of Shakprecise and definite opinions. speare, Raphael, and Beethoven of the importance of the new all of whom were classed by school of musicians and poets, him according to the most rigorous logic. " Ntt! God be with you," she said, as they reached the door of the library, where were standing, as usual, near her husband's arm-chair, the shade-lamp already lighted, and a car<tfe with water. "And I am going to write to Moscow." Again he pressed her hand, and kissed it. " Taken all in all, he is a good man upright, excellent, remarkable in his sphere," said Anna to herself, on her way to her room, as though she felt it necessary to defend him from some one who accused him of not being lovable. " But why do his ears stick out so? Or does he cut his hair too short ? It was just midnight, and Anna was still sitting at her writing-table finishing a letter to Dolly, when Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch's steps were heard he wore his slippers and dressing-gown he had had his bath, and his hair was brushed. His book was under his arm he stopped at his wife's room. " Late, late," said he, with his usual smile, and passed on
; ; ' ' : ;
:

to their sleeping-room. what right had he to look at

him so?" thought Vronsky's expression when he saw Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch. Having undressed, she went to her room but in her face there was none of that animation which shone

"And

Anna,

recalling

and in her smile at Moscow. On the contrary, the fire had either died away, or was somewhere far away and out of sight.
in her eyes

XXXIV.
ON leaving Petersburg, Vronsky had installed his beloved friend and comrade, Petritsky, in his ample quarters on the Morska'ia. Petritsky was a young lieutenant, not particularly distinguished, and not only not rich, but over ears in debt. Every evening he came home tipsy, and he spent much of his time at the police courts, in search of strange or amusbut in spite of all he was a favoring or scandalous stories ite with his comrades and his chiefs. About eleven o'clock in the morning, when Vrousky reached home after his jour;

124
ne}',

ANNA

he saw at the entrance an izvoshchik's carriage, which he knew very well. From the door, when he rang, he heard men's laughter and the lisping of a woman's voice, and Pe" If it's an}- of those villains, don't let 'em tritsky shouting, not allowing his denshchiJc to announce his in." Vronsky, presence, quietly entered the ante-room. The Baroness Shilton, a friend of Petritsky's, shining in a lilac satin robe, and with her little pink face, was making coffee before a round table, and, like a canary-bird, was filling the room with her Parisian slang. Petritsky in his overcoat, and Captain Kamerovsky in full uniform, apparently to help her, were sitting near her. " cried "Bravo, Vronsky Petritsky, leaping up, and over"The master himself. Baronessa cofturning the chair. We did not expect you. fee for him from the new biggin I hope that you are pleased with the new ornament in your "You are aclibrary," he said, pointing to the baroness.
!

' '

quainted ? "I should think so!" said Vronsky, smiling gayly, and " We're old squeezing the baroness's dainty little hand.
friends."

"Are you back from "Then I'm off. Ach!

the

a journey?" asked the baroness.

I

am going

this

minute

if

am

in

"You are at home wherever you are, baronessa," said Vronsky. "How are you, Kamerovsky?" coolly shaking hands with the captain. "Vot! you would never be able to say such lovely things as that," said the baroness to Petritsky. "No? Why not? After dinner I could say better things!" "After dinner there's no more merit in them. Nu! I will make your coffee while you go and wash your hands and brush off the dust," said the baroness, again sitting down, and turning industriously the handle of the new coffee-mill. "Pierre, bring some more coffee," said she to Petritsky, whom she called Pierre, after his family name, to show her " I will add it." intimacy with him.
it. Nu! and your wife?" said the baroness, suddenly interrupting Vronsky's remarks to his

way."

"You "No!

will spoil it." I won't spoil

companions.

"We

have been marrying you

off.

Did you

bring your wife?"

ANNA KARNINA.
" No,
"
baronessa.
I

125
I shall die

was born a Bohemian, and

a Bohemian."

"So much
hand
!

the better, so

much

the better: give us your

And the baroness, without letting him go, began to talk with him, developing her various plans of life, and asking his advice with many jests. " He will never be willing to let me have a divorce. Nu! What am I to do? [He was her husband.] I now mean to What should you think of it ? Kameinstitute a law-suit.
It's boiling over. You see rovsky. just watch the coffee I mean to begin a law-suit well I understand business Do you understand this nonto get control of my fortune. sense? Under the pretext that I have been unfaithful, he means to get possession of my estate." Vronsky listened with amusement to this gay prattle of the pretty woman, approved of what she said, gave his advice, and assumed the tone he usually affected with women of her character. In his Petersburg world, humanity was divided into two absolutely distinct categories, the one of a
!

how

low order, trivial, stupid, and above all ridiculous, people, declaring that one husband ought to live with one wedded wife, that girls should be virtuous, women chaste, men
brave, temperate, and unshaken, occupied in bringing up their children decently, in earning their bread, and paying their debts, and other such absurdities. This kind of people were old-fashioned and dull. But the other and vastly superior class, to which he and his friends belonged, required that its members should be, above all, elegant, generous, bold, gay, shamelessly unrestrained in the pursuit of pleasure, and scornful of all the rest. Vronsky, still under the influence of his totally different life in Moscow, was at first almost stunned at the change but soon, and as naturally as one puts on old slippers, he got into the spirit of his former gay and jovial life. The coffee was never served it boiled over, and wet a costly table-cloth and the baroness's dress but it served the
; ; ;

end that was desired, for merry peals of laughter.

'

it

gave

rise

to

many

jests

and

I am going, for you will never get dressed, and have on my conscience the worst crime that a decent man can commit, that of not taking a bath. So you advise me to put the knife to his throat? "

Nu! now

I shall

126

ANNA
By
all

KAKtiNINA.
such a

"
will

means, and
his lips.

in

way

that your

little

hand

come near

He

will kiss

your

little

hand, and

all will

"This evening

end to everybody's satisfaction," said Vronsky. at the Thedtre Fmn$ais," and she took

her departure with her rustling train. Kamerovsky likewise arose, but Vronsky, without waiting for him to go, shook hands with him, and went to his dressing-room. While he was taking his bath, Petritsky sketched for him in a few lines how his situation had changed during no money at all; his father declaring Vronsky's absence, that he would not give him any more, or pay a single debt. One tailor determined to have him arrested, and a second no His colonel insisted that if these scandals less determined. duel was on continued, he should leave the regiment. with Berkoshef, and he wanted to send him his seconds, but he guessed nothing would come of it. As for the rest, every

And then, withthing was getting along particularly jolly. out leaving Vronsky time to realize the situation, Petritsky began to retail the news of the day. Petritsky's well-known gossip, his familiar room, and where he had lived for three years, all his surroundings, contributed to bring Vronsky back into the current of his gay and idle Petersburg life, and he felt a certain pleasure in renewing the sensation. " It cannot be " he cried, as he turned on the faucet of
!

his wash-basin,

in

which he was washing his handsome,

He had just healthy neck: "it cannot be!" he cried. learned that Laura was now under Fertinghof's protection. " And is he as stupid and as conceited as ever? Nu! and
Buzulukof?" " Achl Buzulukof!
history," Petritsky. " You know his balls and he never misses one at passion, court. At the last one he went in a new helmet. Have you seen the new helmets? Very handsome, very light. Well,
;

that's a whole

said

he was standing

"Yes,

am

No; but listen." listening," replied Vronskj-, rubbing his face

with a towel.
just going by on the arm of some foreign ambassador or other, and unfortunately for him conversation turned on the new helmets. The Grand Duchess wanted to point out one of the new helmets, and, seeing our galitbchik standing there [here Petritsky showed how he stood in his helmet], she begged him to show her his helmet. He did not budge. What does it mean ? The fellows

" The Grand Duchess was

ANNA KAR&NINA.
wink

127

' Give it to her.' at him, make signs, scowl at him. You can imagine does not stir. Pie is like a dead man. Now as he then they attempt to take it off. the scene He does not stir. At last he himself takes it off, and hands it to the Grand Duchess. " This is the new kind,' said the Grand Duchess. Bui, out came, buJch ! as she turned it over, you can imagine it, two pounds of bon-bons! He had been to pears, bon-bons, " market, galubchik! Yronsky broke into a hearty laugh and long afterwards, even when speaking of other things, the memory of the unfortunate helmet caused him to break out into his goodnatured laugh which showed his handsome, regular teeth. Having learned all the news, Vrousky donned his uniform with the aid of his valet, and went out to report himself. Then he determined to call on his brother, on the Princess Betsy, and to make a series of calls, so as to secure an entry into the society where he should be likely to see the Karenins and in accordance with the usual custom at Petersburg, he left his rooms, expecting to return only when it was very

He

'

late at night.

128

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

PART
I.

II.

TOWARDS the close of the winter the Shcherbatskys held a she consultation of physicians in regard to Kitty's health was ill, and the approach of spring only increased her ailThe family doctor had ordered cod-liver oil, then ment. but as none of these iron, and last of all, nitrate of silver remedies did any good, he advised them to take her abroad. It was then resolved to consult a celebrated specialist. This celebrity, still a young man, and very neat in his personal appearance, insisted on a careful investigation of the trouble and as all the other doctors who belonged to the same school, studied the same books, and consequently held the same ideas, had decided that this specialist possessed the necessary skill to save Kitty, his request was granted. After a careful examination and a prolonged use of the stethoscope on the lungs of the poor, trembling girl, the celebrated physician carefully washed his hands, and returned to the drawing-room. The prince, with a little cough, listened to what he had to say, and frowned. He himself had never been sick, and he had no faith in doctors. Moreover he was a man of common sense, and was all the more angry at this comedy, because possibly he alone understood what ailed his daughter. regular humbug," thought the old prince, and mentally applied to the celebrated doctor a
:
; ;

"A

hunting expression, which signifies a man who has not had any luck, but comes home with large stories. The latter, on his side, with difficulty stooping to the low level of this old
It gentleman's intelligence, barely disguised his disdain. scarcely seemed to him necessary to speak to the poor old man, since, in his eyes, the head of the house was the princess. He was ready to pour out before her all the floods of his eloquence and, as she came in at this moment with the
;

ANNA

KAKtiNINA.
The

129

family doctor, the old prince left the

room, so as not to
princess
to take.

show too clearly what he thought about it all. was troubled, and did not know what course
felt

She

little

" Nu! me all." She " but her wanted to say, " Is there any hope? lips trembled, and she hesitated. " Na! tell us." "I shall be at your service, princess, after I have conferred with my colleague. We shall then have the honor of giving you our opinion." " " Do you wish to be alone? "Just as you please." The princess sighed, and left the room.
timidly expressed his opinion about her it was the and because and beginning of tubercular disease because et ccetera. The celebrated physician listened, and in the midst of his diagnosis took out his great gold watch. " Yes," said he, " but "
condition,

guilty in regard to Kittj*. Doctor, decide upon our fate: tell

The family doctor

and gave

his reasons for thinking that

" You know that it is hardly possible to decide when In the present case, one can tubercular disease first begins. only suspect this trouble from the presence of such symptoms as indigestion, nervousness, and others. The question, what is to be done, granting that a therefore, stands thus tubercular development is to be feared, in order to superin:

His colleague stopped respectfully.

duce improved alimentation?"

" But you know

well, that there is

back of

all

some men-

tal

reason," said the family doctor, with a cunning smile. "Of course," replied the celebrated doctor, looking at his watch again. "Excuse me, but do you know whether the bridge over the Yausa is finished yet, or whether one has to

go around?"
were twent}' minutes left. just saying that the question remains thus : to improve the the one cannot go withdigestion, and strengthen the nerves out the other, and it is necessary to act on the two halves of the circle."
;

"It is finished." " Da! Then I have only

We

" " But the journey abroad? " I am I beg you to opposed to these journeys abroad. follow my reasoning. If tubercular development has already set in, which we are not yet iu a condition to prove, what

130

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

good would travel do? The main thing is to discover a means of promoting good digestion." And the celebrated doctor began to develop his plan for a cure by means of Soden water, the principal merits of which were, in his eyes,
their absolutely inoffensive character. The family doctor listened with attention

and

should urge in favor of a journey abroad the change of her habits and the dissociations from the conditions that serve to recall unhappy thoughts. And, finally, her mother wants her to go." " Ah! nu! in that case let them go, provided always that those German quacks do not aggravate her disease. They must follow my prescriptions with the most absolute strictI

" But

respect.

ness.

Nu!

And
"It
door.

let them travel." again he looked at his watch. is time for me to go;" and he started for the

celebrated doctor assured the princess that he wished more it was probably through a sentiment of social propriety. "What! have another examination?" cried the princess, with horror. " Oh, no only a few minor points, princess." " Then come in, I beg of you." And the mother ushered the doctor into Kitty's little boudoir. The poor, emaciated girl was standing in the middle of the room, with flushed cheeks, and eyes brilliant with the excitement caused by the doctor's visit. When she saw them coming back, her eyes filled with tears, and she blushed still more crimson. Her illness and the remedies which she was obliged to endure seemed to her such ridiculous nonsense. What did these remedies mean? It was like gathering up the fragments of a broken vase in order to make it whole again. Her heart was broken, and could it be restored to health by pills and powders ? But she did not dare to go against her mother's judgment, the more because she felt that she herself had been to blame. "Will 3'ou sit down, princess?" said the celebrated doctor. He sat down in front of her, felt her pulse, and with a smile began a series of wearisome questions. At first she replied to them, then suddenly arose impatiently. " Excuse me, doctor, but, indeed, this all leads to nothing.
to see the invalid once
!

The

ANNA KAR&NINA.
This
is

131

the third time that

you have asked me the same

question." The celebrated doctor took no offence. " It is her nervous irritability," he remarked to the prin" cess when Kitty had gone from the room. However, I

was through."

And the celebrated doctor explained the young girl's condition to her mother, treating her as a person of remarkable intelligence, and giving her, finally, the most precise directions as to the method of drinking those mineral waters, whose virtue, in his eyes, consisted in their uselessness. As to the question, "Is it best to take her abroad?" the celebrated doctor pondered deeply, and the result of his reflections was that they might travel on condition that they would not trust any quacks, and would follow his prescriptions. After the doctor's departure, everybody felt as if some The mother, in much great good fortune had happened. better spirits, rejoined her daughter, and Kitty declared that It often seemed necessary of late she was better already. for her to hide what she really felt. "Truly, I feel better, merman, but if you desire it, let us go," said she; and in her endeavou to show what interest she took in the journey, she began to speak of their
preparations.

H.
DOLLY knew that the consultation was to take place that day and though she was scarcely yet able to go out, having had a little daughter towards the end of the winter, and although one of the other children was sick, she left them both in order to learn what Kitty's fate should be. " Nu! how is it? " she said, as she came in with her bon" You are all net on. Then all is well." happy They endeavored to tell her what the doctor had said but though it had been a long discourse, couched in very beautiful language, no one was able to give the gist of it. The interesting point was the decision in regard to the journey. Dolly sighed involuntarily. She was going to lose her and life for her was not joyous. sister, her best friend Her relations with her husband seemed to her more and more humiliating the reconciliation brought about by Anna had not been of long duration, and the family discords had
;
! ;

132

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

become as unpleasant as ever. Stepan Arkady evitch was scarcely ever at home, and there was scarcely ever any money The suspicion that he was still unfaithful to in the house. her ever tormented her hut as she remembered with horror the sufferings caused by her jealousy, and desired above all things not to break up the family, she preferred to shut her But she despised her husband, and eyes to his deception. despised herself because of her feebleness. And, moreover, the cares of a numerous family were a heavy load. " And how are the children? " asked the princess. " maman! we have so tribulations. Lili is
;

Adi,

many

sick a-bed, and I am afraid that she is going to have the I came out to-day to see how you were, for I scarletina. was afraid that after this I should not have a chance." The old prince came in at this moment, bent down his cheek for Dolly to kiss, said a few words to her, and then turned to his wife. " What decision have you come to? Shall you go? Nul and what are you going to do with me? " " I think, Aleksandr, that you had better stay at home." " Just as you please."

doesn't papa come with us?" said Kitty. would be gayer for him and for us." The old prince smoothed Kitty's hair with his hand she raised her head, and with an effort smiled as she looked at him she felt that her father alone, though he did not say much, understood her. She was the youngest, and therefore her father's favorite daughter, and his love made him clairWhen her eyes met his, it seemed voyant, as she imagined. to her that he read her very soul, and saw all the evil that was working there. She blushed, and bent towards him, expecting a kiss but he contented himself with pulling her hair, and saying, " These abominable chignons! one never gets down to the

"

"

Maman, why

It

It is always the hair of some departed saint. Dolinka," turning to his eldest daughter, " what is that " trump of yours doing? said Dolly, perceiving that her father "Nothing, papa," referred to her husband "he is always away from home, and I scarcely ever see him," she could not refrain from adding with an ironical smile. " He has not gone yet to the country to sell his wood?" " No he is always putting it off."

real daughter.

Nu!

ANNA
I

KARtiNINA.

133

" is he " taking after me? Truly," said the old prince, should think so," he added turning to his wife, and sitting down. "And as for you, Katya," addressing his youngest " do you know what you ought to do? Some fine daughter,
morning when you wake up, you ought Why not resume happy and gay I feel
!

to say,
'

'Da! how
walks

with papa, now that the cold is not so bitter ? ha ? At these simple words of her father's, Kitty felt as though she had been convicted of a crime. "Yes, he knows all, he understands all, and these words mean that I ought to overcome my humiliation, however great it has been." She had not the courage to reply, but burst into tears, and left the

my morning "

room. " Just

angrily. tirades.

like

"You always"

your tricks

"
!

said the princess to her husband And she began one of her

The prince received her reproaches at first good-humoredly but at last his face changed color. "She is so sensitive, poor little thing, so sensitive! and you don't understand how she suffers at the slightest allusion to the cause of her suffering. Ach! how mistaken we are in
people!

" said the

princess.

And by

the change in the in-

Dolly and the prince perceived that she had reference to Vrousky. " I don't understand why there are not any laws to punish such vile, such ignoble actions." " Ach! do hear her," said the prince, with a frown, getting up and going to the door as though he wanted to escape but he halted on the threshold and said, "There are laws, mdtushka; and if you force me to exflection of her voice,
;

plain myself, I will tell }'ou that in all this trouble, you, you There are laws against these alone, are the true culprit. young fops, and there always will be and, old man that I am, I should have been able to punish this barber, this villain, if you had not been the first to invite him here. Da-s! and now to cure her, show her to these mountebanks " The prince would have made a long speech if the princess
;
!

had not immediately taken a humble and submissive tone, as she always did when important matters came up. " Alexaudre Alexandre " she murmured, weeping, and going up to him. The prince held his peace when he saw
!
!

her tears.
for

"

Nu !

let it

go, let

it

go.

you

also.

Don't weep any more.

know that it is hard The harm is not

134
great.

ANNA
God
is

KAKtiNINA.
Thank yon!"
;

merciful.

said he,

not

knowing what he said in his emotion and feeling on his hand the princess's kiss bedewed with tears, he left the
room.
Dolly with her maternal instinct would have liked to follow Kitty to her chamber, feeling sure that a woman's hand would be a relief but as she listened to her mother's reproaches, and her father's bitter words, she had felt the de;

" Nu! what? I do not understand " " " Perhaps Kitty refused him. Didn't she tell you? " No, she did not say any thing to me about either of them she is too proud. But I know that all this conies " from lt Yes but think perhaps she refused Levin. I know that she would not have done so if it had not been for the other and then she was so abominably deceived." The princess felt too guilty not to affect indignation. " Ach! I don't know any thing about it. Nowadays every girl wants to live as she pleases, and not to say any thing to her mother, and so it comes that " 3/araan, I am going to see her." u Go I will not prevent you," said her mother.
: ; ; ' '
!

" I have always wanted to tell you, maman; did you know that when Levin was here the last time, he intended to offer himself to Kitty? He told Stiva."

sire to interfere in so far as her filial respect allowed. the prince went out, she said,

When

III.

As she entered Kitty's little boudoir, all furnished in pink with vieux saxe ware, Dolly remembered with what pleasure the two had decorated it the year before how happy and She felt a chill at her heart as she saw gay they were then her sister sitting motionless on a low chair near the door, her eyes fixed on a corner of the carpet. Kitty's cold and stern expression vanished the moment she saw her sister
:
!

come
shall

in.

very much afraid that when I once get home, I not be able to leave the house for some time," said " And that's Dolly, sitting down near her sister. why I wanted to have a little talk with you.'*

"I am

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

135

" What about? " asked Kitty, quickly raising her head. " " What else than about your disappointment? " I am not disappointed about any thing." " That'll do, Do you really imagine that I don't Kitty. know any thing at all ? I know every thing and if you will Who of us has not believe me, it's all about nothing at all.
;

been through such experiences?

"

Kitty said nothing, and her face resumed its severe expression. " He is not worth the trouble that you have given yourself
for him," continued the point.

Darya Aleksandrovna, coming

right to

"Da! because he jilted me!" murmured Kitty, with " " Don't speak of it, I beg of you trembling voice. u But what did he say to you? I am sure that he was in " love with you, that he is still but " Ach! me so as condolences," cried nothing exasperates Kitty, in a sudden rage. Blushing, she turned around in her chair, and with nervous fingers twisted the buckle on her belt. Dolly well knew this habit of her sister when she was provoked. She knew that she was capable of saying harsh and cruel things in moments of petulance, and she tried to calm her but it was too late. " cried " What do you wish me to understand? what is it? " that I am in love with a man Kitty, with quick words who does not care for me, and that I am dying of love for
!

And it is my sister who says this to me my sister thinks that that that she shows me her sympa" I hate such hypocrisy and such sympathy thy " Kitty, you are unjust."
him ?
! !

who
" "

do you torment me? " " I did not mean I saw that you were sad in her anger did not heed her. Kitty " I have nothing to break my heart over, and don't need consolation. I am too proud to love a man who does not

Why

love

me."

I do not say I say only one thing Tell me the truth," added Daiya Aleksandrovna, taking her hand. " " Tell me, did Levin speak to you? At the name of Levin, Kitty lost all control of herself she jumped up from her chair, threw on the floor the buckle which she had torn from her belt, and with quick, indignant
:

"Da!

gestures, cried,

136
"

ANNA
Why
it is

KARtiNINA.

do you speak to me of Levin? I really don't see I have already necessary for you to torment me. why said, and I repeat it, that I am proud, and never, never would I do what you have done, go back to a man who had been false to me, who had made love to another woman. I " do not understand this you can, but I cannot As she said these words, she looked at her sister. Dolly bent her head sadly without answering but Kitty, instead of leaving the room as she had intended to do, sat down near the door again, and hid her face in her handkerchief. The silence lasted several minutes. Dolly was thinking Her humiliation, which she felt only too of her tribulations. deeply, appeared to her more cruel than ever, thus recalled by her sister. Never would she have believed her capable But suddenly she heard the rustling of of being so severe. a dress, a broken sob, and then two arms were thrown around her neck. Kitty was on her knees before her. " Dolinka, I am so unhappy forgive me," she murmured and her pretty face, wet with tears, was hid in Dolly's skirt. Possibly these tears were needed to bring the two sisters into complete harmony however, after a good cry, they did not return to the subject which interested them both. Kitty knew that she was forgiven, but she also knew that the cruel words that had escaped her in regard to Dolly's humiliation, remained heavy on her poor sister's heart. Dolly, on her side, knew that she had guessed correctly, and that the pain Kitty felt lay in the fact that she had refused Levin, only to see herself deceived in Vronsky, and that her sister was on the point of loving the first, and hating the other. Kitty spoke only of the general state of her soul. " I am not disappointed," she said, regaining her calmness a little " but you cannot imagine how wretched, disgusting,
: ! ;
!

and vulgar every thing seems to me myself worse than all. You cannot imagine what evil thoughts come into my mind." ''Da! but what evil thoughts can you have?" asked
Dolly, with a smile.

"The most abominable, the most repulsive. I cannot describe them to you. It is not melancholy, and it is not weariness. It is much worse. One might say that all the good that was in me had disappeared, and only the evil was left. Nu! how can that be explained? " she asked, looking at her sister. "Papa spoke to me a few minutes ago. It seems to me that he thinks of nothing else than the need of

ANNA
getting

KARfiNINA.

137

me a husband. Mamma takes me to the ball. It seems to me that it is for the sole purpose of getting rid of me, of getting me married as soon as possible. I know that it is not true, and yet I cannot drive away these ideas. Socalled marriageable young men are unendurable to me. I always have the impression that they are summing me up.
Once
I liked to

go into society
;

it

preparing
at ease.

my toilet now it is a bore to Nu! what? The doctor nu "

:

amused me I enjoyed me, and I feel ill

;

Kitty stopped she wanted to say further, that, since she had felt this great change in herself, she could no longer see Stepan Arkadyevitch without the most extraordinary and

unpleasant conjectures arising in her mind. " Nu ! da I every thing takes a most repulsive aspect in my "It is a disease, sight," she continued. perhaps it will pass away. I do not feel at ease except with you and the
children."

" " What a pity that you can't come home with me now "I will go all the same. I have had scarlatina. I will
!

persuade maman." Kitty insisted so eagerly, that she was allowed to go with
sister. for it Throughout the course of the disease, she aided proved to be the scarlatina, as Dolly had feared, her in taking care of the children. They soon entered upon a happy convalescence without relapses but Kitty's health did not improve, and at Lent the Shcherbatskys went
;

her

abroad.

IV.

THE upper society at Petersburg is remarkably united. Everybody knows everybody else, and everybody exchanges visits. But it has its subdivisions. Anna Arkadyevna Kare"nina had friendly relations with three different circles of which society was composed. The first was the official circle, to which her husband belonged, composed of his colleagues and subordinates, bound together, or even further subdivided, by the most varied, and often the most capricious, social relations. It was difficult for Anna to comprehend
the sentiment of almost religious respect which at first she felt for all these personages. Now she knew them, as one learns to know people in a provincial city, with all their weaknesses and failings. She knew how the shoe pinched, and

138
what were

ANNA KAPNINA.

their relations among themselves, and to the comBut this official centre to which they all belonged. clique, in which her husband's interests lay, no longer pleased her and she did her best to avoid it, in spite of the insinuations of the Countess Lidia Ivanovna. The second circle in which Anna moved was that which had helped Aleksei Aleksandrovitch in his career. The pivot of this wheel was the Countess Lidia Ivanovna it was composed of aged, ugly, charitable, and zealous women, and in-

mon
;

telligent, learned,
it

and ambitious men.

Some one had given

the sobriquet of the "conscience of Petersburg society."

Karenin was very much devoted to this coterie; and Anna, whose flexible character easily accommodated itself to her surroundings, had made friends in its number. After her return from Moscow, this set of people seemed to her insupit seemed as if she herself, as well as the others, portable were unnatural and she saw the Countess Lidia as infre;

And finally, Anna had friendly relations with the society properly speaking, fashionable society, that world of balls, which with one hand lays dinner-parties, brilliant toilets fast hold of the Court lest it fall absolutely into the demimonde, which its members affect to despise, but whose tastes are precisely similar. The bond that attracted her to this sort of society was the Princess Bets}' Tverskaia, the wife of one of her cousins, who enjoyed an income of a hundred and twenty thousand rubles, and who had taken Anna under her She had a protection as soon as she came to Petersburg. great attraction for her, and rallied her on the society that gathered around the Countess Lidia. " When I am old and ugly, I will do the same," said Betsy; "but a young and pretty woman like yourself has as yet no place in such an as\-lum." Anna at first had avoided as far as possible the society of the Princess Betsy Tverskaia, the manner of life in these but lofty spheres calling for expenses beyond her means after her return from Moscow all this was changed. She neglected her worthy old friends, and cared to go only into grand society. It was there that she experienced the troublesome pleasure of meeting Vronsky they met oftener than elsewhere at the house of Betsy, who was a Vronsky before her marriage, and was an own cousin of the count. He, moreover, went everywhere that he was likely to meet Anna,
;
:

quently as she possibly could.

ANNA
:

KAItfiNINA.

139

She made no adand, if possible, spoke to her of his love. vances but her heart, as soon as she saw him, instantly felt the sensation of fulness which had seized her the moment that they met, for the first time, near the train at Moscow this joy, she knew, betrayed itself in her eyes, in her smile, but she had not the power to hide it. Anna at first sincerely tried to persuade herself that she was angry because he persisted in forcing himself upon her ; but one evening when she was present at a house where she expected to meet him, and he failed to come, she perceived clearl}', by the pang that went through her heart, how vain were her illusions, and how her infatuation, instead of displeasing her, formed the ruling passion of her life.
;

famous diva was singing for the second time, and all the society of Petersburg was at the theatre. Vronsky saw his cousin there, and, without waiting for the entr'acte, left his seat in the first row, to visit her box. " " Why didn't you come to dinner? she demanded of him added in a whisper, and with a smile, so as to and then she be heard only by him, " I admire this second sight of lovers she was not there. But come to my house after the opera." Vronsky looked at her as though he would ask what she meant, and Betsy replied with a nod. He thanked her with a smile, and sat down.
;

of

your pleasantries what have become the princess, who followed with keen kk You are in love, pleasure the progress of this passion.
I

" But how

miss

all

them?" continued
dear
' '
!

my
k

'That is all that I ask for," he replied, with a smile of " to be in love. If I complain, it is not good-humor, because I am not sufficiently in love for, to tell the truth, I am beginning to lose hope." " AY hat hope could you have?" asked Betsy, taking the of her friend: " en tendons nous" us have a clear
;

part

[let

but the fire in her eyes told with sufficient clearness that she understood as well as he did what his hope meant.

understanding]

None," replied Vronsky, laughing, and showing his reg" Excuse me," he added, ular white teeth. taking the from his cousin's hand, in order to direct it opera-glasses " I fear across her shoulder at one of the opposite boxes. I am becoming ridiculous."

"

140

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

He knew very well that in Betsy's eyes, and in those of her world, he ran no such risk he knew perfectly well that in though a man might seem ridiculous by being hopelessly love with a young girl, or an unmarried woman, he ran no Such sport such risk if he made love to a married woman. was grand and exciting and thus Vronsky, as he handed back the opera-glasses, looked at his cousin with a smile lurking under his mustache. " " Why didn't you come to dinner? she asked again, unable to refrain from admiration of him.
: ;

"I suppose I must tell you: I was busy and what out about ? I will give you one guess out of a hundred I have been reconof a thousand you would never hit it. " Yes, fact ciling a husband with his wife's persecutor. " " What and succeeded? you
:
! !

"

Pretty nearly."
tell

"You must
Betsy, rising. " Impossible

me

all

about

it

between the acts," said

I am going to the French Theatre." Nilsson?" said Betsy incredulously, though she could not have distinguished Nilsson from the poorest cho:

"From

rus-singer.

to finish

I do ? I have made an appointment in order act of peacemaking." "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be saved," said Betsy, remembering that she had heard somewhere some

" But what can

my

such quotation.

V.

"
tell

sparkling eyes.

" However, I will not mention any names." " " But I can guess? so much the better " " Listen, then. Two a little } oung men, just " " Officers of your regiment, of course " I did not say that they were officers, but simply young
! r ' '
!

IT'S a little improper, but so amusing, that I wanted to you about it," said Vronsky, looking at his cousin's

men, who had dined well " " Translated, tipsy " to dine with a comrade go Possibly they are in very excellent spirits. They see a young woman passing them in a hired carriage she turns around, and, as it seems to them, looks at them and laughs. They follow her on the double: :

ANNA
quick.

KARtfNINA.

141

To their great surprise their beauty stops before the very house where they were going she mounts to the upper floor, and they see nothing but a pair of rosy lips under a veil, and a pair of pretty little feet." " But you describe the scene so vividly as to make me be:

you were in the party." do you accuse me so soon ? Nu I my two young men climb up to their comrade's room, who was going to give a farewell dinner, and these parting ceremonies compel them to drink, perhaps, more than was good for them. They question their host about the inmates of the house he knows
lieve that
' '

Why

nothing at
tions,
'

all

about

it:

their friend's valet, to their ques-

Are there any mamselles here?' replies that there are After dinner the two young men go into their friend's library and write a fiery letter to their unknown, full of passionate protestations they themselves carry up
a good many.
:

the letter, in order to explain whatever might not be under-

stood."

horrible things ? Nu ! the door they give her the letter, telling her they are so smitten that they are ready to The girl parleys with die, then and there, where they are. them. Suddenl}- a gentleman appears, red as a lobster, and
:

" But why do you tell me such " They ring. A girl comes to

"

with side-whiskers like sausages, and he unceremoniously puts them out of the door, declaring that there is no one there except his wife." " How did you know that his side- whiskers were like sau-

sages?" demanded Betsy. "But you shall see. I have just made peace between them." " Nu ! what came of it? " " This is the most The interesting part of the affair. happy couple prove to be a titular counsellor and his wife. The titular counsellor brings a complaint, and I am obliged
to serve as peacemaker. What a diplomatist compared to me was nobody." " " What did you have difficulties?
!

Talleyrand

Listen! We began by making the very best excuse that we could, as was proper enough ' We are desperately sorry,' we said, for this unfortunate occurrence.' The titular counsellor seemed to be calming down a little but he felt it necessary to express his feelings, and as soon as he began to express his feelings he began to get wrathy,

"Davot!

'

142

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

I was obliged to bring I agree that their diplomatic talents into requisition conduct was most reprehensible, but please remember that there was a misunderstanding they were young, and had You understand ? Now they just come from a good dinner. are sorry from the bottom of their hearts, and beg you to The titular counsellor softened forgive them their fault.' I agree with you, count, and I am ready to parstill more don them but you perceive that my wife, a virtuous woman, has been exposed to insult, to persecution, to the impudence And the impudent, goodof good-for-nothing young for-nothing young fellows being present, I have to exert myself to calm them down, and so to resume my diplomatic efforts over and over again. Every time I seem on the point of success, my titular counsellor gets wrathy again, and his face gets red, and his sausages begin to wag up and down, and I find myself drowned in the waves of diplomatic subtle-

and he said very impudent things, and

my

'

'

'

ties."

lady

"Ach! we must tell you all about this," said who at this moment came into her box. amused me much "
!

Betsy to a " It has

said she, giving Vronsky the ends and then shrugging her of her fingers, as she held her fan shoulders, so as to keep the waist of her dress from coming up, she went to the front of the box, where she sat down in the full blaze of gas, and in the eyes of all. Vronsky went to the French Theatre to meet the colonel of his regiment, who never failed to be present at a single It was with him that he wished to speak in representation. regard to his business of patching up the peace, which had occupied and amused him for three days. The heroes of this affair were his comrade Petritsky and a charming young fellow, Prince Kerdrof, who had lately joined their regiment. The principal point was, that the affair concerned the interests of his regiment, for both the young men belonged to
;

" Nu, bonne chance!

1 '

Vronsky's company. Venden, the titular counsellor, had lodged with the colonel a complaint that the officers had insulted his wife. His young wife, Venden told the colonel, to whom he had been married scarcely five months, had been to church with her mother, and feeling indisposed, had engaged the first izvoshchik at hand, in order to reach home quickly. The officers had chased her she had come home feeling still
:

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

143

more ill, in consequence of her emotion, and of having run up the stairs. Venclen himself had just returned from his Seeoffice, when he heard voices and the sound of a bell. ing that he had to do with a pair of drunken officers, he had He demanded that they should pitched them out of the door.
be severely punished. " No, it's all very well to talk," said the colonel to Vron" but sky, who had come at his summons to talk with him Not a week goes by is becoming unbearable. Petritsky without some scandal. This Tchinovnik will not stop here, he will go farther."
;

Vrousky saw all the unpleasant consequences of this affair, and he felt that a duel must not be, and that it was much better to make the titular counsellor relent, and smooth over the scandal. The colonel had summoned him because he knew that he was a shrewd and gentlemanly man, and zealous for the interests of the regiment. It was after their consultation that Vronsky, accompanied by Petritsky and Kerdrof, bad gone to carry their excuses to the titular counsellor, in the hope that his name, and his epaulets of aide-de-camp, might succeed in calming the angry titular counsellor. Vronsky had only partially succeeded, as he had just related, and the reconciliation seemed dubious.

At

the theatre Vronsk}* took the colonel into the lobby,

and told him of the success, or rather the lack of success, which had attended his mission. After reflection the colonel
decided to leave the matter in abeyance but he could not help laughing as he heard Vronsky's lively description of the wrath of the titular counsellor, and his repeated attempts to bring him into a suitable frame of mind. " It is a wretched piece of business, but exceedingly amusing. Still, Kerdrof could not fight with this gentleman. And
;

how do you
referring often she
:

like Claire this

is

to a

" said he, evening? charming " One can't see her too French actress. " always new. Let alone the French for that
!

VI.

THE Princess Betsy left the theatre without waiting for the end of the last act. She had scarcely had more than time enough, after reaching home, to go into her dressingroom, and scatter a little rice-powder over her long, pale

144

ANNA

EARfiNINA.

face, re-arrange her toilet, and order tea to be served in the large drawing-room, when the carriages began to arrive at her palace on the Bolshaia Morskaia. The mistress of the mansion, with renewed color, and hair re-arranged, came down to receive her guests. The walls of the great drawingroom were hung with sombre draperies, and the floor was On the table, which was covered laid with a thick carpet. with a cloth of dazzling whiteness, shining in the light of numberless candles, stood a silver samovar (tea-urn) and a tea-service of transparent porcelain. The princess took her place before the samovar, and drew off her gloves. Servants, quick to bring chairs, were in attendance, and helped with noiseless assiduity to arrange the guests in two camps, the one around the princess, the other in a corner of the drawing-room around the wife of a foreign ambassador, a handsome lady, with black, wellarched eyebrows, who was dressed in black velvet. The conversation, as usual at the beginning of a reception, was continually interrupted by the arrival of new faces, the offers of tea, and the exchange of salutations, and seemed to be endeavoring to find a common subject of interest. " She is remarkably handsome for an actress you can see that she has studied Kaulbach," said a diplomatist in the " Did group around the ambassador's wife. you notice how
:

she fell?"

"Ach! I beg of you, don't let us speak of Nilsson. Nothing new can be said about her," said a great fat lady, with light complexion, without either eyebrows or chignon, and dressed in an old silk gown. This was the Princess Miagkaia, famous for her simplicity and frightful manners, and surnamed the Enfant terrible. Princess Miagkaia was seated between the two groups, listening to what was said on both sides of her, and taking impartial interest in both. "This very day, three people have made that same remark about Kaulbach. It must be fashionable. I don't see why that
phrase should be so successful." The conversation was cut short by this remark, and a new theme had to be started. " Tell us something amusing, but don't let it be naughty," said the ambassador's wife, who was a mistress of the art of conversation, called, by the English small talk. She was
addressing the diplomatist. "They say that there
is

nothing more

difficult,

since

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

145

naughty things alone are amusing," replied the diplomatist, with a smile. ''However, I will do my best. Give me a theme. Every thing depends upon the theme. When you get that for a background, you can easily fill it in with embroidery. I often think that the celebrated talkers of the past would be exceedingly embarrassed if they were alive now: every thing intellectual is considered so dull." " You are not the first to say that," remarked the ambassador's wife, interrupting him with a smile. The conversation began sleepily, and therefore it quickly
languished again. It was necessary to infuse new life and to do this, they had recourse to an unfailing subject, gossip. " Don't you think" that there is something Louis XV. asked some one, indicating a handabout Tushkievitch? some, light-haired young man, who was standing near the
;

table.

" Oh, yes he's quite in the style of the drawing-rooin of which he is such an important ornament." This subject sustained the conversation, since it consisted wholly of hints. It could not be treated openly, for it would have brought direct reference to Tushki6vitch's love affair
!

with the Piiucess Betsy. Around the samovar, the conversation hesitated for some the news of the day, time upon three inevitable subjects, the theatre, and a lawsuit which was to be tried the next day. At last the same subject arose that was occupying the other
group,

" Have that is, the mother, you heard that Maltishchef has had a costume in cliable rose?" not the daughter That is delicious." "Is it possible? No " I am astonished that with her sense, for she is sensi!

gossip.

how ridiculous she is." Everywhich to criticise and tear to pieces and the conversation grew the unfortunate Maltishchef lively, brilliant, and gay, like a flaming pyre. The Princess Betsy's husband, a tall, good-natured man, passionately fond of collecting prints, entered gently at this moment. He had heard that his wife had a reception, and
ble,

she does not perceive

in

body found something

desired to show himself in her circle. He approached the Princess Miagkaia, but. owing to his noiseless step on the carpet, she did not perceive him. " " How did he asked. you like Nilssou? " Ach ! Do you steal in upon a body that way ? How you

146
startled

ANNA
me "
!

KARtiNINA,

" Don't she cried. speak to me about the opera, I beg of you you don't know any thing about music. I prefer to descend to your level, and talk with you about your engravings and majolicas. Nu! What treasures have you discovered lately?" " If but you you would like, I will show them to you would not appreciate them." " Show them to me all the same. I am getting my education among these bankers, as you call them. They have
:

lovely engravings.

They

like to

asked the misbeen at the Schiitzburgs ? tress of the house, from her place by the samovar.
"Certainly, ma ch&re. They invited my husband and me to dinner, and I have been told that at this dinner, they had a sauce that cost a thousand rubles," replied the Princess Miagkaia, in a loud voice calculated to be heard by all ; " and it was a something green. I very poor sauce, too,
to return the compliment, and I got them up a sauce I that cost eighty-five kopeks. 1 Every one was happy. can't afford to make thousand-ruble sauces, not I." " She is unique," said Betsy. "Astonishing," said another. The Princess Miagkaia never failed of causing a sensation by her speeches, and it arose from the fact that she spoke with great good sense of very ordinary things, but did not introduce them at suitable occasions, as was the case at the but in the society where she moved, this great present time good sense gave the effect of the most subtile wit her success astonished even herself, and she enjoyed it none the less on that account. Taking advantage of the silence that followed, the lady of the house wanted to make the conversation more general and, turning to the ambassador's wife, she said, "Are you sure that you will not have some tea? Then

"Have you

show them." "

had

ver}- well where we are, in this corner," replied the latter with a smile, resuming the thread of a conversation which interested her very deeply. It concerned
:

come this way." " No we are

Karen in and " Anna is

cow. There her friends.
1

his wife.

very
is

much changed since her return from Mossomething strange about her," said one of
hundred kopeks,
is

One

ruble, or one

worth eighty

cents.

ANNA

KAIttiNINA.

147

" The change is due to the fact, that she brought back in her train the shadow of Aleksei Vronsky," said the ambassador's wife. "What does that prove? There's a story in Grimm's a man loses his shadow Tales a man without a shadow in punishment of something or other. I, for my part, cannot see where the punishment lies, but perhaps it's painful for a woman to be deprived of her shadow." " Yes, but the women who have shadows generally come to some bad end," said Anna's friend. " 1 " Hold our cried the Princess Miagkaia, as j tongues " Madame Kar^nina is a she heard these words. charming woman, but I can't abide her husband." don't you like him?" demanded the wife of the ambassador. "He is a very remarkable man. My husband insists that there are few statesman in Europe that
T
!

"Why

equal him."
lieve it," replied the princess " if our this idea, we should have seen Aleksei
:

"My

husband

insists

really

is

and

in

but that gives me some satisfaction. Once upon a time, I used to think it was my fault because I could not see wherein lay his wit but as soon as I said to myself, under my breath, understand you, he is a blockhead, all was explained. As to Anna, I agree with you entirely. She is lovely and good. Is it her fault, poor woman, if everybody falls in love with her, and pursues her like

my

on the same thing, but I don't behusbands had not had Aleksaudrovitch as he I only opinion, he is a blockhead.

whisper

it,

shadows?" ".Da/ I do not allow myself

to judge her," said

Anna's

a shadow, it's no sign the right to judge." Having thus disposed of Anna's friend, the princess and the ambassador's wife drew up to the table, and joined in the general conversation about the King of Prussia.
that

friend, willing to avoid blame. " Because no one follows us like

we haven't

have you been gossiping about?" asked Betsy. The princess has been picturing Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," replied the ambassador's wife, sitting down near the table, with a smile. "Shame that we could not have heard it," said Betsy,

"

Whom

"About

the Kar6nins.

1 " Pi pun ram nn "yazuik!" tongue have the pip

!

slang expression, literally meaning,

"May

your

148

ANNA KAK&NINA.

"Ah! here 3-011 are at last," looking towards the door. said she, turning to Vronsky, who at that moment came in. Vronsky knew, and met every day, all the people whom he found collected in his cousin's drawing-room therefore he came in with the calmness of a man who rejoins friends from whom he has only just parted. " Where have I come from? I must confess," said he, in " from the reply to a question from the ambassador's wife, And it seems to me with a new pleasure, although Boujfes. It is charming. 'tis for the hundredth time. It is humiliatto confess, but I get sleepy at the oper^; but I enjoy ing " it at Les Bouffes up to the very last minute. To-day He mentioned a French actress, but the ambassador's wife stopped him with an expression of mock terror. " " Don't speak to us of this fright " Nw! I will hold peace the more willingly because you my
;
!

all

know

all go there if it were as fashionable as the opera," added the Princess Miagkaia.

"

these frights."

And you would

VII.

STEPS were heard near the door, and Betsy, convinced that she should see Anna appear, looked at Vronsky. He also looked in the direction of the door, and his face had a strange expression of joy, expectation, and almost of fear, and he rose slightly from his chair. Anna came into the drawing-room. She crossed the short distance between her and the mistress of the mansion, with that rapid, light, but decided step, which distinguished her from all the other women of this circle. As usual, she stood extremely straight, and, with her eyes fixed on Betsy, went directly up to her, and shook hands with a smile, and with the same smile she looked at Vronsky. He bowed profoundly, and offered her a chair. Anna bent her head a little, and blushed, and gave a slight frown. Several of the ladies pressed around her she shook hands with them, and then she turned to Betsy " I have I wanted to just been at the Countess Lidia's Sir John was there. get away earlier, but I was detained.
;
: :

He

is

" Ach!

very interesting." " that missionary?

ANNA
" Yes
:

KARtiNINA.
curious things about

149
life

he related

many very

in

the Indies."

The conversation, which Anna's entrance had

interrupted,

again wavered, like a fire that threatens to go out. "Sir John! da. Sir John! Yes, I have seen him. He " speaks well. Vlasief is actually in love with him "Is it true that the youngest of the Vlasief s is going to
!

' '

marry Tapof ? " Yes people say that the affair is fully decided." " I am astonished that the parents are
:

"

willing."

"A
Who
wife.

They say

a love-match." What antediluvian ideas 3-011 have! love-match? speaks of love in our days?" said the ambassador's
that
it is

This foolish old custom is to be done about it? occasionally met with," said Vronsky. " So much the worse for those who adhere to it: the -only happy marriages that I know about are those of reason." "Yes; but does it not often happen that these marriages of reason break like ropes of sand, precisely because of this love which you affect to scorn ? " Let us see what we call a marriage of reason is where both parties take an equal risk. Love is a disease through which we all must pass, like the measles." " In that case it would be wise to find an artificial means of inoculation, as in small-pox." " When I was young I fell in love with a sacristan I " should like to know what good that did me said the Princess Miagkaia. " No but, jesting aside, I believe that to know what love
is still
' '
:

" What

really is, one must have been deceived once, and then been set right," said the Princess Betsy. "Even after marriage?" asked the ambassador's wife,

laughing.
It is never to late to mend," said the diplomatist, quoting the English proverb. "But really," interrupted Betsy, "you are deceived the first time, so as afterwards to get into the right path. What " said she, turning to Anna, who was listening do you say? to the conversation with a smile. Vrousky looked at her, and waited for her answer with a violent beating of the heart: after she had spoken, he drew a long breath, as though he had escaped some danger.

"

150

ANNA KARNINA.

"I think," said Anna, playing with her glove, " that if there are as many opinions as there are heads, then there are as man}' ways of loving as there are hearts."
She turned quickly to Vronsk3T " I have just had a letter from Moscow.
.

They

write

me

that Kitty Shcherbatskai'a is very ill." " Really," said Vronsky gloomily. Anna looked at him with a severe expression.

" Doesn't " On the

this interest

you?

"

they

contrary, I write you, if I may

am

very sorry. Exactly" what did be permitted to inquire?

Anna

arose and went to Betsy.

"Will you give me a cup of tea?" she said, leaning on While Betsy was pouring the tea, Vronsky went the chair. to Anna. What did they write yon ? " I often think that men do not know what nobilit} means, though they are all the time talking about it," said Anna,
' '
' '

not answering his question.

" I have been wanting to tell 3*011 for a long time," she added, going towards a table laden with albums. " I don't know what your words mean," he said, offering her a cup of tea. She glanced at the sofa near, and then sat down, and he
instantly sat beside her. "Yes, I have been wanting to tell you," she continued, without looking at him. "You have acted badly, very

badly."
fault

" Do you believe that I don't feel that I have? But whose was it?" " Why do you say that to me?" said she, with a severe
it

look.

" You know

eyes.

yourself," he replied, without dropping his

She, not he, felt the burden of the guilt. " This simply proves that you have no heart," said she. But her eyes told the story, that she knew that he had a heart, and that therefore she feared him. " What you were talking about just now was error, not love." " Remember that I have forbidden you to speak that word, that hateful word," said Anna, trembling and instantly she felt that by the use of the word " forbidden," she recog;

ANNA

KAKtiNINA.

151

nized a certain jurisdiction over him, and thus encouraged him to speak. "For a long time I have been wanting to have a talk with you," she continued, in a firm tone, looking him full in the face, though her cheeks were aflame. " I have come to-night on purpose, knowing that I should find you here this must come to an end. I have never had to blush before any one before, and 3 ou cause me to feel guilty
:

in

my own e3'es." He looked at her, and was

struck with the

new expression

of her beauty.

" " What do said he. you want me to do? " I want you to go to Moscow, and beg Kitty's pardon." " You do not want that," said he. He felt that she was compelling herself to say one thing,

while she really desired something else. "If you love me, as you say you do," she murmured, " " then do what will give me peace face lighted up. Vronsky's u Don't you know that you are my life? But I don't know what peace means, and I can't give it to you. Myself, my love I can give 3*es, I cannot think of our being apart from each other. For me, you and I are one. I see no hope of peace for you or for me in the future. As I look unless I ahead, I see nothing but despair and misfortune, see the possibility of happiness, and what happiness Is it
! !

impossible?" he murmured, scarcely daring to pronounce the words but she understood him. All the forces of her mind pointed to what she ought to say but instead of speaking, she looked at him with love in her eyes, and said nothing. " Ah " he said to " at the in his
really
;

himself,

transport,
!

very

moment when
" Do
to

succeed, it a confession."

was in despair, when I thought I should never She loves me has come It is This is love
I
! !

this for

me

let

me

in this

way again,"

us be good friends, and never speak her eyes told a said her words
:

totally different story.

"We

Shall

we be

can never be mere friends: you yourself know it. the most miserable, or the happiest, of human

beings?

It is for you to decide." She began to speak, but he interrupted her. "All that I ask is the right of hoping and suffering, as I do now if it is impossible, order me to disappear, and I
;

152
will

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

disappear: if my presence is painful to you, you shall be relieved of the sight of me." " I do not wish to drive you from me." "Then change nothing; let things go as they are," said " " Here is he, with trembling voice. your husband Indeed, Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch at that instant was entering the drawing-room, with his calm face and ungraceful walk. He went first to the mistress of the mansion, as he passed casting a glance at Anna and Vronsky, and then he sat down by the tea-table, and in his slow and well-modulated voice,
!

Muses But the Princess Betsy, who could not endure

!

and in the tone of persiflage, which seemed always to deride some one or some thing, he said, as he took in the assem" Your Rambouillet is the Graces and the complete, bly, "
this tone of

with the tact of a "sneering" she called it, consummate hostess, quickly brought him round to a quesThe forced conscription was under tion of serious interest. discussion, and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch defended it with
derision,

vivacity against Betsy's attacks. Vrousky and Anna still sat near their is getting rather pronounced," said a
referring to Kar6nin,

little table.

" That

lady

in

a whisper,

Anna, and Vronsky. " " What did I tell you? said Anna's friend. These were not the only ladies who were making the same remarks the Princess Miagkaia and Betsy themselves glanced more than once to the side of the room where they sat alone. Only Aleksei Aleksandrovitch paid no attention to them, and did not allow his thoughts to wander from the interesting conversation on which he had started. Betsy, perceiving the unfortunate effect caused by her friends, executed a skilful manoeuvre so that some one else could reply in her stead to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, and crossed over to Anna. "I always admire your husband's clear and explicit lan" The most transcendental guage," she said. questions seem within my reach when he speaks." " " said Anna, radiant with joy, though she did Oh, yes not understand a word that Betsy had said. Then she arose and went over to the large table, and joined in the general
: !

conversation. At the end of half an hour Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch pro-

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

153

posed to her to go home but she answered, without looking Alekse"i Alekat him, that she wished to remain to supper. sandrovitch took leave of the company and departed.

The Karnins' coachman, an old Tartar, dressed in his waterproof, was having some difficulty in restraining his horses, excited with the cold. lackey stood with his hand on the door of the coupe. The Swiss was standing near the outer door and Anna listened with ecstasy to what Vronsky whispered, while she was freeing, with nervous fingers, the lace of her sleeve which had caught on the hook of her fur

cloak.

no agreement, I confess," Vronsky was sayas he accompanied her to the carriage, " but you know ing, that it is not friendship that I ask for for me, the whole happiness of my life is contained in that one word that you
:

"You made

despise,

love."

Love," she repeated slowly, as though she had spoken to herself then, as she disentangled her lace, she suddenly said, "I do not like this word, because it has for me a sense more profound, and vastly more serious, than you can imagine. But till next time," she said, looking him in the face. She reached him her hand, and, with a rapid step, passed the Swiss, and disappeared in her carriage. Her look, her pressure of his hand, overwhelmed Vronsky. He kissed the palm where her fingers had touched it, and went back to his quarters with the conviction that this evening had brought him nearer to the goal of which he dreamed, than all the two months past.
:

"

VIII.

ALEKSEI ALEKSANDROVITCH found nothing out of the way and Vronsky had held a rather pronounced tete-d-tete, but it seemed to him that others showed some astonishment, and he resolved to keep Anna under his observation. According to his usual custom, when he reached home, Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch went to his library, threw himself into his arm-chair, and opened his book at the place marked by a paper-cutter, and read an article on
in the fact that his wife

From time to time he Papistry till the clock struck one. passed his hand across his forehead, and shook his head, as

154

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

though to drive away an importunate thought. At his usual hour he prepared for rest, but Anna had not yet returned. With his book under his arm, he went to her room but
;

instead of being pre-occupied, as usual, with considerations appertaining to his governmental duties, he was thinking of his wife, and of the disagreeable impression which the state of things caused him. Unwilling to go to bed, he walked up and down with arms behind his back, feeling the necessity upon him of some reflection on the events of the evening.

At first thought, it seemed to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch very simple and natural to speak with his wife on the subject but as he reflected, it came over him that the matter was complicated in a most vexatious fashion. Karen in was not husband, in his eyes, offered his wife an insult jealous. in showing jealously, but he saw no special reason for reposing implicit confidence in his young wife, and for believing that she would always love him. It was not this, however, that he asked himself. Having hitherto been free from suspicions and doubts, he assured himself that he would have absolute trust in her. Yet, as he dwelt upon these details, he felt that he was placed in an illogical and absurd situaTill now, he had never tion where he was powerless to act. come iu contact with the trials of life, except as they met him in the sphere of his official functions. The impression which the present crisis made upon him, was such as a man feels, who, passing calmly over a bridge above a precipice, suddenly discovers that the arch is broken, and that the abyss yawns beneath his feet. The abyss in bis case was actual life and the bridge, the artificial existence, which, till the present time, had alone been open to him. The idea that his wife could love another man occurred to him for the first time, and filled him with
;

terror.

Without stopping to undress, he kept walking up and

down with

regular steps over the echoing floors.

First he
;

went through the dining-room, lighted with a single burner then the dark drawing-room, where a feeble ray of light from the door fell on his full-length portrait, which had been and then his wife's boudoir, where two recently painted candles shed their radiance on the costly bric-H-brac of her writing-table, and on the portraits of parents and friends. When he reached the door of her bedroom, he turned on his
;

heel.

ANNA
From
this

KARtiNINA.

155

time to time he stopped, and said to himself, " Yes, I must tell her I must be decided my way of looking at it! But what can I say? what deAfter all, what has been done? She cision can I make? But whom does not a society had a long talk with him woman talk with? To show jealousy for such a trifle would be humiliating for us both."

must be cut short

But this reasoning, which at first sight appeared to him From the door of conclusive, suddenly lost its cogenc}*. her sleeping-room he returned again to the dining-room, then, as he crossed the drawing-room, he thought he heard a voice saying to him, "The rest seemed surprised, therefore there must be something in it. Yes, the thing must be " broken short off you must be decided but how? His thoughts, like his steps, followed the same circle', and he struck no new idea. He recognized this, passed his hand over his forehead, and sat down in her boudoir. There, as he looked at Anna's writing-table, with its malachite ornaments and a letter unfinished, his thoughts took another direction : he thought of her, and how she would His imagination showed him his wife's life, the needs feel. of her heart and her intellect her tastes, her desires and the idea that possibly she could, that absolutely she must, have an individual existence apart from his, came over him so powerfully, that he hastened to put it out of his mind. This was the abyss that he must fathom with his gaze. To penetrate by thought and feeling into the soul of another was to him a thing unknown, and seemed to him dangerous. " And what is most " is that terrible," he said to himself, this wretched uncertainty comes upon me just as I am about to bring my work to completion," he referred lo a law that he wished to have passed, "and when I have the greatest need of all my mental powers, of all my equa;

What is to be done? I am not one of those who cannot face their misfortunes. I must reflect I must take some stand, and get rid of this annoyance," he added aloud. "I do not admit that I have any right to probe into her feelings, or to scrutinize what is going on in her heart
nimity.
: :

that belongs to her conscience, and comes into the domain of religion," he said to himself, rejoiced that he had found a law applicable to the circumstances that had arisen. "Thus," he continued, "the questions relating to her feelings are questions of conscience, in which I have no con-

156
cern.

ANNA KAUlSNINA
My

duty lies clearly before me. Obliged, as head of family, to watch over her, to point out the dangers which I see, responsible as I am for her conduct, I must, if need-

my

use of my rights." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch laid out, in his mind, a plan by which he would speak to his wife, and all the time he regretted the necessity of wasting his time and his intellectual powers in family matters. But, in spite of him, his plan
ful,

make

And

assumed,

in his thought, the clear, precise,

: :

and

logical

form

of a report

"

must make her understand as follows

; ;

First,

The mean-

Secondly, The reliing and importance of public opinion Thirdly, The misfortunes gious significance of marriage which might assail her son Fourthly, The misfortunes which might befall herself." And Aleksei Aleksandrovitch twisted his fingers together, and made the joints crack. This gesture, which was a bad habit of his, calmed him, and helped to bring him back to moral equilibrium, of which he stood in such need. The rumbling of the carriage was heard in front of the house, and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch stopped in the middle of He heard his wife's steps on the stairthe dining-room. way. His sermon was all ready but still he stood there, twisting his fingers until they cracked again. Though he was satisfied with his little sermon, he trembled when he saw her come, with fear of what the consequences might be.
;
;

IX.

ANNA entered with bent head, playing with the tassels of her bashluik [Turkish hood]. Her face was radiant, but not with joy it was rather the terrible glow of a conflagration on a cloudy sky. When she saw her husband she raised her head and smiled, as though she had awakened from a
:

dream. " You are not a-bed

she said, taking off her bashluik; and, without pausing, she went into her " It is late, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," dressing-room, crying, as she got to the door. " Anna, I must have a talk with you." "With me?" she said in astonishment, coming out into " What is it? What about? " the hall, and looking at him.
j'et?
!

what a miracle

"

ANNA KAKNINA.
;

157

" Nu! let us she demanded, ns she sat down. talk, then, but I would much rather go to since it is so necessary
sleep."
to her mind, astonished at her own her words sounded perfectly natural. She seemed really to want to go to sleep she felt sustained, lifted up, by some invisible power, and clad in an impenetrable armor of falsehood.

Anna

said

what came
a
lie
:

facility at telling

must put you on your guard." " guard why ? She looked at him so gayly, so innocently, that for any one who did not know her as her husband did, the tone of But for her voice would have sounded perfectly natural. him, who knew that he could not deviate from the least of his
I

" Anna, " On

my

without her asking the reason, who knew that her impulse was always to tell him of her pleasures and her sorrows, the fact that Anna took special pains not to observe his agitation, or even to speak, was very significant to him. He felt, by the very tone that she assumed, that she said openly and without dissimulation, "Z)a/ thus it must be, and from henceforth." He felt like a man who should come home and find his house barricaded against him. "Perhaps the key will yet be found," thought Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. " I want to put you on } our guard," said he, in a calm " voice, against the interpretation which might be put by
habits
first
T

society on your imprudence and your rashness. too lively conversation this evening with Count

Your

rather

"

Vronsky

he pronounced this name slowly and distinctly "attracted attention." As he spoke, he looked at Anna's laughing eyes, for him so impenetrable, and saw, with a feeling of terror, all the idleness and uselessuess of his words. "You are always like this," she said, as though she had comprehended absolutely nothing, and attached no importance except to a part of his speech. " Sometimes you don't like it because I am bored, and sometimes because I have a good time. I was not bored this evening has that disturbed
:

you?"
fingers

AlekseM Aleksandrovitch trembled again he twisted his till the knuckles cracked. "Ach! I beg of you, keep your hands still I detest that,"
: :

said she.

158

ANNA KARNINA.

"Anna, is this you?" said Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch, trying to control himself, and stop the movement of his hands. " Da! but what is it?" she asked, with a sincere and al" most comic astonishment. " What do you want of me? Aleksei Aleksandrovitch was silent, and passed his hand He felt that instead of across his brow and over his eyes. warned his wife of her errors in the sight of the world, having he was agitated at what concerned her conscience, and was perhaps striking some imaginary obstacle. " This is what I wanted to say," he continued, in a cool
and tranquil tone, "and I beg you to listen to me until I have done. As you know, I look upon jealousy as a humiliating and wounding sentiment which I would never allow
myself to be led awaj* by, but there are certain social barriers which one cannot cross with impunity. This evening, judging I am not the only one, by the impression which you made, everybody noticed it, you did not conduct yourself at all in a proper manner." " Decidedly I did not please anybody," said Anna, shrug" He does not ging her shoulders. really care," she " all he fears is the You opinion of the world. thought: are not well, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," she added, rising, and turning to go to her room. But he stepped up to her, and held her back. Never had Anna seen his face so displeased and angry she remained on her feet, tipping her head to one side, while with quick fingers she began to pull out the hair-pins. " Nu-s! I hear you," she said, in a calm tone of banter. " I shall even listen with interest, because I should like to know what it's all about." She herself was astonished at the assurance and calm naturalness which she put on, as well as at her choice of words. " I have no I think it is right to examine your feelings. useless and even dangerous," Aleksei Aleksandrovitch be"If we probe too deeply into our hearts, we run the gan. risk of touching on what we ought not to perceive. Your But in presence of yourfeelings concern your conscience. self, of me, and of God, I am in duty bound to remind you of your obligations. Our lives are united, not by men, but by God. Only by crime can this bond be broken, and such a crime brings its own punishment." " I don't understand at all. Ach! Bozhe moY, how sleepy
:

ANNA
lam!"
said the last pin.

EARfiNINA.
hair,

Anna,

still

undoing her

and taking out

in the name of Heaven, don't speak so," said he " Maybe I am mistaken but believe me, what I gently. say to you is as much for your advantage as for mine I am your husband, and I love you." slight frown passed over Anna's face, and the mocking " irribut the word " love fire disappeared from her 03*68 tated her. "Love!" she thought: "does he even know what it means? Is it possible that he loves me? If he had never heard of love, he would always have been ignorant that there was such a word." " Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, honestly, I don't know what " " Make clear to me that you find you mean," she said. " Allow me to finish. I love you, but I am not speaking for myself those who are chiefly interested are your son and It is quite possible, I repeat, that my words may yourself. seem idle and ill-judged possibly they are the result of mistake on my part. In that case, I beg your forgiveness ; but you yourself must feel that there is some foundation for my remarks, and I. earnestly urge you to reflect, and, if your " heart inclines you, to confide in me Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, without noticing the fact, had spoken a very different discourse from the one that he had
!

" Anna

" I have nothing to say." And she added in a sprightly " Da! it is tone, scarcely hiding a smile, truly time to go to bed."
sighed, and, without speaking room. When she reached the room, he was already in bed. His Anna got lips were sternly set, and he did not look at her. into bed, expecting that he would speak to her she both feared it and desired it but he said nothing. She waited long without moving, and then forgot all about him. The image of another filled her with emotion and with guilty joy. Suddenly she heard a slow and regular sound of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch at first was startled himsnoring. but at the end of a second the snoring self, and stopped began again with monotonous regularity. "Too late! too late! " thought she, with a smile. She remained for a long time thus, motionless, with open eyes, the shining of which it seemed to her she herself could see.
further,

prepared.

Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch

went

to his

160

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
X.

FROM

this

evening a new

life

began for Aleksi Aleksan-

There was no outward sign of it. drovitch and his wife. Anna continued to go into society, and especially affected and everywhere she met Vronsky. the Princess Betsy Aleksei Aleksandrovitch understood it, but was powerless to prevent it. Whenever he tried to bring about an explanation, she met him with an affectation of humorous surprise which
;

was absolutely beyond

his penetration.

change took place to outward observation, but their Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, relations were extremely variable. a remarkably strong man in matters requiring statesmanship, He waited for the here found himself at his wits' end. final blow with head bent, and with the resignation of an ox When these thoughts came to him, he told led to slaughter. himself that once more he must try gentleness, tenderness, reason, to save Anna, and bring her back to him. Every day he made up his mind to speak but as soon as he made the attempt, the same evil spirit of falsehood which possessed her, seemed to la}- hold of him, and he spoke not at all in the tone in which he meant to speak. Involuntarily, what he said was spoken in his tone of raillery, which seemed to cast And this tone ridicule on those who would speak as he did.
;

No

was not at all suitable for the expression of the thoughts that he wished to express.
XI.

WHAT had been for Vronsky for nearly a year the only and absolute aim of his life, was for Anna a dream of happiness, all the more enchanting because it seemed to her At last the unreal and terrible. It was like a dream. waking came, and a new life began for her with a sentiment of moral decadence. She felt the impossibility of expressing the shame, the horror, the joy, that were now her portion. Rather than put her feelings into idle and fleeting words, she As time went on, words fit to expreferred to keep silent. press the complexity of her sensations still failed to come to her, and even her thoughts were incapable of translating the impressions of her heart. She hoped that calmness and peace would come to her, but they held aloof. Whenever she

ANNA KARNINA.

161

thought of the past, and thought of the future, and thought of her own fate, she was seized with fear, and tried to drive these thoughts away. " when I am " By and by, by and by," she repeated,
calmer."

On the other hand, when during sleep she lost all control of her imagination, her situation appeared in its frightful almost every night she had the same dream. She reality dreamed that she was the wife both of Vronsky and of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. And it seemed to her that Aleksei Aleksandrovitch kissed her hands, and said, weeping, " How " And Aleksei Vronsky, he, also, was happy we are now! her husband. She was amazed that she could believe such a thing impossible and she laughed when she seemed to explain to them that every thing would simplify itself, and But this that both would henceforth be satisfied and happy. dream weighed on her spirits like a nightmare, and she
:
;

always awoke

in fright.

XII.

IN the first weeks after Levin returned from Moscow, every time that with blushes and a trembling in his limbs he remembered the shame of his rejection, he would say to himself,

" I suffered like this, and I felt that I was ruined, when I was rejected on account of my physical condition, and had to go into the second class and it was the same when I bungled in my sister's affairs, which were confided to me. And now? Now the j-ears have gone by, and I look back with astonishment on those young tribulations. It will be Time will just the same with my disappointment this time. pass, and I shall grow callous." But three months passed away, and the callousness did not come, and his pain remained as severe as on the first What troubled him the most was, that after dreaming day. so long of family life, after being, as he thought, so well
;

prepared for
self farther

it, not only was he not married, but found himthan ever from the goal of marriage. Almost painfully he felt, as those around him felt, that it is not good He remembered that before his for man to live alone. departure for Moscow he had said to his skotnik [cowhei'd], Nikolai', a clever muzhik with whom he liked to talk, "Do

you know, Nikolai,

am

thinking of getting married?"

162

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

whereupon Nikolai had replied instantly without hesitation, " This ought to have been long ago, Koustantin Dmitritch." And now never had he been so far from marriage. The and if he had been able to settle upon some place was taken
:

of his acquaintance, he felt the impossibility of the memories of the past putting Kitty out of his heart It was idle to say that he had comstill tormented him. mitted no sin he blushed at these memories as deeply as though they had been the most disgraceful of his life. The feeling of his humiliation, slight as it really was, weighed heavier on his conscience than any of the evil deeds of his It was a wound that refused to heal. past. Time and labor, however, brought their balm the painful impressions little by little began to fade in presence of the events of the country life, important in reality, in spite of

young

girl

even began to await with impatience the news of her marriage, hoping that this event would bring healing in the same way as the pulling of a tooth. Meantime spring came, beautiful, friendly, without treacha spring such as fills plants and ery or false promises, This splendid season animals, no less than men, with joy. gave Levin new zeal it confirmed his resolution to tear himself from the past so as to re-organize his life on conditions of permanence and independence. The plans that he had formed on his return to the country had not all been realized, but what was most essential, the purity of his life had not been stained. He could look in the faces of those who surrounded him without any humiliating sense of having fallen, or any loss of self-esteem.
:

their apparent insignificance. Every thing by which to remember Kitty : he

week brought some-

Towards the month of February, Marya Nikolayevna had written him that his brother's health was failing, and that it was impossible to take proper care of him. This letter
brought him immediate!}' to Moscow, where he persuaded Nikolai to consult a physician, and then to take the baths abroad he even induced him to accept a loan for the jourUnder these circumstances he could, therefore, be satney. isfied with himself. Besides his farm-labors and his ordinary reading, Levin undertook, during the winter, a stud} of rural economy, in which he began with this premise, that the laborer's temperament is a more important factor than climate or the nature of the soil agronomic science, according
:

ANNA KAR&NINA.
to him,

163

must not neglect either of these three equally important elements. His life, therefore, was very busy and full, in spite of his the only thing that he felt the lack of was the loneliness possibility of sharing the ideas that came to him with any one besides his old nurse. However, he brought himself to discuss with her about physics, the theories of rural economy,
:

and, above

all,

philosophy, which was

rather late.

Agafya Mikhailovna's
last

favorite subject."

The spring was

During the

weeks of

Lent the weather was

clear, but cold.

Though during the

mercury went
thick

day the snow melted

in the sun, at night the

:

down

to seven degrees

the crust on the

snow was so

that wheels did not sink through.

It snowed on Easter Sunday. Then suddenl}-, on the following day, a south wind blew up, the clouds drifted over, and for three days and three nights a warm and heavy rain

fell ceaselessly. On Thursday the wind went down, and then over the earth was spread a thick gray mist, as if to conceal the mysteries that were accomplishing in nature : the ice, in every direction, was melting and disappearing, the rivers overflowed their banks, the brooks came tumbling Towards evening the down, with foamy, muddy waters. Red Hill began to show through the fog, the clouds drifted away, like white sheep, and spring, spring in reality, was The next morning a bright sun there in all her brilliancy. melted away the thin scales of ice which still remained, and the warm atmosphere grew moist with the vapors rising from the earth the dry grass immediately took a greenish tint, and the young blades began to peep from the sod, like millions of tiny needles the buds on the birch-trees, the gooseberry bushes, and the snowball-trees, swelled with sap, and around their branches swarms of hone3^-bees buzzed in the sun. Invisible larks sent forth their songs of joy, to see the the lapwings seemed to mourn for prairies freed from snow their mai-shes, submerged by the stormy waters the wild swans and geese flew high in the air, with their calls of The cows, with rough hair, and places worn bare spring. by the stanchions, lowed as they left their stalls around the heavy-fleeced sheep gambolled awkwardly the young lambs children ran barefoot over the wet paths, where their the peasant-women gossij)ed footprints were left like fossils gayly around the edge of the pond, where they were bleach;

164
;

ANNA

KAKtiNINA.

ing their linen from all sides resounded the axes of the muzhiks, repairing their sokhi (Russian ploughs) and their wagons. Spring had really come.

XIII.

FOR the first time Levin left off his sliuba [fur cloak], and clad more lightly, and shod in his heavy boots, he went out, tramping through the brooklets, as they glanced in the sun, and stepping, now on a cake of ice, and now in deep mud. Spring is the epoch of plans and projects. Levin, as he went out, was not decided upon what he would first take in hand, any more than the tree knows how and why the young sprouts push out, and the young branches clothe themselves with buds but he felt that he was going to originate the most charming projects and the most sensible plans. He went first to see his cattle. The cows were let out into the yard, and were warming themselves in the sun, lowLevin ing as if to beg permission to go out to pasture. knew them all, even to the least. He examined them with satisfaction, and gave orders to the enraptured cowboy to take them to pasture, and to let out the calves. The milkmaids, gathering up their petticoats, and leaping into the mud with bare feet, white as yet, and free from tan, chased the frisky calves about, and with dry sticks kept them from escaping from the yard. The yearlings were uncommonly beautiful the oldest had and Pava's already reached the size of ordinary cows Levin daughter, three months old, was as big as a yearling. admired them, and ordered their troughs to be brought out, and their food to be given them in reslidiki. He found, however, that these reshdtki, or portable palisades, which had been made in the autumn, were out of repair because they had not been needed. He had the carpenter sent for, who was supposed to be busy repairing the threshing-machine but he was not there. He was repairing the ploughs, which should have been done during Lent. Levin was veiy indignant. Oh this everlasting procrastination, against which he had so long struggled in vain The reshdtki, as he soon learned, not having been in use during the winter, had been carried to the stable, where, as they were of light construc;

tion, they

had been broken.

ANNA
As to the

KARtiNINA.

165

ploughs and harrows, which should have been put

and he had hired three in order during the winter months, Levin carpenters, nothing at all was in proper condition. summoned the prikashchik : then, angry at the delay, he himself went in search of him. The prikashchik, as radiant as the whole universe, came at his master's call, dressed in a light lambskin tuluptchika, twisting a straw between his

fingers.
kt

Why

isn't the carpenter at

work on the threshing-ma-

chine?" " Da!

tritch:

that is what I wanted to tell you, Konstantin Dmithe ploughs had to be repaired! We've got to

plough."

" " Dal what have you been doing this winter ? " " Da! but why do you have such a carpenter? " Where are the reshdtki for the calves? "

"I ordered them to be put in place. You can't do any thing with such people," replied the prikashchik, making with his hands a gesture of despair. "It is not these people, but this prikashchik, with whom nothing can be done," said Levin, getting still more angry. " he shouted but recollect" Nu ! what do we pay you for? ing that shouts did not do any good, he stopped, and con" Nu! can tented himself with a sigh. you get the seed in " he demanded, after a moment of silence. yet? " Back of Turkino we could to-morrow, or the day after." " And the clover? " " I sent Vasili and Mishka to sow it, but I don't know whether they succeeded the ground isn't thawed out yet."
;
:

not the whole?" cried Levin angrily. He was furious to learn, that instead of sowing down twenty-four he knew by his own desyatins, they had only planted six experience, as well as by theory, the need of sowing the clover-seed as early as possible after the snow was gone, and it never was done. " Not enough people. What can you do with these men? The three hired men did not come and then Simon " " Nu! you would better have taken them away from the

On how many desyatins ? "Six" [14^ acres].

4
'

' '

"Why

straw."

" Da ! I did that very thing." " " Where are all the
people?

166

ANNA KAR&NINA.
:

four are

" There are five at the compote [he meant to say compost~\ moving the oats, so that they should not spoil,

Konstantin Dmitri tch." Levin knew very well that these words, " So that it should not spoil," meant that his English oats saved for seed were Again they had disobeyed his orders. already ruined. "Da! But did I not tell you during Lent to put in the " he cried. veutilatiug-chimneys ? " Don't you be troubled we will do all in good time." Levin, furious, made a gesture of dissatisfaction, and went then he went to the to examine his oats in the granary The oats were not yet spoiled, but the workmen stables. were stirring them up with shovels instead of simply letting Levin took away two it down from one story to the other. hands to send to the clover-field. Little by little his spirit calmed down in regard to his prikashchik. It was such a " lovely day that one could not keep angiy. Ignat," he cried to his coachman, who, with upturned sleeves, was " saddle me a horse." washing the carriage near the pump,
: :

"Which one?"

"Nul
"I
will

Kolpik." obey."

While the saddle was being adjusted, Levin called the prikashchik, who was busying himself in his vicinity, hoping He spoke with him about the work to be restored to favor. that he wanted done during the spring, and about his plans for carrying on the estate he wanted the compost spread as soon as possible, so as to have this work done before the first mowing then he wanted the farthest field ploughed, so that it might be left fallow. not half of them All the fields should be attended with the laborers. The prikashchik listened attentively, doing his best eviBut his face was dently to approve of his master's plans. so long and melancholy, that he alwa3 s seemed to say, "This is all very well and good, but as God shall give." This tone vexed and almost discouraged Levin, but it was common to all the prikashchiks that had ever been in his service. They all received his projects with a dejected air and so he had made up his mind not to get vexed about it, and he did his best to struggle against this unhappy "As God shall give," which he looked upon as a sort of elementary obstacle fated to oppose him everywhere. "If we have time, Konstantin Dmitritch."
;
;

ANNA
"

KARtiNINA.

167

we not have time? " have to hire fifteen more workmen, but we One came to-day who asked seventy rubles can't get them.

"We

Why

shall

shall

for the

summer."
Always
the

Levin did not speak.

same stumbling-block.

He knew

that however he
:

might exert himself, he never

could hire more than thirty-seven or thirty-eight laborers at a reasonable price once or twice he had succeeded in getbut he wanted to try it again. ting forty, never more "Send to Suri, to Chefirovka: if they don't come, we
;

must go for them."

"

Da vot! The horses "Buy some more:

"I'm going

to go," said Vasili Fedorovitch are very feeble."

gloomily.

da! but

know," he added with a

laugh, "that you will do as little and as badly as yon can. However, I warn you that I will not let you do as you please I shall take the reins in my own hands." this year. "Da! but you sleep too much, it seems to me. are " very happy to be under our master's eyes " Now, have the clover put in on the Berezof land, and I shall come myself to inspect it," said he. mounting his little horse, Kolpik, which the coachman brought up. " Don't go across the brooks, Koustantin Dinitritch," cried the coachman. "Nu! By the woods." And on his little, easy-going ambler, which whinneyed as it came to the pools, and which pulled on the bridle in the joy of quitting the stable, Levin rode out of the muddy court-yard, and picked his way across the open fields. The joyous feeling that he had experienced at the house and the barn-yard increased all the time. The loping of his

We

excellent, gentle ambler

draughts of warm air, slightly freshened by the chill snow which still lay on the ground in spots. Every one of his trees, with greening moss, and buds ready to As he came out on the burst, filled his heart with pleasure. enormous stretch of the fields, they seemed like an immense carpet of velvet where there was not a bare spot or a marsh, but here and there patches of snow. The sight of a peasant's mare and colt treading down his fields did not anger him, but he ordered a passing muzhik to drive them out. With the same gentleness he received the sarcastic and He said, " Ipat, shall we impudent answer of a peasant.
in great

He drank

swung

his

body gently

to

and

fro.

168
put
in the

ANNA KARNINA.
"

And Ipat replied, " seed before very long? must plough first, Konstantin Dmitritch." The farther he

We

went, the more his good-humor increased, and the more his plans for improving his estate developed, each seeming to to protect the fields on the surpass the other in wisdom, south by lines of trees which would keep the snow from to divide his arable fields into nine parts, staying too long six of which should be well dressed, and the other three to build a cow-yard in the farthest cordevoted to fodder to have portable ner of the estate, and have a pond dug and enclosures for the cattle, so as to utilize the manure thus to cultivate three hundred desyatins of wheat, a hundred desyatins of potatoes, and one hundred and fifty of clover, without exhausting the soil. Full of these reflections, he picked his way carefully along so as not to harm his fields he at last reached the place
;

where the laborers were sowing the clover. The telyega loaded with seed, instead of being hauled on the road, had been driven out into the middle of the field, leaving heavy wheel-tracks over his winter wheat, which the horse was trampling down with his feet. The two laborers, sitting by the roadside, were smoking their pipes. The clover-seed, instead of having been sifted, was thrown into the telyega mixed with hard and dry lumps of dirt. Seeing the master coming, the laborer Vasili started towards the telyega, and Mishka began to sow. This was all wrong, but Levin rarely got angry with his muzhiks. When he reached Vasili, he ordered him to take the horse out of the telyega, and lead him to the roadside. " It won't do any harm, sir it will spring up again." " Obey me, without discussing," replied Levin. " I will obey," said Vasili, taking the horse by the head. "What splendid seed, Konstantin Dimtritch," he added, to " I never saw regain favor. any better. But it is slow work. The soil is so heavy, that you seem to drag a pud on each foot." " Why wasn't the field harrowed?" demanded Levin.
:

" Oh it'll come out all right," replied Vasili, taking up a handful of seed, and rubbing it between his fingers. It was not Vasili' s fault that the field had not been harrowed, or the seed sifted but Levin was not less provoked. He dismounted, and, taking the seed-cod from Vasili, began
!

to

sow the

clover.

ANNA
"

EARtiNINA.

169

" Where did you stop? Vasili touched the spot with his foot, and Levin went on with the work as best he could but it was as hard as wading through a marsh, and after a little he stopped all in a sweat, and returned the seed-cod to the muzhik. " Nu! Bar in [Lord], I don't like to do slack work," said " What is Vasili in his muzhik dialect. good for the master And look yonder at that field the sight of is good for us.
; :

it

delights

spring." such a spring as our forbears never saw. I was at our village, and our starik [elder] has already put in his Turkish wheat, as he says he can hardly tell it from rye." " " But how long have you been sowing Turkish wheat? " It was who taught us how to sow it. You you yourself gave us two measures last year. " Nu! look here," said Levin, as he started to mo'unt his " look at Mishka and if the seed comes ambler, up well, you shall have fifty kopeks a desyatin" [40 cents for 2.7
11

"

my
is

heart."

It is a fine

Da!

it

' '

" We thank you humbly we should be content even without that." Levin mounted his horse, and rode off to visit his last-year's clover-field, and then to the field which was already ploughed Levin rode back by way of the ready for the summer wheat. brooks, hoping to find the water lower in fact, he found that he could get across and, as he waded through, he scared up a couple of wild ducks. "There ought to be snipe," he thought; and a forester, whom he met on his way to the house, confirmed his suppo: :

acres] .

sition.

He immediately spurred up his horse, so as to get back in time for dinner, and to prepare his gun for the evening.
XIV.
JUST as Levin reached home, in the best humor in the world, he heard the jingling of bells at the side entrance. "Da! some one from the railroad station," was his first Who can thought: "it's time for the Moscow train. have come? brother Nikolai? Did he not say, that instead " of going abroad he might perhaps come to see me?

170

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

For a moment it occurred to him that this visit might spoil his plans for the spring but, disgusted at the selfishness of this thought, his mind instantly received his brother with open arms, so to speak, and he began to hope, with affecit was really he whom the bell announced. quickened his horse, and as he came out from behind a hedge of acacias, which hid the house from his sight, he saw a traveller, dressed in a shuba, sitting in a hired troika It was not his brother. [three-span]. "I only hope it is some one whom I can talk with," he

tionate joy, that

He

thought.

"Ah

!" he cried, as he recognized Stepan Arkadyevitch,

is

"here

the

most delectable of guests.

!

Ach! how glad

from him
if

am

shall certainly learn is married," he added, to himself.

to see

you

Kitty

Not even the memory of Kitty pained him this splendid spring morning. "You scarcely expected me, I suppose," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, leaping out of the sledge, his face spotted with mud, but radiant with health and pleasure. "I am come, first, to see you secondly, to fire off a gun or two
;

and

thirdly, to sell "Perfect, isn't it?

my wood

"Nu! Indeed, I am delighted to see you again," said Levin, with a smile of boyish joy. He conducted his guest to the room which was always kept in readiness for visitors, and instantly had the traps a gripsack, a gun in its case, and a box of brought up, Levin, leaving him to wash and dress himself, went cigars. out to see the irrikashchik, and deliver his mind about the
clover and the ploughing.

But how could you have got here in a sledge? " Sledge is better than telytga, Konstantin Dmitritch." replied the driver, who was an old acquaintance.

Yergushovo." What do you think of "

at

this

spring?

Agafya Mikhailovna, who had very much at heart the honor of the mansion, stopped him on his way through the " Do entry, and asked him a few questions about dinner. just as you please," replied Levin, as he went out, "only make haste about it." When he returned, Stepan Arkad} evitch, smiling after his toilet, was just coming out of his room, and together they went up-stairs. " Nu! I am very happy to have got out to your house at
T

ANNA
last.

KARfiNlNA.

171

I shall now learn the mystery of your existence. What a house How convenient Truly, 1 envy yon. every thing is! how bright and delightful!" said Stepan Arkach'evitch, forgetting that bright days and the spring"' And your old nurse, what time were not always there. All that's lacking is a pretty little a charming old soul but that does not fall in with your severe chambermaid,
!
!

but this is very good." style other interesting news, Stepan Arkadyevitch told his host that Sergei Ivauovitch expected to come into the country this summer but he did not say a word about the Shcherbatskys, and he simply transmitted his wife's cordial As usual, he had greeting. Levin appreciated this delicacy. stored up during his hours of solitude a throng of ideas and impressions which he could not share with any of his domestics, and which he poured out into Oblonsky's ears every;

and monastic

Among

thing passed under review,

his spring joys, his plans

and

farming projects, and all the criticisms on the books about agriculture which he had read, and above all the skeleton of a work which he himself proposed to write, on the subject

commune. Stepau Arkadyevitch, amiable, aud always ready to grasp a point, showed unusual cordiality and Levin even thought that he noticed a certain flattering consideration and an undertone of tenderness in his bearing. The united efforts of Agafya Mikhailovna and the cook resulted in the two friends, who were half starved, betaking themselves to the zakuska [lunch-table] before the soup was served, and devouring bread and butter, cold chicken and salted mushrooms, and finally in Levin calling for the soup before the little pasties, prepared by the cook in the hope of But Stepau Arkadyevitch, dazzling the guest, were done. though he was used to different kinds of dinners, found
of the rural
;

the home-brewed liquors, every thing exactly to his mind the bread, the butter, and especially the cold chicken, the mushrooms, the shchi [cabbage-soup], the fowl with white sauce, aud the Krimean wine, were delicious. "Perfect! perfect!" he cried, as he lit a big cigarette after the second course. " I feel as if I had escaped the shocks and noise of a ship, and had landed on a peaceful shore. And so you say that the element represented by the workingman ought to be studied above all others, and be taken as a guide in the choice of economic expedients. I ana a profanus in these questions, but it seems to me that
:

172
this theory

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

and its applications would have an influence on " the workingman " Yes but hold on I am not speaking of political economy, but of rural economy, considered as a science. You must study the premises, the phenomena, just the same as in the natural sciences and the workingman, from the " economical and ethnographical point of view But here Agafya Mikhai'lovna entered with the dessert of
; : ;

preserves.

Nu! accept my compliments, Agafya Mikhai'lovna," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, kissing the ends of his hairy fingers.
What delicious beer nice pickles! Well, Kostia, " time to go? he added. Levin looked out of the window towards the sun, which was sinking behind the tree-tops, still bare and leafless. '' It is time. Kuzma, have the horses hitched up," he cried, as he went down-stairs. Stepan Arkadyevitch fol!

"

"What
it

isn't

lowed him, and set to work carefully to remove his gim from the case it was a gun of the newest pattern, and very
:

expensive.
fee, gave him assiduous and helped him put on his stockings and his hunting-boots and Stepan Arkadyevitch accepted his aid com-

Kuzma, who foresaw a generous

;

attention,

placently. " If the merchant Rabinin comes while we are gone, Kostia, do me the favor to have him kept till we get back." " " Are you going to sell your wood to Rabinin?
I have done business with certainly I know him. him, positively and finally." " Stepan Arkad}'evitch burst into a laugh. Positively and " were the favorite words of the merchant. finally "Yes: he is very droll in his speech! She knows where her master is going," he added, patting Laska, who was jumping and barking around Levin, licking now his hand, now his boots and gun. dolgusha (hunting-wagon) was waiting at the steps as they came out. " I had the horses put in, although we have but a little " but if distance to go," said Levin you would rather walk, we can."
!

" Yes. " Oh

Do }xm know him ? "

" No,
vitch, as

would just as

lief

he mounted the dolgusha.

ride," replied Stepan ArkadyeHe sat down, tucking

ANNA
3-011

KAItfiNINA.

173

" How can round his legs a striped plaid, and lit a cigar. it is not get along without smoking, Kostia? A cigar only a pleasure, it is the very crown and sign of delight.
This
is life

indeed.

How
"

delicious

Vot-bui, I should like

to live like this." ** What's to prevent?

;

" Yes but you are a happy man, for you have every thing You like horses, you have them dogs, you that you like. " have them hunting, here it is an estate, here it is " what I have, and don't it is because I
;
;
;

asked Levin, with a smile.

Perhaps enjoy covet what 1 have not." replied Levin, with Kitty in his mind. Stepan Arkadyevitch understood, and looked at him with-

out speaking. Levin was grateful because Oblonsky had not yet mentioned the Shcherbatskys, and had understood, with his usual but now he tact, that it was a subject which he dreaded felt anxious to find out how matters stood, but he did not
;

"Nu! how go your affairs?" he asked at last, blaming himself for thinking only of his selfish interests. Oblonsky's e\ es glistened with gayety. " You will not admit that one can want hot rolls when he has his monthly rations in your eyes, it is a crime but for me, I cannot admit the possibility of living without love," he replied, construing Levin's question in his own fashion. " What is to be done about it? I am so constituted, and I can't see the harm that it does." " " What is there Levin demanded. somebody else? ''There is, brother! You know the type of the women in Ossian ? these women that one sees only in dreams ? But Woman, you see, is an they really exist, and are terrible. inexhaustible theme you can never cease studying it, and it
r

like to inquire.

always presents some new phase." " So much the better not to study it, then." " Not at all. Some matimatik said that happiness consisted in searching for truth, and never finding it." Levin listened, and said no more but it was idle for him to enter into his friend's soul, and understand the charm which he took in studies of this sort.
;

174

ANNA EAR&NINA.
XV.

TITK place where Levin took Oblonsky was not far away, by a shallow stream, flowing through an aspen-grove he posted him in a mossy nook, somewhat marshy where the He himself went to the opposite snow had just melted. side, near a double birch, rested his gun on one of the lower
:

branches, took off his kaftan, clasped a belt about his waist, and moved his arms to see that nothing bound him. Old Laska, following him step by step, sat down cauThe sun tiously in front of him, and pricked up her ears. was setting behind the great forest, and against the eastern sky the young birches and aspens stood out distinctly, with their bending branches and their swelling buds. In the forest, where the snow still lay, the sound of running waters could be heard little birds were chirping, and Sometimes the silence seemed flying from tree to tree. broken only by the rustling of the dry leaves, moved by the thawing earth or the pushing herbs. " " said Levin Why, one really can hear the grass grow! to himself, as he saw a moist and slate-colored aspen-leaf raised by the blade of a young herb starting from the sod. He was on his feet, listening and looking, now at the mosscovered ground, now at the watchful Laska, now at the bare tree-tops of the forest, which swept like a sea to the foot of the hill, and now at the darkening sky, where floated bits of little white clouds. vulture flew aloft, slowly flapping his broad wings above the forest another took the same direction and disappeared. In the thicket the birds were chirping louder and gayer than ever. An owl, in the distance, lifted his voice. Laska pricked up her ears again, took two or three cautious steps, and bent her head to listen. On the other side of the stream a cuckoo twice uttered its feeble notes, and then ceased hoarsely and timidly. "Why! the cuckoo has come!" said Stepau Arkady e:

vitch, leaving his place. "Yes, I hear," said Levin, disgusted that the silence of the forest was broken, by the sound even of his own voice.

Stepan Arkadyevitch returned to his place behind his and nothing more was seen of him except the flash of a match and the red glow of his cigarette and a light bluish smoke.
thicket,

"

ANNA
"

KAittiNiNA.

175

" Tchik! tchik ! Stepan Arkadyevitch cocked his gun. " " What was that he demanded of his making that noise?
his attention to a strange sound, like a child imitating the neighing of a horse.

companion, attracting
li

Don't you know what that is? That is the male rabbit. don't speak tiny more," cried Levin, in turn cocking his gun. A whistle was heard in the distance, with that rhythmic regularity which the huntsman knows so well then a moment or two later it was repeated nearer, and suddenly changed into a hoarse little cry. Levin turned his eyes to the right, to the left, and finally saw, just above his head, against the fading blue of the sky, above the gently waving aspens, a bird Hying towards him its cry, like the noise made by

Da!

tearing cloth, rang in his ears then he distinguished the long beak and the long neck of the snipe, but hardly had he caught sight of it when a red flash shone out from behind OblouThe bird fluttered in the air, as though struck, sky's bush. and turned to fly up again but again the light flashed and the bird, vainly striving to rise, flapped its wings for a second and fell heavily to earth.
; ;

"Did

miss?" asked Stepan Arkadyevitch, who could

see nothing through the smoke. " Here she is," cried Levin, pointing to Laska, who with one ear erect, and with slightly wagging tail, slowly, as though to lengthen out the pleasure, came back with the bird in her mouth, seeming almost to smile as she laid the game down at her master's feet. " Nu! I am glad you hit," said Levin, though he felt a
slight sensation of envy. "The left barrel missed:

Arkadyevitch.

" Sh!

beastly gun

!"

replied Stepan

Here's another."
;

In fact, the whistles came thicker and thicker, rapid and Two snipe flew over the hunters, chasing each other sharp. four shots rang out and the snipe, turning on their track
;

like swallows,

disappeared from sight.

sport was excellent. Stepan Arkadyevitch killed two and Levin also two, one of which was lost. It grew darker and darker. Venus, with silvery light, shone out in the west and in the east, Arclurtis gleamed, with his sombre, reddish fire. At intervals, Levin saw the Great Bear. No more snipe appeared but Levin resolved to wait until Venus, which was visible through the branches of his birch-tree, rose
others,
;
;

The

176

ANNA EAR&NINA.

clear above the hills on the horizon, and till the Great Bear was entirely visible. The star had passed beyond the birchtrees, and the wain of the Bear was shining out clear in the

sky, and he was still waiting. " " Isn't it asked Stepan Arkadyevitch. getting late? All was calm in the forest not a bird moved. " Let us wait a little," replied Levin. " Just as you please." At this moment they were not fifteen steps apart. " " Stiva," cried Levin suddenly, you have not told me whether your sister-iu-law is married yet, or whether she He felt so calm, his mind was so is to be married soon." thoroughly made up, that nothing, he thought, could move But he did not expect Stepan Arkadyevitch's answer. him. " She is not married, and she is not thinking of marriage. She is veiy ill, and the doctors have sent her abroad. They even fear for her life." " " 111? What is the " What did cried Levin. you say? " matter? How did she AVhile they were talking thus, Laska, with ears erect, was gazing at the sky above her head, and looking at them
:

reproachfully.

"It is not the time to talk," thought Laska. "Ah! Here comes one there he goes they will miss him." At the same instant a sharp whistle pierced the ears of the two huntsmen, and both, levelling their guns, shot at once the two reports, the two flashes, were simultaneous. The snipe flapped his wings, drew up his delicate legs, and fell
:

into the thicket.

"Excellent! both together!" cried Levin, running with " Ach ! Da ! What was it that in search of the game. hurt me so just now? Ah, yes! Kitty is ill," he remem"What is to be done about it? It is very sad. bered. Ah! I have found it. Good dog," said he, taking the bird from Laska's mouth, to put it into his overflowing game-bag.

Laska

XVI.

WHEN he reached home, Levin questioned his friend about It was Kitty's illness and the plans of the Shcherbatskys. not without pleasure, though it was with some conscientious scruples, that he heard how she who had caused him so much

ANNA EAEENINA.

177

But wheu Stepan Arkadyesuffering, was suffering herself. vitch spoke of the reason of Kitty's illness, and pronounced
of Vronsky, he interrupted him. have no right to know these family matters, since I am not concerned." Stepan Arkadyevitch smiled imperceptibly as he noticed the sudden change in Levin, who, in an instant, had passed from gayety to sadness. " Have you succeeded in your transaction with Rabinin " about the wood? he asked. kt Yes J have made the bargain. He gives me an excellent price, thirty-eight thousand rubles, eight in advance, and the rest in six years. I had been long about it no one offered me any more."
the

name
I

"

"You

are selling your

wood

for a song,"

said Levin,

frowning.

"Why
mored

so?"

smile, having

said Stepan Arkadyevitch, with a good-huknown that Levin would totally disapis

prove of it. " Because your wood

a desyatin."

worth at least

five

hundred rubles

" Ach! You rural economists! " replied Stepan Arkadye" What a tone of scorn to us, your urban brother And yet, when it comes to business matters, we come out of it better than you do. Believe me, I have made a careful calculation. The wood is sold under very favorable conditions and I fear only one thing, and that is lest the merchant will regret it. It is wretched wood," he went on, accenting the word wretched, so as to convince Levin of the unfairness of his criticism, " and nothing but fire-wood. There will not be more than thirty sazhens [forty-nine square feet] to the desyatin, and he pays me at the rate of two hunvitch.
!

dred rubles." Levin smiled scornfully. "I know these city people," he thought, "who, for the once in ten years that they come into the country, and the two or three words of the country dialect, plume themselves on knowing the subject thoroughly. Wretched! only thirty sazhens ! he speaks without knowing a word of what he is talking about." 'I do not allow myself to criticise what you put on paper in your administrative functions," he said, " and, if I needed, I would even ask you imagine that your advice. But you,
*

'

178
you ^mlei'btand

ANNA
this

KAIifiNINA.
It is

Have you counted tue trees? " " What? Count my trees?" asked Stepan Arkady evitch,
with a laugh, aud
stiil

document about the wood.

bad.

trying to get his friend out of his illthe sand on the seashore, count the rays " of the planets ti.-ough a lofty genius might " Nn ! da ! J tell you the lofty genius of Rabinin succeeded. Never does a merchant purchase without counting, unless, indeed, the wood is given away for nothing, as you have done. I know your wood I go hunting there every year it is worth while he gives five hundred rubles a desyatin, cash down

humor.

"Count

you only two hundred, and on a long terra. That means you " give him thirty thousand. " Nu! enough of imaginary receipts," said Stepan Arkad^-Why didn't some one offer me this yevitch" plaintively.
price?
I have the merchants connive with each other. I know them. all of them They are not merNone of them is satisfied with a chants, but speculators. profit less than ten or fifteen per cent. They wait till they can buy for twenty kopeks what is worth a ruble." " Nu! enough you are blue."

" Because
to

had

do with

at all," saict Levin sadly, just as they were approaching the house. strong telyega, drawn by a well-fed horse, was standing before the door; in the teJyega sat Rabinin's t&t prikashchik, holding the reins and Rabinin himself was already in the The house, and met the two friends at the vestibule-door.

"Not

merchant was a man of middle age, tall and thin, wearing a mustache, but his prominent chin was well shaven. His eyes were protuberant and muddy. He was clad in a dark blue coat with buttons, set low behind and he wore high boots, and over his boots huge goloshes. Wiping his face with his handkerchief, and wrapping his overcoat closely around him, though it was not necessary, he came out with a smile, to meet the gentlemen as they entered. He gave one hand to Stepan Arkady evitch, as though he wanted to grasp some;

thing.

"Ah! Here }-ou are," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, shak" Veiy good." ing hands. " I should not have ventured to disobey your excellency's Fact, I came all the orders, though the roads are very bad. oil foot, but I am here on time. greeting to you, way

ANNA
to seize his
;

KARtiNINA.

179

Konstantin Dmitritch," said he, turning to Levin, intending hand also but Levin affected not to notice the

motion, and calmly relieved his game-bag of the snipe. 'You have been enjoying a hunt? What kind of a bird is that?" asked Rabinin, looking at the snipe disdainfully. " What does it taste like?" And he tossed his head disapprovingly, as though he felt doubtful if such a fowl were
edible.

" " Won't asked Levin in French. you go into the library? " Go into the and discuss your business there." library, "Just as you please," replied the merchant, in a tone of

disdainful superiority, wishing it to be understood, that, if others could liud difficulties in transacting business, he was not of the number. In the library, Rabinin's eyes mechanically sought the holy image but, when he caught sight of it, he did not make He glanced at the bookcases and the the sign of the cross. shelves lined with books, and manifested" the same air of doubt and disdain that the snipe had caused. " " asked Stepau ArkadWell, did you bring the money?
;

" The money will come all in good time, but I came to have a talk." " What have we to talk about? However, sit down." " as well sit said Rabiuin, a and
:

yevitch.

down," chair, May taking " You leaning back in it in the most uncomfortable attitude. must give in a trifle, prince it would be sinful not to do it. As to the money, it is all ready, even to the last kopek on this side, there will be no delay." Levin, who had been putting his gun away in the armory, and was just leaving the room, stopped as he heard the last words. "You bought the wood at a miserable price," said he. "He came to visit me too late: I would have engaged to
:

get

much more

for it."

Rabinin arose and contemplated Levin from head to foot with a smile, but said nothing. " Konstantin Levin is very sharp," said he at length, " One never succeeds in turning to Stepan Arkadyevitch. I have bought wheat, arranging a bargain finally with him. and paid good prices." "Why should I make you a present of my property? I did not find it nor steal it."

180

ANNA K
at the present

" Excuse mci

day

it

is

sible to be a thief: every thing is done, in could steal, honestly and openly.

Who We have then? The wood is too dear I spoken honestly and honorably. I beg you to yield a shall not make the two cuds meet.
:

absolutely imposthe present day,

little."

" But is your bargain made, or is it not? If it is made, there is no need of haggling : if it is not, I am going to buy the wood." The smile disappeared from Rabinin's lips. rapacious and cruel expression, like that of a bird of prey, came in its

place.

With

his

bony hands he
;

tore

open

his

overcoat,

bringing into sight his shirt, his vest with its copper buttons, and from his breast-pocket he pulled and his watch-chain out a huge well-worn wallet.
the wood is mine." And making a rapid of the cross, he extended his hand. "Take my This is how Rabinin ends his money, I take your wood. transactions finally and positively. He does not reckon his kopeks," said he, waving his wallet eagerly. " If I were in your place, I would not be in haste," said Levin. " But I have given my word," said Oblonsky, astonished. Levin dashed out of the room, slamming the door. The merchant watched him as he went, and lifted his head. " Merely the effect of youth definitely, pure childishness. Believe me, I buy this, so to speak, for the sake of glory, beIt's Rabinin, and not some one cause I wish people to say,

"Excuse me:

sign

'

else,

who has bought Oblonsky's forest.' And God knows " how I shall come out of it Please sign An hour later the merchant went home in his telyega, well
!

wrapped up in his furs, with the agreement " Och! these gentlemen!" he said to " always the same story."

in his

pocket.
:

his prikashchik

"So it is," replied the prikashchik, giving up the reins, so as to arrange the leather boot. "^1-s/ and your little purchase, Mikhail Ignatitch?"
" Nu! nu!"

XVII.
STEPAN ARKADYEVITCH went down-stairs, his pockets filled with " promises to pay." due in three months, which the merchant had given him. The sale was concluded ; he had

ANNA KAREN IN A.
money
in

181
;

hence he was sport had been good and contented, and would gladly have disperfectly happy a day beginning so pelled the sadness which possessed him well should end the same. But Levin, however desirous he was of seeming amiable and thoughtful toward his guest, could not drive away his
his

pocket

ill-humor the species of intoxication which he felt in learnNot ing that Kitty was not married, was of short duration. Ill, perhaps, from love of him who had married, and ill! Had not It was almost like a personal insult. jilted her. Vronsky, in a certain sense, gained the right to despise him, He since he had put to shame her who had rejected him? was therefore his enemy. He could not reason away this impression, but he felt wounded, hurt, and discontented at every thing, and especially at this ridiculous sale of the forest, which had taken place under his roof, without his being able to keep Oblonsky from being cheated. " Nil! is it finished? " he asked, as he met Stepan Arkad" " Will you have some supper? yevitch. "Yes: I won't refuse. What an appetite I feel in the It's wonderful why didn't you offer a bite to country
: ! !

" the Devil take him! " Do you know, your behavior to him seemed astonishing You didn't even offer him }'our hand to me? Why didn't " you offer him your hand? " Because I don't shake hands with my lackey, and my lackey is worth a hundred of him." " What a are! And how about the fusion "rvtroyrad you

Kabinin?"

"Ah!

of classes? " Let those

who

like

it

"

enjoy

it

It is disgusting."

You,

myself who I was. I Koustantin, nothing more." And Konstantin Levin in a very bad humor," said Oblonsky, smiling.

"To
'

see, are a retrograd." tell the truth, I never asked

I

am

of this idiotic bargain

bad humor, and do you know why? Because " excuse the express put on an air of injured innocence, Stepan Arkadyevitch and replied with an amusing grimace. "Nu! that'll do!" he said. "After any one has sold You might have sold this at a any thing, they come saying, but no one thinks of offering this fine price higher price
I
in
; ' '
;

"

Da !

am

182

ANNA
:

before the sale. No I see you have a grudge against this unfortunate Rabinin." " Maybe I have. And shall I tell you why? You will call me retrograd or some worse name, but I cannot help feeling bad to see the nobility [dvorianstvo'] the nobility, to which I am happy to say I belong, and belong in spite of your fuIf this sion of classes, always getting poorer and poorer. growing poverty was caused by spendthrift ways, by too high

To live like lords is proper living, I wouldn't say any thing. for the nobles : the nobles [dvoriane'] only can do this. Now the muzhiks are buying up our lands, but I am not concerned : the proprietor [barin~\ does nothing, the muzhik is industrious, and it is just that the workingman should take the place of the lazy. So it ought to be. And I am glad for the muzhik. But what vexes me, and stirs my soul, is to see the proprietor robbed by I don't know how to express it by his own innocence. Here is a Polish tenant, who has bought, at half price, a superb estate of a baruina [titled lady] who lives at -Nice. Yonder is a merchant who has got a farm for a tenth of its value. And this very day you have given this rascal a present of thirty thousand rubles." tk But what could I do? Count my trees one by one?" "Certainly: if you have not counted them, be sure that the merchant has counted them for you ; and his children will have the means whereb}' to live and get an education,
whereas yours perhaps
will

not."
it

is ridiculous to go into such minute calculations. We have our ways of doing things, and they have theirs and let them get the good of it. Nu ! And here Moreover, it is done, and that's the last of it. is my favorite omelette coning in and then Agafya Mik-

"Nu!

In

my

opinion,
;

hailovna will certainly give us a glass of her delicious travnichok" [herb brandy].

Stepan Arkadyevitch sat down at the table in excellent and rallied Agafya Mikhailovna, and assured her that he had not eaten such a dinner and such a supper for an age. " You can But Konstnntin give fine speeches, at least. Dmitritch, if he found only a crust of bread, would eat it
spirits,

and go away."

gloomy mood,

Levin, in spite of his efforts to rule his melancholy and still felt out of sorts. There was a question which he could not make up his mind to put, finding neither

ANNA KAE&NINA.
the opportunity to ask

183

it, nor a suitable form in which to Stepan Arkadyevitch had gone to his room, and, after a bath, had gone to bed clad in a beautiful frilled nightgown. Levin still dallied in the room, talking about a hundred trifles, but not having the courage to ask what he had at heart. " said " How well this is he, taking from its arranged a piece of perfumed soap, an attention on the wrapper part of Agafya Mikhailovua which had not attracted Ob-

couch

it.

louskv's attention.
:

" Just look

isn't

it

truly a

work of

"Yes, the electric lights," "repeated Levin. "And that he suddenly asked, putting Vronsky where is he now ?
:

art?" " Yes every thing is getting perfect nowadays," said " The theatres, Stepan Arkadyevitch, with a beatific yawn. a a a" for example, and "these yawning again " a a a a electric lights a amusing

thought Levin, looking at him. "Da! there is something subtle, something diplomatic, in his face ;" and, feeling that he was blushing, he said nothing, but looked at Oblonsky. " If on her part there was any feeling for him, it was merely a slight drawing, a fascination, such as a lofty aristocracy and a high position is likely to have on a young girl, and particularly on her mother." Levin frowned. The pain of his rejection came back to him like a recent wound in his heart. Fortunately, he was

" said Stepan Arkadyevitch, ceasing to yawn. He went away shortly after you did, is at Petersburg. and did not return to Moscow. Do you know, Kostia," he continued, leaning his elbow on a little table placed near the head of the bed, and leaning his head on his hand, while two good-natured and rather sleepy eyes looked out like twin You are in part to blame stars, "I will tell you the truth. for all-this story you were afraid of a rival. And I will remind you of what I said I don't know which of you had the best chances. Why didn't you go ahead? I told you then " that and he yawned again, trying not to open his mouth. "Does he, or doesn't he, know of the step I took?" "

down
" He

the soap.

Vronsky?

home and at home the shadows sustain one. " Wait wait " he " But interrupted your aristocracy I want to tell you what this aristocracy of Vronsky's means, or any other kind that could look down upon me. You conat
; ! :

184
sider

ANNA

KABfiNINA.

man whose father him an aristocrat. I don't. sprang from the dust, by means of intrigue, whose mother has Aristocrats, in my eyes, are men who can Oh, no show in the past three or four generations of excellent fam!

talents and belonging to tlie most cultivated classes, who never abased themselves another matter, like my father and before anybody, and were self-reliant, mother. And I know many families of the same kind. It seems incredible to you that I can count my trees but you, you give thirty thousand rubles to Rabinin but you receive a salary, and other things and that I never expect to receive,
ilies,

intellect are

appreciate what my father left me, and what my labor gives me and therefore I say it is we who are aristocrats, and not those who live at the expense of the powers of this world, and who can be bought for twenty

and therefore

kopeks."
replied

" Da! whom are you so angry with? I agree with you," Oblonsky gayly, and amused at his friend's tirade, even though he knew that it was directed against himself. " You are not fair to but this has to do with
Vrousky,
:

nothing

him.
tw

I will tell }'ou frankly " start for Moscow, and

if I

were

in

your place,

would

I don't know if you are aware of what passed, over for me. I will tell you. I proposed to Kateso that now the memrina Aleksandrovna, and was rejected ory of it is painful and humiliating." " " Why so? What nonsense " But let us not speak of it. Forgive me if I have been " Now all is You rude to you," said Levin. explained. will not be. angry with me, Stiva?" said he, resuming his usual manner. " I beg of you, don't lay up any thing against me." And he took his hand. " Da I I will not think any thing more about it. I am very glad, though, that we have spoken frankly to one another. And, do you know, sport will be capital to-morrow? Suppose we try it again. I would not even sleep, but go straight
!

No

but

it's

to the station."

"Excellent!"
XVIII.
VRONSKY, though absorbed by his passion, changed in no He kept up all his social the outward course of his life. and military relations. His regiment filled an important part

way

ANNA
in his life, in the first

EARtiNINA.

185
and, still not only be proud was seen

place because he loved it, more, because he was extremely popular. He was admired, he was respected and it was a matter to of, that a man of his rank and intellectual capacity
;

to place the interests of his regiment and his comrades above the vainglorious or egotistical success which were his right. Vronsky kept account of the feeling which he inspired, and felt called upon, in a certain degree, to sustain
his character.

Of course he spoke to no one of his passion. Never did an imprudent word escape him, even when he joined his comhe drank, however, very rades in some drinking-bout, and he was wise enough to keep his mouth moderately, shut in the presence of those gossiping meddlers who made His passion, the least allusion to the affairs of his heart. however, was a matter of notoriety throughout the city and the young men envied him on account of the very thing that Karenin's high stawas the greatest drawback to his love, tion, which made the matter more conspicuous.
;

The majority

of

young

ladies, jealous of

Anna, whom they

were weary of hearing always called the just, were not sorry to have their predictions verified, and were waiting only for the sanction of public opinion, to overwhelm her with their scorn they had stored away, ready for use, the mud which should be thrown at her when the time came. People of experience, and those of high rank, were displeased at the
:

prospect of a disgraceful scandal in society. Vronsky's mother at first felt a sort of pleasure at her in her opinion, nothing was better for son's infatuation forming a young man than to fall in love with some great and, moreover, she was not sorry to find that society lady this Madame Kareniua, who seemed so entirely devoted to her boy, was, after all, only like any other handsome and But this way of looking at it changed when elegant woman. she learned that her son had refused an important promotion, so that he might not be obliged to leave his regiment, and this Madame Kare"nin's vicinity. Moreover, instead of being a brilliant and fashionable flirtation, such as she approved, it was turning out, as she learned, to be a tragedy, after the style of Werther, and she was afraid lest her son should allow himself to commit some folly. Since his unheralded departure from Moscow she had not seen him, but she sent word to him, through his brother, that she desired him to
; ;

186

ANNA KAR&NINA.
even more dissatisfied, whether this love-affair

come to her. His older brother was not because he felt anxious to know was to be deep or ephemeral, calm he himself, though a or guilty,

or passionate, innocent married man and the father of a family, had shown by his own conduct that he but because he knew that this had no right to be severe, love-affair was displeasing in quarters where it was better to be on good terms and therefore he blamed his brother. Vronsky, besides his society relations and his military horses. The duties, hud yet another absorbing passion, He became a officers' races were to take place this summer. in subscriber, and purchased a pure-blood English trotter spite of his love-affair, he was extremely interested in *the These two passions easily existed side results of the races. by side, and he needed some outside interest to offset the violent emotions which stirred him in his relations with
;

Anna.

XIX.

ON the day of the Krasno-Selo races, Vronsky came earlier than usual to eat a beefsteak in the officers' great common
He was not at all constrained to limit himself, dining-hall. since his weight satisfied the forty pud conditions of the service but he did not want to get fat, and so he refrained
;

from sugar and farinaceous foods. He sat down at the His coat was unbuttoned, and displayed his white table. with both elbows restvest, and he opened a French novel ing on the table he seemed absorbed in his book, but he
:

took this attitude so as not to talk with the officers as they went and came, but to think. He was thinking about the meeting with Anna, which was to take place after the races. He had not seen her for three days and he was wondering if she would be able to keep her promise, as her husband had just returned to Petersburg from a journey abroad, and he was wondering how he could find out. They had met for the last time at his cousin For he went to the Karenins' house as little Betsy's villa. as possible, and now he was asking himself if he would best
;

go

there.

I will simply say that I am charged "by Betsy to find whether she expects to attend the races, yes, certainly, I will go," he said, raising his head from his book. And his

"

ANNA

KARfiNlNA.

187

face shone with the joy caused by his imagination of the forthcoming interview. " Send word that I wish my troika harnessed," said he to the waiter who was bringing his beefsteak on a silver platter. He took his plate, and began his meal. In the adjoining billiard-room the clicking of balls was Then two heard, and two voices talking and laughing. one of them was a young man officers appeared in the door with delicate, refined features, who had just graduated from the Corps of Pages, and joined the regiment the other was old and fat, with little, moist ej'es, and wore a bracelet on
: ;

his wrist.

Vronsky glanced at them and frowned, and went on eating and reading at the same time, as though he had not seen
them. " asked the fat " Getting ready for work, are you? down near him. sitting
officer,

" You see I am," replied Vronsky, wiping his lips, and frowning again, without looking up. "But aren't you afraid of getting fat?" continued the elderly officer, pulling up a chair for his junior.
cried Vrousky, showing his teeth to express and aversion. " " Aren't you afraid of getting fat? cried Vronsky, without deigning to "Waiter, sherry!" and he changed his book to the other side of his reply plate, and continued to read. The fat officer took the wine-list, and passed it over to the
his disgust
;

"What!"

young officer. " See what

"Rhine

twist his out of the corner of his eye. When he saw that Vronsky did not move, the young officer " Come into the billiard-room." got up, and said, The fat officer also arose, and the two went out of the door. At the same time a cavalry captain came in, a tall, handsome young man, named Yashvin. He gave the two officers a slight, disdainful salute, and went towards Vronsky. "Ah! here he is," he cried, Ia3'ing his heavy hand on Vronsk3''s shoulder. Vronsky turned round angrily, but in an instant a pleasant, friendly expression came into his face. "Well, Alosha!" said the cavalry captain, in his big

have to drink." you please," replied the latter, trying to imaginary mustache, and looking timidly at Vrousky
we'll
if

wine,

188
baritone.

ANNA

KAitl&NlNA.

" Have some more dinner, and drink a glass with

I don't

me." " No:

want any dinner."

are inseparables," said Yashvin, looking with an expression of disdain at the two officers as they disapThen he sat down, doubling up under the chair, peared. which was too short for him, his long legs dressed in tight, " uniform trousers. Why weren't you at the theatre last

"Those

evening?

Numerova was

truly not bad at

all.

Where were

you?" "

I staid too late at the

"Ah!"

Tverskois'," said Vronsky.

Yashvin was Vronsky's best friend in the regiment, though he was not only a gambler, but a debauchee. It could not be He had prinsaid of him that he entirely lacked principles. Vronsky liked him, and ciples, but the}' were immoral ones. admired his exceptional physical vigor, which allowed him to drink like a hogshead and not feel it, and to do absolutely He had no less admirawithout sleep if it were necessary. tion for his great social ability, which made him a power, not At the Engonly with his superiors, but with his comrades. lish Club, he had the notoriety of being the most daring of gamblers, because, while never ceasing to drink, he risked large sums with imperturbable presence of mind. If Vronsky felt friendship and some consideration for Yashvin, it was because he knew that his fortune or his social position counted for nothing in his friendship that the latter showed him. He was liked on his own account. Moreover, Yashvin was the only man to whom Vronsk}' would have been willing to speak of his love because he felt, that, in spite of his affected scorn for all kinds of sentiment, he alone could appreciate the serious passion which now absorbed his whole life. Besides, he knew that he was incapable of indulging in tittle-tattle and scandal. Thus, taken all in all, his presence was always agreeable to him. Vronsky had not yet spoken about his love, but he knew that Yashvin knew it looked upon it in its true light and it was a pleasure to read this in his eyes. "Ah, da!" said the cavalry captain, when he heard the name of the Tverskois and he bit his mustache, and looked at him with his brilliant black eyes. "Nut and what did you do last evening? Did you gain?"
;
;

asked Vronsky.

ANNA K Alt

NINA.

189

"Eight thousand rubles, but three thousand possibly are no good." "Nu! Then you can lose on me," said Vronsky, laughing his comrade had laid a large wager on him. "But I shall not lose. Makhotiu is the only one to be
:

afraid of." And the conversation went off in regard to the races, which was the only subject which was of any moment now. "Come on: J am through," said Vronsky, getting up. Yashvin also arose, and stretched his long legs. " I can't dine so early, but I will take something to drink. I will follow you. Here, twne!" he cried, in his heavy voice, which made the windows rattle, and was the wonder of the regiment. "No, no matter!" he cried again: "if you are going home, I'll join you."

XX.
VRONSKY was lodging in a great Finnish izba [hut] , very neatly arranged, and divided in two by a partition. Petritsky was his chum, not only in Petersburg, but here also in camp. He was asleep when Vronsky and Yashvin entered. " Get up you've slept long enough," said Yashvin, going behind the partition, and shaking the sleeper's shoulder, as he lay with his nose buried in the pillow.
!

"Your brother has been here," said he to Vronsky. "He woke me up, confound him and he said that he would come
!

Petritsk}- got

upon

his knees,

and looked

all

about him.

again."
the pillow again, and up the bedclothes. " Let up, Yashvin," he cried angrily, as his comrade amused himself by twitching off his quilt. Then turning towards him, and opening his eyes, he said, " You would do much better to tell me what I ought to drink to take this bad taste out of my mouth." Vodka is better than any thing, said Yashvin. Tereshchenko Bring the barin some vodka and cucumbers," he ordered of the servant, seeming to delight in the thunder of

Then he threw himself back on

pulled

' '

'

'

' '

his voice.

his eyes, with a grimace.

" You advise vodka? ha!" demanded Petritsky, rubbing "Will you take some too? If

190
you'll

ANNA
join, all right!

And
quilt,

leaving his bed, he

waving his There was a king in Thu-u-le.' " " Vronsky, will you have a drink? " Go the latter, who was putting on an away," replied overcoat brought him by his valet. "Where are you going?" asked Yashvin, seeing a carHere's the troika." riage drawn by three horses.

"

will you have a drink?" came out wrapped up in a striped arms in the air, and singing in French,

Vronsky,

'

'

'

would say, u We know who this Briansky means." " See here, don't be late," said Yashvin; and changing " the subject, " And my roan, does she suit you? he asked, the middle horse of the team which he had sold. referring to Just as Vronsky left the room, Petritsky called out to him, " Hold on your brother left a note and a letter. Hold on " where did I put them?
!

the stables, then to Briansky's to see about some horses," replied Vronsky. He had, indeed, promised to bring some money to Briansky, who lived about six versts from Peterhof but his friends immediately knew that he was going in another direction. Petritsky winked, and raised his eyebrows as though he
;

''

To

the question," declaimed they Petritsky, putting his forefinger above his nose. "Speak quick! no nonsense!" said Vronsky good-

Vronsky waited impatiently. " " Nn ! Where are they? " Where are indeed? That's

naturedly.

"I have not had any have put them ?

' '

fire

in the fireplace:

where can I

" Nu!
"
I

that's
I

enough talk

where's the note?

:

"

perhaps I dreamed about it. Wait, wait don't get angry. If 3-011 had drunk four bottles, as I did yesterda}-, you wouldn't even know where you went Hold on, I'll think in a minute." to bed. Petritsky went behind his screen again, and got into bed. " Hold on I was lying here. He stood there. Da" da-da-da! Ah And he pulled the letter out Here it is from under the mattress, where he had put it. Vronsky took the letter and his brother's note. It was His mother reproached him exactly as he expected. because he had not been to see her, and his brother said he had something to speak to him about. '' What concern is it

swear
!

have forgotten

ANNA
;

KARfiNINA.

191

of theirs?" he murmured and, crumpling up the notes, he thrust them between his coat-buttons, intending to read them more carefully on the way. Just as he left the izba, he met two officers, each of whom

belonged to different regiments. always the headquarters of all the " " Whither

Vronsky's quarters were

officers.

away?

"Must
" " " " "

to Peterhof."

Has your

horse

come from
'

Tsarskoi'?
'

"

Yes, but I have not seen her yet." They say Makhotin's Gladiator is lame." " Rubbish But how could you trot in such mud? Here are m}- saviours," cried Petritsky, as he saw the new-comers. The denshchik was standing before him with vodka and salted cucumbers on a platter. " Yashviu, here, ordered me to drink, so as to be refreshed." " Nu! You were too much for us last night," said one of
!

the officers.

" We did not sleep all night." " I must tell " Volyou how it ended," began Petritsky. kof climbed up on the roof, and told us that he was blue. I a funeral march.' And he sung out, Give us some music, went to sleep on the roof to the music of the funeral march." " Drink, drink your vodka by all means, and then take seltzer and a lot of lemon," said Yashvin, encouraging Petritsky as a mother encourages her child to swallow some
'

medicine.

with us!

" Now, this " " No.

is

sense.

Hold on, Vronsky, and have a drink

I

Good-by, gentlemen.
cried

am

not drinking to-day."

"Vronsky,"
vestibule.

someone,

after he

had gone into the

"What?"
"You'd better cut off your hair: it's getting very long, especially on the bald spot." Vronsky, in fact, was beginning to get a little bald. He
laughed gayly, and, pulling his cap over his forehead where the hair was thin, he went out and got into his carriage. " To the stables," he said. He started to take his letters for a second reading, but on second thought deferred them so that he might think of nothing else but his horse.

192

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

XXI.
made out of planks, had been built and hither Vronsky had to go to see his horse. Only the trainer had as yet mounted her and Vronsky, who had not seen her, did not know in what conTEMPORARY
stable,
;

near the race-course

[groom], a young fellow, saw him from a distance, and immediately called the trainer. He was an Englishman with withered face and tufted chin,

dition he should find her. carriage when his konyukh

He was

just getting out of his

and dressed

in short jacket

and top-boots.

He came

out

towards Vronsky in the mincing step peculiar to jockeys, and with elbows sticking out.

Frou Frou? " said Vronsky in English. right, sir," said the Englishman, in a voice that came " Better not out of the bottom of his throat. go in, sir," he "I have put a muzzle on her, off his hat. added, taking and that excites her. If any one comes near, it makes her

" Nu! how " All

is

nervous." " No matter

I want to see her." on, then," replied the Englishman testily; and without ever opening his mouth, and with his dandified An active and alert step, he led the way to the stable. stable-boy in a clean jacket, with whip in hand, was ready to receive them. Five horses were in the stable, each in its own stall. Vronsky knew that Makhotin's Gladiator, a chestnut horse of five Vronsky's most redoubtable rival, vershoks, was there, and he was more curious to see Gladiator than to see his own racer but according to the rules of the races, he could not have him brought out, or even ask questions about him. As he passed along the walk, the groom opened the door of the second stall, and Vronsky saw a powerful he recognized It was Gladiator chestnut with white feet. him, but he instantly turned towards Frou Frou, as though he had seen an open letter which was not addressed to him. k "That horse belongs to Ma mak," said the Englishman, struggling with the name, and pointing to Gladiator's stall with fingers on which the nails were black with
:

"Come

dirt.

"Makhotin's? Yes: he is my only dangerous rival." " If you would mount him, I would bet on you," said the
Englishman.

ANNA
" Frou Frou
is

KARtfNINA.
this

193

more nervous;
all

one stronger," said

Vronsky, smiling " In

at the jockey's praise.

hurdle-races,

depends on the mount, and on

pluck." that is, audacity and coolness, Pluck, Vronsky knew that he had in abundance and, what is more, he was firmly convinced that no one could have more than he. " " You are sure that a good sweating was not necessary? " Not at all," " Don't so replied the Englishman. speak loud, I beg of you: the colt is restive," he added, jerking his head towards the stall where the horse was heard stamp;

ing on the straw. He opened the door, and Vronsky entered a box-stall brown bay horse, feebly lighted by a little window. muzzled, was nervously prancing up and down on the fresh straw. The somewhat imperfect shape of his favorite horse was Frou Frou was of instantly manifest to Vronsky 's eyes. medium size, with slender bones her breast was narrow, though the breast-bone was prominent the crupper was and the legs, particularly the hind-legs, rather tapering considerably bowed. The muscles of the legs were not large, but the flanks were very enormous on account of the training she had had, and the smallness of her belly. The bones of the legs below the knee seemed not thicker than a finger, seen from the front they were extraordinarily large when seen sidewise. The whole steed seemed squeezed in and lengthened out. But she had one merit that outweighed all her faults she had good blood, was a thoroughbred, as the English Her muscles stood out under a network of veins, covsay. ered with a skin as smooth and soft as satin her slender head, with prominent eyes, bright and animated her delicate, all the mobile nostrils, which seemed suffused with blood, points of this noble animal had something energetic, decided, and keen. It was one of those creatures such as never fail to fulfil their promise owing to defect in mechanical construction. Vronsky felt that she understood him while he was looking at her. When he came in, she was taking long breaths, turning her head round, and showing the whites of her bloodshot eyes, and trying to shake off her muzzle, and dancing on her feet as though moved by springs. " You see how excited she is," said the Englishman. " said "Whoa, my loveliest, whoa Vronsky, approaching

194
to calm her
;

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

but the nearer he came, the more nervous she grew and only when he had caressed her head, did she become tranquil. He could feel her muscles strain and tremble under her delicate, smooth skin. Vronsky patted her beautiful neck, and put into place a bit of her mane that she had tossed on the other side and then he put his face close to her nostrils, which swelled and dilated like the wings of a bat. She snorted, pricked up her ears, and
;

when she found

to caper again.

but stretched out her long black lips to seize his sleeve herself prevented by her muzzle, she began
;

"Quiet, my beauty, quiet," said Vronsky, calming her; and he left the stable with the re-assuring conviction that his horse was in perfect condition. But the nervousness of the steed had taken possession of her master. Vronsky felt the blood rush to his heart, and, like the horse, he wanted violent action he felt like biting. It was a sensation at once strange and joyful. "Well, I count on you," said he to the Englishman. " Be on the grounds at half-past six." "All shall be ready. But where are you going, my lord?" asked the Englishman, using the title of "lord," which he
:

never permitted. Astonished at this audacity, Vronsky raised his head, and looked at him as he well understood how to do, not into his He instantly saw that the Engeyes, but on his forehead. lishman had spoken to him, not as to his master, but as to a jockey and he replied, " I have got to see Briansky, and I shall be at home in an hour." " How many times have I been asked that question to" he said to himself and he blushed, which was a rare day occurrence with him. The Englishman looked at him closely. He also seemed to know where his master was going. "The main thing is to keep calm before the race. Don't do any thing rash don't get bothered."
; !

" All and, jumping into his carright," replied Vronsky riage, he drove back to Peterhof. He had gone but a short distance before the sky, which had been overcast since morning, grew thicker, and it began
;

to rain.

"Too bad!"
carriage.

"

It has

thought Vronsky, raising the hood of his been muddy now it will be a marsh."
:

ANNA

EARfiNINA.

195

Now that he was alone again, he bethought him of his mother's letter and his brother's note, and began to read them over. It was always the old story both his mother and his brother took it upon them to meddle with his loveHe was indignant and even angry, a most unusual affairs. state for him. " How does this concern them? Why do they feel called upon to meddle with me, to bother me ? Because there is something about this that they don't understand. If it were a vulgar intrigue, they would leave me in peace but they imagine that it isn't a mere nothing, that this woman is not a mere toy, that she is dearer to me than life that would seem incredible and vexatious to them. Whatever be our fate, we ourselves have made it, and we shall not regret it," he said to himself, including Anna in the word "we." "But no, they want to teach us the meaning of life, they, who have no idea of what happiness is. The}- don't know that, were it not for this love, there would be for me neither joy nor grief in this world: life itself would not exist." In realit}-, what exasperated him most against his relatives was the fact that his conscience told him that they were right. His love for Anna was not a superficial impulse, destined,
:

many social attachments, to disappear, and leave no trace beyond sweet or painful memories. He felt keenly all the torture of their situation, all its difficulties in%the eyes of the world, from which they had to conceal it by means of ingenious subterfuges, deceptions, and lies and, while their mutual passion was so violent and absorbing that they knew of nothing else, yet they had to be always inventing a thousand stratagems to keep it from others. This constant need of dissimulation and deceit came to him urgently. Nothing was more contrary to his nature, and he recalled the feeling of shame which he had often surprised in Anna, when she also was driven to tell a lie.
like so
;

Since this affair with her, he sometimes experienced a strange sensation of disgust and repulsion, which he could not define, nor could he tell for whom he felt it, for Aleksi Aleksandrovitch or himself, for society or for the entire world.

As

Yes, heretofore she has been unhappy, but proud and calm now she cannot be so any longer, however she may seem to try to appear so."
:

"

far as possible he banished such thoughts.

And

for the first time the thought of cutting short this life

196

ANNA KARNINA.
:

of dissimulation appeared to him clear and tangible the sooner, the better. " must leave every thing, she and I, and together, with our love, we must go and bury ourselves somewhere," he said to himself.

We

XXII.

THE shower was of short duration and when Vronsky reached Peterhof his shaft-horse at full trot, and the other two galloping along in the mud, the sun was already out again, and was shining on the roofs of the villas and the drip;

ping foliage of the old lindens

in the

neighboring gardens,

whose shadows fell across the street. The water was running from the roofs, and the tree-tops seemed gayly to shake off the raindrops. He no longer thought of the harm that the shower might do the race-course but he was full of joy as he remembered, that, thanks to the rain, she would be alone for he knew that Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, who had just got back from a visit to the baths, would not leave Pe: ;

tersburg for the country. Vronsky stopped his horses at some little distance from the house, and, in order to attract as little attention as possible, he entered the court on foot, instead of ringing the bell at the front^ entrance. " Has the barin come? " he demanded of a gardener. " Not yet but the baruina is at home. If you ring, they
;

will

" No I will go in through the garden." Knowing that she was alone, he wanted to surprise her he had not sent word that he was coming, and on account of
:

open the door."

the races she would not be looking for him. Therefore he walked cautiously along the sandy paths, bordered with flowers, lifting up his sabre so that it should make no noise. In this way he reached the terrace which led from the house down to the garden. The anxieties which had possessed him on the way, the difficulties of their situation, were now

forgotten he thought only of the pleasure of shortly seeing her in reality, in person, and not in imagination only. her, He was mounting the garden-steps as gently as possible, when he suddenly remembered the most painful feature of his relations with her, a feature that he was always forgether son, a lad with a most inquisitive face. ting,
:

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

197

This child was the principal obstacle in the way of their interviews. In his presence Anna never allowed a word that the whole world might not hear, never a word that the child himThere was no need of an agreeself could not comprehend. ment on that score. Both of them would have been ashamed before him to speak a single word to deceive the little lad they talked as though they were mere acquaintances. But in spite of these precautions Vronsky often felt the lad's scrutinizing and rather suspicious eyes fixed upon him.
:

Sometimes he seemed timid, again affectionate, but never The child seemed instinctively to feel, that, between this man and his mother there was some strange bond of union, which was beyond his comprehension.
the same.

The boy,

indeed,

made

futile efforts to

ought to behave before

this

gentleman

understand how he he had seen, with

that quick intuition peculiar to childhood, that his father, his governess, and his nurse looked with the utmost disfavor on ' the man whom his mother treated as her best friend. " What does this mean? Who is he? Must I love him? and is it my fault, and am I a naughty or stupid child, if I don't understand it at all?" thought the little fellow. Hence came his timidity, his questioning and distrustful manner, and this changeableness, which were so unpleasant to Vronsky. Besides, when the child was present, he always felt that apparently unreasonable repulsion, which for some

time had pursued him. The presence of the child was to Anna and Vronsky like the compass to a ship-captain, which shows that he is drifting to leeward without the possibility of stopping on his course every instant carries him farther and farther in the wrong direction, and the recognition of the movement that carries him from the right course is the recognition of the
:

ruin that impends.

The boy this day was not at home. Anna was entirely alone, and sitting on the terrace, waiting for her son's return, as the rain had overtaken him while out on his walk. She had sent a man and a maid to find him. Dressed in a
white embroidered robe, she was sitting at one corner of the by plants and flowers, and she did not hear Vronsky's step. With bent head, she was pressing her heated brow against a cool watering-pot, standing on the balustrade. With her beautiful hands laden with rings, which he knew so well, she had pulled the watering-pot toterrace, concealed

198
wards

ANNA

KAKfiNINA.

Her lovely figure, her graceful head, with its her. dark, curling locks, her neck, her hands, all struck Vronsky every time that he saw her, and always caused a new feeling of surprise. He stopped and looked at her in ecstasy.
She instinctively felt his approach, and he had hardly taken a step when she pushed away the watering-pot and turned to him her glowing face. " " What is the matter? Are said he, in French, you ill ? as he advanced towards her. He felt a desire to run towards her, but in the fear of being seen, he looked around him and towards the door of the balcony with a feeling that filled him with shame, as though any thing should make him fear or be untruthful. " No I am not well," said Anna, rising, and pressing the hand that he offered her. " I did not expect 3~ou."
: !

" " Bozhe mo'i ! how cold 3'our hands are " You startled me. I am alone, waiting for Serozha, who went out for a walk they will come back this way."
:

In spite of the calmness which she tried to show, her lips trembled. " Forgive me for coming, but I could not let the day go by without seeing you," he continued, in French, thus avoiding the impossible vui [you] and the dangerous tui [them] of the Russian. " " What have I to forgive?" I am too glad " But are ill, or sad? said he, bending over her and you " " What were still holding her hand. you thinking about? " about one thing," she replied, with a smile. Always She told the truth. AVhenever, in the day, she was asked what she was thinking about, she would have made the invariable reply, that she was thinking about her future and her misfortune. Just as he came, she was asking herself why some, like Betsy for example, whose love-affair with Tushkievitch she knew about, could treat so lightly what to her was so cruel. This thought had particularly tormented her She spoke with him about the races and he, to to-day. divert her mind, told her about the preparation that had been made. His tone remained perfectly calm and natural. " Shall I, or shall I not, tell him?" she thought, as she " He seems so looked at his calm, affectionate eyes. happ}*, he is so interested in these races, that he will not comprehend, probably, the importance of what I must tell him." " But you have not told ine of what you were thinking
!

ANNA
when

KARfiNINA.

199

I first came," said he suddenly, interrupting the " " Tell me, I course of his narration. beg of you but she lifted her head, and turned her did not reply She her look was full of questioning beautiful eyes toward him her fingers played with a fallen leaf. Vronsky's face immediately showed the expression of humble adoration, of absolute devotion, which had first won her heart. "I feel that something has happened. Can I be easy for an instant when I know that you feel a grief that I do " he not share? In the name of Heaven, speak insisted, ill a tone of entreaty. " If he does not appreciate the importance of what I have better be to tell him, I know that I shall never forgive him silent than put him to the proof," she thought, continuing to look at him her hand trembled. " " In the name of said he, taking her Heaven, what is it?
!

hand again. "Shall I tell you?" " "Yes, yes, yes " Ya beremenna ! " she whispered.

The leaf which she held in her fingers trembled still more, but she did not take her eyes from his face, for she was trying to read there whether he understood her.

He grew
his head,
his.

pale, tried to speak, then stopped short, and hung dropping her hand which he was holding in both

in thinking that he felt as she did. feeling of repulsion and horror which had been so familiar to him of late, now seized him more strongly than ever. Her husband was coming home, and it was important to extricate themselves as soon as possible from the odious and

But she was mistaken

The

Anna's anxmiserable situation in which they were placed. He looked at her with humbly submisiety seized Vronsky. sive eyes, kissed her hand, arose, and began to walk up and down the terrace without speaking. At last he approached her, and said in a tone of decision,

"Da/" said he: " neither you nor I have looked upon our love for each other as a fleeting joy at last we must put and he an end to the false situation in which we live," looked around him. "Put an end? How put an end, Aleksi?" she asked
;

gently.

200

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

She was calm, and smiled upon him tenderly. "You must quit your husband, and unite your life with mine." " " But aren't she asked in an underthey already united?

" " Yes, but not completely, not absolutely " But how, Aleksei? tell me how," said she, with a melancholy irony, seeming to think that the situation was irretriev" " Am I not the wife of able. my husband? " From however difficult, there is always any situation, some way of escape here we must simply be decided. Any thing is better than the life you are leading. How well
!
:

tone.

I see

son, society,

how you torment "

all
!

yourself about your husband, your

"

"Ach!
I

only not

my husband,"
I
!

don't

" You speak

self

know him,

said she with a smile. He is not." don't think about him

!

on

insincerely his account also."

know you

you torment your-

"But he"

" Let us not speak more of him."

then suddenly the tears came in her eyes.

XXIII.
IT

was not the

first

time that Vronsky had tried to bring

He had always met clearly before her mind their position. the same superficial and almost ridiculous views. It seemed
him that she was under control of feelings which she was unwilling or unable to fathom, and she, the real Anna, disappeared, to give place to a strange and incomprehensible being, which he could not understand, and which seemed almost repulsive to him. To-day he was bound to have an " Under absolute explanation. any circumstances," he said in a calm but authoritative voice, " we cannot continue as we are." " " What, in she deyour opinion, must we do about it? manded, in the same tone of ironical raillery. Though she had been so keenly afraid that he would not receive her confidence with due appreciation, she was now vexed that he deduced from it the absolute necessity of energetic action. "Tell him all, and leave him." " Suppose I do it. Do you know what the Very good " result would be? I will tell you and a wicked fire flashed
to
! ;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
!

201

u In a could not jest about him. word, he will tell me with the same manner and with the same perfect precision as he conducts the affairs of state, that he cannot set me free, but that he will take measures to avoid a scandal. And he will do exactly as he sa}-s. That is what will take place for he is not a man, he is a machine, and, when he is stirred up, an ugly machine," said she, remembering the most trifling details in her husband's language and face, and felt ready to reproach him for all the ill that he found in her with all the less indulgence because she recognized her own fault. " But, Anna," said Vronsky gently, hoping to convince her and calm her, " you must tell him every thing, and then we will act accordingly as he proceeds."
;

from her eyes, which were just now so gentle. " ' Oh you " love another, and your course with him has been criminal,' said she, imitating her husband, and accenting the word " I warned criminal in exactly his manner. you of the conwhich would follow from the point of view of relisequences You did not listen to gion, of society, and of the family. me now I cannot allow my name to be dishonored, and " she was going to say my scm, but stopped, for she my'
' :

"What!
"

we

elope ?" not elope? I don't see the possibility of living as are any longer it is not on my account, but I see you

Why

will suffer."

"What! elope, and confess myself openly as your mistress?" said she bitterly. "Anna! " he cried, deeply wounded. " She was " Yes, as your mistress, and lose every thing going to say my son, but she could not pronounce the word. Vronsky could not understand how this strong, loyal nature could accept the false position in which she was placed, and not endeavor to escape from it. But he could not doubt
!

that the principal obstacle was represented by this word son, which she was unable to pronounce. When Anna imagined this child's existence with a father whom she had deserted, the horror of her sin appeared so great, that like a real woman she was not able to reason, but only endeavored to re-assure herself and persuade herself that all would go on as before above all things, she must shut her eyes, and forget this odious thought, what would become of her son. "I beg of you, I entreat you," she said suddenly, speak:

202

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

ity,

ing in a very different tone, a tone of tenderness and sincer" don't ever speak to me of that again."

"

But,

Anna"

be"

Let me remain judge of the situation. depth of its misery, but it is not so easy as you imagine to decide. Have faith in me, and never speak Will you promise me? never, never? to me again of that. " promise "I promise all; but how can I be calm when you may

"Never, never!

I appreciate the

" I? " she " It is true that I torment repeated. myself, but that will pass if you will not say any thing more about
it."

"

I don't understand
I

"

"I know,"
abhors lying
self that
:

she interrupted, "how j'our honest nature am sorry for you and very often I tell my;

you have sacrificed your life for me." 44 That is exactly what I say about you. I was just this moment asking if you could immolate yourself for me. I cannot forgive myself for having made you unhappy." 44 I unhappy?" said she, coming up close to him, and "I? I am like looking at him with a smile full of love.
a man dying of hunger, to whom food has been given. Maybe he is cold, and his raiment is rags, but he is not unhappy. " I unhappy? No here comes my joy The voice of her little boy was heard as he came in. Anna gave a hurried glance around her, swiftly arose, and, putting out her long hands covered with rings, she took Vronsky's face between them she looked at him a long moment, reached her face up to his, kissed his lips and his He kept her back a moment. eyes, and left him. 44 When? " he whispered, looking at her with ecstasy. 44 To-day at the right time," she replied in a low voice, and Serozha had been caught by then she ran to meet her son. the rain in the park, and had taken refuge with his nurse in a pavilion. "Nu ! but good-by," said she to Vronsky. " I must get ready for the races. Betsy has promised to come and get
: :
.

me." Vronsky looked

at his watch,

and hurried away.

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

203

XXIV.

WHEN Vronsky looked at his watch on the Karnins' balcony, he was so stirred and pre-occupied, that, though he saw the figures on the face, he did not know what time it was. He hurried out of the entrance, and, picking his way careHe had fully through the mud, he reached his carriage. been so absorbed by his conversation with Anna that he had forgotten entirely about his appointment with Briansk}". His memory was scarcely more than instinctive, and only He recalled to him that he had decided to do something.
coachman asleep on his box under the shade of the he noticed the swarms of flies buzzing around his sweaty horses and then, mechanically waking the coachman, he jumped into his carriage, and was driven to Briansky's he had gone but six or seven versts when his presence of mind returned; it then came over him that he was late, and he looked at his watch again it was half-past five. On this day there were to be several races first the draught-horses, then the officers' t\vo-verst dash, then a second of four, and last that in which he was to take part. If he hurried, he could be on time by letting Briansky have the go-b\- otherwise he ran the risk of getting to the grounds after the Court had arrived, and this was not in good form. Unfortunately he had promised Briansky, therefore he kept Five on, commanding the coachman not to spare the troika. minutes with Briansky, and he was off again at full speed. He found that the rapid motion did him good. Little by little he forgot his anxieties, and felt only the excitement of the race, and imagined the brilliant society which would gather to-day at the course. And he got more and more into the atmosphere of the races as he met people coming from
found
his
;

lindens

Petersburg and the surrounding country, on their way to the hippodrome. When he reached his quarters, no one was at home except

who was waiting for him at the entrance. Everybody had gone to the races. While he was changing his clothes, his valet told him that the second race had already begun, that a number of people had been to inquire for him. for it was his custom to Vronsky dressed without haste, and then directed keep calm, and not lose his self-command, the coachman to take him to the stables. From there he saw
his valet,

204

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

a sea of carriages of all sorts, of pedestrians, soldiers, and of spectators, approaching the hippodrome. The second course was certainly run, for just at that moment he heard He noticed near the stable Makhotin's the sound of a bell. white-footed chestnut Gladiator, which they were leading out, covered with a blue and orange caparison, and with huge earprotectors.

" Where is Cord? " he asked of the groom. " In the stable he is fixing the saddle."
:

Frou Frou was came leading her

all

saddled in her box-stall, and

now they

out.

"I

wasn't

" All

late, was I?" right, all right," said the

Englishman.

" Don't get

excited."

Vronsk}- once more gave a quick glance at the excellent, favorable shape of his horse, as she stood trembling in every limb and, with a feeling of regret, he left her at the stable. He saw that it was a favorable chance to approach without The two-verst dash was just at an attracting observation. end, and all eyes were fixed on a Jcavalergard (cavalry guardsman) and a hussar just at his heels, whipping their horses The crowd flowed in furiously, and approaching the goal. from all sides, and a group of officers and guardsmen were hailing with shouts the triumph of their fellow-officer and
; ,

friend.

Vronsky joined the throng just as the bell announced the end of the race while the victor dropped the reins, and slipped off from the saddle, and stood by his roan stallion, who was dripping with sweat, and heavily breathing.
;

The stallion, with painfully heaving sides, with legs apart, stopped with difficulty his rapid course and the officer, as though awakening from a dream, was looking about him with a gaze of wonder. A throng of friends and curious strangers pressed about him. Vronsky, with intention, avoided the elegant people who were circulating about, engaged in gay and animated conver;

already caught sight of Anna, Betsy, and He did not, however, join them, so that he might not be disconcerted but at every step he met acquaintances who stopped him, and told him various items about the last race, or asked him why he was late. While they were distributing the prizes at the pavilion,
sation.
his brother's wife.
;

He had

and everybody was hurrying

in this direction,

Vronsky saw

ANNA
his elder brother,

KAItfiNINA.

205

Like Aleksei, he was a man and rather stubb}- but he was handHis nose was red, and his face was somer and flushed with wine, and he had an evil expression. He wore

Aleksandr.

of

medium

stature, ruddier.

a colonel's uniform with epaulets. " " Did he asked of his brother. you get my note? are never to be found."
his love for drink,

"You

Aleksandr Vronsky, in spite of his life of dissipation and was a thoroughly aristocratic man. Knowthat many eyes were fixed on them, he preserved, while ing he talked with his brother on a very painful subject, the smiling face of a person who is jesting about some trifling matter. " but I don't "I got it," said he, really understand why you meddle with me." "I meddle because I noticed your absence this morning, and because you were not at Peterhof Monday." "There are matters which cannot be judged except by those who are directly interested, and the matter in which you concern yourself is such " Yes but when one is not in the service, he " "I beg you to mind your own business, and that is all." Aleksei Vronsky grew pale, and his rather prominent lower jaw shook. He was a man of kindly heart, and rarely got angry but when he grew angry, and when his chin trembled, Aleksandr Vronsky knew it, and he became dangerous.
' ' ; ;

with a gay laugh replied, "I only wanted to give you mdtushka's letter. Don't get angry before the race. Bonne chance," he added in French, and left him. He had scarcely turned away, when another friendly greeting surprised Yronsky. " ^Yon't you recognize your friends ? How are you, mon cJier?" said Stepan Arkadyevitch, who, in the midst of the brilliant society of Petersburg, was no less gay and animated than at Moscow, and now appeared with rosy face and carefully combed and pomaded whiskers.
I came down this morning, and am very glad to be presWhere can we meet? " ent at your triumph. "Come to the mess, after the race is over," said Vronsky and with an apology for leaving him. he squeezed his hand, and went towards the place where the horses were getting ready for the hurdle-race.
;

"

The grooms were leading back

the horses, wearied by the

206

ANNA
;

KAKfiNINA.

and one by one those intended race which they had run for the next course appeared on the ground. They were, for the most part, English horses, in hoods, and well caparisoned, and looked for all the world like enormous strange Frou Frou, beautiful, though she was so thin, came birds. out stepping high, with her elastic and slender pasterns. And not far from her they were removing the trappings from The regular, solid, and superb form the lop-eared Gladiator. of the stallion, with his splendid crupper and his extraordinarily large and well-balanced hoofs, attracted Vronsky's admiration. He was just going up to Frou Frou when another acquaintance stopped him again on his way. "Ha! there is Kareuin he is hunting for his wife. She Have you seen her? " is in the pavilion. " No, I have not," replied Vronsky and, without turning his head in the direction where his acquaintance told him that Madame Kare'nina was, he went to his horse. He had scarcely time to make some adjustment of the saddle, when those who were to compete in the hurdle-race were With serious, stern, and called to receive their numbers. almost solemn faces, they approached, seventeen men in all; and some of them were rather pale. Vrousky's number was seven. " Mount " was the cry. Vronsky, feeling that he, with his companions, was the focus toward which all eyes were turned, went up to his horse with the slow and deliberate motions which were usual to him when he was not entirely at his ease. Cord, in honor of the races, had put on his gala-day costume he wore a black coat, buttoned to the chin, and an enormously high shirt-collar, which made his cheeks puff out he had on Hessian boots and a round black cap. Calm, but full of importance, he stood by the mare's head, holding the reins in his hand. Frou Frou shivered as though she had an attack of fever her fiery eyes gazed askance at Vronsky. He passed his finger under the flap of the saddle. The mare jumped back, and pricked up her ears and the Englishman puckered up his lips with a grin at the idea that there could be any doubt as to his skill in putting on a saddle. " Mount, and he. 3*011 won't be so nervous," said Vrousky cast a final glance on his rivals he knew that he should not see them again until the race was over. Tur had Galtsuiu, a friend of his, already gone to the starting-point.
:
; ! : ; : ; :

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

207

and one of the best of racers, was turning around and around A little hussar his bay stallion, without being able to mount. in tight cavalry trousers was off on a gallop, bent double over
horse, like a cat with the gripes, in imitation of the Prince Kuzoflef, white as a sheet, was trying to mount a thoroughbred mare, which an Englishman held by the bridle. Vrousky and all his comrades knew Kuzoflef's terrible self-conceit, and his feeble nerves. They knew that he was timid at every thing, especially timid of but now, notwithstanding the fact that all riding horseback this was horrible to him, because he knew that people broke
his

English fashion.

and that at every hurdle stood a surgeon, an ambulance with its cross and sister of charity, still he had made up his mind to ride. They exchanged glances, and Vronsky gave him an enhis most couraging nod. One only he now failed to see redoubtable rival, Makhotiu, on Gladiator, was not there. " and don't " Don't be in haste," said Cord to Vronsky, this one important point when you come to a hurdle, forget don't pull back or spur on }-our horse let her take it her
their necks,
: ; ;

own way." "

"

Very good," replied Vrousky, taking the

If possible, take

reins.

the lead, but don't be discouraged if for a few minutes you are behind." The horse did not have time to stir before Vronsk}*, with supple and powerful movement, put his foot on the notched steel stirrup, and gracefully, firmly, took his seat on the Then he arranged the double squeaking leather saddle. reins between his fingers, and Cord let go the animal's head. Frou Frou stretched out her neck, and pulled upon the reins as though she wanted to ask what sort of a gait would be required of her and she started off at an easy, elastic pace, balancing her rider on her strong, flexible back. Cord followed them with mighty strides. The mare, excited, jumped to and right and left, trying to take her master off his guard Vronsky vainly endeavored to calm her with his voice and
; ;

with his hand.

They were approaching the river-bank, where the startingpost was placed. Vronsky, preceded by some, followed by others, suddenly heard on the muddy track the gallop of a horse and Gladiator, with Makhotin on his back, smiling, and showing his long teeth, dashed by. Vronsky looked at him angrily. He did not like Makhotin any too well, and
;

208

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
:

now he was his most dangerous rival so this fashion of galloping up behind him, and exciting his mare, displeased and angered him. Frou Frou kicked up her heels, and started off in a gallop, made two bounds, and then, feeling the restraint of the curb, changed her gait into a trot which shook up her rider. Cord, disgusted, ran almost as fast, and kept up by his master's
side.

XXV.
THE race-course was a great ellipse of four versts, extending before the judges' stand, and nine obstacles were placed upon it: the rekd [river] a great barrier, two ar shins [4.66 a dry ditch a ditch feet] high, in front of the pavilion filled with water a steep ascent an Irish banquette, which is the most difficult of all, composed of an embankment covered with twigs, behind which is concealed a ditch, obliging the horseman to leap two obstacles at once, at the risk of his life then three more ditches, two filled with water and The track did finally the goal opposite the pavilion again. not begin in the circle itself, but about a hundred sdzhens (seven hundred feet) to one side and in this space was the first obstacle, the brimming rekd, about three arshins (seven feet) in width, which they were free to leap or to ford. Three times the seventeen riders got into line, but each time some horse or other started before the signal, and the men had to be called back. Colonel Sestrin, the starter, was beginning to get impatient but at last, for the fourth time, the signal was given, "Go!" and the riders spurred their
; ;

horses. All eyes, all lorgnettes, were directed towards the racers.

"There they go!" "There they come!" was shouted

on
all sides.

in order to follow them, the spectators rushed, singly or in groups, towards the places where they could get a better view. At the first moment the horsemen scattered a little as they, in threes and twos and singly, one after the From a distance they seemed other, approached the rekd. like an undistinguishable mass, but these fractions of sepa-

And

had their own value. Frou Frou, excited and too nervous at first, lost ground, and several of the horses were ahead of her; but Vrousky,
ration

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

209

though he had not yet leaped the rekd, and was trying to calm her as she pulled on the bridle, soon easily outstripped the three who had won on him, and now had as competitors only Gladiator, who was a whole length ahead, and the pretty Diana, on whose back clung the unhappy Prince Kuzoflef, not knowing whether he was dead or alive. During these first few seconds Vronsky had no more control of himself than of his horse. Gladiator and Diana leaped the rekd at almost one and the same moment. Frou Frou lightly leaped behind them, as though she had wings. The instant that Vrousky was in the air, he caught a glimpse of Kuzoflef almost under the feet of his horse, wrestling with Diana on the other side of the rekd. Vronsky heard after the race, how Kuzoflef had loosened the reins after Diana jumped, and the horse had But at this time he stumbled, throwing him on his head. only saw that Frou Frou was going to land on Diana's head. But Frou Frou, like a falling cat, making a desperate effort with back and legs as she leaped, lauded beyond the fallen
racer.

thought Vronsky. After the rekd he regained full control of his horse, and even held her back a little, meaning to leap the great hurdle behind Makhotin, whom he had no hopes of outstripping before they reached the long stretch of about two hundred sdzhens [fourteen hundred feet], which was free of obstacles. This great hurdle was built exactly in front of the Imperial Pavilion the Emperor, the court, and an immense throng, were watching as they drew near it. Vronsky felt all these but he saw only his eyes fixed on him from every side horse's ears, the ground flying under him, and Gladiator's flanks, and white feet beating the ground in cadence, and always maintaining the same distance between them. Gladiator flew at the hurdle, gave a whisk of his well-cropped tail, and, without having touched the hurdle, vanished from
beauty
!

"

O my

"

Vron sky's eyes. " Bravo " cried a voice. At the same instant the planks of the hurdle flashed be!

fore his eyes,

his horse leaped without breaking, but he heard behind him a loud crash. Frou Frou, excited by the sight of Gladiator, had leaped too soon, and had struck the her gait was unhurdle with the shoes on her hind feet changvd and Vronsky, his face splashed with mud, saw that
:
;

210

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

the distance had not increased or diminished, as he caught a glimpse again of Gladiator's crupper, his short tail, and his swift white feet. Frou Frou seemed to have the same thought as her master, for while not showing excitement, she sensibly increased her speed, and gained on Makhotin by trying to take the inside track. But Makhotin did not yield this advantage. Vronsky was wondering if they could not pass on the farther side of the slope, when Frou Frou, as though divining his thought, changed of her own accord, and took this direction. Her shoulder, darkened with sweat, closed with Gladiator's flanks, and for several seconds they flew almost side by side but in order not to take the outside of the great circle, Vronsky urged Frou Frou on just as they passed the divide, and on As he drew by the descent he managed to get the lead. Makhotin he saw his mud-stained face, and it seemed to him that he smiled. Though he was behind, he was still there, within a step and Vronsky could hear the regular rhythm of his stallion's feet, and the hurried, but far from winded,
; ;

breathing.

The next two obstacles, the ditch and the hurdle, were easily passed, but Gladiator's gallop and puffing came nearer. Vronsky gave Frou Frou the spur, and perceived with a thrill of 303*, that she easily accelerated her speed the sound of Gladiator's hoofs grew fainter.
:

He now had the lead, as he had desired, and as Cord had recommended, and he felt sure of success. His emotion, his joy, his affection for Frou Frou, were all on the increase. He wanted to look back, but he did not dare to turn around, and he did his best to calm himself, so as not to excite his horse.
single serious obstacle now remained to be passed, Irish banquette, which if cleared, and if he kept his
level,

the

head

would give him the victory without the slightest doubt. at the same instant caught sight of the obstacle from afar, and both horse and man felt a moment of hesitation. Vronsky noticed the hesitation in his horse's ears and he was just lifting his whip when it occurred to him, just in time, that she knew what she had to do. The beautiful creature got her start, and, as he foresaw, seeming to take advantage of the impetus, rose from the ground, and then cleared the ditch with energy that took her far beyond fell again into the measure of her pace without effort and

He and Frou Frou

without change.

ANNA
!

KARfiNINA.

211

" " Bravo, cried the throng. Pie recognized his Vronsky friends and his regiment, who were standing near the obstaand he distinguished Yashvin's voice, though he did not cle see him tk O my beauty!" said he to himself, thinking of Frou Frou, and yet listening to what was going on behind him. " He has cleared it," he said, as he heard Gladiator's
;

gallop

behind him.
left.

last ditch, full of water, two arshins wide, now was Vronsky scarcely heeded it but, anxious to come in far ahead of the others, he began to saw on the reins, and to urge on the horse by falling into her motion, and leaning far over her head. He felt that she was beginning to be exhausted her neck and her sides were wet the sweat stood in drops on her throat, her head, and her ears her breath was short and gasping. Still, he was sure that she had force enough to cover the two hundred sdzhens that laA" between him and the goal. Only because he felt himself so near the end, and by the extraordinary smoothness of her motion, did Vronsky realize how much she had increased her speed. The ditch was cleared, how, he did not know. She cleared it like a bird. But at this moment Vronsky felt to his horror, that, instead of taking the swing of his horse, he had made, through some inexplicable reason, a wretchedly and unpardonably wrong motion in falling back into the saddle. His position suddenly changed, and he felt that something horrible had happened. He could not give himself any clear idea of it but there flashed by him a roan steed with white*feet, and Makhotin was the winner. One of Vronsky's feet touched the ground, and his horse stumbled. He had scarcely time to clear himself when the horse fell on her side, panting painfully, and making vain efforts with her delicate foam-covered neck to rise again. But she lay on the ground, and struggled like a wounded bird by the movement that he had made in the saddle, he had broken her back. But he did not learn his fault till afterwards. Now he saw only one thing, that Gladiator was far ahead, and that he was there alone, standing on the wet ground before his defeated Frou Frou, who stretched her head towards him, and looked at him with her beautiful eyes. The Still not realizing the trouble, he pulled on the reins. poor animal struggled like a fish, and tried to get up on her
;

The

fore-legs

but, unable to

move her

hind-quarters, she

fell

212

ANNA KARNINA.

back on the ground all of a tremble. Vronskj*, his face pale, and distorted with rage, kicked her in the belly to force her to rise she did not move, but gazed at her master with one of her speaking looks, and buried her nose in the sand. "A h! what have I done?" cried Vronsky,"taking her head in his hands. '" A h what have I done? And the lost race, and his humiliating, unpardonable blunder, and the poor ruined horse A h what have I done? " The surgeon and his assistant, his comrades, every one, ran to his aid but to his great mortification, he found that he was safe and sound. The horse's back was broken, and she had to be killed. Incapable of uttering a word, Vronsky answered nothing to all the questions which were put to him he left the race-course without picking up his cap, or knowing whither he was going. He was in despair. For the first time in his life he was the victim of a misfortune for which there was no remedy, and for which he felt that he himself was the only one to blame. Yashvin hastened after him with his cap, and took him back to his quarters. At the end of half an hour he was calm and self-possessed again, but this race was for a long time the most bitter and cruel remembrance of his life.
:
!

'

XXVI.
THE relations of Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch seemed to undergo no outward change. The only difference consisted in the extra amount of business which he took upon his shoulders. Early in the spring he went abroad, as he usually
did, to rest himself at the water-cure after the fatigues of the winter. He returned in July, and resumed his duties with

new energy. His wife had taken up her summer quarters as usual in the country, not far from Petersburg he remained in the city. Since their conversation after the reception at the Princess Tverska'ia's, there had been nothing more said between them of jealousies or suspicions but the tone of raillery habitual with Aleksi Aleksandrovitch was very useful to him in his present relations with his wife. His coolness increased, although he seemed to have felt only a slight ill will towards her after the conversation of that It night. was only a cloud, nothing more. He seemed to sa}', "You have not been willing to have an understanding with me so
: ; ;

ANNA KAR&XINA.
much

213

Now you must make the first adthe worse for you. And he vances, and I, iu my turn, will not listen to you." bore himself towards his wife, in thought at least, very much iu the way of a man who, in his rage at not being able to put So much the worse for out a fire, should say, tk Burn, then
!

you."
This man, so keen and shrewd in matters of public concern, could not see the absurdity of his conduct, or, if he saw it, he shut his eyes to the wretchedness of his situation. He preferred to bury the affection which he felt for his wife and child deep in his heart, as in a box, sealed and secured. And he assumed towards the child a singularly cold manner, speaking to him always with, "Ah, young man!" in the same ironical tone that he used towards Anna. Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch thought and declared that he had never had so many important affairs as this year but he did not confess that he had himself brought them about, in order to keep from opening his secret coffer which contained his
;

sentiments towards his wife and his family, and his thoughts .concerning them, and which grew more and more troublesome the longer he kept them out of sight. If any one had assumed the right to ask him what he

thought about his wife's conduct, this calm and pacific Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch would have flown into a rage, and refused And so his face always looked severe and stern to answer. whenever any one asked for news of Anna. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch did not wish to think about his wife's conduct, and therefore he did not think about her. The Karenins' summer datcha was at Peterhof and the Countess Lidia Ivauovna, who always spent her summers in the same neighborhood, kept up friendly relations with Anna. This year the countess had not cared to go to Peterhof and as she was talking with Kar^nin one day, she made some allusion to the impropriety of Anna's intimacy with Betsy and Vronsky. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch stopped her harshl}', and declared that for him his wife was above suspicion. From that day he avoided the countess, shutting his eyes to every thing he did not care to perceive and he did not perceive that many people in society were beginning to give Anna the cold shoulder and he did not question the motives of her desire for going to Tsarskoe. where Betsy lived, not far from Vron sky's camp. He did not allow himself to think about this, and he did
;

214
;

ANNA

EARtiNINA.

not think but in spite of all, without any proof to support him, he felt that he was deceived he had no doubt about it, and he suffered deeply. How many times in the course of his eight years of married life had he not asked himself as he saw shattered homes, "How did this ever happen? Why don't they free themselves at any cost from such an absurd situation?" And now the evil was at his own door; but he not only did not dream of extricating himself from his own trouble, but he would not even admit it, because he was horrified at the terrible and unnatural consequences which would
;

result.

gone twice

Since his return from abroad, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had to visit his wife in the country, once to dine with her, the other time to pass the evening with some guests, but without spending the night, as had been his custom in previous

years.

was extremely engrossing for Aleksei but when in the morning he made out the programme of the day, he decided to go to Peterhof after an early dinner, and thence to the hippodrome, where he expected to find the court, and where it was proper that he should be seen. For the sake of propriety also, he resolved to visit his wife eveiy week. Moreover, it was the middle of the month, and it was his custom at this time to place in her hands the money for the household expenses. Using all his will power, he allowed his thoughts about his wife to take this direction but beyond this point he would not permit them to pass. His morning had been extremely full of business. The evening before he had received a pamphlet, written by a traveller who had won great renown by his explorations in China, and a note from the Countess Lidia, begging him to receive
of the races
;

The day

Aleksandrovitch

who seemed likely to Jbe, on many accounts, a useful and interesting man. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had not been able to get through the pamphlet in the evening, and he finished it after breakfast. Then came petitions, reports, visits, nominations, removals, the distribution of workrewards, pensions, salaries, correspondence, all that a-day labor," as Aleksei Aleksandrovitch called it, which consumes so much time. Then came his private business, a visit from his physician and a call from his steward. The latter was not very long he only brought the money, and a brief report on the condithis traveller,
' k :

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

215

tion of his affairs, which this year was not very brilliant; the expenses had been heavy, and there was a deficit.

The doctor, on the other hand, a famous physician, and a good friend of Karenin's, took considerable time. He had come without being summoned and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch was astonished at his visit, and at the scrupulous care with which he plied him with questions, and sounded his lungs he was not aware that his friend, the Countess Lidia, troubled by his abnormal condition, had begged the doctor to visit him, and give him a thorough examination. " Do it for sake," the countess said.
:

"I

my
it

will

do

for the sake of Russia, countess," replied

!

the doctor.

" Admirable man " cried the countess. The doctor was very much disturbed at Aleksei AleksanHis liver was congested, his digestion was drovitch's state. bad the waters had done him no good. He ordered more
: ;

physical exercise, less mental strain, and, above all, freedom from vexation of spirit but this was as easy as not to breathe. The doctor departed, leaving Aleksei Aleksandrovitch with the disagreeable impression that something was very wrong with him, and that there was no help for it. On the way out, the doctor met on Karenin's steps his old

acquaintance, Sliudin,

who was Aleksei Aleksandrovitch 's

chief secretary. They had been in the university together ; but, though they rarely met, they were still excellent friends. The doctor would scarcely have spoken to others with the same freedom that he used towards Sliudin. " How He is glad I am that you have been to see him
!

not well, and

it

seems

to

me

Nu! what

is

it?"
;

coachyou," said the doctor, beckoning to his " " This is what I and, up to the door. say taking with his white hand the fingers of his dogskin gloves, he stretched it out: "try to break a tough cord, and it's hard work but keep it stretched out to its utmost tension, and touch it with your finger, it breaks. Now, with his too sedentary life, and his too conscientious labor, he is strained to the utmost limit and besides, there is a violent
I will tell

"

man

to drive

pressure in another direction," concluded the doctor, raising " Shall his eyebrows with a significant expression. you be at the races?" he added as he got into his carriage. "Yes, yes, certainly but it takes too much time," he said
;

216
in reply to not catch.

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

something that Sliudin said, and which he did

Immediately after the doctor had gone, the celebrated came and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, aided by the pamphlet which he had just read, and by some previous information which he had on the subject, astonished his visitor by the extent of his knowledge and the breadth of his views.
traveller
;

At

the

same time the Imperial Predvoditel (marshal) was

announced, who had come to Petersburg on business, and wanted to talk with him. Then he was obliged to settle the routine business with his chief secretary, and finally to make an important and necessary call upon an official. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had only time to get back to his five o'clock dinner with Sliudin, whom he invited to join him in his visit to the country and to the races. Without knowing exactly why, he alwa3 s endeavored lately to have a third person present when he had an interview with
T

his wife.

XXVII.

ANNA was in her room, standing before a mirror, and fastening a final bow to her dress, with Anuushka's aid, when the noise of wheels on the gravel driveway was heard. 14 It is too early for Betsy," she thought; and, looking out of the window, she saw a carriage, and in the carriage the black hat and well-known ears of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. "How provoking! Can he have come for the night?" she thought and without taking time for a moment of reflection, and under the control of the spirit of falsehood, which now ruled her, she went down-stairs, radiant with gayety, to receive her husband, and spoke with him, not knowing what she said. " said " Ah how she, extending her hand good of you to Kare"uin, while she smiled upon Sliudin as a household
; ! !

friend.

"You've come
will

for the night, I

hope?" were

her
!

first

words, inspired by the demon of untruth;

go to the races together. engaged to go with Betsy, who is coming for me." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch frowned slightly at the name of
Betsy.

"and now we I am But how sorry I am

" Oh

I will not separate the inseparables," said he, in his

ANNA
light, jesting tone.

KARtiNINA.

217

"I

will

walk with Mikhail Vasilye"vitch.

:

The doctor advised me

to take exercise

said she, looking beautifully I have arranged the balcony now at her husband, now at her guest. She spoke very simply and naturally, but too fast and too She herself felt that it was so, especially when fluently. she caught Mikhai'l Vasilyevitch looking at her with curiosity. He got up and went out on the terrace, and she sat down beside her husband. " You do not look at all well," said she.
!

" Will " There is no hurry," said Anna. you have some tea?" She rang. " Serve the tea, and tell Serozha that AlekseM AleksandroNu ! how is your health ? Mikhail Vasvitch has come. look how ilye"vitch. you have not been out to see us before "
:
!

destrians, and imagine I

am

I will join the pe-

still

at the

Spa."

"Oh,
hour of

yes

The doctor came

I

this

How precious friends sent him. " " No, what did he say?

my

time.

am convinced

my

morning, and wasted an that some one of my "

health

And she questioned him about his health and his labors, advising him to take rest, and to come out into the country, where she was. It was all said with gayety and animation, and with brilliant light in her eyes, but Aleks6i Aleksandrohe vitch attached no special importance to her manner heard only her words, and took them in their literal signiThe confication, replying simply, though rather ironically. versation had no special weight, yet Anna afterwards could not remember it without genuine pain. Serozha came in, accompanied by his governess. If Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch had allowed himself to notice, he would have been struck by the timid manner in which the lad looked at his parents, at his father first, and then at his mother.
:

Indeed, he is getting " to be a great fellow Good-morning, young man And he stretched out his hand to the puzzled child. Serozha had always been a little afraid of his father but now, since his father had begun to call him young man, and since he had begun to rack his brains to discover whether Vronsky were a friend or an enemy, he was becoming more tirnid than ever. He turned towards his mother, as though for pro!

But he was unwilling " Ah, young man

!

to see

He

any thing, and he saw nothing.

!

has grown.

218
:

ANNA KARNINA.

he felt at ease only when with her. tection Meantime Aleksei Aleksandroviteh laid his hand on the boy's shoulder, and asked his governess about him but the child was so She jumped up, scared that Anna saw he was going to cry. raised Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's hand to let the boy go, and kissed him, and took him out on the terrace. Then she came back to her husband again. "It is getting late," she said, consulting her watch. " " Why doesn't Betsy come? "Da!" said Aleksei Aleksandroviteh, getting up, and " I came also to cracking the joints of his fingers. bring some money, for nightingales don't live on songs," said you " You need I have no doubt." he.
;

"

it,

No,

I don't

need
3-011

it

at him.
is

" But here the glory of Peterhof, the Princess Tverskaia," he added, looking through the window, and seeing a magnificent English carriage drawing up to the entrance: " what elegance " splendid nu! let us go too The princess did not leave her carriage her tiger, in topboots and livery, and wearing a tall hat, leaped to the steps. " I am going good-by," said Anna, kissing her son, and " It was giving her hand to Aleksei Aleksandroviteh. very kind of you to come." Aleksei Aleksandroviteh kissed her hand. "Nu! till we meet again! You will come back to tea? " she said, as she went down the steps, seeming Excellent! But hardly had she passed from his radiant and happy. sight before she shivered with repugnance as she felt on her hand the place where his lips had kissed it.
!
!

" " Oh, replied Aleksei Aleksandroviteh. yes

" Da!

yes

will

come back

do," said she, not looking "

after the races?

XXVIII.
Aleksei Aleksandroviteh reached the race-course, already in her place beside Betsy, in the grand pavilion, where the high society was gathered in a brilliant She saw her husband from a distance, and involthrong. followed him as he came along. She saw him untarily approach the pavilion, replying with rather haughty condescension to the salutations, which were meant to draw his attention exchanging careless greetings with his equals

WHEN

Anna was

ANNA
to

KARtiNINA.

219

watching to catch the glances of the great ones of the earth, whom he paid his respects by removing his Jarge, round Anna knew hat, which came down to the top of his ears. all these mannerisms of salutation, and they were all equally " distasteful to her. Nothing but ambition craze for suc" as to it is all that his heart contains," she thought cess his lofty views, his love for civilization, his religion, they that is all." are only means whereb}' to gain an end It was evident, from the glances that Karenin cast on the pavilion, that he was seeking vainly for his wife in the sea of muslin, ribbons, feathers, flowers, and sunshades. Anna knew that he was looking for her, but she pretended not to
; ; : ;

see him.

Aleksandrovitch," cried the Princess Betsy, " ou see your wife? here she is He looked up with his icy smile. " Every thing is so brilliant here, that it blinds the eyes," he replied, as he

"Alekse'i
-

" don't

came up the

pavilion.

smiled at Anna, as it is a husband's duty to do when he has only just left his wife, bowed to Betsy and his other acquaintances, showing himself gallant towards the ladies,
polite

He

towards the men.

famous for his wit and his knowledge, was near by; and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch joined him, and engaged in conversation. It was between the two races the general attacked such kinds of amusement, Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch defended them. Anna heard his slow, shrill voice, and lost none of the words which her husband spoke, and which rang unpleasantly
general,
:

When the hurdle-race began, she leaned forward, not letting Vronsky out of her sight for an instant. She saw him approach his horse, then mount it her husband's voice kept floating up to her. and was odious to her. She felt for Vronsky but she suffered painfully at the sound of this voice, every intonation of which she knew. "I am a wicked woman, a lost woman," she thought; " but I hate falsehood, I cannot endure lies but he [meaning her husband] lives by them liar He knows all, he sees how much feeling has he, if he can go on every thing speaking with such calmness? I should have some respect for him if he killed me, if he killed Vronsky. But no what he prefers above every thing is falsehood and convenin her ear.
: ; ; ! : !

tionality."

220

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

did not exactly know what she would have liked her to* be, and she did not understand that the very volubility of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, which irritated her so, was only the expression of his interior agitation he felt the need of making some intellectual exertion, just as a child He wanted to stretches its limbs when it suffers with pain. become oblivious to the thoughts that arose in his mind at the sight of Anna and Vronsky, whose name he heard on all sides. He disguised his mental disturbance b}- talking. "Danger," he said, "is an indispensable condition in these races of cavalry officers. If England can show in her history glorious deeds of arms performed by her cavalry, she owes it solely to the historic development of vigor in her people and her horses. Sport, in my opinion, has a deep significance and, as usual, we take it only in its superficial aspect." "Not superficial," said the Princess Tverskaia "they say that one of the officers has broken two ribs." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch smiled on the speaker with a cold expression, which showed only his teeth. " I admit, princess, that in this case it is not superficial, " and he turned again but serious. But that is not the point to the general, and resumed his dignified discourse. " You must not forget that those who take part are military men that this career is their choice, and that every This belongs to vocation has its reverse side of the medal. Such sport as boxing-matches and the calling of war. Spanish bull-fights are indications of barbarism, but specialized sport is a sign of development." " No, I won't come another time," the Princess Betsey was saying " it is too exciting for me don't you think so,

Anna

husband

Anna?"
"
"if
It is exciting, I had been

but it is fascinating," said another lady: a Roman, I should never have left the

circus."

Anna
glass.

did not speak, but

was gazing

intently through her

At this moment a tall general came across the pavilion. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, breaking off his discourse abruptly, arose with dignity, and made a low bow. " Aren't you racing?" asked the general jestingly. race is a far more difficult one," replied Aleksei Aleksandrovitch respectfully and though this answer was not remarkable for its sense, the military man seemed to

"My

ANNA KAR&NINA.

221

think that he had received a witty repartee from a witty man, and appreciated la pointe cle la sauce. "There are two sides to the question," Aleksei Aleksan"that of the spectator, and that of drovitch said, resuming, the participant and 1 confess that a love for such spectacles is a genuine sign of inferiority in the people, but" " Princess, a wager," cried the voice of Stepan Arkadye" Which side will vitch from below, addressing Betsy. you
;

take?" " Anna and " I am for

I bet

on Prince Kuzoflef," replied Betsy.

"Good!"

Vronsky.

pair of gloves."

jolly! isn't it?" Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch stopped speaking while this con-

"How
I

versation

confess, manly games At this instant the signal of departure was heard, and all Aleksei Aleksandrovitch also ceased conversation ceased. speaking but while every one stood up so as to look at the re/id, he, not feeling interested in the race, instead of watching the riders, looked around the assembly with weary
;

"

was going on around him, and then he began anew. "

His gaze fell upon his wife. Her face was pale and stern. Nothing existed for her Her hands beyond the one person whom she was watching
eyes.

she held her breath. Kar^nin convulsively clutched her fan looked around at the faces of other women. "There is another lady very much moved, and still another just the same: it is very natural," said Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch to himself. He did not wish to look at her but his gaze was irresistibly drawn to her face, whereon he read only too plainly, and with feelings of horror, all that he had tried to ignore. When Kuzoflef fell, the excitement was general but Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch saw clearly by Anna's pale, triumphant face, that he who fell was not the one on whom her gaze was riveted. When, after Makhotin and Vronsky crossed the great hurdle, another officer was thrown head first, and was picked up for dead, a shudder of horror ran through the assembly, but Aleksei Aleksandrovitch perceived that Anna noticed nothing, and did not know what the people were The more he studied her face, the greater talking about. became his shame. Absorbed as she was in her interest in Vronsky's course, Anna was conscious that her husband's
:

222

ANNA
;

KAEfiNINA.

cold e^-es were on her and she turned around towards him " Ach ! for an instant questioningly, and with a slight frown. I don't care," she seemed to say, as she turned her glass to the race. She did not look at him again. The race was disastrous out of the seventeen riders, more than half were thrown. Towards the end, the excitement became intense, the more because the Emperor showed dis:

satisfaction.

XXIX.
ALL were expressing their dissatisfaction, and the phrase was going the rounds, "Now only the lions are left in the arena;" and the terror caused by Vronsky's fall was so universal, that Anna's cry of horror caused no astonishment. But, unfortunately, her face continued to show more lively symptoms of her anxiety than was proper. She lost her She tried to escape, like a bird caught in presence of mind. a snare. She struggled to arise, and to get away and she " cried to Betsy, " Come, let us go, let us go But Betsy did not hear her. She was leaning over, engaged in lively conversation with a general who had just
;
!

entered the pavilion. Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch hastened to his wife, and offered her his arm. " Come, if it is your wish to go," said he in French but Anna did not heed him. She was listening eagerly to the general's words. " He has broken his but this is not at all leg, they say likely," said the general. Anna did not look at her husband but, taking her glass, she gazed at the place where Vronsky had fallen. It was so distant, and the crowd was so dense, that she could not make any thing out of it. She dropped her lorgnette, and was try; ;
;

ing to go when an officer came galloping up to make some Anna leaned forward, and listened. report to the Emperor. " Stiva Stiva " she cried to her brother. He did not hear her. She again made an effort to leave the pavilion.
! !

"I again offer you my arm, if you wish to go," repeated Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, touching her hand. Anna drew back from him with aversion, and replied without looking at him, "No, no leave me I am going to stay."
: ;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

223

At this moment she saw an officer riding at full speed across the race-course from the place of the accident towards the pavilion. Betsy beckoned to him with her handkerchief and the officer came up, and said that the rider was uninjured, but the horse had broken his back. At this news, Anna quickly sat down, and hid her face behind her fan. Aleksi Aleksandrovitch noticed not only that she was weeping, but that she could not restrain the sobs He stepped in front of her to shield that heaved her bosom. her from the public gaze, and give her a chance to regain her
;

time, I offer you my arm," said he, turning to her at the end of a few moments. Anna looked at him, not knowing what to say. Betsy came to her aid. " No, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. I brought Anna, and I will be responsible for bringing her home." " Excuse me, princess," he replied politely, and looking " but I see that she is not well her fuir in the face here, and I wish her to go home with me." Anna obeyed in terror, and, rising hastily, took her hus;

self-command. " For the third

band's arm. " I will send to inquire for him, and let you know," whispered Betsy. As Aleksei Aleksandrovitch left the pavilion with his wife, he spoke in his ordinary manner to all whom he met, and Anna was forced to listen and to reply as usual but she was not herself, and as in a dream she passed along on her husband's arm. "Is he killed, or not? Can it be true? "Will he come? " she asked herself. Shall I see him to-day? In silence she got into the carriage, and she sat in silence while they left the throng of vehicles. In spite of all that he had seen, Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch did not allow himself
;

to think of his wife's present attitude. He saw only the external signs. He saw that her deportment had been imBut it proper, and he felt obliged to speak to her about it. was very difficult to say this only, and not go farther. He opened his mouth to speak but, against his will, he said
;

something absolutely

different.

"

How

strange that
' '

we

all like to

see these cruel specta-

cles

I notice

"What?

I did not

understand you," said

Anna

scornfully.

224

ANNA KAR&NINA.
instantl}-

He was wounded, and

his

began to

sa}

what was on

mind " I am

obliged to

tell

you," he began

"Now,"

thought Anna,

"comes

the explanation;"

and

tell you* that your conduct to-day has been extremely improper," said he iu French. " " Wherein has my conduct been improper? she demanded her head quickly, and looking him straight angril}', raising in the eyes, no longer hiding her feelings under a mask of gaj-ety, but putting on a bold front, which, with difficulty, she maintained under her fears.

she was frightened. " I am obliged to

"Be careful," said he, pointing to the open window behind the coachman's back. He leaned forward to raise it. " " What she demanded. impropriety did you remark? "The despair which you took no pains to conceal when
one of the riders was thrown." He awaited her answer but she said nothing, and looked
;

straight ahead. " I have alread}* requested you so to behave when in society that evil tongues cannot find any thing to say against you. There was a time when I spoke of your inner feelings Now I speak only of outI now say nothing about them.
:

ward appearances. You have behaved improperly, and I would ask you not to let this happen again." She heard only half of his words she felt overwhelmed with fear and she thought only of Vronsky, and whether he was killed. Was it he who was meant when they said the rider was safe, but the horse had broken his back?
;

When
at

Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch ceased speaking, she looked

him with an ironical smile, and answered not a word, because she had not noticed what he said. At first he had spoken boldly but as he saw clearly what he was speaking At first about, the terror which possessed her seized him. her smile led him into a strange mistake. " She is amused at my suspicions She is going to tell me now that they are
;
!

groundless

that this

is

absurd.

' '

Such an answer he longed to hear

he was so afraid that

his suspicions would be confirmed, that he was ready to beBut the expression of lieve any thing that she might say.

her gloomy and frightened face chance of falsehood.

now

allowed him no further

ANNA
"

KARtiNINA.

225

" in that case, I beg Possibly I am mistaken," said he : to forgive me." you " No, }'ou are not mistaken," she replied, with measured words, casting a look of despair on her husband's icy face.

"You are not mistaken: I was in despair, and I could not I hear you, but I am thinking only of him. I help being. I cannot endure you, I love him, I have been false to you. " Do with me what you please fear you, I hate you And, herself into the bottom of the carriage, she covthrowing ered her face with her hands, and burst into tears. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch did not move, or turn his face but the solemn expression of his features suddenly assumed a deathlike rigidity, which remained unchanged throughout As they reached the house, he turned his the drive home.
! !

head to

her,

and

said,

but I insist upon the preservation of appearances from this time forth until I decide upon the measures which " " and which and here his voice trembled, I shall take, and this I demand for the will be communicated to you sake of preserving my honor." He stepped out of the carriage, and assisted Anna out. Then, in presence of the domesties, he shook hands with her, re-entered the carriage, and returned to Petersburg. He had just gone, when a messenger from Betsy brought * a note to Anna " I sent to Aleksel Vronsky to learn about his health. He writes me that he is safe and sound, but in despair." " Then he will " How well I did to come," she thought. tell him all!" She looked at her watch scarcely three hours had passed since she saw him, but the memory of their interview made her heart beat. " Bozhe mo'i! how but I love to It is terrible light it is
; :

"So!

see his face, and I love this fantastic light.

My

hus-

band Ach ! da!

!

nu I and thank God

it is all

over with

him!"

XXX.
little

where human beings congregate, so in the village where the Shcherbatskys went to take the waters, there is formed a sort of social crystallization which puts every one in exact and unchangeable place. Just
in all places

As

German

226

ANNA KARNINA.

as a drop of water exposed to the cold alwa}T s and invariably takes a certain crystalline form, so each new individual coming to the Spa finds himself invariably fixed in the social
scale. Fiirst Schtschbatzky, sammt Gemahlin und Tochter (Prince Sheherbatsky, wife and daughter), both by the apartments that they occupied, and by their name and the acquaintances that they made, immediately crystallized into the exact place that was predestined to receive them. The business of stratification was much more energetic this year than usual, from the fact that a genuine German Flirstin (princess) honored the waters with her presence. The princess felt called upon to present her daughter, and the ceremony took place two days after their arrival. Kitty, dressed in a very simple toilet, that is to say, a very elegant Parisian costume, made a deep and graceful courtesy. The

"

"

Filrstin said, "I hope that the roses will

little

soon bloom again

in this pretty

face."

And immediately the Sheherbatsky family found themselves in the fixed and definite walk in life from which it was impossible to descend. They made the acquaintance of an English Lady, of a German Grafin, and her son who had been wounded in the late war, of a scientific man from Sweden, and of a M. Canut and his sister.* But for the most part, the Shcherbatskys spontaneously formed social relations among the people "from Moscow, among them Marya Evgenyevna Rtishchevaia and her daughter, whom Kitty did not like because she likewise was ill on account of a love-affair going wrong and a colonel whom she
;

always had seen

in society,

and known by

his

uniform and his

epaulets, and who now with his little eyes, and his bare neck and flowery cravats, seemed to Kitty supremely ridiculous^ and the more unendurable because she could not get rid of
all established, it became very tiremore as her father had gone to Carlsbad, and she was left alone with her mother. She could not interest herself in her old acquaintances, because she knew that she should not find any thing novel in them and so her principal amusement was in studying the people whom she had never seen before. It was in accordance with Kitty's nature and to see the best side of people, especially of strangers now her remarks on the characters and scenes that she

him.

When

they were

some

to Kitty, the

ANNA KARNINA.

227

amused herself in studying, were colored with a good-natured exaggeration of their peculiarities. Of all these people, there was one in whom she took a most lively interest it was a young girl who had come to the baths with a Russian lady named Madame Stahl. Madame Stahl, it was said, belonged to the high nobility but she was unable to walk, and was seen only occasionally going in a wheeled-chair to take the baths. But it was rather from pride than illness, as the princess judged, that she failed to make any acquaintances among the Russians. The young and, as Kitty discovered, she frequently girl was her nurse and there were many went to those who were seriously ill, at the baths, and with the same natural, unaffected zeal, took care of them.
: ;

to

This young Russian girl, Kitty discovered, was no relation Madame Stahl, nor even a hired companion. Madame Stahl called her simply Varenka, but her friends called her "Mademoiselle Varenka." Kitty not only found it ex-

tremely interesting to study the relations between this young girl and Madame Stahl, and other unknown persons, but an irresistible sympathy drew her towards Mademoiselle Vareuka and, when their eyes met, she imagined that it pleased her
;

also.

Mademoiselle Varenka, though still quite young, seemed to lack youthfulness her age might be guessed as either nineteen or thirty. In spite of the lack of color in her face, she was rather good-looking if, on analysis, her head had not been rather large, and her figure too slight, she would but she was not one to have been considered handsome she made one think of a beautiful flower, please men
:

which, though still preserving without perfume.

its

petals,

was faded and

Varenka seemed always absorbed in some important duty, and never at leisure to amuse herself with idle nothings and the example of this busy life made Kitty feel that perhaps if she imitated her she would find what she was seeking with so much trouble, an interest in life, a sentiment of the dignity of life which would never have any thing in common with the social relationship of young women to young men, which now seemed to Kitty like an ignominious ex;

posure of merchandise to be taken by the highest bidder. studied her unknown friend, the more she to become acquainted with her, feeling that she was longed

The more she

228

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

a creature of such perfection, that she would like to take her as an example for herself. The young girls passed each other many times every da)' and Kitty's eyes seemed always to saj", "Who are you? What are you ? Are you not, in truth, the charming person that I imagine you to be? But for Heaven's sake," the look seemed to add, " don't think that I would be indiscreet
;

of the stranger and indeed she was always busy. Now it was the children of a Russian family whom she was taking home from the baths, now an invalid who had to be wrapped in his plaid, or another whom she was trying to amuse, or getting confections for some sick person, or bringing an:

enough to demand your acquaintance it is sufficient for me to admire you, and to love you." " I also love you, and you are veiy, very charming and I would love you still better, if I had time," replied the look
!
;

other his coffee and cream.

One morning, soon after the arrival of the Shcherbatskys, a couple appeared who immediately became the object of rather unfriendly criticism: a tall, stooping man, with enormous hands, black eyes, at once innocent and terrifying, and wearing an old, ill-fitting, short coat. The woman was no less outr6 in her costume her face was marked with smallpox, but was kindly in expression. Kitty instantly recognized that they were Russians and her imagination was at work constructing a touching romance, of which they were the principal characters, when the princess learned, by consulting the Jcurliste (list of arrivals), that this was Nikolai Levin and Marya Nikolayevna and she put an end to Kitty's romance by telling her what a bad man this Levin was. The fact that he was Konstantin Levin's brother, even more than her mother's words, made these two people parThis man with the strange ticularly repulsive to Kitty. motion of his head became odious to her and she imagined that she could read in his great, wild eyes, as they persistas far ently followed her, sentiments of irony and ill will as possible, she avoided meeting him.
: ; ; ;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

229

XXXI, & XXXII.

IT was a stormy da}' : the rain fell all the morning, and the invalids with umbrellas thronged in the galleries. Kitty and her mother, accompanied by the Muscovite colonel playing the elegant in his European overcoat, bought

ready made in Frankfort, were walking on one side of the gallery, in order to avoid Nikolai Levin, who was on the other. Varenka in her sombre dress, and a black hat with the brim turned down, was acting as guide to a blind old French woman each time that she and Kitty met, they ex:

changed friendly glances. " " Mamma, cau I speak with her? asked Kitt}', seeing her unknown friend approaching the spring, and judging that it was a favorable time for them to meet. "Yes, if you are very anxious. I will inquire about her, and make her acquaintance first," said her mother. "But why do you wish to know her? She is only a ladies' companion. If you like, I can speak to Madame Stahl. I knew her belle-sceur," added the princess, raising her head with
dignity.

Kitty

knew

that her mother

was vexed

at the attitude of
;

Madame
"

Stahl,

who seemed
!

to avoid her

and she did not

press the point.

said she, as she saw Varenka charming she is " See how lovely and give the blind French lady a glass. she does." gentle every thing is that "You amuse me with your engouements " [infatuations], "No, let us not go farther," she replied the princess. added, as she saw Levin approaching with Mary a and a

How

"

German

doctor, with

whom

he was speaking

in

a sharp and

augiy tone.
of

they turned to go back, suddenly they heard the sound angry voices and a cry. Levin had stopped, and was The doctor was also angry. shrieking with excited gestures. A crowd was gathering around them in a ring.. The princess and Kitty hurried away, but the colonel joined the throng to find out what the trouble was. After a few moments he came back to them. " What was it? " asked the princess. "It is a shame and a disgrace," replied the colonel. " Nothing worse than to meet these Russians abroad. This

As

230

ANNA KAlt ti NINA.

huge gentleman quarrelled with his doctor, heaped indignities upon him for not attending to him as he wished, and finally
he raised his cane.
disgraceful." " said the " Ach ! how unpleasant how unpleasant " Nu! how did it end ?" cess.
! !

It is

prin-

this girl with a hat like a toadstool "Fortunately, this A Russian, it seems," said the colonel. " Mademoiselle Varenka? " " Yes, She went quicker than any one else, and took yes the angry gentleman by the arm, and led him off." " " said Kitty, " and you wonder at my There, mamma " enthusiasm for Varenka The next morning Kitty noticed that Varenka was taking up with Levin and Marya just the same as with her other proteges: she was talking with them, and acting as interpreter to the woman, who did not know any language besides her own. Kitty again begged her mother even more urgently to let her become acquainted with Vareuka and though it was unpleasant to the princess to seem to be making advances to

interfered.

the haughty and exclusive Madame Stahl, she satisfied herself that all was perfectly proper in the proposed acquaintance. She chose a moment when Kitty was at the spring,

and addressed Varenka.

"Allow me to introduce myself," said she, with a con" descending smile. My daughter has taken a great fane}' to you. But perhaps you do not know me. I " "It is more than reciprocal, princess," replied Varenka
quickly.

'"What a good thing you did yesterday towards our sad fellow-countryman," said the princess. " I don't " I do not remember of know," she replied. done any thing." having " Yes, indeed you saved this Levin from an unpleasant
!

affair."

him

yes! sa compagne called me, and I tried to calm very sick, and very much put out with his doctor. I am quite used to this kind of invalids." "Da/ I believe you live at Mentoue with }*our aunt, Madame Stahl. I used to know her belle-sceur." " No, Madame Stahl is not my aunt. I call her raaracm, but I am no relation to her. I was brought up by her,"

"Ah,
:

he

is

replied Vareuka.

ANNA

KAlitiNINA.
;

231

All this was said with perfect simplicity and the expression of her pleasing face was so frank and sincere, that the princess began to understand why Kitty was so charmed by
her.

"

Nn! what
is

is this

going away." moment, Kitty, radiant with pleasure because her mother was talking with her friend, came in from the spring. " J\T vot ! Kitty, your ardent desire to know Mademoi-

" He

" she asked. Levin going to do?

At

this

selle"

"Varenka,"
so."

said the

young

girl.

"Everybody

calls

me

Kitty was delighted, and without speaking pressed her friend's hand a loug time, but without any response. Varenka' s face, however, was lighted with a happy expression and when she laughed, she showed tinged with melancholy her large but handsome teeth. "I have been longing to know you," she said. "But " you are so busy " Ach ! on the contrary, I haven't any thing to do," replied Varenka but at the same instant two little Russian girls, the daughters of an invalid, ran towards her, and said,

new

"Varenka,

mamma

is

calling."

And Vareuka followed them. When the princess set out to find about Varenka's past life, and her relations with Madame Stahl, she learned the
following particulars Madame Stahl had always been a sickly and excitable woman, who was said by some to have tormented the life out of her husband, and by others to have been made unhappy by his unreasonable behavior. After she was divorced from her husband, she gave birth to her first child, who did not live. Madame Stahl's family, knowing her sensitiveness, and fearing that the shock would kill her, substituted for the dead child the daughter of Court, a cook, born on the same night, and in the same house at Petei'sburg. It was Varenka. Madame Stahl afterwards learned that the child was not her own, but continued to take charge of it, the more willingly as the true parents shortly after died, leaving
:

it

without relatives. For more than ten years Madame Stahl lived abroad, in Some said that the South, scarcely ever leaving her bed. she had made a public show of her piety and good works
:

232

ANNA
;

others saw in her a superior being of real moral elevation, and asserted that she lived onl}- for the sake of her charities in a word, that she was really what she seemed to be. No one knew whether she was Catholic, Protestant, or orthodox that she had friendly relations one thing alone was certain, with the high dignitaries of all the Churches and of all com;

munions.
Stahl and all who Varenka also, and loved her. Kitty became more and more attached to her friend, and each day discovered some new charm in her. The princess, seeing that Varenka's manners were excellent, and that she was well educated, speaking French and English perfectly,

Varenka always

lived with

Madame

knew Madame

Stahl

knew

Mile.

did not discourage the friendship, and, having discovered that she sang, invited her to come and spend an evening with

them.

" Kitty plays, and we have a piano ment is bad, we shall be delighted

and, though the instru-

to hear you," said the princess with a forced politeness that was displeasing to Kitty, especially as she knew that Varenka did not want to She came, however, that same evening, and brought sing.

her music. The princess invited Marya Evgenyevna and her daughter, and the colonel. Varenka seemed not to mind the presence of these people, who were strangers to her, but she could not sat down to the piano without being urged accompany herself, but she read the notes perfectly. Kitty
:

played very well, and accompanied her. " You have a remarkable talent," said the princess after the first song, which Varenka sang beautifully.

Marya f^vgenyevna and her daughter added ments and their thanks.
"See,"

their compli-

said the colonel, looking out of the window, audience you have attracted." In fact, a large number of people had gathered in front of the house. " I am very glad to have given you pleasure," said Varenka without affectation. Kitty looked at her friend proudly she admired her art and her voice and her face, and, more than all, her bearing. It was evident that Varenka made no boast of her singing,

"what an

and was indifferent to compliments. She simply seemed to " " Shall I sing some more, or is that enough? say, "If I were in her place, how proud I should be! How happy I should be to see that crowd under the

ANNA
window
!

KARtiNINA.

233

But she seems perfectly unconscious of it. All that she seemed to want was to please maman. What is there about her ? What is it that gives her this power of inPlow I should difference, this calmness and independence? " like to learn of her! thought Kitty, as she looked into her
peaceful face. The princess asked for a second song and Varenka sang this as well as the first, with the same care and the same perfection, standing erect near the piano, and beating time with her little brown hand. The next piece in her music-roll was an Italian ana. Kitty played the introduction, and turned towards Varenka. " Let us skip that," said she, blushing. Kitty, in surprise and wonder, fixed her eyes on Varenka's
;

face.

"

Nu!

another one," she said, hastily turning the pages,

and somehow feeling an intuition that the Italian song brought back to her friend some painful association. "No," replied Varenka, putting her hand on the notes. " Let us And she sang as calmly and coolly as sing this."
before.

After the singing was over, they all thanked her again, and went out into the dining-room to drink tea. Kitty and Varenka went down into the little garden next the house. " You had some association with that song, did you not?" " You need not tell me about it: asked Kitty. simply say, " I 'Yes,
have.'

should I not tell you about it? Yes, there is an association," said Varenka calmly, " and it is a painful one. I once loved a man, and used to sing that piece to him."
Kitty with wide-open eyes looked at Varenka meekly, but did not speak. " I loved him, and he loved me also but his mother was He does not live unwilling, and he married some one else. You didn't very far from us now, and I sometimes see him. " And think that I also had my romance, did you? her face lighted up with a rare beauty, and a fire such as Kitty imagined might have been habitual in other days. shouldn't I have thought so? If I were a man I could never have loved any one else after knowing you," said Kitty. " What I cannot conceive is, that he was able to forget you, and make you unhappy for the sake of obeying his mother. He couldn't have had any heart."
;

"Why

"Why

234

ANNA KAR&NINA.
:

" On the and I, I am contrary, he was an excellent man I am very happy nu! Shall we sing any more this evening?" she added, turning towards the house. " How good you are! how good you are!" cried Kitty, " If I could stopping to kiss her. only be a bit like " you " Why should you resemble any one else besides yourself? Stay the good girl that you are," said Varenka, with her sweet and melancholy smile. " No, I am not good at all. Nu! tell me. Stay, stay let us sit down a little while," said Kitty, drawing her down
not unhappy;
! ;

to a settee near by. "Tell me how it can be other than a pain to think of a man who has scorned your love, who has

" Da! he did not scorn it at all I am sure that he loved me. But he was a dutiful son, and " " And suppose it had not been for the sake of his mother, of his own free will," said Kitty, feeling that she was betraying her secret by her face as well as by her words. " Then he would not have behaved honorably, and Ishould not mourn for him," replied Varenka, perceiving that
:

jilted

you."

the supposition concerned, not herself, but Kitty. " But the insult " cried Can one forget the inKitty. sult? It is impossible," said she, remembering her own look when the music stopped at the last ball. " Whose insult? You didn't do any thing wrong?" " " Worse than shameful wrong, Varenka shook her head, and laid her hand on Kitty's. " " Da! but why shameful? she asked. "You surely did not tell a man who showed indifference to you that you loved
' !
!

him?"
"Certainly not: I never uttered a word. But he knew it. no, no! not if I lived a hundred years should I ever forget it." "Now, what is it? I don't understand you. "The question is solely this do you love him now, or not? said Varenka, who liked to call things by their right names. " I hate him. I cannot forgive myself."

There are looks, ways

" The shame,

"But what for?"

the insult."
!

There is every one were as sensitive as you never a young girl who does not sometimes feel the same way. " It is all such a trifling thing
if
!

"Ach!

ANNA KARNINA.
"

235
at

" But what, then, is asked Kitty, looking important? Varenka with astonishment and curiosity.

"Ach! many things are important," replied Varenka, with a smile. "Da! but what? " "Ach! there are many things more important," replied Vareuka, not knowing what to say but at that moment the princess shouted from the window, " put on your shawl, or come in." Kitty, it is getting cool "It is time to go," said Varenka, getting up. "I must go and see Madame Berthe : she asked me to come." Kitty held her by the hand, and asked her, with a look full of passionate, almost supplicating, curiosity, " What is it that is so important? What can give calm?
;
;

You know

tell

me."

But Varenka did not understand the meaning of Kitty's look. She remembered only that she had still to go to see Madame Berthe, and to get home at midnight for tea with maman. She went back to the room, picked up her music, and, having said good-night to all, she was going to take her
departure.
I will escort you," said the colonel. " How could Certainly," said the princess. you go home alone at night? I was going to send Parasha with you." Kitty saw that Varenka could hardly keep from smiling at the idea that she needed any one to go home with her. " No, I always go home alone, and nothing ever happens to me," said she, taking her hat, and leaving Kitty again, " the one important thing." She though she did not tell her hurried away with firm steps, her music-roll under her arm, and disappeared in the semi-darkness of a summer night, cariying with her the secret of her dignity and her enviable calmness.
:

" Allow me "

XXXIII.
KITTY made

Madame

tions with this lady upon her.

Stahl's acquaintance, and her relaand Varenka had a calming influence

She learned, through this friendship, that there existed an entirely new world, which hitherto had been hidden from her, a beautiful, supernal world, which would enable her to look calmly on her past. This world, which was entirety apart

236

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

from the instinctive life which hitherto she had led, was the This life was reached by religion, not the spiritual life. religion to which Kitty had been accustomed since infancy, a religion which consisted of going to morning and evening service, and to the House of Widows, where she met her acquaintances, or of learning by heart Slavonic texts with the parish priest, but a lofty, mystic religion, united with the\ purest thoughts and feelings, and believed in not through / dut}', but through love. Madame StahT Kitty learned all this, but not by words. spoke to her as to a lonely child whom she loved as the type of her own youth, and only once did she make any allusion to the consolation brought by faith and love for human sorrows, and to the compassion of Christ, who looked and she immediately upon no sorrows as insignificant changed the subject. But in all this lady's motions, in her words, in her heavenly looks, as Kitty called them, and, above all, in the story of her life, which she knew through " " the which till Varenka, Kitty discovered important thing now had been but a sealed book to her. But, lofty as Madame Stahl's character was, touching as was her history, Kitty could not help noticing certain peculiOne day, for example, when arities, which troubled her. her relatives were mentioned. Madame Stahl smiled disdainAnother time it was contrary to Christian charity. fully Kitty noticed, when she met a Roman-Catholic dignitary calling upon her, that Madame Stahl kept her face carefully shaded by the curtain, and had a strange look in her face. These two incidents, though of slight importance, gave her some pain, and caused her to doubt Madame Stahl's sinVarenka, on the other hand, alone in the world, cerity. without family connections, without friends, hoping for naught, harboring no ill will after her bitter disappointment, seemed to her absolute perfection. It was through Varenka that she learned how to forget herself, and to love her neighAnd, when bor, if she wanted to be happy, calm, and good. once she learned this, Kitty was no longer willing simply to admire, but she gave herself up with her whole heart to the new life which opened before her. After the stories which Varenka told her of Madame Stahl and others whom she named, Kitty drew up a plan for her coming life. She decided, that, following the example of Aline, Madame Stahl's niece, whom Varenka often told her about, she would visit
; :

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

237

the poor, no matter where she found them, and that she would aid them to the best of her ability that she would distribute the gospel, read the New Testament to the sick, this last idea especially appealed to the dying, to criminals But she indulged in these dreams secretly, without to her. telling her mother of them, or even her friend. However, while she was waiting to be able to carry out her schemes on a wider scale, it was not difficult for Kitty to put her new principles in practice : at the waters the sick and the unhappy are easily found, and she did as Varenka
;
:

did.

princess quickly noticed how completely Kitty had under the influence of her erigouement, as she called Madame Stahl, and particularly Vareuka. She saw that Kitty imitated Varenka, not only in her deeds of charity, but even in her gait, in her speech, in her ways of shutting her Later she discovered that her daughter was passing eyes.

The

fallen

through a sort of crisis of the soul quite independent of the influence of her friends. One evening the princess saw Kitty reading the Gospels in a French Testament loaned her by Madame Stahl, an unusual custom with her. She also noticed that she avoided all the gayeties of life, and gave her time to the sick under Varenka 's care, and particularly to a family of a poor sick
painter
to fill, in this household, the functions of a sister of charity. All this was very good and the princess had no fault to find with it, and opposed it all the less from the fact that Petrof 's wife was a woman of good family, and that one day the Fiirstin, noticing Kitty's " beauty, had praised her, and called her the ministering All would have been very good if the princess had angel." not feared the exaggeration into which her daughter might
;

named Petrof The young girl seemed proud

.

outrer" ["One must never go to extremes "], she said to her in French. The young girl did not answer but she questioned from the bottom of her heart whether one could ever go to extremes in a religion which bids you offer your left cheek when the right has been struck, and to give your cloak to your neighbor. But what pained the princess even more than this
;

easily be led. " II ne faut rien

tendency to exaggeration, was to feel that Kitty was unwillIn point of fact, Kitty ing to open her heart to her mother.

238

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

secret of these new feelings, not because she lacked affection or respect for her mother, but simply because she was her mother, and it would have been easier to confess them to a stranger than to her mother.

made a

"It is a long time since Anna Pavlovna has been to see us," said the princess one day, speaking of Madame Petrova. " I invited her to come, but she seems offended." "No, I don't think so, wumun," replied Kitty with a
guilty look.

"We

" " You have not been with her lately, have you? a walk on the mountain for to-morrow," planned

said Kitty. "I see no objection," replied the princess, noticing her daughter's confusion, and trying to fathom the reason. Varenka came the same da}-, and announced that Anna Pavlovna had given up the proposed expedition. The princess noticed that Kitty looked still more confused. " Kitty, there has not been any thing unpleasant between you and the Petrofs, has there?" she asked, as soon as have they ceased to send their they ^ere alone. " children, or to come themselves? that nothing had happened, and that she did Kitty replied not understand why Anna Pavlovna seemed to be angry with her and she told the truth. But, if she did not know the reasons for the change in Madame Petrova, she guessed them, and also thus guessed a thing that she did not dare to confess, even to herself, still less to her mother, so

"Why

humiliating and painful it would have been had she been mistaken. All the memories of her relations with this family came back to her, one after the other. She remembered the joy which shone on Anna Pavlovna's honest round face when they first met their secret discussions to find means to distract the invalid, and keep him from the forbidden work, and the attachment of the youngest to get him out of doors child, who called her Moya Kiti, and would not go to bed without her. How beautiful every thing was at that time Then she remembered Petrofs thin face, his long neck his thin curly hair stretching out from his brown coat his blue eyes, with their questioning look, which she had feared at first his feeble efforts to seem lively and energetic when she was near the trouble that she had to overcome the repugnance which he, as well as all consumptives, caused
; ; ! ; ;

ANNA KARNINA.
her to feel
;

239

and the trouble which she had in finding something to talk with him about. She remembered the sick man's humble and timid looks when he saw her, and the strange feeling of compassion and awkwardness which came over her at first, followed by the How lovely pleasant consciousness of her charitable deeds. but it lasted only for a brief moment. it all had been Now and for several days there had been a sudden change. Anna Pavlovna received Kitty with scant friendliness, and did not cease to watch her husband. Could it be that the invalid's affecting joy at the sight of her was the cause of Anna Pavlovna's coolness? "Yes," she said to herself, "there was something unnatural and quite different from her ordinary sweet temper when she said to me, day before yesterday, sharply, Vot! he will not do any thing without you he would not even take his coffee, though
!

'

he was very faint.' "Da! perhaps it was not agreeable to her when I gave him his plaid. It was such a simple little thing to do but he seemed so strange, and thanked me so warmly, that I felt ill at ease. And then that portrait of me which he painted
;

'

so well but, above all, his gentle and melancholy look. Yes, yes, it must be so," Kitty repeated with horror. "No, it cannot be, it must not be He is to be pitied so " she
;

added

in her secret heart.

life.

This suspicion poisoned the pleasure of her new

XXXIV.
JUST before their season at the Spa was over, Prince Shcherbatsky rejoined them. He had been to Carlsbad, to " to Baden, and to Kissiugen, with Russian friends, get a breath of Russian air," as he expressed it.
prince and princess had conflicting ideas in regard to The princess thought that every thing was lovely and, notwithstanding her assured position in Russian society, she put on the airs of a European lady while she was abroad, which was not becoming, for she was in every way a genuine Russian baruina. The prince, on the other hand, considered every thing abroad detestable, and the
living abroad.
;

The

life unendurable and he even exaggerated his Russian characteristics, and tried to be less of a European than he really was.

European

240

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

He came back emaciated and with hollows under his eyes, but in his ordinary happy spirits and he felt still more gay when he found that Kitty was on the road to health. The accounts that he heard of Kitty's intimacy with Madame Stahl and Vareuka, and the princess's description of the moral transformation through which his daughter was
;

passing, rather vexed the prince, awaking in him that feeling of jealousy which he always had in regard to every thing He that might draw Kitty away from under his influence. was afraid that she might ascend to regions unattainable to him. But these disagreeable presentiments were swallowed up in the sea of gayety and good humor which he always carried with him, and which his sojourn at Carlsbad had increased. The day after his arrival, the prince, in his long ulster, and with his Russian wrinkles and his puffy cheeks standing out above his stiffly starched collar, went in the very best of spirits with Kitty to the spring. The morning was beautiful. The neat, gay houses, with their little gardens, the sight of the German servants, with their red faces and red arms, happily working, the brilliant sun, every thing filled the heart with pleasure. But as they came nearer to the spring they met more and more invalids, whose lamentable appearance contrasted painfully with the trim and beneficent Germanic surroundings. For Kitty the bright sunlight, the vivid green of the trees, the sounds of the music, all formed a natural framework for these well-known faces, whose changes for better or worse she had been watching. But for the prince there was something cruel in the contrast between this bright June morning, the orchestra playing the latest waltz, and especially the sight of these healthy-looking servants, and the miserable invalids, from all the corners of Europe, dragging themselves
painfully along. In spite of the return of his youth which the prince experienced, and the pride that he felt in having his favorite daughter on his arm, he confessed to a sense of shame and awkwardness in walking along with his firm step and his vigorous limbs. " Introduce me, introduce me to your new friends," said he "I am beto his daughter, pressing her arm with his elbow. ginning to like your abominable Soden for the good which it has done you. Only it is melancholy for you. Who is this?"

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

241

Kittj' told the names of the acquaintances and strangers At the very entrance of the that they met on their way. garden they met Madame Berthe and her companion, and the prince was pleased to see the expression of joy on the old woman's face at the sound of Kitty's voice. With true French exaggeration she overwhelmed the prince with compliments, and congratulated him on having such a charming daughter, whose merits she praised to the skies, declaring that she was a treasure, a pearl, a ministering angel. " Nu! she must be angel number two," said the prince gallantly, ''for she assures me that Mademoiselle Varenka
is

angel number one."

said

"Oh! Mademoiselle Varenka Madame Berthe vivaciously.

is

truly

an angel.

Allez,"

They soon met Varenka herself in the gallery. She hastened up to them, carrying an elegant red bag in her hand.

" Here is papa," said Kitty. Varenka made the prince a simple and natural salutation, almost like a courtesy, and without any false modesty entered
into conversation with him. 11 know you very well already," Of course I know you, said the prince, with a pleasant expression that made Kitty " Where were see that her father liked her friend. you " so fast? going

" Maman is here," she "She replied, turning to Kitty. did not sleep all night, and the doctor advised her to take I have brought her work." the air. "So that is angel number one?" said the prince when Varenka had gone. Kitty saw that he had intended to rally her about her friend, but had refrained because her friend had pleased him. " all " Nu! let us your go and see them all," said he, friends, even Madame Stahl if she will deign to remember

me."

"But
"

did you ever

fear, as she

saw an

know her, papa?" asked Kitty with ironical flash in her father's eyes as he
Stahl.

mentioned
I

Madame

I knew her a little before she joined the Pietists." "What are these Pietists, papa?" asked Kitty, troubled because such a nickname was given to what in Madame Stahl she valued so highly. "I myself do not know much about them. I only know

knew her husband, and

242
this, that
all,

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

she thanks God for all her tribulations, and, above because her husband is dead. Nu! and that is comical, because they did not live happily together. But who is that? What a melancholy face!" he added, seeing an invalid in a brown coat, with white pantaloons making strange folds around emaciated legs. This gentleman had raised his straw hat, and bared his sparse curly hair and high forehead, on which showed the red line made by the brim. "That is Petrof, a painter," replied Kitty, with a blush; " and there is his wife," she added, pointing to Anna Pavlovna, who, at their approach, had risen to run after one of their children playing in the street. "Poor fellow! and what a good face he has! " said the "But why did you not go to him? He seemed prince. anxious to speak to you." " Nu! let us go back to him," said Kitty, resolutely turn" she asked. " How do ing about. you feel to-day? Petrof arose, leaning en his cane, and looked timidly at
the prince.

"This is my daughter," said the prince: "allow me to mike your acquaintance." The painter bowed and smiled, showing teeth of strangely
dazzling whiteness.

"

We

expected you

yesterday,
;

princess,"

said

he to

Kitty.

He staggered as he spoke and to conceal the fact that it was involuntary, he repeated the motion. "I expected to come, but Varenka told me that Anna Pavlovna sent word that you were not going." "That we weren't going?" said Petrof, troubled, and beginning to cough. Then looking towards his wife, he called " Anuetta Annetta " while the veins on
hoarsely, great his thin white neck stood out like cords. Anna Pavlovna drew near. " How did send word to the princess that you were " you not going? he demanded angrily, in a whisper. "Good-morning, princess." said Anna Pavlovna, in a constrained manner, totally different from her former effu" siveness. Very glad to make your acquaintance," she "You have been long exadded, addressing the prince.
!
!

pected, prince." could you have sent word to the princess that we were not going? " again demanded the painter in his hoarse

"How

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

243

whisper, and still more irritated because he could not express himself as he wished. " Ach! Bozhe mo'i ! I thought that we were not going," said his wife testily. " " How ? when ? but a coughing-fit attacked him, and he made a gesture of despair with his hand. The prince raised his hat, and went away with his daughter. " " Oh these " Oh Ach ! " he poor creatures sighed. "Yes, papa," said Kitty; "and you must know that they have three children, and no servant, and no means at all. He receives a pittance from the Academy," she continued eagerly, so as to conceal the emotion caused by the change in Anna Pavlovna and her unfriendly reception.
!
!

"Ah,vot!

there

is

Madame Stahl!"

said Kitty, directing

his attention to a wheeled-chair, in

which was lying a human form, wrapped in gray and blue, propped up by pillows, and shaded by an umbrella. A solemn and sturdy German laborer was pushing her chair. Beside her walked a blond Swedish Several people had count, whom Kitty knew by sight. stopped near the wheeled-chair, and were gazing at this lady as though she were some curiosity.

The prince approached her. Kitty instantl}' noticed in her father's eyes that ironical glance which had troubled her before. He addressed Madame Stahl in that excellent French which so few Russians nowadays are able to speak, and was
extremely polite and friendly. "I do not know whether you
still recollect me, but it is duty to bring myself to your remembrance, in order that I may thank you for kindness to my daughter," said he, taking off his hat, and holding it in his hand. " said Madame " Le Stahl, prince Alexandre Cherbatsky him with her heavenly eyes, in which Kitty looking at " I am enthought she saw a shade of dissatisfaction. chanted to see you I am very fond of your daughter." " " Your health is not always good? " Oh I am well used to it now," replied Madame pretty Stahl and she presented the Swedish count. "You have changed very little during the ten or twelve years since I had the honor of seeing you." " Yes. God, who gives the cross, gives also the power to I often ask myself why my life is so prolonged. carry it. Not like that," said she crossly, to Varenka, who was trying, without success, to wrap her in her plaid.

my

244

ANNA

KAKfiNINA.

"For doing good, without doubt," said the prince, with laughing eyes. " It is not for us to judge," replied Madame Stahl, who had not failed to observe the gleam of irony in the prince's
you send me that book, dear count. I thank you a thousand times in advance," said she, turning to the young Swede.
face. "I pray

"

Ah

"

cried the prince,

;

who had
to

Muscovite colonel

and bowing

Madame

just caught sight of the Stahl, he went

away with his daughter, to join him." "This is our aristocracy, prince said the colonel, with sarcastic intent, for he also was piqued because Madame
!

Stahl refused to be friendly. " Always the same," replied the prince. "Did you know her before her illness, prince, that is, before she became an invalid ? " Yes she became an invalid when I knew her." " They say that she has not walked for ten 3T ears." " She does not walk, because one leg is "shorter than the
' '
:

other.

very badly put together impossible," cried Kitty. "Papa, " Evil tongues say so, my dear and your friend Varenka Och! these invalid ladies " ought to see her as she is. " Oh, no, papa I assure you, Varenka adores her," cried " and Ask any besides, she isn't deformed. Kitty eagerly one you please Aline Stahl knows her thoroughly." "Maybe," replied her father, pressing her arm gently; " but it would be better for people to be a little less conit is
;
! !

She

is

"

spicuous in making their charities." Kitty was silent, not because she could not have replied, but because, even to her father, she was unwilling to reveal her inmost thoughts. There was one strange thing, however decided though she was, not to unbosom herself to her father, not to let him penetrate into the sanctuary of her reflections, she nevertheless was conscious that her ideal of holiness, as seen in Madame Stahl, which she had for a whole mouth carried in her soul, had irrevocably disappeared, as a face, seen in a garment thrown down by chance, disappears
:

when one

really sees

how

the garment

is

lying.

She retained

only the image of a lame woman who staid in bed to conceal her deformity, and who tormented poor Varenka because her plaid was not arranged to suit her. And it became im-

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

245

possible for her imagination to bring back to her the remembrance of the former Madame Stahl.

XXXV.
and good-humor were contagious, and household and acquaintances, not even their German landlord, escaped it. When he came in with Kitty, from his walk, the prince invited the colonel, Mary a Evgenyevna and her daughter, and Varenka, to lunch, and had the table spread under the horse-chestnuts, in the garden. The larrdlord and his domestics were filled with zeal under
prince's gayety
his

THE

none of

the influence of his good spirits. They also knew his geneand within half an hour the jollity of these hearty Rusrosity sians, sitting under the horse-chestnuts, was filling with envy the heart of a sick Hamburg doctor, who occupied the first floor, and sighed as he looked upon the happy group under the shady trees. The princess, in a bonnet trimmed with lilac ribbons, presided over the table, which was spread with an exceedingly white cloth, whereon were placed the coffee-service, the she was distributing bread, butter, cheese, and cold game cups and tarts while the prince, at the other end of the table, was eating with good appetite, and talking with great animation. He had spread out in front of him all his purchases, wood-carvings, paper-cutters, ivory toys of every kind, which he had brought back from all the places where he had been and he was amusing himself by giving them around to all his guests, not even forgetting Lieschen the He made long and comimaid, or the master of the house. cal speeches to the latter, in his bad German, and assured him that it was not the waters that had cured Kitty, but his The prinexcellent cuisine, and particularly his prune soup. but cess rallied her husband on his Russian peculiarities never, since she had been at the Spa, had she been so gay and The colonel, as always, was amused at the prince's lively. sallies of wit but he agreed with the princess on the European question, which he imagined that he understood The good Marya Evgenyevna laughed till the thoroughly.
;
; : ; ;

down her cheeks and even Varenka, to Kitty's great astonishment, was awakened from her ordinary quiet melancholy by the prince's jests.
tears ran
;

246

ANNA
:

KAIitiNINA.

All this delighted Kitty, but she could not free herself

from mental agitation she could not resolve the problem which her father had unintentionally given her when he spoke in his jesting, humorous way of her friends, and the life which offered her so many attractions. Moreover, she could not help puzzling herself with the reasons for the change in her relations with the Petrofs, which had struck her this very day more plainly and disagreeably than ever. Her agitation
her feelings increased as she saw the gayety of the others were the same as when she was a very little girl, and, having been punished for some offence, she heard from her room her sisters enjoying themselves, and could not take part. "Nut why did you purchase this heap of things?" asked the princess, offering her husband a cup of coffee. " You go out for a walk, nu! and you come to a shop, and l they address you, and say, Erlaucht, Excellenz, DurchNu! when they get to Durcfilaucht [highness], I laucht!' cannot resist any longer, and my ten t haters vanish." " " It was merely because of irksomeness such irksomeness that one does not "Certainly it was,
:
!

know how to escape from it." "But how can you be bored? There are so many interesting things to see in Germany now," said Marya Evgenyevna.
time.

"Da!
I

know all know soup

that

is

interesting just at the present

with prunes, I
:

know pea-pudding,

know every thing."

"It
l

is idle

to resist, princess

their institutions are inter-

esting."

*Dat but how

new

tented as

have whipped

are they interesting? They are as con[lit. groshi, twenty kopeks]. They the world Nu! why should I find an\- thing
shillings
!

to content me here? I never conquered anybody; but I have to take off my boots myself, and, what is worse, put them out myself in the corridor. In the morning I get up, and have to dress myself, and go down to the dining-room, and drink execrable tea. 'Tisn't like that at home. There you can get up when you please : if you are out of sorts, you can be out of sorts ; you have all the time you want,

and you can do whatever you please without hurrying." " But time is money don't forget that," said the colonel. " That depends. There are whole months that you would sell for fifty kopeks, and quarter-hours that you would not
:

ANNA KAR&N1NA.
take any amount of money for. " But why are 3-011 so solemn?
I am not, papa." "Where are 3-011 going?

247

Isn't that so,

Kateuka?

"

Stay a

little

longer," said the

" But I must go home," said Varenka, rising, and laughWhen she was calmed, she took leave of ing gayly again. her friends, and went to get her hat. Even Varenka seemed to her friend Kitty followed her. She was not less good, but she was different from changed. what she had imagined her to be. " Ach! it is a long time since I have laughed so much," said Varenka, as she was getting her parasol and her satchel.

prince to Varenka.

" How charming your papa

is

"

Kitty did not answer. " asked " When shall I see Varenka. 3-011 again? " Maman wanted to Will you be go to the Petrofs'. " asked T there? Kitt3 trying to read Varenka. " " I will be there," she replied. They expect to go, and I am going to help them pack." "Nu! Then I will go with 3-011."
,

" No

Kitt3 holding Varenka by "Wait a her sunshade, and opening her C3 es very wide.
T
,

why should you? "Why? why? why?" asked

:

"

moment, and
"
'

tell

me why."

Because your papa has come, and because they are vexed at you." " No tell me honestly why you don't like to have me go You don't like it wl^ is it? " to the Petrofs'. " I didn't Varenka

"Why?
:

"I beg " Must

"All,

sa3 so," replied you to tell me."

calmly.

I tell

you all?"

At bottom there is nothing very serious: only was willMikhai'1 Aleksyevitch that was Petrofs name ing to leave at any time, and now he does not want to go,"
replied Varenka, smiling. " Nu! Nu!" cried Kitty, looking at Varenka with a expression. gloomy " Nu ! Anna Pavlovua imagines that he does not want to

"Da!

all," replied Kitty.

go because you are here. Of course this was unfortunate but you have been the cause of a family quarrel, and you
;

know how

irritable these invalids are."

248

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
:

and Kitty grew still more melancholy, and kept silent Varenka went on speaking, trying to pacify her, and put things in a better light, though she foresaw that the result would be either tears or reproaches she knew
;

not which.

"So

it

is

not be angry "But I deserved

rapidly, at her.

"

better not to

go there, you see

and you

will

and

still

it, I deserved it," said Kitty, speaking holding Varenka's parasol, and not looking

Varenka was amused at her friend's childish anger, but she was afraid of offending her. " How deserve it? I don't understand " " I deserve it because this was all pretence, it was all hypocrisy, and because it did not come from the heart. What business had 1 to meddle with the affairs of a stranger? And so I have been the cause of a quarrel, and simply because it was all hypocrisy, hypocrisy," said she, mechanically opening and shutting the sunshade.
!

"But why do you

gently.

call

it

hypocrisy?" asked Varenka

!

How stupid, how wretched It was none of my " Hypocrisy hypocrisy " " But why hypocrisy? " Because I did it to seem better to others, to myself, to to deceive everybody. God, No, I will not fall so low I would rather be wicked, and not lie, and not again.
"Ach!
business.
!

deceive.

a liar? asked Varenka, in a reproach" ful tone. speak as if But Kitty was thoroughly angry, and did not let her
is

" Da!

But who " You

"

finish.

was not speaking of you, not of you at all. You are Yes, yes I know that you are all perfection. What can be done? I am wicked: this would not have So much the worse. I occurred, if I had not been wicked. will be what I am, and I will not be deceitful. What have I to do with Anna Pavlovna? Let them live as they want to, and I will do the same. I can't be somebody else. Besides, "
I

"

perfection.

it is

not that at

all

"

Da!

What
!

isn't

'

that

'

"

asked Varenka, in astonish-

ment.

"

Every thing

can only

live

by

my

heart, but

you

live

ANNA KAR&NINA.
by your
principles. I like

249

you

all

but you have had in view

only to save me, to convert me." " You are not fair," said Varenka. " Da! I am not speaking about the rest of you.

I only

cried her mother's voice, " come here, and show corals." papa your Kitty took the box with the corals from the table, carried it to her mother with a dignified air, but she did not become reconciled with her friend. "What is the matter? why are you so red? " asked her father and mother with one voice. "Nothing: I am coining right back;" and she hurried to the house. " She is still " what shall I tell her? there," she thought: Bozlie mo'i ! what have I done ? what have I said ? Why did I hurt her feelings? What have I done? what did I say to " her? she asked herself as she hurried to the door. Varenka, with her hat on, was sitting by the table, examining the remains of her parasol, which Kitty had broken. She raised her head. " Vareuka, forgive me," whispered Kitty, coming up to " " I did not know what I was her. I saying. " I did not mean to cause you pain," said Varenka, Truly,

speak for myself." "

"

Kitty

smiling.

Peace was made. But her father's coming had changed for Kitty the world in which she lived. Without giving up what she had learned, she confessed that she had been under an illusion by believing that she was what she had dreamed of being. It was like a dream. She found that she could she felt, not, without hypocrisy, stay on such an elevation moreover, still more vividly, the weight of the misfortunes, the ills, the agonies, of those who surrounded her, and she felt that it was cruel to prolong the efforts which she had made to interest herself in them. She began to long to breathe the purer, healthier atmosphere of Russia at Yergushovo, where Dolly and the children had preceded her, as
:

she learned from a letter that had just come. But her love for Varenka had not diminished. When she went away, she begged her to come and visit them in Russia. " I will come when you are married," said she.

" "

I shall

Nu!

never marry." then I shall never come."

250

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

Nu I In that case, I shall get married only for your sake. Don't forget your promise," said Kitty. The doctor's prophecies were realized. Kitty came home to Russia perfectly well possibly she was not as gay and careless as before, but her calmness was restored. The pains of the past were only a memory.
:

"

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

251

PART
I.

III.

SERGEI IVANOVITCH KOZNUISHEF liked to rest after his inand instead of going abroad, as usual, he came, towards the end of May, to visit his brother in the In his opinion, country life was the best of all, and country. he came now to enjoy it at Pokrovsky. Konstantin Levin was very glad to welcome him, the more because he did not expect his brother Nikolai' this summer. But in spite of his love and respect for Sergei Ivanovitch, Konstantin was not It was exaltogether at his ease with him in the country. asperating and unpleasant for him to see his brother's behavior. For Konstantin the country was the place for for pleasures, sorrows, labor. For Sergei Ivanolife, vitch the country, on the contrary, offered rest from labor, and a profitable antidote against the corruption which he found in the pleasures and acquaintances of his life. For Konstautin Levin the country was the more beautiful because it offered an end for works of incontestable For utility.
tellectual labors
:

Sergei Ivanovitch the country was vastly more delightful because he could not, and need not, do any thing at all. Their wa}-s of looking at the peasantry were likewise exactly diametrically opposite to each other. Sergei Ivanovitch said that he loved and knew the people and he willingly talked with the muzhiks, and discovered, in his interviews with them, traits of character honorable to the people, so that he felt convinced that he knew them thoroughly. Such superficial views vexed Konstantin Levin. For him
;

was only the chief factor in associated labor and though he respected the muzhik, and, as he himself said, drew in with the milk of the woman who nursed him a genuine love for them, still their vices exasperated him as often as their virtues struck him. For him the people represented
the peasantry
;

252

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

the principal partner in a labor association, and, as such, he saw no need of making a distinction between the qualities, the faults, and the interests of this associate and those of He lived among them, and he knew them the rest of men.

thoroughly he was their landlord, their mediator, and, what was more, their adviser for the muzhiks had faith in him, and came to him from forty versts around to ask his opinions. But to say that he knew the peasantry, would have meant, in his opinion, the same as to say, that he knew people.
: ;

In the discussions which arose between the brothers in

consequence of their divergence of views, the victory always remained with Sergei Ivanovitch, because his opinions, formed by his methodical studies, remained unshaken while Kon;

stantin, ceaselessly modifying his, was easily convicted of contradicting himself. Sergei Ivanovitch looked upon his

brother as an excellent fellow, whose heart was bien plac6, as he expressed it in French, but whose mind, though quick and active, was full of non sequiturs. Often, with the condescension of an elder brother, he tried to make him see the real meaning of things but he could not take genuine pleasure in discussing with him, because his opponent was so easy
;

to vanquish.

man

Konstautin Levin, on his side, looked upon his brother as of vast intelligence and learning, endowed with ex;

traordiuaiy faculties, most advantageous to the community but as he advanced in life, and learned to know at large him better, he sometimes asked himself, in the secret chambers of his heart, if this devotion to the general interests, which he himself seemed to lack, was really a good quality, or rather a vice not through the powerlessness of good-natured, upright, benevolent wishes and motives, but the powerlessness of a strong man pushing his own way through the multitudes of paths which life offers to men, and resolved at all odds to delight in this, and to follow it alone. Levin felt also another sort of constraint in his relations with his brother when he was spending the summer with him. The days seemed to him too short for him to accomplish all that he wanted to do and to superintend, while his brother cared to do nothing but take his ease. Though Serge"i Ivanovitch was not writing, his mind was too active for him not to need some one to whom he might express in logiKoncal and elegant form the ideas which occupied him. stautin was his habitual and favorite auditor.
;

ANNA KAlt
It

NINA.

253

was

out at

full

his favorite habit to lie lazily on the grass, stretched length in the sun, and to talk.

"You
idleness.

can't imagine," he would say, "how I enjoy this I have not an idea in my head it is empty as a
:

shell."

But Konstantin quickly wearied of

ing about
trifles.

sitting

down and

talk-

that in his absence they were spreading the manure on the wrong fields, and were up to God knows what mischief, and he felt anxious to be superintending this work he knew that they would be taking off the irons from his English ploughs, so as to be able to say that they were not as good as the primitive arrangements still
:

He knew

used by his neighbor So-and-so. " Don't you ever get weary trotting about so in this heat?" asked Sergei Ivanovitch. " No. Excuse me for a minute I must run over to the and he hurried across the field. office," said Levin
:
;

II.

EARLY in June, Agafya Mikhailovna, the old nurse and ekonomka [housekeeper], in going down cellar with a pot of pickled mushrooms, slipped on the staircase, and dislocated her wrist. The district doctor, a loquacious young medical student who had just taken his degree, came and examined the arm, declared that it was not out of joint, and applied compresses and during dinner, proud of finding himself in the society of the distinguished Koznuishef, he began
:

to relate all the petty gossip of the neighborhood ; and, in order that he might have occasion to introduce his enlightened ideas, he began to complain of the bad state of things
in general.

Animated by the Sergei Ivanovitch listened attentively. presence of a new hearer, he talked, and made keen and shrewd observations, which were received by the young phyAfter his departure sician with respectful appreciation. Koznuishef was left in that rather over-excited frame of mind which, as his brother knew, was liable in his case to follow a lively and brilliant conversation. Immediately after, he took a fish-line and went to the river. He was very fond of fishing he seemed to take a little pride in allowing that he could amuse himself with such a puerile amusement.
:

254

ANNA K All t NINA.

Konstantin was intending to make a tour of inspection across the fields, and he offered to take his brother in his gig as far
as the river. It was the time of the year when, the summer having sufficiently gone, the amount of the crops can be judged, and the thoughts of the coming summer begin to take root. The ears of corn, now full and still green, swing lightly in the breeze the oats peep irregularly from the late-sown fields the wheat already is up, and hides the soil the odor of the manure, heaped in little hillocks over the fields, mingles with the perfume of the herbs, which, scattered with little bunches of This period of the sumwild sorrel, stretch out like a sea. mer is the lull before the harvest, that great event which the muzJiik expects each year with eagerness. The crops promised to be superb and long, bright days were followed by short nights, when the dew lay heavy on the grass. To reach the fields, it was necessary to cross the woodland. He pointed out Sergei Ivanovitch liked this dense forest. to his brother, as they rode along, an old linden almost in flower; but Konstantin, who did not himself care to speak about the beauties of nature, did not care to have others speak of them. Words, he thought, spoiled the beauty of the thing that tbey saw. He assented to what his brother said, but allowed his mind to concern itself with other things. After they left the wood, his attention was drawn to a fallow field, where some places were growing yellow, where iu others the crop was being gathered and garnered. The teh/eyas were Levin counted them, and thronging up toward the field. was satisfied with the work which was going on. His thoughts were diverted, by the sight of the fields, to the serious question of fertilizers, which he always had particularly at heart. He stopped his horse when they reached the meadow. The high, thick grass was still damp with dew. Sergei Ivanovitch begged his brother, in order that he might not wet his feet, to drive him as far as a clump of laburnums
;
;

near which perch were to be caught. Though he disliked to trample down his grass, he drove over through the field. The tall grass clung round the horse's legs, and the seed was dusted on the wheels of the little gig. Sergei sat down under the laburnums, and cast his line. Though he caught nothing, he was undisturbed in spirits, and the time that his brother was away conversing with Famitch and the other workmen did not seem irksome to hiui. When
*

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

255

his brother returned, anxious to get back to the house to give some orders, Serg6i was sitting calmly looking at the water and the sky and the fields. "These fields," he said, "are heavenly. They always The grass says to remind me of an enigma, do you know?
'

the river

'

'

"
in a

don't know any such riddle," interrupted Koustantin melancholy tone.

III.

" Do you know, I was thinking about you," said Sergei "It is not well at all, what is going on in your Ivanovitch. he is not a stupid feldistrict, if that doctor tells the truth low. And I have told you all along, and I say to-day, you are wrong in not going to the assembly meetings, to know what they are doing. If men of standing don't take an interest in affairs, God knows how things will turn out. The taxes we pay will be spent in salaries, and n6"t for schools, or hospitals, or midwives, or pharmacies, or any thing."
:

" But

have

ingly.

"I

tried it," replied Levin faintly and unwillWhat is to be done about can't do any thing.

it?"
can't you do any thing? I confess I don't uncannot admit that it is incapacity or lack of " isn't it simply laziness? intelligence "It is not that, or the first or the second. I have tried it, and I am sure that I cannot do any thing." Levin was not paying great heed to what his brother said, but was looking intently across the fields on the other side of the river. He saw something black, but he could not make out whether it was only a horse, or his prikashcliik on horseback. " Why can't you do any thing? You make an experiment, and it does not turn out to 3'our satisfaction, and you give " not up. Why " have a little pride about you? "Pride ? said Levin, touched to the quick by his brother's " I don't see what that has to do with it. If at reproach. the university they had told me that others understood the integral calculus, but I did not, that would have touched my but here I have first to believe in the value of these pride

"

Da ! why
it.
:

derstand

new institutions." " What do you mean

!

to say that they are not valuable?

"

256

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

asked Sergei Ivanovitch, piqued because his brother seemed

to attach so little importance to his words, and gave him such poor attention. ' It seems to me that they are useless, and I cannot feel interested in what yen wish me to do," replied Levin, who

that the black speck was the prikashchik< and that the prikashchik was probably taking some muzhiks from their " Can work. They were carrying home the ploughs. they have finished ploughing?" he asked himself. " Nu, listen one thing," said his brother, his handsome, " There are limits intellectual face growing a shade darker. to every thing. It is very fine to be an original and outall that I know; but spoken man, and to hate falsehood, the fact is, that what you say has no sense at all, or has a very bad sense. Do 3 ou really think it idle that these peo" ple, whom you love, as you assert "I never asserted any such thing," replied Konstantin
! -

now saw

Levin.

"That these people should perish without aid? Coarse babki [peasant-women] act as midwives, and the people remain in ignorance, and are at the mercy of every letterwriter. But it is within your power to remedy all this and you don't assist them, because, in your eyes, it is not worth while." And Sergei Ivanovitch offered him the following dilem;

ma

not developed sufficiently to do all that do not care to give up your love of I don't know which." idleness, or your vanity Konstantin Levin felt, that, if he did not wish to be convicted of indifference for the public weal, he would have to make a defence and this was vexatious and offensive to him. " I do not see " That is another thing," he said testily.
3*ou are

" Either you might

do, or you

how

' '

it is

" What! impossible watched more closely ?

'
fc

possible

to give medical aid

' '

if

the funds were

Impossible

it

seems to me.

In the four thousand square

versts of our district, with'our floods, snow-storms,

and busy

seasons, I don't see the possibility of giving public medical aid. Besides, I don't much believe in medicine, anyway" " Nu! nonsense! I could name you a you are unjust. aud schools." thousand cases

ANNA
"Why
"What
schools?" do you say?
?

KAEtiNINA.

257

Can you doubt

the advantages of

for you, why not for others? Konstantiu Levin felt that he was pushed to the wall and, in his irritation, against his will he revealed his real reason for his indifference.

education

If

it is

good

"
;

is a good thing but why should I put myself medical dispensaries located which I never make use of, or schools where I should never send my children, and where the peasants won't send their children, and where I am not sure that it is wise to send them, anyway?" Sergei Ivanovitch for a moment was disconcerted b}- this

"

Maybe

it

out,

have

and, while carefully pulling his line from the water, he developed another line of attack. " Nu! that is absurd," said he with a smile. "In the first place, the dispensary is necessary. Vot! we ourselves sent for the zemski doktor for Agafya Mikhai'lovna." " Nu! I believe that her wrist was out of joint, in spite of what he said." " That remains to be In the next place, the proved. iniizldk who can read is a better workman, and more useful
sally
;

to

you." " " "Ask any Oh, no replied Konstantin Levin bluntly. one you please, they will tell you that the educated muzhik
!

valuable as a laborer. He will not repair the roads and, when they build bridges, he will only steal the planks." " Now, this is not the point," said SergeM, vexed, because he detested contradiction, and this way of leaping from one subject to another, and bringing up arguments without any " The apparent connection. question is this Do you admit " that education is good for the peasantry? "I do," said Levin, without realizing that he was not speaking the thought in his mind. Instantly he perceived, that, by making this admission, it would be easy to convict him of speaking nonsense. How it would be brought up against him he did not know but he knew that he would surely be shown his logical inconsequence, and he awaited the demonstration. It came much sooner than he expected.
is less
;
:
;

"If you admit its value," said Sergei, "then, as an honest man, you cannot refuse to delight in this work, and give it your hearty co-operation." " But I still do not admit that it is good," said Konstantin Levin, in confusion.

258
4
'

ANNA
What ?
is,

KARtiNINA.
' '

" That
visable."

But you just said I don't say that it

is

bad, but that

it is

not ad-

" But you can't know

this, since

you have not made any

effort to try it." " Nu! I admit that the education of the people is advantageous," said Konstantin, but without the least conviction,

"but

don't see

why

I should bother

myself with it."

"Why "
Nu !
it

not?" if we are going

to discuss the question, then explain

to

me from your philosophical " I don't see what

point of view."

Sergei Ivanovitch his brother's right to discuss philosophy and this nettled him. " That is " I think that the motivewhy," said he warmly, in all our actions is forever personal interest. Now, power I see nothing in our provincial institutions that contributes The roads are not better, and cannot be to my well-being. made so. My horses carry me, even on bad roads. The doctor and the dispensary are no use to me. The justice of the peace does me no good I never went to him, and never expect to. The schools seem to me not only useless, and these provincial but, as I have said, are even harmful institutions oblige me to pay eighteen kopeks a desyutin, to go to the city, to be eaten by bugs, and to hear all sorts of vulgar and obscene talk, and yet do not in any way affect my

philosophy has to do here," retorted in a tone which seemed to cast some

;

doubt on

said Sergei Ivanovitch with a smile. " Our personal interests did not compel us to work for the emancipation of the serfs, and yet we accomplished it." " the " No," replied Konstantin with still more animation emancipation was quite another affair. It was for personal interest. We wanted to shake off this }-oke that hung upon the necks of all of us decent people. But to be a member of the town council to discuss what only concerns smiths, and how to lay sewer-pipes in streets where one does not live to be a juryman, and sit in judgment on a muzhik who has stolen a ham to listen for six hours to all sorts of rubbish which the defendant and the prosecutor may utter, and, as presiding officer, to ask my old friend, the half-idiotic Do you plead guilty, Mr. Accused, of having Aloshka,
! : ;

personal interests."

" Nonsense "

'

stolen this

ham ? "
'

ANNA KAR&NINA.

259

And Konstantin, carried away by his subject, enacted the scene between the president and the half-idiotic Aloshka. It seemed to him that this was in the line of the argument. But Sergei Ivauovitch shrugged his shoulders.
' '

Nu !

I only mean that I will always defend with all my powers those rights which touch me, my interests; that when the policemen came to search us students, and read our letters, I was ready to defend these rights with all my might, I am interto defend my rights to instruction, to liberty. ested in the required service which concerns the fate of my I am willing to children, of my brothers, and of myself. discuss this because it touches me but to deliberate on the employment of forty thousand rubles of district money, or to judge the crack-brained Aloshka, I won't do it, and I can't." Konstantin Levin discoursed as though the fountains of his His brother was quietly amused. speech were unloosed. " Supposing to-morrow you were arrested " would you prefer to be tried by the old criminal court ? " But I shall not be arrested. I am not a murderer, and " he this is no use to me. continued, again jumpNu, uzh! " our proing to a matter entirely foreign to their subject, vincial institutions, and all that, remind me of the little twigs which on Trinity day we stick into the ground, to imitate a The forest has grown of itself in Europe but I canforest. not on my soul, have any faith in our birch sprouts, or water
; :

"

what do you mean by

this

' '

'

'

them."
Sergei Ivanovitch only shrugged his shoulders again, as a sign of astonishment that birch twigs should be mingled in their discussion, although he understood perfectly what his

brother meant.

" Nonsense " said he. " That is no way to reason." But Konstantin, in order to explain his self-confessed lack
!

of interest in matters of public concern, continued, " I think that there can be no durable activity if it is not this is a general, a philofounded in individual interest sophical truth," said he, laying special emphasis on the word " philosophical," as though he wished to show that he also had the right, as well as any one else, to speak of philosophy. '" He also," thought he, Again Sergei Ivanovitch smiled. " has his owu special philosophy for the benefit of his incli:

nations."

260

ANNA KAR&NINA.

" Nu! be "Its chief aim quit of philosophy," he said. has been in all times to grasp the indispensable bond which
exists between the individual
I think I

and the public

interest.

But

can make your comparison valid. The little birch twigs have not been merely stuck in, but have been sowed, The planted, and it is necessary to watch them carefulh'. only nations which can have a future, the only nations which deserve the name of historic, are those which feel the importance and the value of their institutions, and prize

them."

And Sergei Ivanovitch, the better to show his brother what a mistake he had made, began to discuss the question from an historico-philosophical point of view, which Konstantin
was by no means able to appreciate. " As to your distaste for affairs, excuse me if I refer it to our Russian indolence and gentility [barstvo, Russian and I trust that this temporary error will pass rank] away." Konstantin was silent. He felt himself routed on every side, but he felt also that his brother had not understood what he wished to say. He did not know exactly whether it was because he did not know how to express himself
;

because his brother did not wish to understand He did not him, or whether he could not understand him. but, without replying to his try to fathom this question brother, he became absorbed in entirely different thoughts, connected with his own work. Sergei Ivanovitch reeled in his lines, unhitched the horse, and they drove away.
clearly, or
;

IV.

THE thought which absorbed Levin at the time of his discussion with his brother was this the year before, he had fallen into a passion with his overseer one day when they were mowing, and to calm himself he had taken the scythe from a muzhik, and begun to mow. He enjoyed the work so much that he had tried it again and again. He mowed the lawn in front of his house, and promised himself that the next year he would follow the same plan, and spend whole days mowing with the muzhiks. Since his brother's arrival he had asked himself the quesHe had scruples about leavtion, Should he mow, or not?
:

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

261

ing his brother alone for an entire day, and he was afraid But as they crossed the of his pleasantries on the subject. field, and saw the mowing already begun, he decided that he would mow. After his vexatious discussion with his

remembered his project. must have some physical exercise, or my character will absolutely spoil," he thought, and made up his mind to mow, no matter what his brother or his servants should say. That very evening Levin went to the office, gave some directions about the work to be done, and sent to the village to hire some mowers for the morrow, so as to attack his field at Kaliuovo, which was the largest and best. "Da! send my scythe over to Sef, and have him put it in order perhaps I will come and mow too," said he, trying
brother, he

"

to hide his confusion.

The prika*hchik "

" I will laughed, and said, obey you." " It seems Later, at the tea-table, Levin said to his brother,

like settled weather.

I like to

To-morrow

am

going to

mow."

see this work," said Sergei Ivanovitch. " I like it "Last year I myself extremely," said Levin. mowed with the muzhiks, and to-morrow I am going to spend
all

day

at it."

Sergei Ivanovitch raised his head, and gazed with astonishment at his brother. " What did you say? Like the muzhiks, all day long?"

"

Certainty

it is

very enjoyable."

"It is excellent as physical exercise, but can you stand such work?" asked Sergei, without meaning to say any
thing ironical.

"

have tried

it.

At
tell

first it is

you get used to it. " Vot kak! but

Naturally they

I think I shall not leave off

hard work, but afterwards "

make

me, how do the muzhiks look at it? sport because the barin is queer, don't

they?"

"No, I don't think so; but this is such pleasant and at the same time hard work, that they don't think about it." " But how do you do about your dinner? They could hardly bi'ing you there a bottle of Lafitte and a roast
turkey."
;

No

come home while the workmen have

their

noon-

ing."

The next morning Konstantin Levin got up

usual
;

earlier than but his duties about the house detained him, and when

262

ANNA KAE&NINA.

he came to the mowing-field he found the men already at work. The field, still in the shade, extended to the foot of a high hill, and a part was already mowed and Levin, as he drew near, could see the long wind-rows, and the little black heaps of kaftans thrown down by the men when they went by the
;

first

time.

He saw

also the

band of muzhiks, some

in their

kaftans,

some

and swinging

in their shirt-sleeves, moving in a long line, their scythes in unison. counted forty-two

He

men

They were advancing slowly over the uneven bottom-land of the field, where there was an old ditch. Many of them Levin knew. The old round-shouldered Yermil was there in a very clean white shirt, wielding the scythe; there was the young small Vaska, who used to be
Levin's driver
;

of them.

there was Sef, a

to

little

thin old muzhitchok,

who had taught him how

cutting a wide swath without stooping, and easily handling his scythe. Levin dismounted from his horse, tied her near the road, and went across to Sef, who immediately got a second scythe from a clump of bushes. " All 'tis like a cuts of said

mow.

He was

ready, barin;

razor,

itself,"

Sef with a smile, taking

scythe.

off his

shapka, and handing him the

Levin took it, and began to try it. The haymakers, having finished their line, were returning one after the other on their track, covered with sweat, but gay and lively. They all No one ventured to speak stopped, and saluted the barin.
;

but at last a wrinkled old man, without a beard, and dressed in a sheepskin jacket, thus addressed him " Look here, barin, if you put your hand to the work, you must not quit it," said he and Levin heard the sound
: ;

of stifled laughter among the workmen. " I will try not to be left behind," he said as he took his place behind Sef, and waited for the signal to begin. " 'Tention " cried the starik. Sef made the way, and Levin followed in his steps. The grass was short and tough and Levin, who had not mowed in a long time, and was constrained by the watchful eyes of the men, at first made very bad work of it, though he swung the scythe energetically. Voices were heard behind him " He does not hold his scythe right the sned is too high. See how he stoops," said one. " Bears his hand on too much," said another.
! ; :

ANNA
' ' : ;

KARtiNINA.
' '

263
' '

It won 't do at all it's not well, said the starik. Look, he goes like this swings too wide. He'll get played ont. The master is trying it for himself as hard as he can, but look at his row For such work my brother was beaten once."
!

The grass became less tough and Levin, listening to the remarks without replying, and doing his best to learn, followed in Sef's footsteps. Thus they went a hundred steps. Sef kept on without any intermission, and without showing the least fatigue but Levin began to fear that he could not keep it up, he was so tired. He was just thinking that he should have to ask Sef to rest, when the muzhik of his own accord halted, bent over, and, taking a handful of grass, began to wipe his scythe, and to turn around. Levin straightened himself up, and with a sigh of relief looked about him. Just behind was a peasant, and he was evidently tired and had also' stopped. Sef whetted his own scythe and Levin's, and started again. At the second attempt it was just the same. Sef advanced a step at every swing of the scythe. Levin followed him, striving not to fall behind but each moment it came harder and harder. But, as before, just as he believed himself at the end of his forces, Sef stopped and rested. Thus they went over the first swath. And this long stretch was very hard for Levin but afterwards, when the work began again, Levin had no other thought, no other desire, than to reach the other end as soon as the others. He heard nothing but the swish of the scythes behind him, saw nothing but Sef's straight back plodding on in front of him, and the semicircle described in the grass, which fell over slowly, carrying with it the delicate heads of flowers. Suddenly he felt a pleasant sensation of coolness on his shoulders. He looked up at the sky while Sef was plying the whetstone, and he saw a heavy black cloud. A shower had come, and a heavy rain was falling. Some of the muzhiks were putting on their kaftans: others, like Levin himself, were glad to feel the rain upon their shoulders. The work went on and on. Levin absolutely lost all idea of time, and did not know whether it was early or late. Though the sweat stood on his face, and dropped from his nose, and all his back was wet as though he had been plunged in water, still he felt His work now seemed to him full of very good. he did not know pleasure. It was a state of unconsciousness
; ;
;

264

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

what he was doing, or how much he was doing, or how the hours and moments were flying, but only felt that at this time his work was good, and equal to that done by Sef. After they had gone over the field one more time, he started to turn back again but Sef halted, and, going to the Then the two studied stank, whispered something to him. " What are the sun. they talking about? and why don't they keep on?" thought Levin, without considering that the muzhiks had been mowing for more than four hours, and it was time for them to eat their lunch. " Breakfast, barin," said the starik. " So late Nu! then."
;

already?

breakfast,

Levin gave his scythe to Sef, and together with the muzhiks, who were going to their kaftans for their bread, he crossed the wide stretch of field, where the mown grass lay lightly moistened by the shower, and went to his horse. Then only he perceived that he had made a false prediction about the weather, and that the rain would wet his hay. " The hay will be spoiled," he said. "No harm done, barin: mow in the rain, rake in the sun," said the storik. Levin unhitched his horse and went home to take coffee with his brother. Sergei Ivanovitch had just got up before he was dressed and down in the dining-room, Konstantiu was back to the field again.
;

V.

AFTER breakfast, Levin, in returning to his work, took his place between the quizzical starik, who asked him to be his neighbor, and a young muzhik who had only lately been manied, and was now mowing for the first time. The starik mowed straight on, with long, regular strides and the swinging of the scythe seemed no more like labor than the swinging of arms when walking. His well-whetted scythe cut, as it were, of its own energy through the succulent grass. Behind Levin came the young Mishka. His pleasant, youthful face under a wreath of green leaves, which bound his curls, worked with the energy that employed the rest of
;

his

body.

But when any one looked

at him,

he would

smile.

He would

rather die than confess that he found the

labor hard. The labor seemed lighter to Levin during the heat of the

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
;

265

" Nu-ka. my kvas! Ah, good !" he exclaimed, winking. And, indeed, it seemed to Levin that he had never tasted iiny liquor more refreshing than this pure, lukewarm water, in which grass floated, and tasting of the rusty tin cup. Then came the glorious slow promenade, when, with scythe on the arm, there was time to wipe the heated brow, fill the lungs full, and glance round at the long line of hay-makers, and the busy life in field and forest. The longer Levin mowed, the more frequently he felt the moments of oblivion, when his hands did not wield the scythe, but the scythe seemed to have a self-conscious body, full of life, and carrying on, as it were by enchantment, a These were indeed joyful regular and systematic work. moments. It was hard only when he was obliged to interrupt this unconscious activity to remove a clod or a clump of wild sorrel. The starik found it mere sport. When he came to a clod, he pushed it aside with repeated taps of his And scythe, or with his hand tossed it out of the way. while doing this he noticed every thing and examined every thing that was to be seen. Now he picked a strawberry, and

The sweat in which he was bathed refreshed him and day. the sun, burning his back, his head, and his arms bared to the elbow, gave him force and energy. The moments of oblivion, of unconsciousness of what he was doing, came back to him more and more frequently the scythe seemed to go of itself. These were happy moments. Then, still more gladsome were the moments when, coming to the riverside, the starik, wiping his scythe with the moist, thick grass, rinsed the steel in the river, then, dipping up a ladleful of the water, gave it to Levin.
:

now he discovered a nest ate it himself or gave it to Levin of quail from which the cock was scurrying away, or caught a snake on the end of his scythe, and, having shown it to Levin, flung it out of the way. But for Levin and the young fellow behind him these When once they got repeated observations were difficult. into the swing of work, they could not easily change their movements, and turn their attention to what was before them. Levin did not realize how the time was flying. If he had
;

been asked how long he had been mowing, he would have " and here it was almost "A answered, quarter of an hour The starik drew his attention to the girls and dinner-time. boys, half concealed by the tall grass, who were coming from
;

266
all sides,

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

/eyas,

bringing to the hay-makers their bread and jugs of which seemed too heavy for their little arms.
the
;

"See! here come

said he, pointing to the sun.

midgets" [kozyavki, lady bugs],

and, shading his eyes, he looked at
field,

them

Twice more they went across the

stopped.

and then the

starik

" Nu, barin! dinner," said he in a decided tone. Then the mowers, walking along the river-side, went back

to their kaftans, where the children were waiting with the dinners. Some clustered around the telyegas; others sat in the shade of a laburnum, where the mown grass was heaped up. Levin sat down near them he had no wish to leave them. All constraint in the presence of the barin had disappeared. The muzhiks prepared to take their dinner. They washed themselves, took their bread, emptied their jugs of kvas, and some found places to nap in, while the children went in
:

swimming.

The

starik

crumbed

his

bread into his porringer, mashed

;

it

with his spoon, poured water on from his tin basin, and, cutting off still more bread, he salted the whole plentifully and, Then he invited turning to the east, he said his prayer.
1 my tiurki!" said he, kneeling down before his porringer. Levin found the tiurkii so palatable that he decided not to go home to dinner. He dined with the starik, and their conversation turned on his domestic affairs, in which the barin took a lively interest, and in his turn told the old man about such of his plans and projects as would interest him. He felt as though the starik were more nearly related to him than his brother, and he could not help smiling at the feeling of sympathy which this simple-hearted man inspired. When dinner was over, the starik offered another prayer, and arranged a pillow of fresh-mown grass, and composed himself for a nap. Levin did the same and, in spite of the flies and insects tickling his heated face, he immediately went off to sleep, and did not wake until the sun came out on the other side of the laburnum bush, and shone brightly above his head. The starik was awake, but was sitting
;

Levin " Nu-ka, barin,

:

down
1

cutting the children's hair.

The
starik

Tiura, diminutive tiurka, a bread-crumb soaked in kvas, or beer.

used water Instead of kvas.

ANNA

KAKfiNINA.

267

Levin looked around him, and did not know where he was. The mown field stretched Every thing seemed changed. away into immensity with its wind-rows of sweet-smelling hay, lighted and glorified in a new fashion by the oblique rays of The bushes had been cut down by the river: and the sun.
the river itself, before invisible, but now shining like steel with its windings and the busy peasantry and the high wall and the young of grass, where the field was not yet mowed all this was absolutely vultures flying high above the field, new to him. Levin calculated what his workmen had done, and what The work accomplished by the fortystill remained to do. two men was considerable. The whole field, which in the time of serfdom used to take thirty-two men two days, was now almost mowed only a few corners with short rows were But he wanted to do still more in his opinion, the sun left. was sinking too early. He felt no fatigue he only wanted
;

to

do more rapid, and if possible better, work. tk Do you think we shall get Mashkin Hill mowed to-day?"
:

he demanded of the starik. " If God allows the sun sips of vodka for the boys ?

is still

high.

Will there be

little

' '

At supper-time, when the men rested again, and some of them were lighting their pipes, the starik announced to the " " Mow Mashkin Hill extra vodka ! boys, " Eka! Come on, Sef! Let's tackle it We'll lively. " on several voices
eat after dark. Come cried and, even while still munching their bread, they got to work again. " " Nu ! Oh, said Sef, setkeep up good hearts, boys! off almost on the run. ting "Come, come!" cried the starik, hastening after them.
!

"

in rivalry and yet with all their haste, they did not spoil their work, but the wind-rows lay in neat and regular lines. The triangle was finished in five minutes. The last mowers had just finished their line, when the first, throwing their kaftans over their shoulders, started down the road to the hill. The sun was just going behind the forest, when, with rattling cans, they came to the little wooded ravine of Mashkiu Verkh. The grass here was as high as a man's waist, tender, succulent, thick, and variegated with the flower
;

Look out " Old and young took hold

am

first.

called Ivan-da- Marya.

268

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

After a short parley, to decide whether to take it across, or lengthwise, an experienced mower, Prokhor Yermilin, a He took it huge, black-bearded muzhik, went over it first. and then all follengthwise, and came back in his track lowed him, going along the hill above the hollow, and skirtThe sun was setting. The dew was already ing the wood. falling. Only the mowers on the ridge could see the sun but down in the hollow, where the mist was beginning to rise, and behind the slope, they went in fresh, dewy shade. The
;

work went on. The grass fell in high heaps came close together as the rows converged,

the

mowers

rattling their

drinking-cups, sometimes hitting their scythes together, working with joyful shouts, rallying each other. Levin still kept his place between his two companions. The starik, with sheepskin vest loosened, was gay, jocose,
free in his

movements.

In the woods, mushrooms were found lurking under the leaves. Instead of cutting them off with his scythe, as the others did, he bent down whenever he saw one, and, picking " Still another little it. put it in his breast. present for my
old
soft grass was easy to mow, but it was hard to climb and descend the steep sides of the ravine. But the slarik did not let this appear. Always lightly swinging his scythe, he climbed with short, firm steps, though he trembled all over with the exercise. He let nothing escape him, not an herb or a mushroom and he never ceased to Levin behind him felt joke with Levin and the muzhiks. that he would drop at every instant, and told himself that he should never climb, scythe in hand, this steep hillside, where even unencumbered it Avould be hard to go. But he persevered all the same, and succeeded. He felt as though some
;

woman." The tender and

interior force sustained him.

VI.

THEY had finished mowing the Mashkin Verkh the last rows were done, and the men had taken their kaftans, and were gaybj going home. Levin mounted his horse, and reOn the hill-top he gretfully took leave of his companions. turned round to take a last look but the evening's mist, but he could rising from the bottoms, hid them from sight
:
;

ANNA KAR&NINA.
and the sound of

269

hear their hearty, happy voices, as they laughed and talked, their clinking scythes. Sergei Ivanovitch had long done his dinner, and, sitting in his room, was taking iced lemonade, and reading the papers and reviews, which had just come from the post, when Levin, with matted and disordered hair, and full of lively talk, joined him. "Well! we mowed the whole field. Ach! How good, And how has the day passed with you ? how delightful he asked, completely forgetting the unpleasant conversation of the evening before.
' ' !

first

Serge"! Ivanovitch, looking at not over- pleasantly at his brother. "How you look! Dal Shut the door, shut the door !" he cried. "You've " let in more than a dozen Ivanovitch could not endure flies and he never Sergei opened his bedroom windows before evening, and he made it a point to keep his doors always shut. " Indeed, not a one If you knew what a day I 've had And how has it gone with you? " " First rate. But you don't mean to say that you have You must be hungry as a wolf. been mowing all day? Kuzma has your dinner all ready for you." " No I am not hungry. I ate j'onder. But I'm going to have a bath."
!

" Bdt iusliki ! " exclaimed

"jVu

" lifting his head, and gazing at his brother. Hurry up," he said, arranging his papers, and getting ready to follow : he also felt enlivened, and unwilling to be away from his
brother.

go ahead, and

I'll

join

you," said Sergei Ivanovitch,

" Nu ! but where were the shower?" 3*011 during " What shower? Only a drop or two fell. I'll be right
!

back.
capital

And did the day go pleasantly with you? Nu! " And Levin went to dress.

that's

About five minutes afterwards the brothers met in the Levin imagined that he was not hungry, and dining-room. he sat down only so as not to hurt Kuzma's feelings but when he once got to eating, he found it excellent. His brother looked at him with a smile. "Ach, da! there's a letter for you," he said. "Kuzma, Da! see that you shut the door." go and get it. The letter was from Oblonsky. Levin read it aloud. It was dated from Petersburg "I have just heard from Dolly; she is at Yergushovo ;
;
:

270

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

every thing is going wrong with her. Please go and see her, and give her your advice, you who know every thing. She will be so glad to see you She is all alone, wretched. Mother-in-law is abroad with the family." " Let us Certainly I will go to see her," said Levin. don't you think go together. She is a glorious woman
! :

so?" " " And they live near you? " About But there's a good thirty versts, possibly forty. road. We can make good time." *' Like to very much," said Sergei Ivanovitch enthusiasThe sight of his brother irresistibly filled him with tically.

"Nu! what an appetite you have! he added, happiness. as he saw his tanned, sunburned, glowing face and neck, as
he bent over his plate. " Excellent You can't imagine how this sort of thing drives all foolish thoughts out of one's head. I am going to enrich medicine with a new term, arbeitskur" [labor-cure]. " Nu! you don't seem to need it much, it seems to me." " Yes it is a sovereign specific against nervous troubles." " It must be looked into. I was coming to see you mow, but the heat was so insupportable that I did not go farther than the wood. I rested a while, and then I went to the vilI met your nurse there, and asked her what the mulage. zhiks thought about you. As I understand it, they don't approve of you. She said, 'It ain't the gentry's work.'
!

"

I think that, as a general thing, the peasantry form very definite ideas about what is becoming for the gentry to do,

and

the}*

don't like to have them go outside of certain fixed

;

limits."

"

Maybe

life,"

And
"

Whose

business is it? Well, I see you are well satisfied with your day," replied Sergei Ivanovitch. finished the whole field; and I "Very well satisfied. got so well acquainted with the starik! you can't imagine how he pleased me." lk So am I with Nii! you are satisfied with your day! mine. In the first place, I solved two chess problems, and one was a beauty. I'll show it to you. And then I thought of our last evening's discussion."

but I never enjoyed any thing more in all my " and I did not do anybody any harm, did I? suppose it doesn't please them, what is to be done? " he said
;

We

ANNA KAH

NINA.

271

"What? Our last evening's discussion?" said Levin, half closing his eyes, with a sensation of comfort and ease after his dinner, and entirely unable to recollect the subject of their discussion. " I come to the conclusion that you are parti}' in the right. The discrepancy in our views lies in the fact that you assume personal interest as the moving power of our actions, while I claim that every man who has reached a certain stage of intellectual development must have for his motive the public But you are probably right in saying that personal interest. action, material activity, is concerned in these matters. Your nature is, as the French say. primesauti&re [off-hand]. You want strong, energetic activity, or nothing." Levin listened to his brother but he did not understand him at all, and did not try to understand. He feared, however, that his brother would ask him some question by which it would become evident that he was not listening.
;

is this, dntzhok?" [little friend], asked Sergei Ivanovitch, taking him by the shoulder. "Z)a/ of course. But, then, I don't set much store on my own opinions," replied Levin, smiling like a child, conHis thought was, "What was our scious of naughtiness. discussion about? Of course; and I am right, and he is But I must go to the office, and right, and all is charming. He arose and stretched himself. orders." give my " if " If you want to go out, let's go together," he said you must go to the office, I'll go with you." " Ach, bdtiushki!" exclaimed Levin so bruskly, that his brother was startled. " What's the matter?" " Agafya Mikhailovna's hand," said Levin, striking his " I had forehead. forgotten all about her." 'She is much better." " Nn! I'll be back before you get still, I must go to her. on your hat." And he started to run down-stairs, his heels clattering on the steps.
:

"How

VII.

WHILE Stepan Arkadyevitch was off to Petersburg, to fulfil the duty so natural and unquestionable to functionaries, however other people may look upon it, of reporting to the min-

272
istiy,

ANNA KAK&NINA.
1

and at the same time, being well supplied with mone}*, enjoy himself at the races, and his friends datchas, Dolly, with the children, was on her way to the

was

read}* to

country, in order to reduce the expenses as much as possible. She was going to their country-place at Yergushovo, an esIt was where the tate which had been a part of her dowry. wood had been sold in the spring, and was situated about
fifty versts

from Levin's Pokrovsky.

old seignorial mansion of Yergushovo had long been in ruins, and the prince had contented himself with enlarging and repairing one of the L's. Twenty years before, when

The

Dolly was a little girl, this L was spacious and comfortable, though, in the manner of all L's, it was built across the aveBut now it was old, and out nue, and towards the south.
of repair. When Stepan Arkadyevitch went in the spring to sell the wood, his wife begged him to give a glance at the house, and have it made habitable. Stepan Arkadyevitch, like the guilty husband that he was, feeling desirous of making his wife's material existence as comfortable as possible, made haste to have the furniture covered with cretonne, to hang curtains, to clear up the garden, to plant flowers, and to build a bridge across the pond but he had overlooked
;

many more

essential matters,

and Daiya Aleksaudrovna was

not slow to complain about it. Although Stepan was a solicitous husband and a father, he was constantly forgetting that he had a wife and children, and his tastes remained those of a bachelor. When he got back to Moscow he took great pride in assuring his wife that every thing was in prime order, that he had arranged the house to perfection, and he advised her strongly to go there immediately. This emigration suited him in many ways the children would enjoy the country, expenses would be lessened, and last, and most essential, he would be freer. Darya Aleksandrovna, on her part, felt that it would be a good thing to take the children away after the scarlatina, for the youngest little girl gained very slowly. Moreover, she would be freed from the importunities of the butcher, the And finally fish-dealer, and the baker, which troubled her. the happy thought occurred, to invite her sister Kitty, who was coming home from abroad about the middle of the summer, and had been advised to take some cold baths. Kitty wrote her that nothing would delight her so much as to spend the rest of the summer with her at Yergushovo, that place
:

ANNA
that was so full of

KARtixIXA.
for

273
both of

happy childhood memories

them.

The first part of the time the country life was very tiresome to Dolly. .She had lived there when she was a child.
in the light of early recollections, she had expected to be a refuge from all the trials of city life, and if it was and she hardly expected to find it not very gay or elegant, at least, it would be comfortable and inexpensive, and so,
it

Mewed

the children would be happy. But now, when she came there as mistress of the house, she found things contrary to her

expectations. On the morning after their arrival, it began to rain in torrents. The roof was leaking and the. water dripped in the corridor and the nursery, and the little beds had to be brought down into the parlor. It was impossible to find a cook. Among the nine cows in the barn, according to the dairy-woman's report, some were going to calve, and the rest were either too young or too old, and consequently they could not have butter, or even milk for the children. Not an egg was to be had. It was impossible to find a hen. They had for roasting or broiling, only tough old purple roosters.
;

babui were to be found to do the washing all were at in the fields. They could not drive, because one of the horses was balk}*, and wouldn't be harnessed. The}' had to give up bathing, because the bank of the river had been trodden into a quagmire by the cattle, and, moreover, it was too conspicuous. Walking near the house was not pleasant, because the tumble-down fences let the cattle into the garden, and there was in the herd a terrible bull which bellowed, and was reported to be ugly. In the house, there was not a The closet-doors either would not shut, or clothes-press. flew open when any one passed. In the kitchen, there were no pots or kettles. In the laundry, there were no tubs, or even any scrubbing-boards for the girls. At first, therefore, Darya Aleksandrovna, not finding the rest and peace which she expected, fell into despair. Realizing her helplessness in such a terrible situation, she could not keep back her tears. The overseer, formerly a sergeant [vakhmistr'], who, on account of his fine presence, had been promoted by Stepau Arkadyevitch from his place as Swiss, made no account of Darya Aleksandrovna's tribulations, but

No

work

simply said in his respectful wa\*, "Can't find anybody, the " and would not stir. peasantry are so beastly
!

274

ANNA KARNINA.
;

The situation seemed hopeless but in the Oblonsky household, as in all well-regulated homes, there was one humble, but still important and useful, member, Matriona Filimonovna. She calmed the baruina, telling her that all would come out right, that was her favorite expression, and Matve" had borrowed it from her, and she went to work without fuss and without bother. She had made the acquaintance of the prikashckilc's wife, and on the very day of their arrival went to take tea with her under the acacias, and discussed with her the ways and means of the household. sort of club, composed of Matrioua Filimonovna, together with the prikashchik' s wife, the stdrosta [bailiff], and the book-keeper, was formed under the trees and through their deliberations, the difficulties, one by one, disappeared, and every thing, as Matriona said, u came out all The roof was patched up; a cook right." was found in a friend of the starosta's wife chickens were bought ; the cows began to give milk the garden-fence was repaired the carpenter drove in hooks, and put latches on the closets, so that they would not keep flying open the laundry was set to rights and the ironing-board, covered with soldiers' cloth, was extended from the dresser across the back of a chair, and the smell of the ironing came up from below. " said Matriona Filimonovna, pointing to the "JVw, vot ! " There is no need of worrying." ironing-board. even went so far as to build a board bath-house on They the river-bank, so that Lili could bathe. Darya Aleksandrovna's hope of a comfortable, if not a peaceful, country life became almost realized. Peaceful life was impossible If one had an ill turn, another was to her with six children. sure to follow suit, and something would happen to a third, and the fourth would show signs of a bad character, and so it always was. Rarely, rarely came even short periods of rest. But these very anxieties and troubles were the only If chances of happiness that Darya Aleksandrovna had.

she had been shut off from this resource, she would have been a prey to her thoughts about a husband who no longer

who worried her drove away her sorrows by their pleasures and enjoyments. Her joys were so small, and in that they were almost invisible, like gold in sand trying hours she saw only the sorrows, the sand but there were also happy moments, when she saw only the joys, the
loved her. with their
Besides, these same children,
illnesses
little

and

faults,

ANNA
gold.

KARlSNINA.

275

In the quiet of the country, her joys became more and Often, as she looked upon her little flock, she accused herself of a mother's partiality, but she could she could not keep from saying not help admiring them to herself, that it was rare to meet such beautiful children, and she rejoiced in all six charming -in their own ways them, and was proud of them.

more frequent.

VIII.

TOWARDS

the end of

Maj% when every thing was beginning

to improve, she received her husband's reply to her comHe wrote, asking plaints about her domestic tribulations. pardon because he had not remembered every thing, and promised to come just as soon as he could. This had not

yet

come

to pass
still

and

at the

end of June, Darya Aleksan-

drovna was

living alone in the countiy. On Sunday, during the fast of St. Peter, Darya Aleksandrovna took all her children to the holy communion. In her

intimate philosophical discussions with her sister, her mother, or her friends, she sometimes surprised them by the breadth of her views on religious subjects. She had gone through strange religious metempsychoses, and had come out into a faith which had very little in common with ecclesiastical dogmas yet Dolly herself conformed strictly to all the obligations of the church, and obliged her family to do the same. She not only wished to let her example tell, but she felt it as a need of her soul. And now she was blaming! herself because her children had not been to communion since the beginning of the year, and she resolved to ac;

complish this duty. For several days she had been deciding what the children should wear and now their dresses were arranged, all clean and in order flutings and flounces were added, new buttons were put on, and ribbons were gathered in knots. Only Tania's dress, which had been intrusted to the English governess, was a source of anger to Dolly the English governess, sewing it over again, put the seams across the shoulders in the wrong place, made the sleeves too short, and spoiled the whole garment. Tania was a sight to see, so badly did the dress fit her. Fortunately, it occurred to Matriona Filimonovna to The harm set gores into the waist, and to put on a collar.
: ; :

276

ANNA

KAKtiNINA.

repaired, but they narrowly escaped a quarrel with the English governess. All was now in readiness and about ten o'clock in the for that was the hour that the priest had set for morning, the communion, the children, radiant with joy, were gathered on the steps before the two-seated drozhky waiting for their mother. Thanks to Matriona Filimonovna's watchful
;

was

care, in place of the restive horse, the prikasJiclik's stallion had been harnessed to the clrozhky. Darya Aleksandrovna appeared in a white muslin, and got into the carriage.

She had taken considerable pains with her toilet, and had dressed with care and emotion. In former times she had liked to dress well for the sake of being handsome and attractive but as she got along in life, she lost her taste for affairs of the toilet, because it made her realize how her beauty had faded. But to-day she once more took especial But she did not pains to improve her personal appearance. dress for her own sake, or to enhance her beauty, but so that, as mother of these lovely children, she might not spoil the impression of the whole scene. And as she cast a final glance at the mirror, she was satisfied with herself. She was not beautiful in the same way as once she liked beautiful, to be at the ball, but by reason of the purpose which inspired
;

her.

There was no one at church except the muzhiks and the household servants but she noticed, or thought she noticed,
;

the attention that she and her children attracted as the}' went The children were handsome in their nicely trimmed along. Little dresses, and still more charming in their behavior.

Alosha, to be sure, was not absolutely satisfactory he kept turning round, and trying to look at the tails of his little coat, but nevertheless he was wonderfully pretty. Tania behaved like a little lady, and looked after the younger ones. But Lili, the smallest, was fascinating in her na'ive delight at every thing that she saw and it was hard not to smile when, after she had received the communion, she cried out, " Please,
: ;

some more! "

After they got home, the children felt the consciousness that something solemn had taken place, and were very quiet and subdued. All went well in the house, till at lunch Grisha began to whistle, and, what was worse than all, refused to obey the English governess and he was sent away
;

without any

tart.

Darya Aleksandrovna would not have

al-

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

277
;

lowed any punishment on such a day if she had been there but she was obliged to uphold* the governess, and confirm her in depriving Grisha of the tart. This was a cloud on the
general happiness.

Grisha began to cry, saying that Nikolinka also had and that he was not whistled, but they did not punish him that was no account, but because crying about the tart,
;

This was very disagreeable and Darya Aleksandrovna, after a consultation with the English governess, decided to reason with Grisha, and went to But then, as she went through the hall, she saw a get him. scene that brought such joy to her heart, that the tears came to her eyes, and she herself forgave the culprit. The little fellow was sitting in the drawing-room by the bay-window: near him stood Tania with a plate. Under the pretext of wanting some dessert for her dolls, she had
they had not been fair to him.
;

asked the English governess to let her take her portion of the pie to the nursery but instead of this, she had taken it to her brother. Grisha, still sobbing over the unfairness of his punishment, was eating the pie, and saying to his sister in the midst of his tears, "Take some too: we will eat to
;

together." Tauia, full of sympathy for her brother, and with the sympathy of having done a generous action, was eating her part When they saw their mother, they with tears in her eyes. were scared, but they felt assured by the expression of her face, that the}' were doing right they ran to her with their mouths still full of pie, began to kiss her hands with their laughing lips, and their shining faces were stained with tears
:

my new white dress! Tania! Grisha!" exclaimed the mother, endeavoring to save her dress, but at the same time smiling at them with a happy, beatific
smile.

and jam. "Mdtiushki!

Afterwards the new dresses were taken off, and the girls put on their frocks, and the boys their old jackets and the lineika [two-seated drozhky'] was brought out again, to the wrath of the prikashchik, whose stallion was put at the pole and they started with joyful cries and shouts out after mushrooms, and to have a bath. They soon filled a basket with mushrooms even Lili found one. Always before Miss Hull had been obliged to find them for her but now she herself found a huge birch shliupik, and
; ; : ;

278
there

ANNA KARNINA.
was a universal cry of enthusiasm, "
' '

Lili

has found a

shliupik

Afterwards they came to the river, fastened the horses to The coachman, Terenti, the birch-trees, and had their bath. leaving the animals to switch away the flies with their tails, stretched himself out on the grass in the shade of the birches, and lighted his pipe, and listened to the shouts and laughter of the children in the bath-house. Although it was rather embarrassing to look after all these children, and to keep them from mischief though it was hard to remember, and not mix up all these stockings, shoes, and trousers for so many different legs, and to untie, unbutton, and then fasten again, so many strings and buttons, still Darya Aleksandrovna always took a lively interest in the bathing, looking upon it as advantageous for the children,
;

and never feeling happier than when engaged in this occupaTo fit the stockings on these plump little legs to take tion. them by the hand, and dip their naked little bodies into the
;

water; to hear their cries, now joyful, now terrified to see these eyes shining with joy and excitement, these splashing was to her a perfect delight. chei-itbimtchiks, When the children were about half dressed, the peasant;

came along, and stopped timidly Matriona Filimonovna hailed one of them, in order to give her some of the shirts to dry that had fallen into the river and Darya Aleksandrovna talked with the babui. At first they laughed behind their hoods, and did not understand her questions but little by little their courage returned, and they quite won Darya Aleksandrovna's

women,

in

Sunday

attire,

at the bath-house.

heart by their sincere admiration of the children. " Ish tui! ain't she White as sugar " said lovely, now? " one, pointing to Tania, and nodding her head. "But thin " Yes been sick." " LT)ok you," said still another, pointing to the youngest. " You don't take him in? " " He is " No," said only Darya Aleksandrovna proudly. three months old." " " You don't say ["/s/i tui! "] " " And have you children? "Had four; two alive, boy and girl. I weaned the last before Lent. old is he?" 4' Da ! Second y ear "
! :
!

"How

ANNA
:

KAlifiNINA.
"

279

" And do yon nnrse him so long? " It's our way three springs." And then the bab asked Darya Aleksandrovna about her where was her husband ? would children and their illness
;

she see him often

Darya Aleksandrovna found the conversation with the babui so interesting, that she did not want to say good-by And it was pleasant to her, to see how evidently to them. all these women looked with admiration, because she had so many and such lovely children. The babui made Darya Aleksandrovna laugh, and piqued Miss Hull because she was One of evidently the cause of their unaccountable laughter. the 3'oung women gazed with all her eyes at Miss Hull, who was dressing last and, when she put on the third petticoat, she could not restrain herself any longer, but burst out " Ish tuil she put on one, and then she put on laughing. " and they all another, and she hasn't got them all on yet! broke into loud ha-has.
;

IX.

DARYA ALEKSANDROVNA, with a platoJc on her head, and surrounded by all her little flock of bathers, was just drawing near the house when the coachman called out, " Here comes
some
barin,

Pokrovsky,

it

looks like

"

indeed Levin's well-known form

her great joy, Darya Aleksandrovna saw that it was in gray hat and gray overcoat. She was alwa}^ glad to see him but now she was particularly delighted, because he saw her in all her glory, and no one could appreciate her triumph better than Levin. When he caught sight of her, it seemed to him that he saw the personification of the family happiness of his dreams. " You are like a brooding-hen, Darya Aleksandrovna." " " Acli! how said she, extending her hand. glad I am "Glad! But 3-011 did not let me know. My brother is staying with me and I had a little note from Stiva, telling me you were here." " From Stiva? " repeated Dolly, astonished. "Yes. He wrote me that you were in the country, and thought that you would allow me to be of some use to you," said Levin and suddenly, even while speaking, he became confused, and walked in silence by the lintflca, pulling off, and biting, linden-twigs as he went. It had occurred to him
;
! ; ;

To

280
that

ANNA KAR&NINA.

Darya Aleksandrovna would doubtless find it painful to have a neighbor offer her the assistance which her husband In fact, Darya Aleksandrovna was disshould have given. pleased at the way in which Stepan Arkadyevitch had thrust his domestic difficulties upon a stranger. She perceived that Levin felt this, and she felt grateful to him for his tact and
delicacy. "Of course, I understood that it was a pleasant way of and I was glad. telling me that you would be glad to see me Of course, I imagine that you, a city dame, find it savage here and, if I can be of the least use to you, I am wholly
;

at your service." "Oh, no!" said Dolly.

"At

first it

was rather hard,

but now every thing is running beautifully. I owe it all to my old nurse," she added, pointing to Matriona Filimonovna, who, perceiving that they were speaking of her, gave Levin She knew him, and knew that a pleasant, friendly smile. he would make a splendid husband for the baruishna, as she called Kitty, and thus felt an interest in him.
will squeeze up a little," said she. Children, which of you will run with me to get ahead of the horses? " The children were very slightly acquainted with Levin, and but they had did not remember where they had seen him none of that strange feeling of timidity and aversion which children are often blamed for showing in the presence of
;

"Will you get in? " No, I will walk.

We

The most shrewd and experienced man may become the dupe of dissimulation but even the most innocent child seems to know it by intuition or instinct, though Whatever faults Levin had, he it be most carefully hidden.
their elders.

easily

could not be accused of lack of sincerity and, moreover, the children felt well inclined to him on account of the ex7 pressions of good will that the} had seen on their mother's
;

The two eldest instantly accepted his invitation, and ran with him as they would have gone with their nurse, or Miss Hull, or their mother. Lili also wanted to go with him so he set her on his shoulder, and began to run. "Don't be frightened, don't be frightened, Darya Aleksandrovna," he said, laughing gayly. "I won't hurt her, or let her fall." And when -she saw his strong, agile, and at the same time
face.
:

prudent and careful, movements, Dolly followed his course with pleasure.

felt re-assured,

and

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

281

There in the country, with the children and with Darya Aleksandrovna, with whom he felt thoroughly in sympathy, Levin entered into that boylike, happy frame of mind which was not unusual with him, and which Darya Aleksandrovna He played with the children, and especially admired in him. taught them gymnastic exercises he jested with Miss Hull and he told Darya Aleksandrovna of in his broken English
;

his undertakings in the country.

After dinner, Darya Aleksandrovna, sitting alone with him on the balcony, began to speak of Kitty. " Did you know? Kitty is coming here to spend the sum-

mer with me "Indeed!"

!

' '

replied Levin, confused; and instantly, in order to change the subject, he added, "Then I shall send you two cows, shall I? And if you insist on pa}-iug, and have no scruples, then you may give me five rubles a month." " No, excuse me. We shall get along." " Nu ! Then I am going to look at your cows ; and, with

your permission, I will give directions about feeding them. All depends on that." And Levin, in order not to hear any thing more about Kitty, of whom more than any thing else he was anxious to hear, explained to Darya Aleksandrovna the whole theory of the proper management of cows, so systematized that cows became mere machines for the conversion of so much fodder into milk, and so on. He was afraid that his peace of mind, so painfully won, might be destroyed. "Yes: but, in order to do all this, there must be some one to superintend it; and who is there?" asked Darya Aleksandrovna, not quite convinced. Now that her domestic regime was satisfactory, through Matriona Filimonovna, she had no desire to make any changes moreover, she had no faith in Levin's knowledge about rustic management. His reasonings about a cow being merely a machine to produce milk were suspicious. It seemed to her that such theories would throw houseit even seemed to her that they keeping into discord might be dangerous. And that it was sufficient to do as o o Matriona Filimonovna did, to give the two cows more fodder, and to prevent the cook from carrying dish-water But the this was clear. from the kitchen to the dairy, theories about meal and ensilage for fodder were not clear,
:

282
;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

but dubious and the principal point was, that she wanted to talk about Kitty.

X.
" KITTY writes me that she is longing for solitude and repose," began Dolly after a moment's silence. " " Is her health better? asked Levin with feeling. " Thank the Lord, she is entirely well! I never believed that she had any lung-trouble." " Ach! I am very glad," said Levin and Dolly thought
;

that she could read on his face the touching expression of inconsolable grief as he said it, and then looked at her in
silence.

" Tell me, Konstantin Levin," said Darya Aleksandrovna with a friendly, and at the same time a rather mischievous, " " smile, why are you angry with Kitty? with her," said Levin. "I? I am not angry " Yes, you are. Why didn't you come to see any of us " the last time you were in Moscow? "Darya Aleksandrovna," he exclaimed, blushing to the roots of his hair, " I beg of you, with your kindness of How can you not have heart, not to think of such a thing
!

pity

on me when you know " " What do I know?" " You know that I offered

And
had "

" Because everybody knows it." " There is where you are mistaken. I suspected it, but I knew nothing positive." " " Ah, nu! and so you know now All that I know is that she was keenly tortured by a mem!

myself, and was rejected." as he said this, all the tender feelings that Kitty's name caused vanished at the memory of this injury. How could you suppose that I knew? "

' '

If she has ory to which she permitted no reference made. made no confidences to me, then she has not to any one else. " Now, what have you against her? Tell me!

"

you all that there was." was it?" " When I was at your house the last time." " But do you know? I will tell you," said Darya AlekI just told

"When

sandrovna

"I am

sorry for Kitty, very sorry.

You

suffer

only in your pride

' '

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

283

" but " " Perhaps so," said Levin, She interrupted him. " But she, poor little one, I am very, very sorry for her. Now I understand all " " Nu, Darya Aleksandrovna, excuse me," said he, rising. " Proshcliaite [good-by], Darya Aleksandrovua, till we meet
!

again."

"No! wait!"
sit

beg of you, I beg of you, let us not speak of this any more," said Levin, sitting down again; while a ray of that hope which he believed forever vanished, flashed into his
heart. " If I did not like you," said Dolly, her eyes full of tears, " if I did not know you as I do"

" wait! " I

down "
!

she cried,

holding him by the sleeve:

The hope which he thought was dead, filled Levin's heart more and more. "Yes, I understand all now," said Dolly "you cannot understand this, you men, who are free in your choice; it is while a young girl, with that perfectly clear whom you love feminine, maidenly modesty imposed on her, must see you and the young men, but must wait till the word is spoken girl will be, must be, so timid that she will not know what to
: :

say." " Yes,

if her heart does not speak her heart speaks, but think for a moment yon men decide upon some girl, you visit her home, you watch, observe, and you make up your minds whether you are in love or not, and then, when you have come to the conclusion that you love

"

"

No

her,

you offer yourselves." " Nu! we don't always do that." " All the same, you don't propose until your love is fully ripe, or when you have made up your mind between two But the young girl cannot make a choice. possible choices.
she can that she can choose, but she cannot only answer yes or no." " Da! the choice was between me and Vronsky," thought
:

They pretend

Levin and the resuscitated dead love in his soul seemed to die for a second, giving his heart an additional pang. " thus one chooses a " Daiya Aleksandrovna," said he, dress or any trifling merchandise, but not love. Besides, the choice has been made, and so much the better ; and it can;

not be done again."

ANNA KAR&NINA.
pride, pride!" said Dolly, as though she would her scorn for the degradation of his sentiments compared with those which only women are able to comprehend. " When you offered yourself to Kitty, she was in just that She was in situation where she could not give an answer. doubt the choice was you or Vronsky. She saw him every day you she had not seen for a long time. If she had been

" Ach!

express

would have been different: if I, for example, had I should not have hesitated. He has always been distasteful to me, and so that is the end of it." Levin remembered Kitty's reply: " No, this cannot be." Darya Aleksandrovna," said he dryly, "I am touched by your confidence in me but I think you are mistaken. Right or wrong, this vanity which you so despise makes it
older,
it

been

in her place,

' k

impossible for me ever to think about Kateriua Aleksandrovna you understand? utterly impossible." " I will say only one thing more. You must know that I
;

children.
all."

speaking to you of my sister, whom I love as my own 1 don't say that she loves you, but I only wish to say that her reply at that moment amounted to nothing at

am

I don't know," said Levin, leaping suddenly to his feet. "If you only realized the pain that } OU cause me! It is just the same as if you had lost a child, and they came to
T

"

He would have been like this, like this, and you and said, he might have lived, and you would have had so much joy in him But he is dead, dead, dead " " said " How absurd you are Darya Aleksandrovna, with
'
' !

" Da! a melancholy smile at the sight of Levin's emotion. I understand better and better," she continued pensively. " " Then you won't come to see us when Kitty is here? " No, I will not. Of course I will not avoid Katerina
Aleksandrovna
;

but,

when

it

is

possible, I shall

endeavor to

spare her the affliction of my presence." " You are very, very absurd," said Darya Aleksandrovna, " Nti! let it be as looking at him affectionately. though we had not said a word about it. What do you want, Tania? " said she in French to her little girl, who came running in.

" " Where is my little shovel, mamma? "I to you, and you must answer in French." speak French The child tried to speak, but could not recall the French word for shovel. Her mother whispered it to her, and then

ANNA
told her,
still in

KAKfiNINA.
it.

285
This

French, where she should go to find

made Levin
household
;

feel unpleasantly.

Every thing now seemed changed in Darya Aleksandrovna's even the children were not nearly so attractive

as before.

does she speak French to the children?" he false and unnatural! Even the children feel it. Teach them French, and spoil their sincerity," he said to himself, not knowing that Darya Aleksandrovna had twenty times asked the same question, and yet, in* spite of the harm that it did their simplicity, had come to the conclusion that this was the right way to teach them. " But why are you in a hurry? Sit a little while longer." Levin staid to tea but all his gayety was gone, and he felt bored.
thought.

"And why

"How

After tea he went out to give orders about harnessing the and when he came in he found Darya Aleksandrovna in great disturbance, with flushed face, and tears in her eyes. During his short absence all the pleasure and pride that she took in her children had been ruthlessly destroyed. Grisha and Tania had quarrelled about a ball. Darya Aleksandrovna, hearing their cries, ran to them, and found them in a Tauia was pulling her brother's hair and frightful state. he, with angry face, was pounding his sister with all his When Da'rya Aleksandrovna saw it, something might. seemed to snap in her heart. A black cloud, as it were, came down on her life. She saw that these children of hers, of whom she was so proud, were not only ill trained, but were even bad, and inclined to the most evil and tempestuous
horses
:
;

passions.

This thought troubled her so that sh$ could not speak or Levin' saw that think, or even explain her sorrow to Levin. she was unhappy, and he did his best to comfort her, saying that this was not so very terrible, after all, and that all children got into fights but in his heart he said, " No, I will I not bother myself to speak French with my children.
;

have such children. There is no need of spoiling them, and making them unnatural and they will be charmDa! my children shall not be like these." ing. He took his leave, and rode away and she did not try to
shall not
; ;

keep him longer.

286

ANNA KAE&NINA.

XL
TOWARDS the middle of July, Levin received a visit from the stdrosta of his sister's estate, situated about twenty versts from Pokrovsky. He brought the report about the progress of affairs, and about the hay-making. The chief income from this estate came from the prairies inundated in tlie spring. In former years the muzhiks rented these hayh'elds at the rate of twenty rubles a desyatin. But when Levin undertook the management of this estate, and examined the haycrops, he came to the conclusion that the rent was too low, and he raised it to the rate of twenty-five rubles a clasyi.it in. The muzhiks refused to pay this, and, as Levin suspected, drove away other lessees. Then Levin himself went there, and arranged to have the prairies mowed partly by day laHis muzhiks were greatly disconborers, partly on shares. tented with this new plan, and did their best to block it but it succeeded, and even the very first year the yield from the For the second and the third sumprairies was doubled. mere the peasantry still resisted, but the harvesting went on in good order, and the present year the} proposed to mow the and now the stdrosta came to announce prairies on thirds that the work was done, and that he, fearing lest it should rain, had asked the accountant to make the division, and turn over to the proprietor the eighteen hay-cocks which were his share. By the unsatisfactory answer to his question why the hay had been mowed only on the largest prairie, b}' the stdrosia's haste in declaring the division without orders, by the muzhik's whole manner, Levin was led to think that in this matter there was something crooked, and he concluded that it would be wise, to go and look into it. Levin reached the estate just at dinner-time and, leaving his horse at the house of his brother's nurse, he went to find the old man at the apiary, hoping to obtain from him some light on the question of the hay-crop. The loquacious, friendly old man, whose name was Parmenvitch, was delighted to see Levin, told him all about his husbandry, and gave him a long account of his bees, and how they swarmed this year but when Levin asked him about the hay, he gave vague and unsatisfactory answers. And thus Levin's suspicions were more than ever strengthened. Thence he went to the prairie and examined the hay; 7

ANNA
ricks,

KABtiNINA.

287

and found that they could not contain fifty loads each, ISo he had one of the carts which they as the muzhiks said. had used as a measure to be brought, and ordered all the hay from one of the ricks to be carried into the shed. The Nothay-rick was found to contain only thirty-two loads. withstanding the stdrosta's protestations that the hay was measured right, and that it must have got pressed down in the cart notwithstanding the fact that he called God to witness that it was all done in the most righteous manner, Levin replied, that, as the division had been made without his orders, he would not accept the hay-ricks as equivalent to After long parleys, it was decided that the fifty loads each. muzhiks should take eleven of these hay-ricks for their share, The but that the master's should be measured over again. colloquy did not come to an end until it was after the lunchWhen the division was going on, Levin, confiding the hour. care of the work to the book-keeper, sat down on one of the hay-ricks which was marked by a laburnum stake, and enjoyed the spectacle of the prairie alive with the busy
;

peasantry.

Before him lay the bend of the river, and on the banks he saw the peasant women, and heard their ringing voices as they gossipped, and moved in parti-colored groups, raking
the scattered hay over the beautiful green-growing aftermath, into long wavering brown ramparts. Behind the babui came the muzhiks with pitchforks, who turned the windrows into huge high-crested hay-cocks. On one side in the corner of the prairie, all cleared of hay, came the creaking tdytyas in a long line. One by one they were loaded with the share belonging to the muzhiks, and their places were taken by the horse-wagons heavy with the loads of fragrant hay. Soon '11 be all in," said the "Splendid hay weather! starik, sitting down near Levin. Tea-leaves, not hay. Scatter it just like seeds for the chickens." Then, pointing to a hay-rick which the men were demolishing, the starik went on " Since dinner, pitched up a good half of it. Is that the last?" he shouted to a young fellow who, standing on the thills of a telyega, and shaking his hempen reins, was
k '
:

driving by.
last, bdtiushka," shouted back the young fellow, hauling in his horse. Then he looked down with a smile upon a happy-looking, rosy-faced baba who was sitting on the hay in the telytya, and whipped up his steed again.

" The

288

ANNA

KARfiNlNA.
asked Levin.
starik with an expression of

"

"Who is that? your son?" My youngest," said the

"What a fine "Not bad."
fellow!

pride.

"

"Married yet?" " " Yes, three years come next Filipovok [St. Philip's Day, Nov. 14]. " So? And are there children? " " How? children? No, more's the pity. Nu! the haj
r
,

just tea-leaves," he added, wishing to change the subject. Levin looked with interest at Vanka Parmenof and his young wife. Vanka was standing on the wagon, arranging, storing, and pressing down the fragrant hay which the hand-

some good-wife handed up to him. The young baba worked First she arranged it gayly, industriously, and skilfully. with her fork then, with elastic and agile motions, she exerted all her strength upon it and, bending over, she lifted up the great armful, and standing straight, with full bosom under the white chemise gathered with a red girdle, she handed it to her husband. Vanka, working as rapidly as he could, so as to relieve her of every moment of extra work, stretched out his arms wide, and caught up the load which she exThen, raking tended, and trampled it down into the wagon. up what was left, the baba shook off the hay that had got into her neck, and, tying a red handkerchief around her broad white brow, she crept under the telyega to fasten down the load. Vanka showed her how the ropes should be tied, and at some remark that she made burst into a roar of laughter. On the expressive faces of both could be seeii the marks of strong young love newly awakened.
; ;

XII.

THE load was complete and Vanka, jumping down took his gentle, fat horse by the bridle, and joined the file of telytgas going to the village. The baba threw her rake on the load,
;
,

firm step joined the other women who in a group followed the carts. The bnbui, with rakes on their shoulders, and dressed in bright-colored petticoats, began to sing in loud, happy voices. One wild, untrained voice would intone the folk-song (py^sna), and then fifty other young, fresh,

and with

ANNA
end.

KARtiNINA,
it

289
it

and powerful voices would take

up, and repeat

to the

The babui, singing their pyesna, passed by Levin and it seemed to him, as he sat comfortably on his hay-rick, that they were like a cloud, big with tumultuous joy, ready to overwhelm him and carry him off, together with his hay and the other hay-ricks and the wagons. As he heard the rhythm of this wild song, with its accompaniment of whistles and shrill cries, the prairie, the far-away fields, all things seemed to him to be filled with a strange, weird life and animation. This gayety filled him with envy. He would have liked to
;

but he could not thus express his joy of living, take part and he was obliged to lie still and look and listen. When the throng had passed out of sight, he was seized with a sense of his loneliness, of his physical indolence, of the hostility which existed between him and this life that he saw. All of these muzhiks, even those who had quarrelled with him about the hay, or those whom he had injured if their intention was not to cheat him, saluted him gayly as they passed, and showed no anger for what he had done, or any remorse or even remembrance that they had tried to defraud him. All was swallowed up and forgotten in this sea of joyGod gave the day, God gave the ous, universal labor. and the day and the strength consecrated the strength For whom the work? labor, and gave their own reward. Who would enjoy the work? These questions were secondary and of no account. Levin had often looked with interest at this life, had often been tempted to become one with the people, living their but to-day the impression of what he had seen in the lives bearing of Vanka Parmenof towards his young wife gave him for the first time a clear and definite desire to exchange the burdensome, idle, artificial, selfish existence which he led, for the laborious, simple, pure, and delightful life of the
; ; ;

peasantiy.

The starik, who had been sitting with him, had already gone home the people were scattered the neighbors had gone home but those who lived at a distance were preparing to
; ; :

spend the night on the prairie, and getting ready for supper. Levin, without being seen, still lay on the hay, looking, The peasantry gathered on the listening, and thinking.
prairie scarcely slept

throughout the short summer night.

290

ANNA
;

KAEtiNINA.
while everybody

At first there were gay gossip and laughter was eating then followed songs and jests.

All the long, laborious day had left no trace upon them, except of its happiness. Just before the dawn there was silence everywhere. Nothing could be heard but the nocturnal sounds of the frogs croaking in the marsh, and the horses whim^-ing as they waited for the coming morning. Coming to himself, Levin stood up on the hay-rick, and, looking at the stars, saw that the night had gone. " Nu! what am I going to do? How am I going to do this?" he asked himself, trying to give a shape to the thoughts and feelings that had occupied him during this
short night.

These thoughts and feelings had run in three separate First, it seemed to him that he must renounce his former way of living, which was useful neither to himself nor to anybody else. In comparison to it, the new life seemed to him simple and attractive. The second thought especially referred to the new life which he longed to lead. To renounce his useless intellectual culture was easy, especially when the simplicity and purity of his future life was so likely, as he thought, to restore him to calmness and quietude of mind. The third line of thought brought him to the question how he should effect the transition from the old life to the new, and in this regard there was nothing clear that " I must have a wife. I must presented itself to his mind. engage in work, and not solitary work. Shall I sell Pokdirections.

rovsky? buy land? join the commune? marry a peasant woman? How can I do all this?" he asked himself, and no answer came. " However," he went on in his self-com" I have not muuings, slept all night, and my ideas are not very clear. I shall reduce them to order by and by. One this night has settled my fate. All my thing is certain former dreams of family existence were rubbish, but this
:

all this is

lovely!" he thought as he gazed at the delicate rosy clouds, colored like mother-of-pearl, which floated in " How the sky above him. charming every thing has been this lovely night And when did that shell have time to form? I have been looking this long time at the sky. and Da! thus, without only two white streaks were to be seen. my knowing it, my views about life have been changed." He left the prairie, and walked along the highway towards
!

"How

vastly simpler

and

better.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

291

cool breeze began to blow. the village. At this moment, just before the dawn, every thing took on a gray and melancholy tint, as if to bring out into stronger relief the perfect triumph of light over the darkness.

Levin shivered with the

chill.

He raised his head. About bells. forty steps from him he saw, coming towards him on the highway, a travelling-carriage, drawn by four horses. The horses, to avoid the ruts, pressed close against the pole ; but the skilful yamshchik [driver] seated on one side of the box, drove so well that the wheels kept only on the smooth surface of the road. Levin was so interested in this that he looked only at the carriage, and forgot about the occupants. In one corner of the carriage an elderly lady was asleep ; and by the window sat a young girl, only just awake, holding with both hands the ribbons of her white bonnet. Serene and thoughtful, filled with a lofty, complex life which Levin
,

" at the ground. the sound of hearing

Who

is

that

He walked fast, looking " he asked himself, coming?

could not understand, she was gazing beyond him at the

glow of the morning sky.

At the very instant that this vision flashed by him he caught a glimpse of her frank e3'es. He recognized her, and a gleam of joy, mingled with wonder, shone upon his face. 1 He could not be mistaken. Only she in all the world In all the world there was but one could have such ej'es. being who could condense for him all the light and meaning of life. It was she it was He judged that she was Kitty. on her way from the railway station to Yergushovo. And all the thoughts that had occupied Levin through his sleepless night, all the resolutions that he had made, vanished in a twinkling. Horror seized him as he remembered his resolution of marrying a krestianka. In that carriage which flashed by him on the other side of the road, and disappeared, was the only possible answer to his life's enigma which had tormented and puzzled him so long. She was now out of sight the rumble of the wheels had ceased, and scarcely could he hear the bells. The barking of the dogs told him that the
:

And now there carriage was passing through the village. remained only the lonely prairies, the distant village, and
1

In the original

face.

But

it is

it says that she recognized Levin, and the joy shone upon her evident, from the conversation in chap. zi. book iii., that it could not

have been

so.

292

ANNA

KAJitfNINA.

himself, an alien and a stranger to every thing, walking solitan' on the deserted highway. He looked at the sky, hoping to find there still the sea-shell cloud which he had admired, and which personified for him the movement of his thoughts and feelings during the night. But he could find nothing that resembled the pearl-like hues. There, at immeasurable heights, that mysterious change had already taken place. There was no sign of the sea-shell, but in its place there extended over the whole level extent of the heavens a tapestry of cirrhous clouds sweeping on and sweeping on. The sky was growing blue and luminous, and with tenderness and less of mystery it answered his questioning look. " No," he said to himself, " however good this simple and laborious life may be, I cannot bring myself to it. I love her."

XIII.

No one except Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's most intimate friends suspected that this apparently cold and rational man had one weakness absolutely contradictory to the general consistency of his character. He could not look on with indifThe sight ference when a child or a woman was weeping. of tears caused him to lose his self-control, and destroyed for
His subordinates understood reasoning-faculties. and warned women who came to present petitions not to allow their feelings to overcome them unless they wanted " He will into a to their and

him

his

this,

injure

prospects.

fly

will not listen to

you," they

said.

And

it

was a

passion, fact that

the trouble which the sight of weeping caused Aleksei Alek" I sandrovitch was expressed by hasty irritation. cannot, I cannot, do any thing for you. Please leave me," he would cry, as a general thing, in such cases. When, on their way back from the races, Anna confessed her love for Vronsky, and, covering her face with her hands, burst into tears, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, in spite of his anger against his wife, was conscious at the same time of this feeling of deep, soul-felt emotion which the sight of weeping always caused him. Knowing this, and knowing that any expression of it would be incompatible with the situation, he endeavored to restrain every sign of life, and therefore he hence arose that did not move and did not look at her
:

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

293

strange appearance of deathlike rigidity in his face which so impressed Anna. When they reached home, he helped her from the carnage and, having made a great effort, he left her with ordinar}' politeness, saying those words which would not oblige him He simply said that to-morrow he to follow any course. would let her know his decision. Anna's words, confirming his worst .suspicions, caused a keen pain in his heart and this pain was made still keener by the strange sensation of physical pity for her, caused by the sight of her tears. Yet, as he sat alone in his car;
;

Aleksandrovitch felt, to his surprise and pleasure, an immense weight had been taken from his mind. It seemed to him that he was now freed from his doubts, his jealousy, and his pity. He appreciated the feelings of a man who has been suffering long from the toothache, and at last has the tooth drawn. The pain is terrible, frightful, that sensation of an enormous bod}-, greater than the head itself, which the forceps tears away and the patient can hardly believe in his good fortune
riage,

as

if

the pain that has poisoned his life so long has suddenly ceased, and he can live, think, and interest himself in someSuch was Aleksei Aleksanthing besides his aching tooth. drovitch's feeling. The pain had been strange and terrible, but now it was over. He felt that he could live again and think of something besides his wife. " Without honor, without heart, without religion, a lost woman This I always knew, although out of pity for And he her, I tried to blind myself," he said to himself. was perfectly sincere in his conviction that he had always been so perspicacious. He recalled many details of their and things which once seemed innocent in his past lives eyes, now clearly came up as proofs that she had always been
!

when

" I made a mistake when I joined my life to hers but my mistake was not my fault, and I ought not to be unhappy. The guilt}- one," he said, "is not I, but she. But I have She does not exist for me." nothing more to do with her. He ceased to think of the misfortunes that would befall
;

corrupt.

her, as well as his son, for whom also his feelings underwent a similar change. The one essential thing was the question,

how

to

make

his escape

at once wise, correct,

from this wretched crisis in a fashion and honorable for himself, and having

294

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

cleared himself satisfactorily from the mud which she had spattered him withal, owing to her evil conduct, henceforth pursue his own path of honorable, active, and useful life. " Must I make myself wretched because a despicable woman has committed a sin? All I want, is to find a way out from the situation in which she has brought me. And I will find it," he added, getting more and more determined. " I am not the first, nor the second." And not speaking of " the historical examples, beginning with " La Belle He'lene of Menelaus, which had recently been brought to all their memories, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch went over in his mind a whole series of contemporary episodes, where husbands of the highest position had been obliged to mourn the faithlessness of their wives.
Darialof, Poltavsk}-, Prince Karibanof, Count Paskudin, (yes, even Dramm, honorable, industrious man as he is), Semenof, Tchagin, Sigonin. Suppose we apply the unjust epithet ridicule to these people but I never saw any

"

Dramm

thing in this except their misfortune, and I always pitied them," thought Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, although this also was absolutely false, and he had never felt any pity of this sort, and had only plumed himself the more as he had heard of wives deceiving their husbands. " This disgrace is liable to strike an}- one, and now it has The main thing is, to know how to find a practistruck me. And he called to mind cal way of settling the difficulty." the different ways in which all the men had behaved. " " Darialof fought a duel Duelling had often been a subject of consideration to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch when he was a young man, and for He the reason that he was a timid man, and he knew it. could not think without a shudder of having a pistol levelled at him, and never in his life had he made any practice with fire-arms. This instinctive horror caused him to think many times about duelling, and he tried to accustom himself to the thought that he might be obliged some time to expose his life to this danger. Afterwards, when he reached a high but his habit social position, these impressions faded away of distrusting his courage was so strong, that, at this time, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch long deliberated about the matter, turning it over on all sides, and questioning the expediency of a duel, although he knew perfectly well that in any case he should not fight.
;

ANNA
"The
"
though
it is

KARtiNINA.

295

still so savage," he said, " not so iu England, that very many And in these man//, to whom such a solution was satisfactory, thei;e were some for whose opinions Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had the very highest regard. "Looking at the duel on all sides, to what result does it lead? Let us suppose " that I challenge And here Aleksei Aleksandrovitch drew a vivid picture of the night that he would spend after the challenge and he imagined the pistol drawn upon him, and he shuddered, and made up his mind that he could never do " Let us such a thing. suppose that I challenge him, that I learn how to shoot," he forced himself to think, " that I am standing, that I pull the trigger," he said to himself, shut" " and and he shook his suppose I kill him ting his eyes, "What sense head, to drive away these absurd notions. would there be in causing a man's death, in order to reestablish relations with a sinful woman and her son? Would the question be settled in any such way? But suppose and
! ;

state of our society is

killed or

that I am the one happen an innocent man, the victim, killed or wounded ? Still more unreasonable, worse than that, the challenge to a duel on my part would be absurd, and not an honorable action: besides, don't I know beforehand that my friends would never allow me to fight a duel? would never
this is vastly

more wounded.

likeh* to
I,

life of a government official, who is so indispensable to Russia, to be exposed to danger? What would happen? I should seem to people to be anxious to win notoriety It would be by a challenge that could lead to no result. dishonorable, it would be false, it would be an act of decepduel is not to be tion towards others and towards myself. sole aim should thought of, and no one expects it of me. be to preserve my reputation, and not to suffer any unnecesThe service of the state, sary interruption of my activity." always important in the eyes of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, now appeared to him of extraordinary importance. Having decided against the duel, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch a second expebegan to discuss the question of divorce dient which had been employed by several of the pen whom he had iu mind. Examples of divorces in high life were well known to him, but he could not name a single case where the aim of the divorce had been such as he proposed. The husband in each case had sold or given up the faithless wife and the guilty party, who had no right to a second

permit the

A My

296

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

marriage, had entered into relations, imagined to be sancAs to legal divorce, which tioned, with a new husband. proposed as its end the punishment of the faithless woman, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch came to the conclusion, as he reasoned about it, that it was impossible. The coarse, brutal proofs demanded by the law would be, in the complex conditions of his life, out of the question for him to furnish even had they existed, and he could make public use of them, the scandal that would ensue would cause him to fall lower in public opinion than the guilty wife. Divorce, moreover, broke off absolutely all dealings between wife and husband, and united her to her paramour. But in Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's heart, in spite of the indifference and scorn which he affected to feel towards his wife, there still remained one very keen sentiment, and that was his unwillingness for her to unite her lot absolutely with Vronsky, so that her fault would turn out to her advantage. This thought was so painful to Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch, that
:

and he got up changed his place, and with stern countenance deliberately wrapped his woolly plaid around his thin and
he almost groaned aloud with mental pain
;

from

his seat,

chilly legs.

Besides formal divorce, there could still be separation, as Karibauof, Paskudin and that gentle Dramm, but this measure had almost the same disadvantages as the other it was practicall}' to throw his wife into Vronsky's arms. "No: it is impossible impossible," he muttered, " I cannot be again trying to wrap himself up. unhappy, but neither ought she or he to be happy." The sensation of jealousy which had pained him while he was still ignorant, came back to him at this moment as he thought of his wife's words but it was followed by a different one, the desire not only that she should not triumph, but that she should receive the reward for her sins. He did not express it, but in the depths of his soul he desired that she should be punished for the way in which she had destroyed his peace and honor. After passing in review the disadvantages of the duel, the divorce, and the separation, Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch came to the conclusion that there was only one way to escape from his trouble, and that was to keep his wife under his protection, shielding his misfortune from the eyes of the world, employing all possible means to break off the illicit relationship,
in the case of
: ;

ANNA
and
principal point

KAlitfNINA.
to himself,

297,

what he did not avow

though

it

was the

" I must let her know, that, in the situation into which she has brought our family, I have come to the conclusion that the statu quo is the only way that seems advisable on all sides and that I will agree to preserve, under the strenuous condition that she fulfil my will, and absolutely break off all relations with her paramour." Having made this resolution, Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch brought up arguments which sanctioned it in his eyes.
;

punishing his wife's

fault.

"

with the law of religion," he said to himself; " only by this reasoning, do 1 refuse to send away the adulterous woman and I give her the chance of amending her ways, and likeI consecrate, as it were, wise, painful as it will be to me, my powers to her regeneration and salvation." Though Aleksei Aleksandrovitch knew that he could have no influence over his wife, and that the attempts which he should make to convert his wife would be illusory, still, during the sad moments that he had been passing through, he had not for an instant thought of finding a foot-hold in religion, until now, when he felt that his determination was in accordance with religion then this religious sanction gave him full comfort and satisfaction. He was consoled with the thought that no one would have the right to blame him for having, in such a trying period of his life, acted in opposition to the religion whose banner he bore aloft in the midst of universal indifference. He even went so far at last as to see no reason wh}' his relations with his wife should not remain as they had always been. Of course, it would be impossible for him to feel great confidence in her but he saw no reason why he should ruin his whole life, and suffer personally, because she was a
;
:

Only by acting

in

this

manner, do

conform absolutely

bad and faithless wife. ''Da! the time will come," he thought, "the time that solves all problems and our relations will be brought into the old order, so that I shall not feel the disorder that has broken up the current of my life. She must be unhappy, but I do not see why it is necessary for me to be unhappy too."
;

298

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

XIV.
ALEKSEI ALEKSANDROVITCH on his way back to Petersburg not only fully decided on the line of conduct which he should adopt, but even composed in his head a letter to be sent to his wife. When he reached his house, he glanced at the official papers and letters left in charge of the Swiss, and " Shut the ordered them to be brought into the library. door, and let no one in," said he in reply to a question of the Swiss, emphasizing the last order with some satisfaction, which was an evident sign that he was in a better state of mind. Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch walked up and down the library once or twice, cracking his knuckles and then coming to his huge writing-table, on which his valet-de-chambre, before he went out, had placed six lighted candles, he sat down, and
;

began to examine his writing-materials. Then, leaning his elbow on the table, he bent his head to one side, and after a moment of reflection he began to write. He wrote in French without addressing her by name, employing the pronoun vons [you], which seemed to him to have less coldness and indifference than the corresponding character in Russian.
expressed the intention of communicating resolution concerning the subject of our conversation. After mature deliberation, 1 propose to fulfil my promise. This is my decision: however improper your conduct may have been, I do not acknowledge that I have the right to break the bonds which a power Supreme has consecrated. The family cannot be at the mercy of a caprice, of an arbitrary act, even of the crime of one of the parties; and our lives must remain unchanged. This must be so for my sake, I am persuaded that you have for your sake, for the sake of our son. been penitent, that you still are penitent, for the fact that obliges me to write you; that you will aid me to destroy, root and branch, the cause In the opposite case, of our estrangement, and to forget the past. you must comprehend what awaits you, you and your son. I hope to have a complete understanding with you at our coming interview. As the summer season is nearly over, you would oblige me by returning All to the city as soon as possible, certainly not later than Tuesday. the necessary measures for your transportation will be taken. I beg you to take notice that I attach a very particular importance to your attention to my demand.
last interview, I

" At our

to you

my

"A. KAR^NIN.
" P.S. I enclose in this letter particular time."

money, which you may need at

this

ANNA
He
re-

KARfiNINA.

299

the

He folded his letter, pressed bridge for their reconciliation. it with a huge paper-cutter of massive ivory, enclosed it in an envelope together with the money, and rang the bell, feeling that sensation of satisfaction which the perfect working of his epistolary arrangements always gave him. tk Give this letter to the courier for delivery to Anna
Arkadyevna to-morrow." " I will
the library?
to

and was satisfied. The sending of him a specially happy thought. There was not an angry word, not a reproach, neither was there any weakness, in it. The essential thing was the golden
read his
letter,

money seemed

to

obey your excellency. "

Will you have tea here in

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch decided to have his tea brought him in the library and then, still playing with the papercutter, he went towards his arm-chair, near which was a shaded lamp, and a French work on cuneiform inscriptions which he had begun. Above the chair, in an oval gilt frame, hung a portrait of Anna, the excellent work of a distinguished Aleksei Aleksandrovitch looked at it. Two eyes, painter. impenetrable to him as they had been on the evening of their attempted explanation, returned his gaze ironically and insolently. Every thing about this remarkable portrait seemed to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch insupportably insolent and provoking, from the black lace on her head and her dark hair, to the white, beautiful hands and the slender fingers covered with rings. After gazing at this portrait for a moment, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch shuddered, his lips trembled, and " with a "6rr he turned away. Sitting down, he opened his book. He tried to read, but he could not regain the keen interest which he had felt before in the cuneiform inscriptions. His eyes looked at the book, but his thoughts were elsewhere. He was thinking, not of his wife, but of a complication which had recently arisen in important matters connected with his
;

business, and which at present formed the chief interest of his service. He felt that he was more than ever master of this question, and that he could without self-conceit
official

claim that the conception which had taken root in his mind in regard to the causes of this complication, furnished the method of freeing it from all difficulties, confirmed him in his official career, put down his enemies, and thus enabled him to do a signal service to the state. As soon as his servant had brought his tea, and left the room, Aleksei Aleksan-

300

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

drovitch got up, and went to his writing-table. He took the portfolio which contained his business papers, seized a pencil, and, with a faintly sarcastic smile of self-satisfaction, buried himself in the perusal of the documents relative to the difficulty under consideration. The distinguishing trait of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch as a government official, the one characteristic trait which separated him from all other government employes, and which had contributed to his success no less

moderation, his uprightness, and his self-confidence, " red tape," and his thorough-going detestation of sincere desire to avoid, so far as he could, unnecessaiy writing, and to go straight on in accomplishing needful business with all expedition and economy. It happened, that, in the

than

his

was

his

famous Commission of the 2d of June, the question was raised in regard to the flooding of the fields in the Government of Zarai, which formed a part of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's and this question offered a striking example jurisdiction of the few results obtained by official correspondence and expenditure. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch knew that it was a worthy object. The matter had come to him by inheritance from his predecessor in the ministry, and, in fact, had already When he first cost much mone} and brought no results. took his place in the ministry, he had wished immediately to put his hand to this work, but he did not feel as yet strong enough and he perceived that it touched too many interests, and was imprudent then afterwards, having become involved
;

in other matters,

he entirely forgot about

it.

The

fertiliza-

tion of the Zarai' fields, like all things, went in its own way by force of inertia. Many people got their living through it,

and one family in particular, a very agreeable and musical family two of the daughters pla} ed on stringed instruments. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch knew this family, and had been 1 when one of the elder daughters was nuptial godfather
:

married.

The opposition to this affair, raised by his enemies in another branch of the ministry, was unjust, in the opinion of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, because in every ministry there are such cases of impropriety which no one ever thinks of
let,

But since they had thrown down the gauntbothering with. he had boldly accepted the challenge by demanding the appointment of a special Commission for examining and
otets,

1 Foxuzhonnui ceremony.

a mail

who

lakes the father's place iu the Russian wedding

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

301

verifying the labors of the Commissioners on the fertilization and that he might give no respite to of the Zarai fields these gentlemen, he also demanded a special Commission for investigating the status and organization of the foreign This last question had likewise been raised by populations. the Committee of the 2d of June, and was energetically supported by Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, on the ground that no delay should be allowed in relieving the deplorable situation The most lively discussion arose of these alien tribes. among the ministries. The ministry, hostile to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, proved that the position of the foreign populathat to meddle with them would be to tions was flourishing and that, if any fault could be found injure their well-being in regard to the matter, it was due to the neglect of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch and his ministry, in not carrying out the measures prescribed by law. In order to avenge himself, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch demanded, first, the appointment of a Committee, whose duty should be to study on the spot the condition of the foreign populations. Secondly, in case their condition should be found such as the official data in the hands of the Committee represented, that a new scientific Commission should be sent to study into the causes of this sad state of things, with the aim of settling it from the (a)
;

economical, (d) ethnographThirdly, that the hostile ministry should be required to furnish the particulars in regard to the measures taken during the last ten years, to relieve the wretched situation in which these
political, (b) administrative, (c)
ical, (e) physical,

and (/) religious point of view.

were placed. And fourthly and finally, to explain the fact that they had acted in absolute contradiction to the fundamental and organic law, Volume T, page 18, with reference to Article 36, as was proved by an act of the Committee under numbers 17,015 and 18,308 of the 5th of December, 1863, and the 7th of June, 1804. flush of animation covered Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's face as he rapidly wrote down for his own use a digest of these thoughts. After he had covered a sheet of paper, he rang a bell, and sent a messenger to the Chancellor of State, Then he got up, asking for a few data which were missing. and began to walk up and down the room, looking again at the portrait with a frown and a scornful smile. Then he resumed his book about the cuneiform inscriptions, and found that his interest of the evening before had come back
tribes

302
to him.

ANNA KAR&NINA.
;

lay, still

He went to bed about eleven o'clock and as he awake, he passed in review the events of the day, and they no longer appeared to him in the same gloomy
aspect.

XV.
THOUGH Anna
sky when he
in the

bottom

told her that her position of her heart she felt that

obstinately and angi'ily contradicted Vronwas impossible, yet

it

was

false

and

dis-

honorable, and she longed with all her soul to escape from it. When, in a moment of agitation, she avowed all to her husband as they were returning from the races, notwithstandAfter Aleksei ing the pain which it cost her, she felt glad. Aleksandrovitch left her, she kept repeating to herself, that, at least, all was now explained, and that henceforth there would be no more need of falsehood and deception. This new state of things might be bad, but it would be definite, and at least not equivocal. The pain which her words had cost her husband and herself would have its compensation That very evening Vronsky in this new state of affairs. came to see her, but she did not tell him what had taken place between her husband and herself, although it was needful to tell him, in order that the affair might be definitely
settled.

The next morning when she awoke, her first memory was of the words that she had spoken to her husband and they seemed to her so odious, that she could not imagine now how she could have brought herself to say such brutal things, and she could not conceive what the result of them would be. But the words were irrevocable, and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had departed without replying. " I have seen Vronsky since, and I did not tell him. Even at the moment that he went away, I wanted to hold him back, and to speak but I did not, because I felt how strange it was that I did not tell him at the first moment. did I have the desire, and yet not speak?" And in reply to this question, she felt her face burn, and she realized that it was shame that kept her from Her position, which in the evening seemed to her speaking. so clear, suddenly presented itself in its true color, and more She began to fear the dishonor inextricable than ever. about which she had not thought before. AVhen she considered what her husband might do to her, the most terrible
;
;

Why

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

303

It occurred to her that at any ideas came to her mind. instant the sheriff 1 might appear to drive her out of house and home, that her shame would be proclaimed to all the world. She asked herself where she could go if they drove her from home, and there was no reply. When she thought of Vronsky, she imagined that he did not love her, and that he was already beginning to tire of her, and that she could not impose herself upon him, and she felt angry with him. It seemed to her that the words

which she spoke to her husband, and which she incessantly repeated to herself, were spoken so that evei'ybody could hear them, and had heard them. She could not bring herself to look in the faces of those with whom she lived. She could not bring herself to ring for her maid, and still less to go down and meet her sou and his governess. The maid came, and stood long at the door, listening Anna finally she decided to go to her without a summons. looked at her questioningly, and a look of fear came into her face. The maid apologized, saving that she had come because she thought she heard the bell. She brought a dress and a note. The note was from Betsy, and said that Liza Merkalova and the Baroness Stolz with their adorers, Kaluzhsky and the old man Stremof were coming to her house to" Come and look on, please, as day for a game of croquet. a study of manners. 1 shall expect you," was the conclusion
:

of the note. Anna* read the letter, and sighed profoundly. "Nothing, nothing, I need nothing," said she to Annushka, who was arranging the toilet- articles on her dressing" Go table. away. I will dress myself immediately, and * come down. I need nothing." Annushka went out yet Anna did not begin to dress, but sat in the same attitude, with bent head and folded hands and occasionally she would shiver, and begin to make some gesture, to say something, and then fall back into listlessness " Bozhe mo'i! Bozhe mo'i!" but the again. She kept saying, words had no meaning in her mind. The thought of seeking a refuge from her situation in religion, although she never doubted the faith in which she had been trained, seemed to her as strange as to go and ask help of Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch himself. She knew beforehand that the refuge offei'ed by religion was possible only by the absolute renun:

Uprurfyaiushc/iy,

literally director,

steward.

304

ANNA KAR&NINA.

elation of all that represented to her the reason for living. She suffered, and was frightened besides, by a sensation that was new to her experiences hitherto, and which seemed to her She seemed to feel to take possession of her inmost soul. double, just as sometimes eyes, when weary, see double. She

knew not whether she feared

the future, or desired the past

and what she desired, she did not know. " Ach! what am I doing?" she cried, suddenly feeling a and she discovered that she had taken pain in both temples She got up, her hair in her two hands, and was pulling it. and began to walk the floor. " The coffee is served, and Mamzd and Serozha are waiting," said Annushka, coming in again, and finding her
;

mistress

still

undressed.
is

" Serozha? what

her son.

remembering, for the

first

Serozha doing," suddenly asked Anna, time this morning, the existence of

" He

is

peaches from the corner cupboard, it seems." The thought of her son suddenly called Anna from the impassive state in which she had been sunk. The sincere, though somewhat exaggerated, role of devoted mother, which she had taken upon herself for a number of years, came back to her mind, and she felt that in this relationship she had a stand-point independent of her relation to her husband and In whatever her son. This stand-point was Vronsky. situation she might be placed, they would not deprive her of him. Her husband might drive her from him, and put her to shame Vronsky might turn his back upon her, and resume his and here again she felt the feeling former independent life, but she could not leave her son. She had of bitter reproach, an aim in life and she must act, act at once, and take every measure to preserve her relation towards him, so that they She must take her son, and could not take him from her. go off. She must calm herself, and get away from this tormenting situation. The very thought of an action having reference to her son, and of going away with him, no one knows where, already gave her consolation. She dressed in haste, went down-stairs with firm steps, and entered the parlor, where, as usual, she found lunch ready, and Serozha and the governess waiting for her. Serozha,

"How naughty?" "He took one of the

it all

naughty, I think," said Aunushka.

and ate

by himself, as

ANNA KAR&NINA.
all

305

in white, was standing with bended head near a table under the window, with the expression of concentrated attention which she knew so well, and in which he resembled his father. Bending over, he was busy with some flowers that he had brought in. The governess put on a very stern expression. Serozha, as soon as he saw his mother, uttered a sharp cry, which was a " Then he stopped, "Ah, mamma frequent custom of his, undecided whether to run to his mother, and let the flowers go, or to finish his bouquet, and to go with them. The governess bowed, and began a long and circumstantial account of the naughtiness that Serozha had committed but Anna did not hear her. She was thinking whether she should " take her with them. No, I will not. I will go alone with my son." "Yes, he is very naughty," said Anna; and, taking the boy by the shoulder, she looked at him with a gentle, not " Leave him with me," said she angry, face, and kissed him.
!

to the wondering governess and, not letting go his arm, she sat down to the table where the coffee was waiting. I I didn't," stammered Serozha, trying to judge by his mother's expression what fate was in store for him after the peach. "Serozha," she said as soon as the governess had left the
;

"Mamma

this was naughty. You will not do it again, will you ? " love me ? She felt that the tears were standing in her eyes. "Can I not love him?" she asked herself, touched by the boy's happy and radiant face. "And can he join with his father to punish me? Will he not have pity on me?" The tears began to course down her face and, in order to hide them, she got up quickly, and hastened, almost running, to the ter-

room,

"

Do you

race.

Clear, cool weather

last

had succeeded the stormy rains of the

few days.

In spite of the warm sun which shone on the thick foliage of the trees, it was cool in the shade. She shivered both from the coolness and from the sentiment of fear which seized her with new force. "Go, go and find Mariette," said she to Serozha, who had followed her and then she began to walk up and down on the straw carpet which covered the terrace. She stopped and looked at the tops of the aspens, washed bright by the
;

306
rain,

ANNA KARNINA.

which were gleaming in the warm sun. It seemed to her that every thing, this sky and this foliage, was without Arid again, as before breakfast, she felt that pity for her. mysterious sense in her inmost soul that she was iu a dual
state.
l must not, must not think," she said to herself. "I must have courage. Where shall I go? When? Whom shall I take? Da! to Moscow by the evening train, with Annushka and Serozha and only the most necessary things. But first I must write to them both." And she hurried back into the house to her library, sat down at the table, and
tk

wrote her husband, "After what has passed, I cannot longer remain in your house. I am going away, and I shall take my son. I do not know the laws, and so I do not know with which of us the child should remain but I take him with me, because without him I cannot live. Be generous let me have him." Till this moment she wrote rapidly and naturally but this appeal to a generosity which she had never seen in him, and the need of ending her letter with something affecting, brought her to a halt. "1 cannot speak of my fault and my repentance, be" cause Again she stopped, unable to find the right words. "No," she said, "I can say nothing;" and, tearing up this letter, she began another, in which she excluded any appeal
; : ;

to his generosity. She had to write a second letter, to Vronsky. "I have confessed to my husband," she began and she sat long in thought, without being able to write more. This was so "And then, what can I write to coarse, so unfeminine him?" Again she felt her face burn as she remembered how calm he was, and she felt so vexed with him that she " I cannot tore the note into little bits. write," she said to herself and, closing her desk, she went up-stairs to tell the governess and the domestics that she was going to Moscow that evening and she began to make her preparations.
;
!

XVI.
IN all the rooms of the datcha, the dvorniks, the gardeners, the valets, were packing up the things. Cupboards and commodes were cleared of their contents. Twice they had gone

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
;

307

half the things were wrapped to the shop for packing-cord up in newspapers. Two trunks, travelling-bags, and a bundle of plaids, were, standing in the hall. carriage and two izvoshchiks were waiting in front of the house. Anna, who in

the haste of departure had somewhat forgotten her torment, was standing by her library-table, and packing her bag, when Annushka called her attention to the rumble of a carAnna looked out of the winriage approaching the house. dow, and saw on the steps Aleksi Aleksandrovitch's courier ringing the front-door bell. and see who it is," said she, and then sat down in her chair and, folding her hands on her knees, she waited with calm resignation. lackey brought her a fat packet directed in the handwriting of Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch. " The courier was ordered to wait an answej," said he. " Very well," she replied and as soon as he left the room roll of she opened the packet with trembling fingers. But she fresh, new bank-notes, in a wrapper, fell out first. " All unfolded the letter and read it, beginning at the end. the necessary measures for your transportation will be taken. ... I attach a very particular importance to your attention She took it up a second time, to my demand," she read. read it all through, and once and again she read it from beginning to end. When she was through, she felt chilled, and had the consciousness that some terrible and unexpected weight was crushing her which she could not throw off. That very morning she regretted her confession, and would But this letter treated gladh* have taken back her words. her words as though they had not been spoken, gave her what she desired. And yet it seemed to her more cruel than any thing that she could have imagined. " " Of course he is " she murmured. Right, he is right always right: he is a Christian, he is magnanimous! Nu! No one understands, no one knows, him the low, vile man

"Go

but

' People say, He is a man.' But they have not seen what I have seen they don't know how for eight years he has crushed my life, crushed every thing how he has never once thought of me that was vital in me as a living woman who must love. They don't know how at every step he has insulted me. and was all the more self-satHave I not striven with all my powers to lead a useisfied. ful life ? Have I not done my best to love him, to love his

me

and

I cannot explain

it.

religious, moral, upright, honorable, intellectual

;

308

ANNA KAR&NINA.

son when I could not love my husband ? But the time came when I could no longer deceive myself. I find that I am a that I am not to blame that God has made living being me so; that I must love and live. And now what? He
;

kill me, he might kill him, and I could understand, I But no, he could forgive it. " Why should I not have foreseen what he would do? He does exactly in accordance with his despicable character he stands upon his rights. But I, poor unfortunate, am sunk lower and more irreclaimably than ever towards ruin. ' You must comprehend what awaits you, you and your son,' she repeated to herself, remembering a sentence in his letter. "It is a threat that he means to rob me of my son, and doubtless their wretched laws allow it. But, indeed, I do not see why he said that. He has no belief in my love for my son or else he is deriding as he always does, in his sarcastic manner is deriding this feeling of mine, for he knows that I will not abandon my son I cannot abandon him that without my son, life would be unsupportable, even with him whom I love and that to abandon my son, and leave him, I should fall, like the worst of women. This he knows, and knows that I should never have the power to do so. 'Our lives must remain unchanged,' " she continued, " This life was remembering another sentence in the letter. a torture before but as time went on, it became worse than ever. What will it be now? And he knows all this, knows that I cannot repent because I breathe, because I love he knows that nothing except falsehood and deceit can result from this but he must needs prolong my torture. I know him, and I know that he swims in perjury like a fish in water. But no I will not give him this pleasure. I will break this network of lies in which he wants to enwrap me. Come what ma}*, any thing is better than lies. ' But how ? Bozhe tno'i ! Sozhe moi I Was there ever woman so unhappy as I? " she " No, I will break it! I will break it! cried, strivto keep back the tears that would come. And she went ing to her writing-table to begin another letter. But in the lowest depths of her soul she felt that she had not the power to break the network of circumstances, that she had not the power to escape from the situation in which she was placed, false and dishonorable though it was. She sat down at the table but, instead of writing, she

might

'

'

ANNA KA

It

NINA.

309

folded her arms on the table, and bowed her head upon them, and began to weep like a child, with heaving breast and convulsive sobs. She wept because her visions about the new order of things had vanished forever. She knew that now all things would go on as before, and even worse than before. She felt that her position in society, which she had slighted, and but a short time before counted as dross, was dear to her that she should never have the strength to abandon it for the shameful position of a woman who has deserted her husband and son, and joined her lover. She felt that she should never be stronger than herself and her She never would know what freedom to love prejudices. meant, but would be always a guilty woman, constantly threatened by surprise, deceiving her husband for the disgraceful society of an independent stranger, with whose life she could never join hers. She knew that this would be so, and yet at the same time it was so terrible that she could not acknowledge, even to herself, how it would end. And she wept, pouring out her heart as a child sobs who has been punished. The steps of a lackey approaching made her tremble and, hiding from him her face, she pretended to be writing. " The courier would like his answer," said the " said Anna. "Let lackey. " His answer? him wait. Oh, yes
; ;

" How decide can I write?" she asked herself. alone? What do I know? What do I want? by myself Whom do I love? " Again it seemed to her that in her soul she felt the dual nature. She drove this thought away, and
"

I will ring.

What

seized upon the first duty that lay at hand, so that, by forgetting herself, she might not think of this dual nature, which

"I must see Alekse"i " (thus in thought "he alone can tell me what I must Vronsky)
:

terrified her.

she called
do.
I will

go to Betsy's.

Perhaps I shall find him there." She completely forgot that on the evening before, when she told him that she was not going to the Princess Tverskaia's, he said that he had no wish to go there either. She went to the table again, and wrote her husband,
"
I

have received your

letter.
it

A."

She rang, and gave " We are not

just

to the lackey. going," said she to

Annushka, who was

coming

in.

310

ANNA
at all?

KAEfiNINA.

" Not going

"

"No, but don't unpack before to-morrow; and have the I am going to the princess's." carriage wait. "
" What dress
shall

you wear?

XVII.

THE company which was

to

meet at the Princess Tver-

skaia's, where Anna was invited, was made up of two ladies and their adorers. These two ladies were the leading representatives of a new and exclusive coterie in Petersburg, and called, in imitation of an imitation, les sept merveilles du monde

Both of them belonged [the seven wonders of the world]. to the highest society, but to a circle absolutely hostile to that in which Anna moved. The old Stremof, one of the
influential

men

of

the city,

and Liza Merkalova's

lover,

belonged to the faction hostile to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. Anna, on account of this hostility, did not care to go to but now she Betsy's, and therefore declined her invitation decided to go, hoping to find Vronsky there. She reached the Princess Tverskaia's before the other
;

guests.

The moment that she arrived, Vronsky 's valet, who with his curly whiskers might have been taken for a hammerjunker, was at the door, and. raising his cap, he stepped aside When she saw him she remembered that to let her pass.
Vronsky had told her that he was not coming, and judged that he had sent his excuses. As she was taking off her wraps in the hall, she heard the valet, who rolled his r's like
a kammer-jvnker, say, "From the count to the princess." It ocIt occurred to her to ask him where his barin was. curred to her to go back and write him a note, asking him But she could to come to her, or to go and find him herself. not follow out any of these plans, for the bell had already announced her presence, and one of the princess's lackeys was waiting at the door to usher her into the rooms beyond. u The Word has been sent to princess is in the garden. her," said a second lackey in the second room. Her position of uncertainty, of darkness, was just the same as at home. It was worse rather, because she could not make any decision, she could not see Vronsky, and she was obliged to remain in the midst of strange and lively society,

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

311

But she wore a toilet which diametrically opposed to her. She was not alone she was she knew was very becoming. surrounded by that solemn atmosphere of indolence so familiar and, on the whole, it was better to be there than at home. She would not be obliged to think what she would do. Things would arrange themselves. Betsy came to meet her in a white toilet of the most exand she greeted her, as usual, with a smile. quisite elegance The Princess Tverskaia was accompanied by Tushkie'vitch, and a young relative who, to the great delight of the provincial family to which she belonged, was spending the summer with the famous princess. Apparently there was something unnatural in Anna's appearance, for Betsy immediately remarked upon it. "I did not sleep well," replied Anna, looking furtively at the lackey, who was coming, as she supposed, to bring the princess Vronsky's note. " " How said Betsy. " I am just glad I am that you came and 1 should like to have a cup of tea before the others up, come. And you," she said, addressing Tushkievitch, " had better go with Maska and try the kroket-gro-tind, which has will have time to talk a little while just been clipped. We'll have a coscy chat, won't we?" she taking our tea. added in English, addressing Anna with a smile, and taking her hand. " All the more I willingly, because I can't stay long. must call on old Vrede I have been promising for a hundred years to come and see her," said Anna, to whom the lie, though contrary to her nature, seemed not only simple and she said a thing that she easy, but even pleasurable. forgot the second after, she herself could not have told she said it at haphazard, so that, in case Vronsky were not coming, she might have a way of escape, and find him elsewhere and why she happened to select the name of old Freilina Vrede rather than any other of her acquaintances was likewise inexplicable. But, as events proved, out of all the possible schemes for meeting Vronsky, this was the
: ;
; !

We

Why

best.

" No, I shall not let you go," replied Betsy, scrutinizing " Anna's face. Indeed, if I were not so fond of you, I should be tempted to be vexed with you anybody would think that you were afraid of my compromising you. Tea in the little salon, if you please," said she to the lackey,
:

312

ANNA KARNINA.
;

with a snap of the eyes such as was habitual with her and, taking the letter, she began to read it. "Aleksei disappoints us (Alexis nous fait faux bond). He writes that he cannot come," said she in French, and in a tone as simple and unaffected as though it had never entered her mind that Vronsky was of any more interest to Anna than as a possible partner in a game of croquet. Anna knew that Betsy knew all but, as she heard Betsy speak of him now, she almost brought herself to believe for a moment that she did not know. "Ah!" she said simply, as though it was a detail that " did not interest her. How," she continued, still smiling, " " could your society compromise me? This manner of hiding a secret, this playing with words, had for Anna, as it has for all women, a great charm. And it was not the necessity of secrecy, or the reason for secrecy, but the process itself, that gave the pleasure. "I cannot be more Catholic than the Pope," she said. " Stremof and Liza Merkalova, they are the cream of the cream of society. They are received everywhere. But /" " I have never been severe she laid special stress on the / and intolerant. I simply have not had time." " No. But perhaps you prefer not to meet Stremof ? Let him break lances with Aleksei Aleksandrovitch in comBut in society that does not concern us. mittee-meetings he is as lovely a man as I know, and a terrible hand at But you shall see him. And you must see how croquet. He is well he plays the absurd part of old lover to Liza. is the very charming. Don't you know Safo Stoltz? She latest, absolutely the latest style." While Betsy was saying these words, Anna perceived, by her joyous, intelligent eyes, that she saw her embarrassment, and was trying to put her at her ease. They had gone into the little library. " I must write a word to Aleksei." And Betsy sat down Then at her writing-table, and hastily penned a few lines. " I wrote him to come to dinner. she took out an envelope. One of my ladies has no partner. See if I am imperative enough. Excuse me if I leave you a moment. Please seal
;
:

and direct it I have some arrangements to make." Without a moment's hesitation, Anna took Betsy's seat at "I must see the table, and added these words to her note you without fail. Come to the Vrede Garden. I will be
it
:
:

ANNA
there

KARtiNINA.

313

at six o'clock." She sealed the letter; and Betsy, coming a moment later, despatched it at once. The two ladies took their tea in the cool little salon, and had indeed a cosey chat. They talked about the coming guests, and expressed their judgments upon them, beginning with Liza Merkalova. "She is very charming, and I have always liked her," said Anna. " You ought to like her. She adores you. Yesterday evening, after the races, she came to see me, and was in She says that you are a genuine despair not to find you. heroine of a romance, and that if she were a man, she would commit a thousand follies for your sake. Stremof told her she did that, even as she was." " But explain to me one thing that I never understood," said Anna, after a moment of silence, and in a tone that clearh" showed that she did hot ask an idle question, but that what she wanted explained was more serious than would ap"Explain to me, what are the relations between her pear. and Prince Kaluzhsky, the man that they call Mishka. I have rarely seen them together. What is their relation ? A look of amusement came into Betsy's eyes, and she looked keenly at Anna. "All these ladies have "It's a new kind," she replied. adopted it." " Yes, but what are her relations with Kaluzhsky?"
' '

Betsy, to Anna's surprise, broke into a gale of irresistible

laughter.
are trespassing on the Princess Miagkai'a's provthe question of an enfant terrible." said Betsy, trying in vain to restrain her gayety, but again breaking out into that contagious laughter which is the peculiarity of people who rarely laugh. "But you must ask them," she at length managed to say, with the tears running down her cheeks. " Nu! you laugh," said Anna, in spite of herself joining " but I have never been able to in her friend's amusement understand it at all, and I don't understand what rdle the

" But you

:

ince

it is

husband plays." "The husband? Liza Merkalova's husband carries her But the real plaid, and is always at her beck and call. meaning of the affair no one cares to know." " "Are you going to Rolaudaki's fmzdnik? [festival], said Anna, wishing to change the conversation.

314
"

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
;

I don't think so," replied Betsy and not looking at her companion, she carefully poured the fragrant tea into little Then, having handed one to Anna, she transparent cups. rolled a cigarette, and putting it into a silver holder she began to smoke. " You see, my position is the best," she began seriously, " I understand holding her cup in her hand. you, and I understand Liza. Liza is one of these na'ive, childlike natures, who cannot distinguish between ill and good, at least, she was so when she was young, and now she knows that this Now perhaps she is na'ioe on simplicity is becoming to her. " But all the purpose," said Betsy with a cunning smile. same, it becomes her. You see, some people look on life from its tragic side, and make themselves miserable and others look on it simply, and even gayly. Possibly you are inclined to look on things too tragically."
;

" How I should like to know others as well as I know " said Anna with a serious and pensive look. myself I worse than others, or better? Worse, I think." "You are like a child, an enfant terrible," was Betsy's
!

"Am

comment.

" " But here they are

!

XVIII.
STEPS were heard, and a man's voice, then a woman's and laughter, and immediately after the expected Safo Stoltz, and a young man called Vaska guests came in, for short, whose face shone with exuberant health. It was evident that truffles, burgundy, and rich blood-making viands had accomplished their perfect work. Vaska bowed to the two ladies as he came in, but the glance which he vouchsafed them lasted only a second. He followed Safo into the drawing-room, and he followed her through the drawing-room, as though he had been tied to her, and he kept his brilliant eyes fastened upon her as though he wished to devour her. Safo Stoltz was a blonde with black eyes. She wore shoes with enormoush" high heels, and she came in with slow, vigorous steps, and shook hands energetically, like a man. Anna had never before met with this new celebrity, and was struck, not only by her beauty, but by the extravagance of her toilet and the boldness of her manners. On her head was a veritable scaffolding of false and natural hair of
voice

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

315

a lovely golden hue, and of a height corresponding to the mighty proportions of her protuberant and very visible bosom. Her dress was so tightly pulled back, that at every movement it outlined the shape of her limbs and involun;

enormous, tottering mountain, did her neat little body, so exposed above, and so tightly laced below, really end ?
Betsy made haste to present her to Anna. " Can you imagine it? We almost ran over two soldiers," she began instantly, winking, smiling, and kicking back her " I was with Vaska train. You are

tarily the question arose,

where under

this

coming

Ach,da!

not acquainted." And she introduced the young man by his family name," laughing at her mistake in calling him Vaska before strangers. Vaska bowed a second time to Anna, but said nothing to her. He turned to Safo. " The " You must We came is lost. said he.

wager

first,"

pay."

Safo laughed still more. " Not now, though."

" All

she suddenly cried "I [ out to the khozyd'ika (the hostess). stupid forgot I bring you a guest that I was here he is." The young guest whom Safo presented, after having forgotten him, was a guest of such importance, that, notwithstanding his youth, all the ladies rose to receive him. This was Safo's new adorer and, just as Vaska did, he followed her every step. Immediately after came Prince Kaluzhsky and Liza Merkalova with Stremof. Liza was a rather thin brunette, with an Oriental, indolent type of countenance, and with ravish-

"Very

I'll take it by and by." right well, very well! Ach,da!"

:

and as everybody said, impenetrable, eyes. The style of her dark dress was absolutely in keeping with her beauty. Anna noticed it, and approved'. Liza was as quiet and unpretentious as S#fo was loud and obstreperous. But Liza, for Anna's taste, was vastly more attractive. Betsy, in speaking of her to Anna, ridiculed her affectation of the manner of an innocent child but when Anna saw her, she felt that this was not fair. Liza was really an innocent, To be gentle, and sweet-tempered woman, a little spoiled. She also had in sure, her morals were the same as Safo's. her train two adorers, one young, the other old, who devoured her with their eyes. But there was something about her better than her surroundings she was like a diamond of
ing,
; :

316

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

the purest water surrounded by glass. The brilliancy shone out of her lovely, enigmatical eyes. The wearied and yet passionate look of her eyes, surrounded by dark circles, struck one by its absolute sincerity. Any one looking into their depths would seem to know her completely and to know her, was to love her. At the sight of Anna, her face suddenly lighted up with a happy smile. " " Ach ! How she said, as she went glad I am to see you to her. afternoon at the races 1 wanted to up "Yesterday I was so anxious to see get to you, but you had just gone. Too bad, wasn't it?" said she, you yesterday especially gazing at Anna with a look which seemed to disclose her
;
! !

whole soul.

" Da! I never would have believed that any thing could be so exciting," replied Anna with some color. The company no\y began to get read}- to go to the lawn. " I am not going," said Liza, sitting down near Anna. "You aren't going, are you? What pleasure can anyone
find in croquet ?
' '

I am ver}T fond of it," said Anna. " Vot! how is it that you don't get ennuyeeJ To look at you is a joy. Y"ou live, but I vegetate." How vegetate ? Da ! they say you have the gayest society in Petersburg," said Anna. "Perhaps those who are not of our circle are still more But we, it seems to me, are not happy, but are ennnyee.

"But

' '

bored, terribly bored." Safo lighted a cigarette, and went to the lawn with the two young people. Betsy and Stremof staid at the tea-table. "How bored?" asked Betsy. " Safo says she had a delightful evening with you yesterday." " " said Liza. ''Ach! how unendurable it was They all came to my house after the races, and it was all so utterly monotonous. They sat on sofas the whole, evening. How could that be delightful ? No but what do you do to keep "It is from being bored?" she asked again of Anna. Y"ou are evidently a woman who enough to look at you can be happy or unhappy, but never ennuyee. Now explain what you do. " 'J don't do any thing," said Anna, confused by these per!

sistent questions.

" That

is

the best

way," said Stremof, joining the conver-

sation.

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

317

Stremof was a man fifty years old, rather gray, but well preserved, very ugly, but with a face full of character and Liza Merkalova was his wife's niece, and he intelligence. spent with her all his leisure time. Though an enemy of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch in politics, he endeavored, now that he met Anna in society, to act the man of the world, and be
exceedingly amiable to his enemy's wife. " The very best way is to do nothing," he continued with " I have been his wise smile. telling you this long time, that, if you don't want to be bored, you must not think that it is possible to be bored just as one must not be afraid of not This is just what sleeping if he is troubled with insomnia.
;

Anna Arkadyevna "

I

told

should be very glad if I had said so," said Anna, " because it is not only witty, it is true." " But will you tell me why it is not hard to go to sleep, and not hard to be free from ennui? " " To sleep, you must work; and to be happy, you must
also

you."

work." " But how can

work when my labor

is

useful to no one?

incorrigible," said he, not looking at her, but He rarely met her. and could not turning to Anna again. well speak to her except in the wa}- of small talk but he understood how to say light things gracefully, and he asked her when she was going back to Petersburg, and whether she liked the Countess Lidia Ivanovna. And he asked these questions with that manner that showed his desire to be her friend, and to express his consideration and respect. " No, don't go, I beg of you," said Liza, when she found that Anna was not intending to stay. Stremof added his
;

But to make " You are

believe, I neither can nor will."

persuasions. "Too great a contrast," said he, "between our society and old Vrede's and then, you will be for her only an object for slander, while here you will only awaken very different sentiments, quite the opposite of slander and ill-feeling." Anna remained for a moment in uncertainty. This witt}r man's flattering words, the childlike and nctive sympathy shown her by Liza Merkalova, and all this agreeable social atmosphere, so opposed to what she expected elsewhere, caused her a moment of hesitation. Could she not postpone the terrible moment of explanation? But remembering what she had suffered alone at home when trying to decide, re;

318

ANNA

membering the pain that she had felt when she pulled her hair with both hands, not knowing what she did, so great was
her mental anguish, she took leave, and went.

XIX.
in spite of his worldly life and his apparent fida man who detested confusion. Once, when still a School of Pages, he found himself short of money, and met with a refusal when he tried to borrow. He vowed that thenceforth he would not expose himself to such a humiliation again, and he kept his word. Therefore, in order to keep his affairs in order, he made, more or less often, according to circumstances, but at least five times a year, an examination of his affairs. He called this "straightening his affairs," or, in French, faire sa lessive. The morning after the races, Vronsky woke late, and without stopping to shave, or take his bath, put on his kitel

VRONSKY,

elity, was lad in the

[soldier's linen frock], and, placing his money and bills and paper on the table, proceeded to the work of settling his

Petritsky, knowing that his comrade was likely to be irritable when engaged in such occupation, quietly got

accounts.

up, and slipped out without disturbing him. Every man whose existence is complicated readily believes that the complications and tribulations of his life are a personal and private grievance peculiar to himself, and never thinks that others are subjected to the same troubles that he himself is. Thus it seemed to Vronsky. And not without inward pride, and not without reason, he felt that, until the present time, he had done well in avoiding the embarrass-

ments to which every one else would have succumbed. But he felt that now it was necessary for him to examine into his
not to be embarrassed. it was the easiest to settle, Vronsky invesHe wrote in his fluent, delitigated his pecuniary status. cate hand, a schedule of all his debts, and found that the total amounted to seventeen thousand rubles, and some odd hundreds, which he let go for the sake of clearness. Counting up his available money, he had only eighteen hundred rubles, with no hope of more until the new year. Vronsky next made a classification of his debts, and put them into three categories first, the urgent debts, or, in other words,
affairs, so as

First,

because

A XXA KAUtfXIXA.
tion, there

319

those that required ready money, so that, in case of requisimight not be a moment of delay. These amounted fifteen hundred for his horse, to four thousand rubles, and twenty-five hundred as a guaranty for his young com-

who had, in Vronsky's company, lost this playing with a shuler [one who cheats at cards]. Vronsky, at the time, did not want to hand over the money, though he had it with him but Venevsky and Yashvin insisted on paying it, rather than Vronsky, who had not been This was all very well but Vronsky knew that in playing. this disgraceful affair, in which his only share was to be
rade, Veuevsky,
in

amount

guarant3' for Venevsky, it was necessary to have these twenty-five hundred rubles ready to throw at the rascal's

head, and not to have any words with him. Thus, he had to reckon the category of urgent debts as four thousand rubles. In the second category, were eight thousand rubles of These were what he debts, and these were less imperative.

owed on
trainer,

his stable account, for oats

and hay,

to his English

and other incidentals.

;

At a

pinch, two thoflsand

would

other furnishers

to his tailor, and and they could wait. In conclusion, he found that he needed for immediate use, six thousand rubles, and he had only eighteen hundred. For a man with an income of a hundred thousand rubles, as people supposed Vronsky to have, these debts would be a mere bagatelle; but the fact was, that he had not an income of a hundred thousand rubles. The large paternal estate, realizing two hundred thousand rubles a year, had been divided between the two brothers. But when the elder
suffice.

The remaining debts were

brother, laden with debts, married the Princess Varia Tchir1 kovai'a, the daughter of a Dekabrist, who brought him no fortune, Aleksei yielded him his share of the inheritance, reserving only an income of twenty-five thousand rubles. He told his brother that this would be sufficient for him until

he married, which he thought would never happen. His brother, the colonel of one of the most expensive regiments His mother, who in the service, could not refuse this gift. possessed an independent fortune, gave her younger sou a yearly allowance of twenty thousand rubles and Aleksei spent the whole. Afterwards the countess, angry with him on account of his departure from Moscow, and his disgrace;

sion of the

The Pekabrists wore the revolutionists Emperor Nicholas.

of

December,

1825, the time of the acces-

320

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

ful amour, ceased to remit to him his allowance. So that Vronsky, living on a foi^-five-thousand-ruble footing, now found himself reduced to only twenty-five thousand. He could not apply to his mother to help him out of his difficulty, for the letter which he had just received from her angered him by the allusions which it contained she was ready, it said, to help him along in society, or to advance him in his career, but not in this present life which was scandalizing all the His mother's attempt to bribe him wounded best people. him in the tenderest spot in his heart, and he felt more coldHe could not retract his magnanily towards her than ever. mous promise given to his brother although he felt now, in view of his rather uncertain relationship with Madame Kare"nina, that his magnanimous promise had been given too hastily, and that, even though he were not married, the hundred thousand rubles might stand him in good stead. He was prevented from retracting his promise only by the
: ;

memory of his brother's wife, the gentle, excellent Varia, who ftlways made him understand that she should not forgetand never cease to appreciate it. It would be as impossible as to strike a woman, to steal, or to lie. There was only one possible and practicable thing, and Vronto borrow sky adopted it without a moment's hesitation, ten thousand rubles of a usurer, which would offer no difficulties, to reduce his expenses, and to sell his race-horses. Having decided upon this, he wrote a letter to Rolandaki, who had many times offered to buy his stud. Then he sent for his English trainer and the usurer, and devoted the money which he had on hand to various accounts. Having finished this labor, he wrote a cold and sharp note to his mother and then taking from his portfolio Anna's last three letters, he re-read them, burned them, and, remembering his last conversation with her, fell into deep meditation.
his generosity,
;

XX.
VRONSKY'S life was especially happy, because he had formed a special code of rules, which never failed to regulate what he ought to do, and what he ought not to do.
This code applied to a very small circle of duties, but they were strictly determined and as \r ronsky never had occasion to go outside of this circle, he had never been obliged
;

ANNA

KABtiNINA.

321

This code prescribed to hesitate about his course of action. unfailingly, that it was necessary to pay gambling- debts, but
bills that it was not possible to tell lies, exthat the only persons legitimately open to cept to women deceit were husbands that insults could be committed, but never pardoned. All these precepts might be wrong and illogical, but they were indispensable and, while fulfilling them, Vronsky felt that he was calm, and had the right to hold his head high. Since his intimacy with Anna, however, Vronsky began to perceive that his code was not complete on all sides and, as the condition of his life had changed, he no longer found any reply to his doubts, and even began to hesitate about the

not his tailor's

future.

Until the present time his relations with Anna and her husband had been, on his part, simple and clear: they were in harmony with the code which guided him. She was an honorable woman, who had given him her love, and he loved her, and therefore she had every imaginable right to his He respect, even more than if she had been his legal wife. would have given his right hand sooner than permit himself a word or an allusion that might wound her, or any thing that could seem derogatory to the esteem and respect upon

which, as a woman, she ought to count. His relations with society were not less clearly defined. All might know or suspect his relations with her, but no one should dare to speak of it. At the first hint, he was prepared to cause the speaker to hold his peace, and to respect the imaginary honor of the woman whom he loved.
Still more clear were his relations to the husband from the first moment when Anna gave him her love he prescribed to her his own law, without fear of contradiction. The hus:

band was merely a useless, disagreeable person. Without doubt, he was in an awkward position but what could be done about it ? The only right that was left him was to seek satisfaction with arms in their hands, and for this Vronsky was wholly willing. These last few days, however, had brought new complications, and Vronsky was not prepared to settle them. Only the evening before, Anna had confessed that she was in and he knew that she expected him to make some trouble move, but the ruling principles of his life gave him no clew as to what he ought to do. At the first moment, when she
;
;

322
told

ANNA
him her

KARtiNINA.

He

do so but at the same time he was alarmed and perplexed. "If I urge her to leave her husband, it would mean, unite her life with mine. I ready for that? How can I elope with her when I have not any money? Let us admit that I can get it but how can I take her away while I am connected with the service? If I should decide upon this, I should have to get money, and throw up my commission." And he fell into thought. The question of resigning, or not, brought him face to face with another interest of his
;

said this, but now would be better not to

situation, his heart bade him elope with her. oil reflection he saw clearly that it

Am

life

known only to himself, though spur to his action.

it

formed the principal

Ambition had been the dream of his childhood and youth, a dream which he did not confess to himself, but which was nevertheless so strong that it fought with his love. His first
in society, and in his military career, had been but two years before he had made a serious blunder. Wishing to show his independence, and to cause a sensation, he refused a promotion offered him, imagining that his refusal would put a still higher value upon him. But it seemed that he was too confident, and since then he had been neglected. He found himself reduced nolens volens to the position of an independent man, who asked for nothing, and could not take it amiss if he were left in peace to amuse himself as he pleased. In reality, as the year went

advances

brilliant,

on, and since his return from Moscow, his independence weighed upon him. He felt that many people were beginning to think that he was incapable of doing any thing, instead of a good, honorable fellow, capable of doing any thing, but not caring to. His relations with Madame Karnina, by attracting attention to him, for a time calmed the gnawings of the worm of ambition, but lately this worm had begun to gnaw with renewed energy. Serpukhovskoi the friend of his childhood, belonging to his own circle, a chum of his in the School of Pages, who had graduated with him, who had been his rival in the class-room and in gymnasium, in his pranks and in his ambitions had just returned from Central Asia, where he had advanced two steps (two tchins) on the ladder of promotion, and won honors rarely given to such a young

ANNA
general. him as a

KARtiNlNA.

323
of

He was now
new

in Petersburg,

and people spoke

rising star of the first magnitude. Just Vronsky's age, and his intimate friend,

he was a

general, and was expecting an appointment which would give him great influence in the affairs of the country ; while Vrousky, though he was independent and brilliant, and loved by a lovel}' woman, was only a cavalry captain, whom they allowed to remain as he was, and do as he pleased. "Of course," he said to himself, "I am not envious of Serpukhovskoi but his promotion proves that a man like me only needs to bide his time in order to make a rapid rise in his profession. It is scarcely three years ago that he was If I left the service, I in the same position as I am now. should burn my ships. If I stay in the service, I lose nothing did she not herself tell me that she did not want to And can I, sure of her love, be envichange her position ? ous of Serpukhovskoi?" And, slowly twisting his mustache, he arose from the His eyes table, and began to walk up and down the room. shone with extraordinary brilliancy ; and he was conscious of that calm, even, and joyous state of mind that he always felt after regulating his accounts. All was now clear and orderly as ever. He shaved, took a cold-water bath, dressed, and prepared to go out.
; :

XXI.
Your accounts took a long time to-day, didn't they? Are you through?" "All through," said Vronsky, smiling only with his eyes, and continuing to twist the ends of his mustache deliberately, as though, after this work of regulation were accomplished,
room.

"I WAS coming "

for you," said

Petritsky, entering the

any rash and quick motion might destroy it. " You always come out of this operation as from a bath," " I come from Gritska's. said are

waiting Petritsky. They for you." Their colonel's name was Demin, but they all called him Gritska, the diminutive of Grigorie. Vronsky looked at his comrade without replying: his

thoughts were elsewhere. "Z>a/ then that music is at his house?" he remarked, hearing the well-known sounds of waltzes and polkas, played by

324

ANNA

KAItfiNINA.

" What is the celebraa military band at some distance. tion?" " Serpukhovskoi has come." "Ah " said Vronsky, " I did not know it." The smile in his eyes was brighter than ever. He had himself elected to sacrifice his ambition to his love, and again he argued that he was happy in his choice. He therefore could feel neither envy at Serpukhovskoi, nor vexation because he, returning to the regiment, had not come first to see him.
!

very glad." lived in a vast seignorial mansion. When Vronsky arrived, he found all the company assembled on the What first struck his eyes as he lower front balcony. reached the door were the singers of the regiment, in summer kitels, grouped around a keg of vodka, and the healthy, He jovial face of the colonel surrounded by his officers.
!

"

Ah

am

Colonel

Demin

was standing on the front step of the balcony, screaming louder than the music, which was playing one of Offenbach's He was giving some orders and gesticulating to quadrilles. a group of soldiers on one side. group of soldiers, the vdkhmistr [sergeant], and a few non-commissioned officers, reached the balcony at the same instant with Vronsky. The colonel, who had been to the table, returned with a glass of champagne to the front steps, and proposed the toast, "To our old comrade, the brave general Prince Serpukhovskoi. Hurrah!" Behind the colonel came Serpukhovskoi, smiling, with a glass in his hand. "You are alwaj's young, Bondarenko," said he to the vdkhmistr. a ruddy-cheeked soldier lad, who stood directly in front of him, in the front row. Vrousky had not seen Serpukhovskoi for three j-ears. He had grown older, and wore whiskers, but his regular and handsome features were not more striking than the nobility and gentleness of his whole bearing. The only change that Vronsky noted in him was the slight but constant radiance which can generally be seen in the faces of people who have

succeeded, and made everybody else believe in their success. Vronsky had seen it in other people, and now he detected it

Serpukhovskoi. he descended the steps he caught sight of Vronsky, and a smile of joy irradiated his face. He nodded to him, lifting his wine-cup as a greeting, and at the same time to signify

in

As

ANNA
that

KARtiNlNA.

325

first he must drink with the vdkhmistr, who, standing perfectly straight, had puckered his lips for the kiss. " t; " but Yashvin was Nu ! here he is cried the colonel ; telling me that you were in one of your bad humors." Serpukhovskoi, having kissed the vdkhmistr''s moist, fresh
!

lips,

wiped his mouth with his handkerchief, and came to " he said, shaking hands, Vronsky. "Nu! how glad I am and drawing him to one side. "Bring him along," cried the colonel to Yashvin, pointing to Vronsky, and descending to join the soldiers. " Why didn't you come to the races yesterday? I expected to see you," said Vrousky to Serpukhovskoi, studying his
!

face. " I did come, but too late. Excuse me," he said; and, " Please have this distributed with turning to his adjutant,

only have it get to the men." hurriedly took out of his pocket-book three hundred-ruble notes, and handed them to him. "Vrousky, will you have something to eat or drink?" asked Yashvin. " Hey bring something to the count here. There, now, drink this." The feasting at the colonel's lasted a long time. They drank a great deal. They toasted Serpukhovskoi, and carThen the colonel and Petritsky ried him on their shoulders. danced a Russian dance, while the regimental singers made the music and when he was tired, he sat down on a bench near the door, and tried to prove to Yashvin, Russia's superiand the ority over Prussia, especially in cavalry-charges Serpukhovskoi went ga}'ety calmed down for a moment. into the house to wash his hands, and found Vronsky in the lavatory. Vronsky was pouring on the water. He had taken

my thanks And he

and was sousing his head and his handsome neck under the faucet, and rubbing them with his hands. When he had finished his ablutions, he sat down by Serpukhovskoi on a divcmtchik [a small sofa], and a conversation very interesting to both parties arose between them. "I have learned all about you through my wife," said " I am Serpukhovskoi. glad that you see her so often." " She is a friend of Varia's, and they are the only women
off his kitel,

Petersburg that I care to see," said Vronsky with a smile. smiled because he foresaw on what subject the conversation would turn, and it was not displeasing to him. " " The repeated Serpukhovskoi, also smiling. only ones?
in

He

326
" Yes
;

ANNA KAR&NINA.

and I, too, know all about YOU, Tmfc not through your wife only," said Vronsky, cutting short, by the sud" and I am denly stern expression of his face, the allusion T at your success, but not the least surprised. very glad expected even more." Serpukhovskoi smiled again. This flattering opini him pleased him, and he saw no reason to hide it. " I on the contrary, I confess frankly, expected less. But I am ambitious I am glad, very glad. it is my weakness,
;
:

and "

I confess it."

Perhaps you wouldn't confess

it if

you weren't success-

ful," suggested Vronsky. " I think " I will not so," replied Serpukhovskoi'. say that life would not be worth living without it, but it would be Of course I may deceive myself, but it seems to tiresome. ine that I possess the qualifications necessary to the sphere of activity which I have chosen, and that in my hands power of any sort soever would be better placed than in the hands of many whom I know," said Serpukhovskoi, with the radiant " and therefore, the nearer I am to expression of success the moi'e contented I feel." power, "Perhaps this is true for you, but not for everybody. I used to think so, and yet I live, and no longer find that ambition is the only aim of existence." " Vot ono! vot ono! " cried I Serpukhovskoi, laughing. began by saying that I heard about you, about your refusal of course I approved of you. There is a way for every r thing and I think that } our action itself was well, but you did not do it in the right way."
; ' ;

" What is done, is done and you know I never go back on what I have done. Besides, I am very well fixed." " for a time. But you will not he contented Very well I do not refer to your brother. so forever. He a very " just like this host of ours. Hark hear that? good fellow " He he added, hearing the shouts and hurrahs. be may happy, but this will not satisfy you." " I don't that I am satisfied."
; !

"Da!
"
sary
!

say

and not

this alone.

Such men as you are neces-

"To whom?" "To whom? to

;

she needs a party

Russia needs men; society; to Russia. otherwise all is going, and will go, to the

dogs."

ANNA
"
sian
"\Vhat

KARfiNINA.

327

do you mean? " communists?

Bertenef s party against the Rus-

" No," said Serpukhovskoi, with a grimace of vexation that he should be accused of any such nonsense. "Tout gaest une blague! [All that is fudge]. This always has been, and But inalways will be. There aren't an}* communists. triguing people must needs invent some malignant dangerous It's an old joke. No, a powerful party is needed, of party.
independent men, " "
like

meaning, or which may even be bad. And all this direction is only a means for providing them a home at the expense of the crown and certain salaries. Cela n'est pas plus Jin que

" " but wh\- aren't they among the independents? " Simply because they had not, through birth, an independent position, or a name, and have not lived near the sun, as we have. They can be bought by money or honors. And to maintain themselves, the}- must invent a direction and they must follow this direction, to which they do not attach any
;

But why

you and me." Vronsky named several

influential

men

$a [That is all that it amounts to] when you look at their cards. Maybe I am worse or more foolish than they, though I don't see why I ought to be worse than they. But I have, and you have, the one inestimable advantage, that it is harder to buy us. And men of this stamp are more than ever neces-

sary."

Vronsky listened attentively, not only because of the meaning of his words, but because of their connection with Serpukhovskoi's own case, who was about to engage in the struggle, and was entering into that official world, with its sympathies and antipathies, while he was occupied only with the interests of his squadron. Vronsky perceived how strong Serpukhovskoi might be, with his unfailing aptitude for invention, his quickness of comprehension, his intellect, and fluent speech, so rarely met with in the circle in which he lived. And, shameful as it was, he felt a twinge of envy. " All that I need for this, is the one essential thing," said " the desire for he, power. I had it, but it is gone." "Excuse me: I don't believe you," said Serpukovsko'i,
smiling.
sisted
' k

"No:
Yes
;

it

is

true, true

now
is

to speak sincerely,"
;

perwill

Vronsky.
true now,

that

another affair

this

now

not last forever."

328
"Perhaps."
,

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

say perhaps; and I tell you certainly not," continued Serpukhovskoi, as though he divined his thought " And that is why I wanted to see you. You declined, as I understand that but it is not you felt was necessary. All I ask necessary for you to stick to it [persever irovat~\. of }'ou is carte blanche for the future. I am not your patron and yet why should I not take you under my protection? Have you not often done as much for me? I hope that our friendship stands above that. Da! " said he, smiling at him tenderly, like a woman. " Give me carte blanche. Come out of your regiment, and I will push you so that it won't be
;

"You

known." " But understand

should be as
that
it

that

want nothing except that

all

has been."
;

" You Serpukhovskoi arose, and stood facing him. say all must be as it has been. I understand you but listen to me. We are of the same age maybe you have known more women than I." His smile and his gesture told Vronsk}* that he would touch gently and delicately on " But I am married the tender spot. and, in faith, as some one or other wrote, he who knows only his wife, and loves her, understands all women better than if he had known a thousand." "Coming directly," cried Vronsky to an officer who looked in at the room, and said he was sent by the colonel.
: ;

Vronsky now

felt

curious to hear and to

know what

Ser-

pukhovskoi would say to him.

"And

this is

my

bling-block in the

way

idea: Women are the principal stumof a man's activity. It is hard to love
is
;

a woman, and to do any thing else. There to love with comfort, and without hinderance

only one way and that is, to

And how to explain to you what I mean," conmarry. " da! tinued Serpukhovskoi, who was fond of metaphors, had to carry a fardeau [burden] your hands suppose you are of no good until they fasten the fardeau on your back. And so it is with marriage. And I found this out when I got married. My hands suddenly became free. But to carry this fardeau without marriage, your hands will be so full that you can't do any thing. Look at Mazankof, Krupof. They ruined their careers through women." " But what women " said Vronsky, remembering the French woman and the actress on whom these two men had thrown themselves away.
:
!

ANNA
" The higher the woman
the difficulty.

KAEtiNINA.
is in

329

the social scale, the greater not to carry your fardeau in your hands, but to tear it from some other man." "You have never loved," murmured Vronsky, looking straight ahead, and thinking of Anna. " Perhaps but you think of what I have told you. And women are all more material than men. one thing more make something immense out of love, but they are all " terre-ci-terre [of the earth, earthy]. " he cried to the lackey, who "Right away, right away! was coming into the room. But the lackey was not a messenger for him, as he supposed. The lackey brought Vronsky
It is just the

same as

We

a note.

" A man brought this from the Princess Tverskai'a." Vronsky hastily read the note, and grew red in the face. " I have a headache. I am home," said he to
going
Serpukhovskoi.

"
' '

We

Nti, proshcha'i! will will talk about

" you give me carte blanche? I will meet you it by and by.

in

Petersburg."

XXII.
IT was already six o'clock and in order not to miss his appointment, or to go with his own horses, which everybody knew, Vronsky engaged Yashvin's hired carriage, and told the izvoshchik to drive with all speed. It was a spacious old carriage, with room for four. He sat in one corner, stretched his legs out on the empty seat, and began to think. The confused consciousness of the order in which he had regulated his affairs the confused recollection of the friendship and flattery of Serpukhofskoi, who assured him that he was an indispensable man and most of all, the expectation of the coming interview, conspired to give him a keen sense of the joy of living. This impression was so powerful that he could not restrain his joy. He stretched his legs, threw one knee over the other, felt for the contusion that his fall
; ; ;

had given him the evening before, and drew several long breaths with full lungs. "Good, very good," said he to himself. Oftentimes before he had felt a pleasure in the possession of his body, but It was never had he so loved it, or loved himself, as now. even pleasurable to feel the slight soreness in his leg, pleas-

330

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

urable was the mouse-like sensation of motion on his breast when he breathed. This same bright, cool, August day, which so painfully impressed Anna, stimulated, vitalized him, and refreshed his
face and neck, which still burned from the re-action after his The odor of brilliantine from his whiskers seemed bath. pleasant to him in this fresh atmosphere. Every thing that he saw from the carriage- window seemed to him in this cool, pure air, in this pale light of the dying day, fresh, joyous, and And the house-tops shining in the healthful, like himself. rays'of the setting sun, the outlines of the fences and the edifices along the ways, and the shapes of occasional pedestrians and carriages hunying hither and thither, and the motionless leaves, and the lawns, and the fields with their straight-cut rows of potato-hills, and the oblique shadows cast by the houses and the trees, and even by the potato-hills, all was as beautiful as an exquisite landscape just from the master's hand, and freshly varnished.

"Make haste, make haste!" he shouted, pushing up through the window a three-ruble note to the driver, who turned round, and looked down towards him. The izvoshchik's hand arranged something about the lantern, then he applied the knout to his horses, and the carriage whirled rapidty over the even pavement. "I need nothing, nothing, but this pleasure," he thought, as his 63-68 rested on the knob of the bell, fastened between the windows, and he imagined Anna as she seemed when last Ah he saw her. ''The farther I go, the more I love her.
!

Where shall I find the garden of the Vrede datcha. her? How? Why did she make this appointment? and why This struck him for the did she write on Betsy's note?" He stopped first time, but he had no time to think about it. the driver before they reached the drive- way, and, getting out of the carriage, he went up the walk which led to the house. There was no one on the avenue but going a little farther, and looking straight ahead, he saw her. Her face was covered with a thick veil but with a joyful glance, he recognized her immediately, by her graceful motion as she walked, by the slope of her shoulders, and the pose of her head, and
here
is
;
;

he

felt as

though an

With new strength he felt the joy of from the movements of his limbs to
piration. his hand.

When

shock had passed through him. life and of action, even the easy motion of resthey neared each other, she eagerly seized
electric

ANNA RA&NINA.
;

881

" You are not angry because I asked YOU to come? I aband the serious and solutely needed to see you,'*' she said stern closing of the lips, which he saw under the veil, quickly put an end to his jubilant spirits. " I angry? but why did you come? when?" " No matter about that," said she, taking Vronsky's arm. " Come I must have a talk with you." He perceived that something had happened, and that their While with her, he could not interview would not be joyful. control his will. Though he did not know what her agitation portended, yet he felt that it had taken possession of him
:

also.
tl

the matter? he asked, pressing her arm, and trying to read her thoughts by her face. She went a few steps in silence, so as to get her breath then she suddenly halted. " I did not tell you last evening," she began, breathing fast and painfully, "that, coming home with Alekse'i AlekI said that I saudrovitch, I confessed to him eveiy thing and I told him all." could not be his wife He listened, leaning towards her, as though ne wished to but as soon lighten for her the difficulty of this confidence as she finished speaking, he suddenly drew himself up, and his face assumed a haughty and stern expression. " Da! da! that was better, a thousand times better," he said. But she did not heed his words, she read his thoughts on his expressive face. She could not know that the expression of his face arose from the first thought that came into his mind, the thought that the duel must now be fought. Never had the thought of a duel entered her head, and the interpretation which she gave to the sudden change in his
is it?
is
;

What

What

"

appearance was quite different. Since the arrival of her husband's letter, she felt in the bottom of her heart that all would remain as before that she should not have the strength to sacrifice her position in
;

abandon her son, and join her lover. The morning spent with the Princess Tverskaia confirmed her in this. But the interview with Vronsky seemed to be of vital She hoped that it might change their relations importance. and save her. If, when they first met, he had said decidedly, passionately, without a moment's hesitation, "Leave all, and come with me," she would have even abandoned her son, and gone with him. But their meeting had been the opposite
the world, to

332

ANNA
:

KARfiNINA.

of what she expected he seemed, if any thing, vexed and angry. " It was not hard for me at all. It came of its own accord," she said, with a touch of irritation; "and here" she drew her husband's letter from her glove.
I understand, I understand," interrupted Vronsky, taking the letter, but not reading it, and trying to calm Anna. "The one thing I wanted, the one thing I prayed for to put an end to this situation, so that I could devote my whole
life to
' '

"

your happiness."
' '

Why do you say that to me ?

If I

she asked.

' '

Can

doubt

it?

doubted"
are those?" asked
in their direction.

Vronsky abruptly, seeing two " Perhaps they know us." And he hastily drew Anna with him down a side alley. "Ach! it is all the same to me," she said. Her lips trembled, and it seemed to Vronsky that her eyes looked at him from under her veil with strange hatred. "As I said, in all this affair, I cannot doubt you. But here is what he wrote me. Read it." And again she halted. Again, as when he first learned of Anna's rupture with her
ladies

"Who

coming

husband, Vronsky, beginning to read this

rily

letter,

involunta-

by

Now

to the impression awakened in him the thought of his relations to the deceived husband. that he had the letter in his hand, he imagined the

abandoned himself

challenge which he would receive the next da}\ and the duel itself, at the moment when, with the same cool and haughty expression which now set his face, he would stand in front of his adversary, and, having discharged his weapon in the air, would wait the outraged husband's shot. And Serpukhovsko'i's words flashed through his mind, " Better not tie your" self down and he felt the impossibility of explaining them
;

to her.

After he read the note, he raised his eyes to her, and there was indecision in his look. She instantly perceived that he had thought this matter over before. She knew that whatever he said to her, he would not say all that he thought. And her last hope vanished. This was not what she had
desired.

"You see tering voice.

what sort of a man he " He "

is," said she with fal-

" Excuse me, but I am glad of this," said Vronsky. inter"For Heaven's sake, let me speak," he quickly rupting.

ANNA KARNINA.

333

added, begging her with his look to give him time to finish what he began to say. " I am glad, because this cannot, and never could, go on as he imagines." "Why can't it?" demanded Anna, holding back her tears, and not attaching any importance to what he said, for she felt that her fate was already settled. It was in Vronsky's mind to say, that after the duel, which he felt was inevitable, this situation must be changed but he said something quite different. " It cannot go on so. I hope that now you will leave him. " that he stumbled and grew red I hope" you will allow me to take charge of our lives, and regulate them. To;

morrow

' '

She did not allow him to

finish.

"And my sou!"
writes ?

she cried. "Do you see what he I must leave him but I cannot, and I will not,
;

do that." " But which

is

better,

to leave your son, or to continue

this humiliating

and especially for you." Don't say that. For me that word has no meaning," said she with trembling voice. She could not bear now to have him tell her a falsehood. Her love for him was trembling in the balance, and she wished to love him. " You must know that for me, on that day when I For me there first loved you, ever}' thing was transformed. was one thing, and only one thing, your love. If it is
us,

" For whom " For all of

situation?" is it a humiliating situation?"

"You

say humiliating!

mine, then I feel myself so high, so firm, that nothing can be humiliating to me. I am proud of my position, because She did not say why she was proud that proud" Tears of shame and despair choked her utterance. proud. She stopped, and began to sob.

For the also felt that something rose in his throat. He could not have life he felt ready to cry. He was sorry for her, and he said what affected him so.
first

He

time in his

felt that he could not help her and, more than all, he knew that he was the cause of her unhappiness, that he had done
;

something abominable. "Then a divorce is impossible?" he asked gently. She shook her head without replying. " Then, could you not
take your sou, and leave him? " Yes but all this depends on him now.
;

"

Now

must go

334

ANNA KAR&NINA.

to him," she said dryly. Her presentiment that all would be as before was verified. " I shall be in Petersburg Tuesday, and every thing will

be decided."

" " But we shall not Yes," she repeated. speak any more about that." Anna's carriage, which she sent away with the order to come back for her at the railing of the Vrede Garden, was approaching. Anna took leave of Vrousky, and went home.
XXIII.

THE Commission of the 2d of June, as a general thing, held its sittings on Monday. Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch entered the committee-room, bowed to the members and the president as usual, and took his place, laying his hand on the papers made ready for him. Among the number were the data which he needed, and the notes on the proposition that he intended to submit to the Commission. These notes, however, were not necessary. His grasp of the subject was complete, and he did not need to refresh his memory as to what he was going to say. He knew that when the time came, and he was face to face with his adversary, vainly endeavoring to put on an expression of indifference, his speech would come of He felt itself in better shape than he could now determine. that the meaning of his speech was so great that every word would have its importance. Meantime, as he listened to the reading of the report, he put on a most innocent and inoffenNo one seeing his white hands, with their sive expression. swollen veins, his delicate, long fingers doubling up the two ends of the sheet of white paper lying before him, and Ins expression of weariness, as he sat with head on one side, would have believed it possible, that, in a few moments, from his lips would proceed a speech which would raise a real tempest, cause the members of the Commission to outdo each other in screaming, and oblige the president to call them to order. AVhen the report was finished, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, in his weak, shrill voice, said that he had a few observations to .make in regard to the situation of the foreign tribes. Attention was concentrated upon him. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch cleared his throat, and not looking at his adversary, but, as he always did at the beginning of his speeches,

A NXA KARfiyiNA.
happened
views.

835

addressing the person who sat nearest in front of him, who to be a little, insignificant old man, without the

slightest importance in the Commission, began to deliver his When he reached the matter of the fundamental and

organic law, his adversary leaped to his feet, and began to Stremof, who was also a member of the Commission, reply. and also touched to the quick, arose to defend himself and But Aleksei the session proved to be excessively stormy. Aleksandrovitch triumphed, and his proposition was acThe three new commissions were appointed, and cepted. the next day in certain Petersburg circles this session formed Aleksei Aleksandrovitch 's the staple topic of conversation. success far outstripped his anticipations.
;

The next morning, which was Tuesday, Karenin, on

recalled with pleasure his success of the day and he could not repress a smile, although he wanted to appear indifferent, when his chief secretary, in order to be agreeable, told him of the rumors which had reached his ears in regard to the proceedings of the com-

awaking,
;

before

mission.

Occupied as he was with the secretary, Aleksei Aleksandroviteh absolutely forgot that the day was Tuesday, the and he was surday set for Anna Arkadyevna's return prised and disagreeably impressed when a domestic came to announce that she had come. Anna reached Petersburg early in the morning. carriage had been sent for her in response to her telegram, and so Aleksei Aleksandrovitch might have known of her comBut when she came, he did not go to receive her. ing. She was told that he had not come down yet, but was She bade the servant announce busy with his secretary. her arrival, and then went to her boudoir, and began to unpack her things, expecting that he would come to her. But an hour passed, and he did not appear. She went to the dining-room, under the pretext of giving some orders, and spoke unusually loud, thinking that he would join her there. But still he did not come, though she heard him go out from the library, and take leave of the secretary. She knew that he generally went out after his conference and so she wanted to see him, so that their plan of action might be decided. She went into the hall, and finally decided to go to him. She stepped into the library. Dressed in his uniform, ap;

336

ANNA

KARtfNINA.
little

patently ready to take his departure, he was sitting at a

table,

on which his elbows rested. He was wrapped in melancholy thought. She saw him before he noticed her, and she knew that he was thinking of her.

he caught sight of her, he started to get up, refirst time since Anna had known him, he blushed. Then quickly rising, he advanced towards her, not looking at her face, but at her forehead and hair. He came to her, took her by the hand, and invited her to
flected,

When

and then, for the

sit

very glad that you have ccrme," he stammered, sither, arid evidently desiring to talk with her. Several times he began to speak, but hesitated. Although she was prepared for this interview, and had made up her mind to defend herself, and accuse him, she did not know what to say, and pitied him. And so the silence
ting

down. " I am

down near

some little time. " Serozha well ? " at length he asked and, without wait" I shall not dine at home toing for an answer, he added, day I have to go right away." " I intended to start for Moscow," said Anna. " No you did very, very well to come home," he replied, and again was silent. Seeing that it was beyond his strength to begin the conversation, she herself began " Aleksel Aleksandrovitch," said she, looking at him, and not dropping her eyes under his gaze, which was still con" I am a centrated on her woman I am
lasted
; :
:

head-dress,

guilty

a wicked

woman

you I was, change." " I do not ask for that," he replied instantly, in a decided voice, and looking with an expression of hate straight into her eyes. " I presupposed that." Under the influence of
anger, he apparently regained control of all his faculties. "But as I told you then, and wrote you " (he spoke in a " I now sharp, shrill voice), repeat, that I am not obliged to have it thrust into my face. I ignore it. Not all women are so good as you are, to hasten to give their husbands such very pleasant news." He laid a special stress on the word "pleasant" \_priatnoe~\. "I will ignore it for the so long as present, so long as the world does not know, my name is not dishonored. I, therefore, only warn you

have been, what I told and I have come to tell you that I cannot
;

but I

am what

ANNA
and that

EARtiNINA.

337

that our relations must remain as they always have been, onl}* in case of your compromising yourself, shall I be forced to take measures to protect my honor." "But our relations cannot remain as they have been," she said with timid accents, looking at him in terror. As she once more saw his undemonstrative gestures, heard his mocking voice with its sharp, childish tones, all the pity that she had begun to feel for him was driven away by the aversion that he inspired, and she had only a feeling of fear, which arose from the fact that she did not see any light in

regard to their relations. " " I cannot be she began. your wife, when I He laughed with a cold and wicked laugh. " It must needs be that the manner of life which you have chosen is reflected in your ideas. I have too much esteem or contempt, or rather I esteem your past, and despise your present, too much for me to accept the interpretation which

you put upon

my

words."

sighed, and bowed her head. " Besides. I do not understand how you, having so much independence," he continued, getting rather excited, "and telling \-our husband up and down of your infidelity, and not finding any thing blameworthy in it, as it seems, how you can find any thing blameworthy either in the fulfilment of a wife's duties to her husband." " " Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch What do you require of me? " I that I may never meet this man here, and that require you comport yourself so that neither the world nor our servants can accuse you It seems that }*ou do not see him. to me, that this is little. And in doing this, you will enjoy the rights and fulfil the obligations of an honorable wife. This is all that I have to say to you. Now it is time for me to go. I shall not dine at home." He got up, and went to the door. Anna also arose. He silently bowed, and allowed her to pass.
!

Anna

XXIV.
its

night spent by Levin on the hay-rick was not without reward. The way in which he administered his estate aroused against him all sorts of interests. Notwithstanding the excellent crops, never, or at least it seemed to him

THE

338

ANNA
;

that never, had there been such failure, and such unfriendly and relations between him and the muzhiks, as this year now the reasons for this failure, and this animosity, were The pleasure which he found in especially clear to him. work itself, the resulting acquaintance with the muzhiks, the envy which seized him when he saw them and their lives, the desire to lead such a life himself, which on that night hud been not visionary but real, the details necessary to all this taken together had so changed carry out his desire, his views in regard to the management of his estate, that he could not take the same interest as before, and he could not help seeing how these unpleasant relations with the laborers met him at every new undertaking. The herd of improved cows, like Pava all the fertilized and ploughed lands nine equal fields well planted the ninety desyatins, covered with oderiferous dressing the deep-drills and other improvements, all was excellent so far as it only concerned himself and the But now he clearly people who were in sympathy with him. saw and his study of the books on rural economy, in which the principal element was found to be the laborer, may have that this present manner of helped him to this conclusion carrying on his estate was only a cruel and wicked struggle between him and the laborers, in which on one side, on his side, was a constant effort to carry out his aspirations for the accomplishment of better models, and on the other side, the In tin's struggle, he saw that on his natural order of things. side, there were effort and lofty purpose, and on the other, no effort or purpose, and that the result was that the estate went from bad to worse beautiful tools were destroj'ed, beautiful The principal objection was the cattle and lands ruined. energy absolutely wasted in this matter but he could not help thinking now, when his thought was laid bare, that the aim of his energies was itself unworthy. In reality, where and lay this quarrel? He defended every penny of his own, he could not help defending them, because he was obliged to use his energies to the utmost, otherwise he would not have
; ; ; ; : ;

and they defended their wherewithal to pay his laborers, right to work lazily and comfortably, in other words, as they had always done. It was for his interests that every laborer should do his very best above all, should strive not to break the winnowing-machines, the horse-rakes, so that he might accomplish what he was doing. But the laborer wanted to do his work as easily as possible, with long breathing-spaces for
;

ANNA KAR&NINA.

339

doing nothing and napping and meditating. The present He sent to mow the year. Levin found this at every step. clover for fodder, meaning the bad desyatins, where there promised to be bare spaces mixed with grass, and not fit and they would cut his best desyatins, reserved for for seed seed, and allege as excuse that it was the prikashchik' s orders ; and they vexed him the more because the fodder was perfectly easy to distinguish, but he knew that they took this because on these desyatins it was easier work.
;

sent the winnowing-machine out, and they broke it on because some muzhik found it disagreeable to sit on the trestle while the vans were flying over his head. And they told him, ''Don't vex yourself about it: the
the
first trial,

He

babul will soon winnow it." They had to give up using the new-fangled ploughs, because the laborer could not get it through his head to let down the shares or else bore down The so that he tired the horses out, and spoiled the land. horses got into the wheat-field, because not one muzhik was and notwithstanding the willing to be night-watchman express commands to the contrary, the laborers took turns
;

OH the night-guard and Vanka, who had been working all " Volya day. fell asleep, and acknowledging his mistake, said, " Three of the best with us as you please]. vaxha [Do heifers were lost because they were let into the clover-patch without water, and no one would believe that the clover would hurt them but they told him for his consolation, that one hundred and twelve head had died in the neighborhood
:

in three days. All this was

done, not because there was enmity against Levin or his estate. On the contraiy, he knew that they loved him, called him by a title which meant in their lips the
highest praise [prosto'i baring.
;

But they did these things simply because they liked to work gayly and idly and his interests seemed not only strange and incomprehensible, but For a long also fatally opposed to their own true interests. time Levin had been feeling discontented with his situation. He saw that his canoe was leaking, but he could not find the leaks and he did not hunt for them, perhaps on purpose to deceive himself. Nothing would have been left him if But now he could not .he had allowed his illusions to perish. His farming was not only no longer longer deceive himself. interesting, but was disgusting to him, and he could not put his heart in it tiny more.
;

340

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

To this was added the fact that Kitty Shcherbatskai'a was not more than thirty versts away, and he wanted to see her, and could not. Darya Aleksandrovna Oblonskai'a, when he called upon to come with the express purpose her, invited him to come, of renewing his offer to her sister, who, as she pretended to Levin himself, after he caught think, now cared for him. the glimpse of Kitty Shcherbatska'ia, felt that he had not ceased to love her; but he could not go to the Oblonskys', because he knew that she was there. The fact that he had offered himself, and she had refused him, put an impassable bar between them. " I cannot ask her to be my wife, because she could not be the wife of the man whom she wanted," he
The thought of this made him cold and "I have not the strength to go and towards her. talk with her without a sense of reproach, to look at her without angry feelings and she would feel the same towards me, only more so. And besides, how can I go there now, after what Darya Aleksandrovna told me ? How can I help showsaid to himself.
hostile
;

ing that I know what she told me? That I go with magto pardon her, to be reconciled to her! I, in nanimity, her presence, play the role of a pardoning and honor-conferWhy did Darya Aleksandrovna tell me ring lover to her that? I might meet her accidentally, and then all would go " of itself but now it is impossible, impossible Aleksandrovna sent him a note, asking the loan of Darya a side-saddle for Kitty. " The}- tell me you have a saddle," she wrote " I hope that you will bring it yourself." This was too much for him. How could a sensible woman of any delicacy so lower her sister? He wrote ten notes, and tore them all up, and then sent the saddle without any To write that he would come was impossible, because reply. he could not come to write that he could not come because he was busy, or was going awa}- somewhere, was still worse. So he sent the saddle without any reply and, with the consciousness that he was doing something disgraceful, on the next day, leaving the now disagreeable charge of the estate to the prikashchik, he set off to a distant district to see his friend Sviazhsky, who lived surrounded by a beautiful hunting-ground, and who had lately invited him to fulfil an old project of making him a visit. The woodcock-marshes in the district of Surof had long attracted Levin, but on account of his farm-work he had always put off this visit. Now he
!

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

341

was glad to go from the neighborhood of the Shcherbatskys, and especially from his estate, and to hunt, which for all his tribulations was always a sovereign remedy.

XXV.
roads

IN the district of Surof there are neither railways nor postand Levin took his own horses, and went in a tarantds
;

[travelling-carriage] . When he was half way, he stopped to get a meal at the house of a rich muzhik. The host, who was a bald, robust old man, with a great red beard, growing gray on the cheeks, opened the gate, crowding up against the post to let the troika enter. Pointing the coachman to a place under the shed in his large, neat, and orderly new court-yard, the starik invited Levin to enter the room. neatly clad young girl, with goloshes on her bare feet, was washing up the floor When she saw Levin's dog, she was of the new tabernacle.

startled,

that the

and screamed, but was re-assured when she found dog would not bite. With her bare arm she pointed

Levin to the guest-room, then, bending over again, she hid her

handsome face, and kept on with her scrubbing. " Want the samovar } " she asked.
1

Yes, please." The guest-room was large, with a Dutch stove and a partition. Under the sacred images stood a table ornamented with different designs, a bench, and two chairs. At the entrance was a cupboard with dishes. The window-shutters were closed there were few flies and it was so neat that Levin took care that Laska, who had been flying over the road, and was covered with splashes of mud, should not soil the floor, and bade her lie down in the corner near the door. Levin went to the back of the house. A good-looking girl in goloshes, swinging her empty pails on the yoke, ran to get him water from the well. " and then Lively there," gayly shouted the starik to her he turned to Levin. "So, sudar [sir], you are going to see Nikolai Ivanovitch Sviazhsky? He often stops with us," he began to say in his garrulous style, as he leaned on the balustrade of the steps. But just as he was in the midst of telling about his acquaintance with Sviazhsky, again the gate creaked on its hinges, and the workmen came in from the
;
;

"

342
fields

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

with their ploughs and horses. The roan horses attaehed to the sok/tas were fat and in good condition. The laborers evidently belonged to the family two were young fellows, and wore cotton chintz shirts [rubdkka], and caps. The other two were hired men, and wore sheepskins one was an old man, the other middle-aged. The starik left Levin standing on the porch, and began to help unhitch the horses. " u What have you been ploughing? " The We've done one lot. You, Fiodot, potato-fields. don't bring the gelding, but leave him at the trough we'll hitch up another." " Say, bdtitishka, shall" I tell 'em to take out the ploughasked a big-framed, healthy-lookshares, or to bring 'em?
:

ing lad, evidently the starik''s son. " Put 'em iii the drags," replied the starik, coiling up the reins, and throwing them on the ground. The handsome girl in goloshes came back to the house with her brimming pails swinging from her shoulders. Other bnbui appeared from different quarters, some }7 oung and comely, others old and ugly, with children and without children. The samovar began to sing on the stove. The workmen and the men of family, having taken out their horses, came in to dinner. Levin, sending for his provisions from the tarcnitds, bogged the starik to take tea with him. " Da tcltt6 ! already drunk my tea," said the starik, evi" However, for company's dently flattered by the invitation. " sake At tea Levin learned the whole history of the starik's domestic economy. Ten years before, the starik had rented of a lady one hundred and twenty deftyatins, and the year before had bought them and he had rented three hundred more of a A small portion of this land, and neighboring land-owner. that the poorest, he sublet but four hundred deny at ins he himself worked, with the help of his sons and two hired men. The starik complained that all was going bad but Levin saw that he complained only for form's sake, and that his affairs were flourishing. If they were bad he would not have bought land for five hundred rubles, or married off his three sons and his nephew, or built twice after his izbti was burned, and each time better. Notwithstanding the starik' a complaints, it was evident that he felt pride in his prosperity,
;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

343

pride in his sons, in his nephew, his daughters, his horses, his cows, and especially in the fact that he owned all this doFrom his conversation with the starik Levin learned main. He planted many that he believed in modern improvements. and his potatoes, which Levin saw in the storehouse, potatoes he had already dug and brought in, while on Levin's estate they had only begun to dig them. He used the plough on the potato-fields, as he had ploughs which he got from the proprietor. He sowed wheat. The little detail that the starik sowed rye, and fed his horses with it, especially struck Levin. Levin had seen this beautiful fodder going to ruin, and had wished to harvest it but he found it impossible to accom; ;

plish

it.

The muzhik used

it.

it,

and could not

find sufficient

praise for

" " How do the women [babionkf] do it? "Oh! they pile it up on one side, and

then the telytya

comes to it." " But with us proprietors every thing goes wrong with the hired men," said Levin as he filled his teacup and offered it
to him.

"Thank you," replied the starik, taking the cup, but refusing the sugar, pointing to the lumps which lay in front of him. "One to get along with workmen?" said he.

"How

way.

how do you do with your workmen ? " We watch every thing. It's all among ourselves. We work with our own hands." bones, off they go
" "
"
D<i
!

Here's S via/risky, for example. did land but they don't get decent crops. lack of care."
but

We

know what

splen-

All comes from

Lazy-

Bdtiushka, Finogen wants you to give him the tarwater," said a baba in goloshes, looking in through the door. "So it is, sudar," said the starik, rising; and, having crossed himself many times before the ikons [sacred pictures], he once more thanked Levin, and left the room. When Levin went into the dark izba to give orders to his coachman, he found all the "men-folks" sitting down to The babui were on their feet helping. The healthydinner. looking young son, with his mouth full of kasha, got off^ome and more hilariously joke, and all broke into loud guffaws than the others laughed the baba in goloshes, who was pour;

ing shchi into a tureen. It well might be that the jolly face of the baba iu the

344

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

goloshes co-operated powerfully with the whole impression of orderliness which this peasant home produced on Levin but the impression was so strong that Levin could never get rid of it and all the way from the starik's to Sviazhsky's, again and again he thought of what he had seen at the farm:
;

house, as something deserving special attention.

XXVI.
SviAZHSKr was marshal \_predvoditeT] in his district. He was five years older than Levin, and had been married some His sister-in-law was a very sympathetic young lady time. and Levin knew, as marriageable young men usually know such things, that her friends wanted her to find a husband. Although he dreamed of marriage, and was sure that this lovable young lad}* would make a charming wife, he would sooner have been able to fly to heaven than to marry her, even if he had not been in love with Kitty Shcherbatskai'a. The fear of being looked upon as a suitor took the edge from his pleasure in his prospective visit, and made him hesitate about accepting his friend's invitation. Sviazhsky's domestic life was in the highest degree interesting, and Sviazhsky himself was an interesting type of the proprietor devoted to He was a thorough-going libei'al the affairs of the province. but there was great discrepancy between the opinions which he professed, and his manner of living and acting. He despised the nobility, whom he charged with hostility to emanand he regarded Russia as a rotten country, whose cipation wretched government was scarcely better than Turkey and yet he had accepted public office, and attended faithfully to his duties. He never even went out without donning his official cap, with its red border and cockade. He declared that human existence was endurable only abroad, where he was going to live at the first opportunity but at the same
;
; : ; ;

time he carried on in Russia a very complicated estate

the

in

most perfect style, and was interested in all that was going on in Russia, and was fully up with the times. The Russian muzhik, in his eyes, stood between man and monkey but,when the elections came, he gave his hand to the peasants by preference, and listened to them with the utmost
;

1 KhozydMvo includes household economy, the outside interests, farming, mills, every thing connected with an estate. The master of an estate is called khozydin, the mistress khozy&ika, terms often used for host and hostess.

ANNA
attention.

KAEtiNINA.
;

345

He believed neither in God nor the Devil but he showed great concern in ameliorating the condition of the clergy, and saw that his village church was kept in repair. In regard to the emancipation of women, and especially their right to work, he held the most pronounced and radical ideas but he lived in perfect harmony with his wife, and took entire direction of the family affairs, so that his wife did nothing, and could do nothing, except in co-operation with him, in order to pass the time as agreeably as possible. In spite of the contradictions in his character, Levin did his best to comprehend him, looking upon him as a living and through their social relations he tried to conundrum enter this strange man's inner consciousness. The hunting which Sviazhsky gave him was poor the marshes were dry,
;
;

all day, and got but the compensation was a ravenous appetite, capital spirits, and that intellectual excitement which violent physical exercise always gave him. In the evening, as they sat at the tea-table, Levin found himself next the khozyri'ika, a lady of medium stature and Levin light complexion, all radiant with smiles and dimples. endeavored, through her, to unravel the enigma which her husband's character afforded him but he could not get full control of his thoughts, because opposite him sat the pretty sister-in-law in a dress worn, as it seemed to him, for his especial benefit, with a square corsage cut rather low in front, and giving a glimpse of a very white bosom. He did his best not to look at her, buj; his eyes were constantly attracted to her and he felt ill at ease, and his constraint was shared by the young lad}- herself. But the khozydika seemed not to notice it, and kept up a lively conversation. " You say that my husband does not take an interest in Russian affairs?" she asked. "On the contrary, he was happy when he was abroad, but not so happy as he is here. Here he feels that he is in his sphere. He has so much to do, and he takes especial pains to interest himself in every thing. Ach! you have not been to see our school? " " " Yes, I that little house covered with ivy? have, "Yes: that is Nastia's work," said she, glancing at her

and the woodcock scarce.

only three birds
;

Levin walked

sister.

you yourself teach?" asked Levin, trying to look at Nastia's face, but feeling, that, in spite of him, he would seem to be looking at the parted dress.

"Do

346

ANNA KAR&NINA.
;

" Yes, I teach, and intend to but we have an excellent school-m istress. " No, thank you, I will not take any more tea," said Levin. He felt that he was committing a solecism but he could not keep up the conversation, and he rose in confu' '
;

I am very much interested in what they are saying." he went to the other end of the table, where the kltozyuin was talking with two landed proprietors. Sviazhsky was sitting with his side towards the table, twirling his cup around with one hand, and with the other stroking his His bright black eyes were fixed with keen long beard. amusement on one of the proprietors, a man with a white mustache, who was complaining bitterly about the peasantry. Levin saw that Sviazhsky had an answer ready for the worthy gentleman's comical complaints, and could reduce his arguments to powder if his oih'cial position did not compel him to respect the proprietor's. The proprietor with the white mustache was evidently a narrow-minded country gentleman, an inveterate opponent of the emancipation, and an old-style farmer. Levin could see the signs of it in his old-fashioned shiny coat, in his keen, angry eyes, in his well-balanced Russian speech, in his authoritative, slow, and studied manner, and his imperious gestures with his large, handsome hand ornamented with a single wedding-ring.
sion.

"

And

XXVII.*
" IF it only weren't a pity to abandon what has been it would be better to give cost so much labor, done, La Belle Ilelene,' like up, sell out, go abroad, and hear Nikolai Ivanovitch," the old proprietor was saying; while his intelligent face lighted up with a smile. "Da vot! but still you don't sell out," said Nikolai' Ivanovitch Sviazhsky: "so you must be well off, on the
'

whole." " I am well off in one way, because I have a home of my own, and don't hire or board. Besides, one always But would you hopes that the peasantry will improve. this drunkenness, this laziness believe it, Ever}- thing goes to destruction. No horses, no cows. They starve to death. take them for farm-hands But try to help them, they
!

ANNA KAE&NINA.
manage"
peace
'
!

347
of the

to ruin
1

you

yes, even before a justice

But you, too, can complain to the justice of the peace," said Sviazhsky. " What! I complain? Da! not for the world! All such
shows that complaints are idle. Here, at the mill, they took their handsel, and went off. What did the justice of Your only chance is to go the peace do? Acquitted them.
talk

to the
will

communal

court,

to the starshind.

The starshind
for him, sell
;

have the

out, fly

thrashed for you. " to the ends of the world

!

man

But

The proprietor was evidently trying to tease Sviazhsky but Sviazhsky not only did not lose his temper, but was much amused. " Da vat! we carry on our estates without these meas" I, Levin, he." ures," said he, smiling.
pointed to the other proprietor. but ask Mikhail Petrovitch how his affairs are Is that a rational way [khozyd'ixtvo']?" getting along. demanded the proprietor, especially accenting the word

He

''Yes;

'

rational
'

"

[ratsionalnoe^.

My way is very simple," said Mikhai'1 Petrovitch, " thank the Lord! My whole business lies in seeing that the money is ready for the autumn taxes. The muzhiks Nn! all come, and say, Bdtiushka, help us, father.' Nu I I advance these muzhiks are neighbors I pity 'em. 'em the first third. Only I say, Remember, children, I and you must help me when I need you, help you
' :

'

Nit I I , harvesting.' To be sure, get along with them as with my own family. there are some among them who haven't any conscience." Levin, who knew of old about these patriarchal traditions, exchanged glances with Sviazhsky and, interrupting Mikhail u How would Petrovitch, he said, you advise?" addressing " How do the old proprietor with the gray mustache. you think one's estate \khozyaistvo^ ought to be managed?" " Da! either manage it just as Mikhail Petrovitch does, give half the land to the muzhiks, or go shares with them.
;

7 sowing the oats, getting in the ha}

1 In the Russian mir, or commune, the siarxhind, or elder, is the chief elected every three years. Before the emancipation of the serfs, in 1861, each commune had its district court [voloxtnoi sudi], the decisions of which were often very ridiculous. Among the reforms instituted by the Emperor Alexander II. was the so-called justice oi the peace, more properly, jiuliio of the peace [miroroii sudyd}, an innovation which at first caused much opposition among the peasantry. See Wallace's " " Kussia," and L<;roy Beaulieu's L'limpire des Tears."

348
That
is is

ANNA
possible
less
;

KARfiNlNA.

but, all the same, the wealth of the country

and less. Places on my lands which in the time of serfage, under good management [khosydX&oo], produced ninefold, now produce only threefold. Emancipation
growing
has ruined Russia." Sviazhsky looked at Levin with scornful amusement in his
eyes, and was just making a gesture to express his disdain but Levin listened to the old proprietor's words without any he understood them better than he underfeeling of scorn stood Sviazhsky. Much that the old man said in his complaint, that Russia was ruined by the emancipation, seemed to him true, though his experience did not go so far back. The proprietor evidently expressed his honest thought, a thought which arose, not from any desire to show an idle wit, but from the conditions of his life, which had been spent in the country, where he could see the question practically from
: ;

" The fact is," continued the old proprietor, who evidently wished to show that he was not an enemy of civilization, "all progress is accomplished by force alone. Take the reforms of Peter, of Catharine, of Alexander take European and all the more for progress in agriculture. history itself, The potato, for instance, to have potatoes introduced into Russia took force. We have not always ploughed with ploughs but to get them introduced into our domains took force. Now, in our day, we proprietors, who had seignorial rights, could conduct our affairs to perfection drying-rooms
;

every side.

and winnowing-machines and improved carts all sorts of tools we could introduce, because we had the power; and the muzhiks at first would oppose, and then would imitate us. But now, by the abrogation of serfage, they have taken away our authority and so our estates [kliozyd'istvo] now that every thing is reduced to the same level, must necessarily sink back to the condition of primitive barbarism. This is
;

my" view

of it."

but why? If that were rational, then you could keep on with your improvements by hiring help," said
Sviazhsky. "Not without authority. ask."

Da!

How

could I? allow

me

to

"This this is the working-force, the chief element in the problem before us," thought Levin. "With hired men."

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

349

" Hired men will not work well, or work with good tools. to drink like Our laborers know how to do only one thing, pigs, and, when they are drunk, to spoil every thing that you let them have. They water your horses to death, tear your nice harnesses, take the tires off your wheels and sell them for drink, stick bolts into your winnowing-machines so as to make them useless. Every thing that is not done in their way makes them sick at the stomach. And thus the affairs of our estates go from bad to worse. The lands are neglected, and go to weeds, or else are given to the muzhiks.
Instead of producing millions of tchetverts [5.775 English bushels] of wheat, you can raise only a few hundred thousand. The public wealth is diminishing. If they were going to free the serfs, the}' should have done it gradually." And he developed his own scheme, wherein all difficulties would have been avoided. This plan did not interest Levin, and he returned to his first question, with the hope of inducing Sviazhsky to tell what he seriously thought about it. " It is very true that the level of our agriculture is growing lower and lower, and that in our present relations with the peasantry, it is impossible to carry on our estates rationally," he said. " I am not of that " I opinion," said Sviazhsky seriously. since serfage was abolished, agriculture has dedeny that, cayed and I argue that in those days it was very wretched, and very low. We never had any machines, or good cattle, or decent supervision. We did not even know how to count. Ask a proprietor he could not tell you what a thing cost, or
;

would bring him." "Italian book-keeping!" said the old proprietor ironi" Reckon all cally. you please, and get things mixed as much as you please, there will be no profit in it." " Why get things mixed up? Your miserable flail, your Russian topchatchek, will break all to pieces my steamthresher will not break to pieces. Then your wretched nags how are they? A puny breed that you can pull by the tails, comes to nothing but our percherons are vigorous horses,
it
: ;
;

what

they amount to something. And so with every thing. Our agriculture [khozydistvo'] always needed to be pushed." Da! but it would need some power, Nikolai Ivanuitch. Very well for you but when one has one son at the university, and several others at school, as I have, he can't
'

afford to

buy percherons.

350

ANNA
"

KARfiNINA.

"There are banks on purpose." " To have my last goods and chattels
mer.

sold under the

hamthe

"

No, thank you

level of agriculture much higher," said Levin. " I am much and I have the means, but I caninterested in this question
;

I don't agree that it is

necessary or possible to

lift

not do any thing. And as for banks, I don't know whom they profit. And up to the present time, whatever I have loss spent on my estate, has resulted only in loss. Cattle
;

machines loss." " That is true," said the old proprietor with the gray mustache, laughing with hearty satisfaction. " And I am not the " I call only man," Levin continued. to mind all those who have made experiments in the rational manner.' All, with few exceptions, have come out of it with
'

losses.

Nu! you say that your estate [khozydistvo'] is " he asked, seeing in Sviazhsky's face that tranprofitable? sient expression of embarrassment which he noticed when he wanted to penetrate farther into the reception-room of
Sviazhsky's mind.

However, this question was not entirely fair play on Levin's part. The khozydika told him at tea that they had just had a German expert up from Moscow, who, for five hundred rubles' fee, agreed to put the book-keeping of the estate in order and he found that there had been a net loss of
;

about three thousand rubles. The old proprietor smiled when he heard Levin's quesIt was tion about the profits of Sviazhsky's management. evident that he knew about the state of his neighbors'
finances.

"This only be unprofitable," replied Sviazhsky. either I am a poor economist [kkozy&n], or I sink my capital to increase the revenue." " Ach! revenue!" cried Levin, with horror. "Maybe there is such a thing as revenue in Europe, where the land is better for the labor spent upon it but with us, the more labor spent on it, the worse it is that is because it exhausts it so there is no revenue." " " How, no revenue? It is a law? " Then we are the law. The word revenue exceptions to has no clearness for us, and explains nothing, but \renta] rather confuses. No tell me how revenue " "Won't you have some curds? Masha, send us some

"

May

proves

that

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

351

curds or some raspberries," said Sviazhsky to his wife. " Raspberries have lasted unusually late this year." And, with his usual jovial disposition of soul, Sviazhsky got up and went out, evidently assuming that the discussion was ended, while for Levin it seemed that it had only just

begun. Levin was now left with the old proprietor, and continued to talk with him, endeavoring to prove that all the trouble arose from the fact that we did not try to understand our

But the old proprietor, laborer's habits and peculiarities. like all people accustomed to think alone and for himself, found it difficult to enter into the thought of another, and He declared that the clung firmly to his own opinions. Russian muzhik was a pig, and loved swinishness, and that it needed force to drive him out of his swinishness, or else a stick but we are such liberals that we have swapped off the thousand-year-old stick for these lawyers and jails, where the good-for-nothing, stinking muzhik gets fed on good soup, and has his pure air by the cubic foot. " Why," asked Levin, wishing to get back to the ques" do tion, you think that it is impossible to reach an equilibrium which will utilize the forces of the laborer, and render
;

them productive ?

' '

"That
there
is

will

never come about with the Russian people:

no authority," replied the proprietor. " How could new conditions be found?" asked Sviazhsky, who had been eating his curds, and smoking a cigarette, and now approached the two disputants. "All the needful forms are ready for use, and well learned. That relic of barbarism, the primitive commune where each member is responsible
for
all, is

rial right

falling to pieces of has been abolished

;

its own weight; the seignonow there remains only free

labor,

" you can " But Europe is weary of these forms." "Yes, and perhaps will find new ones, and
!

and its forms are right at hand, the dajMaborer, the journeyman, the farmer, and, now get rid of that if

will progress probably." " This is all I " say about that," said Levin. Why should we not seek for them on our side? " " Because it is just the same as if we should try to find new ways of building railroads. They are all ready, they are thought out."

352

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

" " But if Levin they do not suit us? if they are hurtful? demanded. And again he saw the frightened look in Sviazhsky's eyes. "Da! this: we throw up our caps, we follow wherever All this I know but tell me, are you acEurope leads quainted with all this is doing in Europe about the labor "
! ;

question?

"No;

is now occupying the best minds in Europe. Schulze Delitzsch and his school, then all this prodigious literature on the labor question, the tendencies of the ad-

" This question

very

little."

vanced

liberal Lassalle, the organization

of Miilhausen,

" I have an idea of it, but it's very vague." " No, you only say so you know all this as well as I do. I don't set up to be a professor of social science, but these and I assure you, if they interest you, things interest me you should go into them." " " But where do they lead you? " Beg pardon." The two pomyeshchiks got up and Sviazhsky, again arresting Levin just as he was about to carry out his intention of sounding the depths of his mind, went out with his guests.
: ; ;

this is all a fact,

you must know."

XXVIII.
LEVIN spent the evening with the ladies, and found it unHis mind was stirred, as never before, at endurably stupid. the thought of the disgust that he felt in the administration It seemed to him not exclusively his own of his estate. affair, but a public trust which concerned Russia, and that an organization of labor, in such a manner as he saw at the muzhik's on the highway, was not an illusion, but a problem And it seemed to him that he could settle this to be solved. problem, and that he must attempt to do it. Levin bade the ladies good-night, promising to give them the next morning for a horseback ride to see some interesting slides in the Crown woods. Before going to bed he went to the library, to get some of the books on the labor question which Sviazhsky had recommended. Sviazhsky's library was an enormous room, all lined with book-shelves, and having two tables, one a massive writing-table, standing in

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

353

the centre of the room, and the other round, and laden with recent numbers of journals and reviews, in various languages, Near the writing-table was a arranged about the lamp. cabinet [so?A:a], holding drawers with gilt lettering for the reception of all sorts of papers. Sviazhsky got the volumes, and sat down in a rockingchair.

that you are looking at?" he asked of Levin, the round table, and turning the leaves of a review. Levin held up the review. " Oh, yes there " It is a very interesting article there. appears," he added with gay animation, "that the principal culprit in the partition of Poland was not Frederic after all. It appears" and he gave with that clearness which was characteristic of him, a digest of these new and important discoveries. Levin, who was now more interested in the labor question than in " What any thing, listened to his friend, and asked himself, is he in reality ? and why, why does the partition of Poland interest him?" When Sviazhsky was through, Levin could not help sa\'ing, and what of it?" But there was nothing to say. It was interesting simply from the fact that " it appeared." But Sviazhsky did not explain, and did not care to explain, why it was interesting to him. "Da/ but the irascible old proprietor interested me very much," said Levin, sighing. " He's sensible, and a good deal of what he says is true." "Ach! don't speak of it! he is a confirmed slaveholder at heart, like all the rest of them." " " With you at their head " Yes, I am trying to lead them in the other direconly
is

"What

who was standing by

"Nu!

tion," replied Sviazhsky, laughing. " His argument struck me very forcibly," said Levin. " He is right when he says that our affairs, that the rational 1 management,' cannot succeed that the only kind that can succeed is the money-lending kind of the other proprietor, or, in other words, the most simple. Who is to blame for it? " of course. Da! even then it is not true ourselves, that it does not succeed. It succeeds with Vasiltchikof."
'
;

"We

"The

mill"

is there surprising about it? The peasantry stand on such a low plane of development, both materially and morally, that it is evident that they must oppose all that
1

" But what

Jiataiondlnoe khozydistvo.

354
is

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

In Europe the 'rational management' strange to them. succeeds because the people are civilized. In the first place, we must civilize our peasantry, that's the point." " " how

But

will

the people, three things are necessary, schools, schools, and schools." " But you yourself say that the peasantry stand on a low plane of material development. What good will schools do " in that respect? " Do you know, you remind me of a story of the advice given a sick man: 'You had better try a purgative.' He
civilize

"To

you

civilize

them?

tries it:

grows worse.
'

'

then pray to God.' He tries it grows worse. So it is with you. I say political economy you say you're worse for it. I suggest socialism worse still. Education still worse." " Da! But what can schools do? " " Thej" will create other necessities." " But this is just the very thing I could never under" In what stand," replied Levin vehemently. way will schools help the peasantry to better their material condition ? You say that schools education will create new needs. So much the worse, because the}' will not have the ability to and I could never see how a knowledge of satisfy them addition and subtraction and the catechism could help them to better themselves materially. Day before yesterday I met a baba with a baby at the breast, and I asked her where she had been. She said, To the babka's : l the child was disHow did the babka tressed, and I took him to be cured.'
worse.
:

Nu!

Apply

leeches.'

He
:

tries

it

grows

'

'

cure the child? tered something.'

'

'
'

She sat him on the hen-roost, and mut-

Nu, vot!" cried Sviazhsky, laughing heartily. "You In order to teach them that they can't yourself confess it. cure children by setting them on hen-roosts, you must'* " Ach, no!" interrupted Levin, with some vexation. " Your remedy of schools for the people, I compared to the babka's method of curing. The peasantry are wretched and uncivilized this we see as plainly as the baba. saw her child's But that schools can raise distress because he was crying. them from their wretchedness is as inconceivable as the henroost cure for sick children. You must first remed}' the cause of the misery."
: 1

"

Jiabka, diminutive of

baba,n

peasant grandmother; popular

name

for the

midwife.

ANNA
"

KARfiNINA.

355

In this at least you agree with Spencer, whom you He says that civilization can result from increased happiness and comfort in life, from frequent ablu" tions, but not by learning to read and cipher " Nu, vot! I am very glad, or rather very sorry, if I am in accord with Spencer. But this I have felt for a long time it can't be done by schools only by economical organization, in which the peasantry will be richer, will have more leisure. Then schools will come." " Nevertheless, schools are obligatory now all over

Nu!

do not

like.

Europe."

"But how would you harmonize this with Spencer's ideas?" asked Levin. But into Sviazhsky's eyes again came the troubled expression and he said with a smile, " No, this story of the baba " was capital Is it possible that you heard it yourself? Levin saw that there was no connection between this man's life and his thoughts. Evidently it was of vei'y little consequence to him where his conclusions led him. Only the process of reasoning was what appealed to him and it was unpleasant when this process of reasoning led him into some
;
!

stupid, blind alley. All the impressions of this day, beginning with the muzhik on the highway, which seemed somehow to give a new basis
to his thoughts, filled Levin's

mind with commotion.

Sviazh-

his inconsequential thoughts ; the testy old proprietor, perfectly right in his judicious views of life, but wrong in despising one entire class in Russia, and perhaps the best ;

sky and

own relations to his work, and the confused hope of all this caused him a sensation setting things right at last, of trouble and alarmed expectation. Going to his room, lying under the feather-bed which
his
his arms and legs every time he moved, Levin could not get to sleep. His conversation with Sviazhsky, though many good things were said, did not interest him but the old proprietor's arguments pursued him. Levin involuntarily remembered every word that he said, and his imagination supplied the answer. ' " Yes, I ought to have said to him, You say that our is not succeeding because the muzhik despises management all improvements, and that force must be applied to them. But if our estates were not retrograding, even where these improvements are not found, you would be right but they

exposed

356

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

advance only where the work is carried on in consonance with the customs of the laborers, as at the house of the stank on the highway. Our failure to earn" on our estates profitably, results either from our fault or that of the
laborers.'
'

thus he carried on a train of thought which led him to an examination of what plan would best suit both the The thought of co-operation laborer and the proprietor. came over him with all its force. Half the night he did not He had not sleep, thinking of his new plans and schemes. intended to leave so soon, but now he decided to go home on the morrow. Moreover, the memory of the young lady with the open dress came over him with a strange shame and disgust. But the main thing that decided him was his desire to establish his new project before the autumn harvests, so that the muzhiks might reap under the new conditions. He had decided entirely to reform his method of administration.

And

XXEX.
THE carrying-out of Levin's plan offered man}* difficulties but he persevered, though he recognized that the results obtained would not be in proportion to the labor involved.
;

One of the principal obstacles which met him was the fact that his estate was already in runn ing-order, and that it was He impossible to come to a sudden stop and begin anew. had to wind the machine up by degrees. When he reached home in the evening, he summoned his The prikashprikashchik, and explained to him his plans. chik received with undisguised satisfaction all the details of this scheme so far as they showed that all that had been done hitherto was absurd and unproductive. The prikashchik declared that he had long ago told him so, but that his words But when Levin proposed to share had not been heard. the profits of the estate with the laborers, on the basis of an association, the prikashchik put on an expression of melancholy, and immediately began to speak of the necessity of bringing in the last sheaves of wheat, and commencing the second ploughing and Levin felt that now was not a propitious time. On conversing with the muzhiks about his project of dividing with them the products of the earth, he quickly perceived that they were too much occupied with their daily
;

ANNA
his enterprise.

KAIttiNINA.

357

tasks to comprehend the advantages and disadvantages of

keen muzhik, Ivan the skotnik, to whom Levin proposed to share in the profits of the cattle, seemed to comprehend and to approve but every time that Levin went on to speak of the advantages that would result, Ivan's face grew troubled, and, without waiting to hear Levin out, he would hurry off to attend to some work that could not be postponed, either to pitch the hay from the pens, or to draw water, or to clear
;

away the manure. The chief obstacle consisted in the inveterate distrust of the peasants, who would not believe that a proprietor could have any other aim than to despoil them. Whatever reasoning he might employ to convince them, they still held to purpose was hidden. They, on their side, made many words but the}* carefully guarded Levin remembered against telling what they intended to do.
then- conviction that his real
;

the angry proprietor when the peasants demanded, as the first and indispensable condition for their new arrangements, that they should never be bound to any of the new agricultural methods, or to use the improved tools. They agreed that the new-fashioned plough worked better, that the weed-extirpator was more successful ; but they invented a thousand excuses Whatever regret he felt at giving not to make use of them. up processes, the advantages of which were self-evident, he and by autumn the new arrangelet them have their wa}' ment was in working-order, or at least seemed to be. At first Levin intended to give up his whole domain to the new association of workmen. But very soon he found that
;

was impracticable and he made up his mind to limit it to the cattle, the garden, the kitchen-garden, the hay-fields, and some lands, situated at some distance, which for eight Ivan, the keen skotnik, years past had been lying fallow.
this
;

formed an association \_artel~j composed of members of his The new field family, and took charge of the cattle-yard. was taken by the shrewd carpenter Feodor Rzunof, who joined with him seven families of muzhiks; and the muzhik Shuraef entered into the same arrangements for superintending the gardens. It was true that matters were not carried on in the cattleyard any better than before, and that Ivan was obstinate in his mistakes about feeding the cows and churning the butter, and found it impossible to comprehend or take any interest

358

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

in the fact that henceforth his wages would be represented by a proportion of the profits of the association. It was true that Rezunof did not give the field a second ploughing, as he had been advised to do. It was true that the muzhiks of this company, although they had agreed to take this work

under the new conditions, called this land, not common land, but shared-land, and that Rezunof did not complete the barn It was true that that he had agreed to build before winter. Shuraef tried to give away the products of the gardens to the other muzhiks, seeming to be under the impression that the land had been given to him. But, in spite of all these drawbacks, Levin still persevered, hoping to be able to show his associates at the end of the year that the new order of
things could bring excellent results. All these changes in the administration of the estate, together with his work in the library on his new book, so filled his time that he scarcely ever went out, even to hunt. Towards the end of August the Oblonskys returned to Moscow, as he learned through the man that brought back The memory of his rudeness in not answering the saddle. Darya Aleksandrovna's note, or going to call upon them, caused him a pang of shame and he felt that his conduct
;

toward Sviazhsky had not been much more gentlemanly but he was too busy to have time to think of his remorse. His He finished the books which Sviazhreading absorbed him. sky loaned him, and others on political economy and socialism, which he sent for. Among the writers on political economy, Mill, which he studied first, interested him, but seemed to him to offer nothing applicable to the agrarian Modern socialism did not satisfy him situation in Russia. any more. Either they were beautiful but impracticable fancies, such as he dreamed when he was a student, or mod:

ifications of that situation of things applicable to Europe, but offering no solution for the agrarian question in Russia. Political economy said that the laws in which the happiness of Europe was developed and would develop were universal

and fixed socialistic teachings said that progress accordbut there was ing to these laws would lead to destruction nothing that he could find that cast the light on the means of leading him and all the Russian muzhiks and agriculturists, with their millions of hands and of desyatins, to more As he went on successful methods of reaching prosperity. reading, it occurred to him that it would be an advantage to
;
;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

359

go abroad and study on the spot certain special questions, so as not to be always sent from one authority to another, to Kaufman, to Le Bois, to Michelet. He saw clearly now that Kaufman and Michelet could not answer these questions for him. He knew what he wanted. He saw that Russia possessed an admirable soil and admirable workmen, and that in certain cases, as with the muzhik by the highway, the land and the workmen could produce abundantly, but that, when capital was spent upon them in the European manner, they produced scarcely any thing. This contrast could not be the result of chance. The Russian people he thought destined to colonize these immense spaces, cling to their traditions and to their own ways and customs and who is to say that they are wrong? And he wanted to demonstrate this theory in his book, and put it into practice on his land.
;

XXX.
TOWARDS the end of September the lumber was brought for the construction of a barn on the artel land, and the butter was sold, and showed a profit. The new administration, on the whole, worked admirably, or at least it seemed so to Levin. But in order to put the theories into a clear light, and to view all the different sides of political economy, he felt that it was necessary .to go abroad, and to learn, from practical observation, all that might be of use to him in regard to the relations of the He was only waiting for the delivery people to the soil. of the wheat to get his money, and make the journey. But the autumn rains set in, and a part of the wheat and potatoes were not as yet garnered. All work was at a standThe roads still, and it was impossible to deliver the wheat. were impracticable, two mills were washed away, and the situation seemed to be growing worse and worse. But on the morning of the 30th of September the sun came out and Levin, hoping for a change in the weather, sent the prikashchik to the merchant to negotiate for the sale of the wheat. He himself went out for a tour of inspection of the estate, in order to make the last remaining arrangements for his journey. Having accomplished all that he wished, he returned at nightfall, wet from the rivulets that trickled
;

360

ANNA
his

KARfiNINA.

neck from his leather coat and inside his high happy and animated frame of mind. The storm towards evening had increased but he put up with all the difficulties of the way, and, under his bashluik, he His talks with the peasants felt happy and comfortable. over the whole district convinced him that they were beginning to get used to his arrangements and an old dvornik [hostler] at whose house he stopped to get dry, evidently
boots, but in a
; ;

down

his plan, and wanted to join the association for the purchase of cattle. " All it requires is obstinate perseverance, and I shall " I am not come out of it all right," thought Levin. but the question concerns the working for myself alone

approved of

good of

all.

The whole way of managing on

;

estates,

Inthe condition of all the people, may be changed by it. stead of misery, universal well-being, contentment instead of unfriendliness, agreement and union of interests in a word, a bloodless revolution, but a mighty revolution, beginning in the little circuit of our district, then reaching The thought is the province, Russia,, the whole world so just that it cannot help being fruitful. Da! this And the fact that I, Kostia goal is worth working for. Levin, my own self, a man who went to a ball in a black necktie, and was rejected by a Shcherbatsky , a stupid and I a good-for-nothing, that is neither here nor there. believe, that Franklin felt that he was just such a goodfor-nothing, and had just as little faith in himself, when he took himself into account. And, indeed, he had his Agafya Mikhailovna also, to whom he confided his secrets." With such thoughts, Levin reached home in the dark. The prikashchik, who had been to the merchant, came and handed him the money from the sale of the wheat. The and then the agreement with the dvornik was drawn up prikashchik told how he had seen wheat still standing in the field by the road, while his one hundred and sixty
:
!

stacks, already brought in, were nothing in comparison to

what others had.

After supper Levin sat down in his chair, as usual, with a book and as he read he began to think of his projected His mind journey, especially in connection with his book.
;

was

clear, and his ideas fell naturally into flowing periods, which expressed the essence of his thought. "This must be written down," he said to himself. He got up to go to

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

361

and Laska, who had been lying at his his writing-table feet, also got up, and, stretching herself, looked at him. as
though asking where he was going.
;

for writing for the nntchalniks came for their orders, he had to go to meet them in the anteroom.

But he had no time and

After giving them their orders, or rather, having made arrangements for their morrow's work, and having received all the muzhiks who came to consult with him, Levin went back Laska lay under to his library, and sat down to his work. the table Agafya Mikhailovna, with her knitting, took her
:

usual place. After writing some time, Levin suddenly arose, and began to walk up and down the room. The memon' of Kitty and her refusal, and the recent glimpse of her, came before his imagination with extraordinary vividness. "Da! why trouble yourself ?" asked Agafya Mikhailovna. " Nu! why do you stay at home? You had better go to the

warm
"
I

springs

am

if your mind is made up." going day after to-morrow, Agafya Mikhailovna

do you work so for the muzhiks? " I am not working for them I am doing for m.yself." Agafya Mikhailovna knew all the details of Levin's plans, for he had explained them to her, and he had often had discussions with her but now she entirely misapprehended what
:

but I had to finish up my business." " Nul your business, indeed! Haven't you given these And they say, ' Our barin is muzhiks enough already ? and strange it is. Why after some favor from the Tsar "
'
;

he said to her.

" For your own soul it is certainly important; to think " Here is above every thing," said she with a sigh. he could not read, yet may is Parfen Denisitch although God give us all to die as he did They confessed him and " gave him extreme unction
of that
: !

"I

did not

mean

that," said he:

"I mean

that

am

working for my own profit. It would be more profitable to me if the muzhiks would work better." 4i Da! you will only have your labor for your pains. The Where there's a conscience, there'll be lazy will be lazy. work if not. nothing will be done." " Nn! da! But don't you yourself " say that Ivan is beginning to look out for the cows better? " I say this one thing," replied Agafya Mikhailovna, evi:

362

ANNA KARNINA.

dently following a thought that was not new to her: "You must get married, that's what." Agafya Mikhailovna's observation about the very matter that pre-occupied him angered him and insulted him. He frowned, and, without replying, sat down to his work again. Occasionally he heard the clicking of Agafya Mikai'lovua's needles and, remembering what he did not wish to remember, he would frown. At nine o'clock the sound of bells was heard, and the heavy rumbling of a carriage on the muddy road. " Nu! here's some visitors coming to see you you won't
; :

be bored any more," said Agafya Mikhailovna, rising, and going to the door. But Levin stepped ahead of her. His work did not progress now, and he was glad to see any guest.

XXXI.
As Levin went down-stairs he heard the sound of a familiar cough but the sound was somewhat mingled with the noise of footsteps, and he hoped that he was mistaken. Then he saw the tall but bony figure which he knew so well. But even now, when there seemed to be no possibility of deception, he hoped still that he was mistaken, and that this tall man who was divesting himself of his shuba, and coughing, was not his brother Nikolai.
;

Levin loved his brother, but it was always extremely Now especially, when Levin disagreeable to live with him. was under the influence of the thoughts and suggestions awakened by Agafya Mikhailovna, and was in a dull and melancholy humor, the presence of his brother was indeed an affliction. Instead of a gay, healthy visitor, some stranger, who, he hoped, would drive awa} his perplexities, he was obliged to receive his brother, who knew him through and through, who could read his most secret thoughts, and who would oblige him to share them with him. And this he disT

liked above all things.

ran

Angry with himself for his unworthy sentiments, Levin down into the vestibule and, as soon as he saw his
;

personal discomfort instantly disHis appeared, and was succeeded by a feeling of pity. brother Nikolai was more feeble than he had ever seen him before. He was like a skeleton covered with skin.
brother, the feeling

of

ANNA KAE&NINA.
;

363

He was standing in the vestibule trying to unwind a scarf from his long, thin neck and, when he saw Levin, he smiled with a strangly melancholy smile. When he saw his brother's humble and pitiful smile, he felt a choking sensation. " Vot! I have come to you," said Nikolai in a thick voice, and not for a second taking his eyes from his brother's face. " I have been wanting to come for a long time da! I was Now I am very much better," he added, rubbing his so ill.
;

beard with his great bony hand. "Yes, yes," replied Levin; and, as he touched his brother's shrivelled cheeks with his lips, and saw the gleam of his great, strangely brilliant eyes, he felt a sensation of
fear.

Some time before this, Konstantin Levin had written his brother, that, having disposed of the small portion of their common inheritance, consisting of personal property, a sum of two thousand rubles was due as his share. Nikolai said that he had come to get this money, and to put his foot on the naespecially to see the old nest tal soil, so as to get renewed strength, like the heroes of ancient times. Notwithstanding his tall, stooping form,
;

notwithstanding his frightful emaciation, his movements were, as they had always been, quick and impetuous. Levin took him to his room. Nikolai changed his dress, and took great pains with his He brushed toilet, which in former times he neglected.

and went up-stairs radiant. He was same gay and happy humor that Konstantin had seen when he was a child. He even spoke of Sergei Ivanovitch without bitterness. When he saw Agafya Mikhailovna, he jested with her, and questioned her about the old servants. The news of Parfen Denisitch made a deep A look of fear crossed his face, impression upon him.
his coarse, thin hair,
in the

but he instantly recovered himself. "He was very old, was he not?" he asked, and quickly "Da! I am going to stay a changed the conversation. mouth or two with you, and then go back to Moscow. You see, Miagkof has promised me a place, and I shall enter the service. Now I have turned over a new leaf en" You see, I have sent away that tirely," he added.

woman." " Mary a Nikolayevua ?

How?

What for?"

364

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
!

She caused all sorts "Ach! she was a wretched woman But he did not tell what the tribulaof tribulations." He could not say that he had sent Marya Nikotions were. layevna away because she made his tea too weak, still less because she insisted on treating him as an invalid. " Then, besides, I wanted to begin an entirely new kind of I think, like everybody else, that I have committed life. I mean the last one, follies: but the present, I don't
regret
!

it,

provided only I get better

feel already."

and

better,

thank the

listened, and tried, but tried in vain, to find something to say. Apparently Nikolai suspected something of the sort he began to ask him about his affairs and Konstantin, glad that he could speak, frankly related his plans and his experiments in reform. Nikolai listened, but did not show the least interest. These two men were so related to each other, and there was such a bond between them, that the slightest motion, the sound of their voices, spoke more clearly than all the words that they could say to each other. At this moment both were thinking the same thought, and all else was idle Nikolai's illness and approaching death words. Neither of them dared make the least allusion to it, and therefore all that was said was in realit}' untrue. Never before had Levin been so glad for an evening to end, for bed-time to come. Never, even when obliged to pay official visits, had he felt so false and unnatural as this evening. And the consciousness of this unnaturaluess, and his regret, made him more unnatural still. His heart was breaking to but he was obliged to dissee his beloved dying brother semble, and to talk about what his brother was going to do. As at this time the house was damp, and only one room was warm, Levin offered to let his brother share his room. Nikolai went to bed, and slept the uneasy sleep of an
: ;

Lord I Levin

Sometimes, invalid, turning restlessly from side to side. when it was hard for him to breathe, he would cr}" out, " Ach I Bozlie moil" Sometimes, when the dampness choked him,
Levin he would grow angry, and cry out, " Ah, the Devil His thoughts were could not sleep as he listened to him. death. varied, but they always returned to one theme, Death, the inevitable end of all, for the first time appeared And death was here, with to him with irresistible force. this beloved brother, who groaned in his sleep, and called
!

"

ANNA KAR&NINA.
this
;

365
:

now upon God, now upon the Devil. It was with him also he felt. Not to-day, but to-morrow not to-morrow, but
:

not all the same ? And what this not only did he not know, not only had he never before thought about it, but he had not wished, had not dared, to think about it.
in thirty years

was

it

inevitable death was,

"Here I am working, wanting to accomplish something, but I forgot that all must come to an end, death." He was lying in bed in the darkness, holding his knees,
scarcely able to breathe, so

great was the tension of his

mind. The more he thought, the more clearly he saw that from his conception of life he had omitted nothing except this one little factor, death, which might come, and end all, and that there was no help against it not the least. " Da ! this is terrible, but so it is " Da! but I am still alive. Now, what can be done about " he it? what can be done? asked in despair. He lighted a
!

candle, and softly arose, and went to the mirror, and began " Da! " on the to look at his face and his hair. temples a few gray hairs were to be seen. He opened his mouth. His teeth showed signs of decay. He doubled up his muscular

But this poor Nikolinka, who breathing so painfully with the little that is left of his lungs, also had at one time a healthy body." And suddenly he remembered how when they were children, and were put to bed, they would wait until Feodor Bogdanuitch got out of the door, and then begin a pillow-fight, and laugh, laugh so unrestrainedly, that not even the fear of Feodor Bogdanuitch could quench this exuberant gayety of life. " But now there he lies in bed with his poor hollow chest and I ignorant " wh\", and what will become of me Kha! kha! ah! what the Devil are you doing? Why " don't you go to sleep? demanded his brother's voice. " I don't know insomnia, I guess." "But I have been sleeping beautifully. I have not had
arms.
is
' ;

" Da! much strength.

no sweat." any sweat at all. Just feel, Levin felt of him, then he got into bed again, put out the Still in his caudle, but it was long before he went to sleep. mind arose this new question, how to live so as to be ready
for the inevitable death
?

" Nu! he

is

dying

Nu!

he will die in the spring.

Nu!

how

to aid
it?

about

him ? What can I say to him ? What do I know I had even forgotten that there was such a

thing."

366

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Levin had long been acquainted with the fact that oftentimes the gentleness and excessive humility of some people are abruptly transformed into unreasonableness and perempHe foresaw that this would be the case with his toriness. brother and in fact, Nikolai's sweet temper was not of long duration. On the very next morning he awoke in an ex;

tremely irritable temper, and immediately began to stir up his brother by touching him in the most tender spot. Levin was conscious of his fault, but he could not be frank. He felt that if they had not dissimulated their thoughts, but had spoken from their very hearts, they would have looked into each other's eyes, and he would have said only this
:

to die, }'ou are going to die ; and Nikolai' would have answered only this: "I know that I am dying, and I am afraid, afraid, afraid." And they would have said

" You are going

"

they had spoken honestly from their hearts. But as was not possible, Konstantin endeavored, always without success, to speak of indifferent subjects and he felt that his brother divined his insincerity, and was therefore irritated and angry, and found fault with all that he said. On the third day Nikolai began to discuss the question of his brother's reforms, and to criticise them, and in a spirit of contrariety to confound his scheme with communism. " You have only taken your idea from some one else and you distort it, and want to apply it to what is not
if

more

this sincerity

suited to receive it."

tell you that the two have nothing in comhave no thought of copying communism, which but denies the right of property, of capital, of inheritance Levin would have preI do not disregard these stimuli." ferred to use some other word, but at this time he found himself, in spite of him, compelled to use non-Russian words. " All I want is, to regulate labor." In other words, you borrow a foreign idea you take away from it all that gives it force, and you pretend to

"Da!

but I

mon.

' '

make

it

pass as new," said Nikolai, angrily twitching

at

his necktie.

" " Da! my idea has not the slightest resemblance "This idea," interrupted Nikolai, smiling ironically, and

with an angry light in his eyes, and least one attractive feature,
metrical one,
it is
it

"communism,
you might
call it

has at a geo-

a Utopia.

But

has clearness and logical certainty. Maybe let us agree that it can produce a new

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

367

form of work by making a tabula rasa of the past, so that there shall not be property or family, but only freedom of " But you don't accept this labor. " But why do you confound them? I never was a communist." " But I have been and I believe that if communism is premature, it is, at least, reasonable and it is as sure to succeed as Christianity was in the early centuries." "And I believe that labor is an elemental force, which must be studied from the same point of view as the natural " sciences, to learn its constitution and "Da/ this is absolutely idle. This force goes of itself, and takes different forms, according to the degrees of its
: ;

What more do you want?

enlightenment. Everywhere this order has been followed, slaves, then metayers, free labor, and, here in Russia, there is the farm, the arend [leased farms], manufactures. "

Levin took fire at these last words, the more because he feared in his secret soul that his brother was right in blaming him for wanting to discover a balance between communism and the existing forms. " I am trying to find a form of labor which will be profitable for all, for me and the workingman," he replied

warmly.

"That is not what you wish to do; it is simply this: and you have, all your life long, sought to be original you want to prove that 3*ou are not exploiting the muzhik, but are working for a principle." "Nu ! since you think so let's quit," replied Konstantin,
;

feeling the muscles of his right cheek twitch involuntarily. " You never had any convictions, and you only wanted to flatter your conceit." " Nu! that is but let's quit this." very well to say, " You go to the Devil and I am Certainly I will stop. very sorry that I came." Levin tried in vain to calm him. Nikolai' would not listen to a word, and persisted in saying that they had better separate and Konstantin saw that it was not possible to live
!

with him.
Nikolai'

had already made

his preparations to depart,

when

Koustantiu came to him, and begged him, in a way that was not entirely natural, for forgiveness, if he had offended him.

"Ah, now!

here's magnanimity," said Nikolai, smiling.

368

ANNA
is

"If you are very anxious to be

that this
sensible.

You

in the right, then let us agree are right, but I am going all the

same."

At the last moment, however, as Nikolai kissed his brother, " a strange look of seriousness came on him. Kostia," he " don't And his voice tremsaid, lay it up against me."
bled.

These were the only words which were spoken sincerely. Levin understood what they meant. " You see and know And the that I am miserable, and we may not meet again." tears came into his eyes. Once more he kissed his brother, but he could not find any thing to say. On the third day after his brother's departure, Levin went abroad. At the railway station he met Shcherbatsky, Kitty's cousin, and astonished him greatly by his melancholy. " What is the matter? " asked Shcherbatsky.

" Da! nothing, except that there

is little

happiness in this
to Paris instead

world."
"Little happiness? Just come with of going to some place like Mulhouse.

me

I'll

show you how

gay it is." " No, I am done for. I am ready to die." " said " What a joke! Shcherbatsky, laughing.

"I am

just learning how to begin." " I felt the same a little while ago, but now I know that my life will be short." Levin said what he honestly felt at All that he saw before him was death. But still this time. he was just as much interested as ever in his projects of reform. It was necessary to keep his life occupied till death should come. Darkness seemed to cover every thing but he felt that the. only way for him to pass through the darkness was to occupy himself with his labors of reform, and he clung to them with all the force of his character.
;

ANNA EAR&NINA.

369

PART
I.

IV.

KARENIN and

his wife continued to live

under the same

roof, to meet every day, and yet to remain entire strangers to each other. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch made a point of

avoiding comments from the servants by appearing with his but he seldom dined at home. Vronsky was never seen there Anna met him outside, and her husband knew it. All three suffered from a situation which would have been Alekintolerable, had not each believed it to be transitory. sei Aleksandrovitch expected to see this passion, like every thing else in the world, come to an end before his name was dishonored. Anna, the cause of all the trouble, and the one on whom the consequences weighed the most cruelly, only accepted her position in the conviction that a crisis was near at hand. As to Vronsky, he had come to believe as she did. Towards the middle of the winter Vronsky had to spend a tiresome week. He was delegated to show a foreign prince about St. Petersburg and this honor, due to his irreproachable bearing, and his familiarity with foreign languages, was The prince was anxious to be able to disagreeable to him. answer any questions that might be put to him on his return, and at the same time to enjoy all the pleasures peculiar to the so he had to be instructed during the day, and country amused in the evening. This prince enjo}-ed exceptionally good health, even for a prince and, owing to the scrupulous care he took of himself, he could endure excessive fatigue, remaining all the while as fresh as a great, green, He had been a great traveller, recshiny Dutch cucumber. ognizing in the great advantage of easy modern communication a means of amusing himself in various ways. In Spain he had given serenades, and fallen in love with a in Switzerland he Spauish girl who played the mandolin
wife,
: ; ;

370

ANNA KAENINA.
;

had chased the chamois in England leaped ditches in a red shooting-jacket, and shot two hundred pheasants on a wager in Turkey he had penetrated a harem in India he had ridden the elephant and now he intended to taste the pleasures
;
; ;

of Russia.

Vronsky, as master of ceremonies, arranged, with no little a programme of amusements, truly Russian in character. There were races, blinui, or carnival cakes, beardifficulty,

hunts,

troika

parties,

gypsies,

and

feasts set

forth with

Russian dishes, and the prince quickly entered into the spirit of these Russian sports, broke his waiter of glasses with the rest, took a gypsy girl on his knee, and then asked himself if the whole pleasure of the Russians consisted only in this, without going farther. More than in all the pleasures which the Russians could offer him, the prince took delight in French actresses, balletdancers, and white-seal champagne. Vronsky was well acquainted with princes, but either because he had changed of late, or else because he had too close a view of this particular prince, this week seemed terHe experienced the feelings of a man ribly long to him. placed in charge of a dangerous lunatic, who dreaded his In spite of the patient, and feared for his own reason. official reserve which restrained him, he grew red with anger more tMan once, in listening to the prince's remarks about What the Russian women whom he condescended to study. irritated Vronsky most violently about this man, was that he found in him a reflection of his own individuality, and it was not a flattering mirror. The image that he saw there was that of a very stupid, very self-confident, very healthy, fastidious man, of even temperament with his superiors, simple and good-natured with his equals, coolly kind towards his inferiors. He was a gentleman, and Vronsky could not deny the fact. Vronsky conducted himself in exactly the same way, and was proud of it but in his relations to the prince he was the inferior, and this contemptuous treatment of himself nettled him. Is it possible that I am "Stupid ox! like him?" he thought. So, at the end of the week, when he took leave of the prince, who was on his way to Moscow, he was delighted to be delivered from this inconvenient situ:

ation and this disagreeable mirror. They went directly to the station from a bear-hunt, which had occupied all the night with brilliant exhibitions of Russian daring.

ANNA KAR&NINA.
IT.

371

"
I

ON his return home, Vronsky found a note from Anna. am ill and unhappy," she wrote. " I cannot go out, and cannot live longer without seeing you. Come this evening.
I

Aleksei Aleksamlrovitch will be at the council from seven This invitation, given in spite of her huso'clock till ten." band's formal prohibition, seemed strange to him but he finally decided to go to Anna's. Since the beginning of the winter, Vronsky had been a colonel, and since he had left the regiment he lived alone. After breakfast he stretched himself out on the sofa, and the recollection of the scenes of the day before became curiously mingled in his mind with Anna and a peasant, whom he met at the hunt he finally fell asleep, and when he awoke, night had come. He lighted a candle, with an im" What has pression of fear that he could not explain. happened to me? What terrible dream have I had?" he asked " Yes, himself. yes, the peasant, a dirty little man, with a dishevelled beard, bent something or other up double, and pronounced some strange words in French. I didn't dream any thing else: why am I so terrified?" But, in recalling the peasant and his incomprehensible French words, he be" What foolishness " he gan to shiver from head to foot. thought as he looked at his watch. It was more than halfpast eight he called his servant, dressed quickly, went out, and, entirely forgetting his dream, thought only of being late. As he approached the Karenins' house, he again looked at his watch, and saw that it was ten minutes of nine. coupe, drawn by two gray horses, stood in front of the door he recognized Anna's carriage. "She is coming to my house," he said to himself: "that will be much better. I hate this house, but, however, I am not going to appear as if " and with the I wished to conceal myself; presence of mind of a man accustomed from childhood to put himself at his The door ease, he left his sleigh, and mounted the steps. opened, and the Swiss servant, carrying a plaid, motioned to
; :
! :

A
:

the carriage to draw near. As little observing as Vronsky was, he was struck by the astonished look on the Swiss servant's face he went on, however, and came near running against Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. gaslight placed at the entrance of the vestibule threw full light on his pale, worn
:

372
face.

ANNA
He wore
collar,

KARtiNlNA.
;

ante-room, anger. eyes burning to defend his honor, I should know what to do to express my sentiments in some sort of passion but this weakness, and this cowardice. I appear as though I had come to deceive him, which is not true." Since the explanation that he had had with Anna in the Vrede garden, Vronsky's idea had changed very much: he had renounced all dreams of ambition incompatible with his irregular situation, and only thought of the possibility of a rupture thus was he ruled by the weaknesses of his friend,
;

and his white cravat, tied was conspicuous. Karenin's gloomy, dull Aleksei eyes fixed themselves upon Vronsky, who bowed. Aleksandrovitch, drawing his lips together, lifted his hand to his hat, and passed. Vronsky saw him get into his carriage without turning round, take his plaid and opera-glass, which the Swiss servant handed through the door, and disappear. " What a situation " thought Vronsky, as he entered the " If he still wished with his
a black hat

under a fur

As to Anna, after having given up entirely, she expected nothing in the future which did not come from Vronsky. While crossing the receptionroom, he heard footsteps drawing near, and knew that she was entering the drawing-room near by, to watch for him. " No," she cried, seeing him enter, " things cannot go on in " And at the sound of her own voice, her eyes this way
and by
herself
his feelings for her.
!

filled

with tears. " What is the matter,

two hours but no, I do not want to quarrel with you. If you had not come, it would have been because you could not. No, I will not scold you any more." She put her two hands on his shoulders, and looked at him long, with her eyes deep and tender, although searchShe looked at him for all the time that she had not ing.
I

"

my

friend

?"
;

have been waiting

in torture for

seen him, comparing, as she always did, the impression made by the present moment, with the memory he had left her, and feeling, as she always did, that imagination was carried

away by

reality.

III.

"Din you meet him ?" she asked, when they were seated "That is your under the lamp by the drawing-room table. punishment for coming so late."

ANNA
"

KATttiNINA.

373

How

is

that so?

Oughtn't he to have gone to the coun-

cil?"

" He went there, but he came back again to go, I know not But that is no matter let us talk no more about it tell me where you have been all this time with the prince." She knew the most minute details of his life. He wanted to reply that as he had no rest the night before,
where.
;

but the sight of her happy, excited face made this acknowledgment difficult, and he excused himself on the plea of having been obliged to present his report after the prince's departure. " " It is over now, is it ? Has he gone? "Yes, thank the Lord! You have no idea how intolerable this week has seemed to me." " Why so? Have you not been leading the life customary to }xm young people?" she said, frowning, and, without looking at Vronsky, taking up some crocheting that was
;

he allowed himself to oversleep

lying on the table. "I renounced that life long ago," he replied, trying to discover the cause of the sudden change iu her beautiful face. "I assure you," he added, smiling, and showing his white teeth, "that it was overpoweringly unpleasant to me to look at that old life again, as it were, in a mirror." She did not reply, but gave him a strange, not quite friendly, look, and kept her crocheting in her hand, though she did not work. "Liza came to see me this morning they came to my house again, in spite of the Countess Lidia Ivanovua and
told tion

me
"
!

about your Athenian nights.

What an abomina-

"I want to tell you" "That you are odious, you men! How can you suppose that woman forgets?" said she, growing more and more
animated, and then disclosing the cause of her irritation, " and above all a woman, who, like myself, can know nothing of your life except what you wish to tell her? And can " I know whether it is the truth? "Anna! have you no longer any faith in me? Have I ever concealed any thing from you? " "You are right but if you only knew how I suffer " she " I believe in said, trying to drive away her jealous fears.
; !

you,

He

do believe in you what did you want to say to me?" couldn't remember. Anna's fits of jealousy were
:

374

ANNA KAR&NINA.

becoming frequent, and, however much he

it,

tried to conceal these scenes, although proofs of love, made him grow cool towards her. How many times had he not said to himself that happiness existed for him only in this love and now that he felt himself loved passionately, as is onh' possible to a man for whom a woman has sacrificed every thing, happiness seemed farther off than when he left Moscow. " AVell, tell me what you have to sa}- about the prince," " " I have driven (for thus replied Anna. away the demon called her fits of jealousy between themselves): "you they began to tell me something. In what way was his stay so
;

" He was unbearable," replied Vronsky, trying to pick up " The the thread of his doesn't

disagreeable

?"

thought again. prince improve on close acquaintance. I can only compare him to one of those highly fed animals which take prizes at exhibitions," he added, with an air of vexation, which seemed to interest

Anna.

"But

isn't
' '

he a well-infonned man,

who has

travelled a

great deal ?

"One would say that he was well informed only for the sake of scorning information, as he scorns every thing else, except material pleasures." " But are you not also fond of all these pleasures your" self? said Anna, with a sad look, which again struck him. " " Why do you try to defend him? he asked, smiling. "I am not trying to defend him: I don't care enough about him for that. But I can't help thinking, if that life was so distasteful to you, you might have dispensed with going to admire that Therese in the costume of Eve."
:

" There is the demon coming back again," said Vronsky, drawing one of Anna's hands towards him to kiss. " Yes it is You can't imagine what I stronger than I. I do not think I am suffered while I was waiting for }'ou. jealous in the bottom of my heart when you are here, I believe in you but when you are away, leading a life so "
:
;

incomprehensible to

me

She drew away from him, and began to work nervousby, drawing her crochet-needle thr4ugh the stitches of white wool, which gleamed in the lamplight. "Tell me how you met Aleksi Aleksandrovitch," she
asked suddenly, in a voice still constrained. " We almost ran against each other at the door."

ANNA
" And did he greet you

KARtiNINA.
like

375
She drew down her

this?"

face, half closed her eyes, and changed her whole expression to such an extent, that Vronsky could not help recognizing He smiled, and Anna began to Aleksei Aleksandrovitch.

laugh, with that fresh, ringing laugh, which was one of her greatest charms. " I do not understand him," said " I should have Vronsky. that after your explanation in the country, he supposed would have broken off with 3*011, and provoked a duel with me but how can he bear the actual situation ? One can see that he suffers." 14 He?" said she, with an ironical smile. "Oh! he is
;

very happy." " Why should

me? "

we all torture ourselves in this way, when every thing might be arranged?" " That doesn't suit him. Oh, how well I know his nature, made up of lies Who, unless he were devoid of susceptibility, could live with a guilty woman, as he lives with me, speaking to her in the affectionate way that he speaks to
!

And
" He

she imitated the

is

ma chdre Anna."
not a man, I

way
tell

her husband would say,

"

You,

you

he

is

a puppet.

If I were

in his place, I would long ago have torn in pieces a woman like myself, instead of saying, ' You, ch&re Anna,' to

ma

but he is not a man he is a ministerial machine. He does not understand that he is no longer any thing to me, that he is in the way. No, no let us not talk about him." " You are unjust, my dear friend," said Vronsky, trying to calm her; "but no, let us not talk any more about him let us talk about yourself, about your health what does the doctor say ? She looked at him with gay raillery, and would have willbut he ingly continued to turn her husband into ridicule added, "You wrote me that you were suffering; tell me
her
:

' '

about it."

The sarcastic smile disappeared from Anna's lips, and gave place to an expression full of sadness. " You say that our position is a frightful one. and that it
must be changed.
I shall

not weary you

much longer with

jealousy, for soon, very soon, all will be changed, and not in the way we think." She grew tender as she spoke of herself tears prevented

my

S76

ANNA KAKNINA.
;

her from continuing and she placed her white hand, whose rings sparkled in the lamplight, on Vronsky's arm. " " What do he said. 3'ou mean? " I am to die very soon and I am willing to die, to going relieve you both of my burdensome presence." Her tears continued to fall, while Vronsky kissed her hands, and tried to conceal his own emotion in calming hers. "It is better that it should be so," she said, pressing his
;

hand fervently. "But what a foolish idea! " said Vronsky, lifting up his "What utter abhead, and regaining his self-possession. " surdity " No I am telling }-ou the truth." " " What do you mean by the truth? " That I am to die. I have seen it in a dream." going " In a dream?" and Vronsky involuntarily recalled the muzhik (peasant) of his nightmare. "Yes, in a dream," she continued, "some time ago. I dreamed that I ran into ni}- room to get something or other I was searching about, you know, as one does in dreams, and I noticed something standing in the corner of my room." But she How do you suppose What nonsense would not let him interrupt her what she was telling seemed
! : :

' '

' '

too important to her.

something turned around, and I saw a little with an unkempt beard. I wanted to run away, but he bent towards a bag, in which he moved some
this

"And
' '

dirty muzhik,
object.

She made the motion of a person rummaging in a bag and Vronsky, recalling his terror was depicted on her face own dream, felt the same terror seize him. " And all the while he was searching, he talked fast, very fast, in French, lisping, you know, 11 faut la battre, le fer, le broyer, le petrie.' I tried to wake up, but I only woke up in my dream, asking what it could mean. Then I heard some one say to me, You are going to die, you are going to little mother]. And at last I came to mydie, mdtushka'
;
;

'

'

self."

"What
his

an absurd dream!" said Vronsky,

:

ill

concealing

own emotion.
;

" Let us say no more about it. Ring I am going to give you some tea, so stay a little longer we haven't had any
for a long time."

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

377

She suddenly ceased speaking. Horror and fright disappeared from her face, which assumed an expression of attentive, serious sweetness.

IV.

AFTER meeting Vronsky, Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch went, as He heard two acts, he had planned, to the Italian opera. spoke with all to whom he ought to speak, and, returning home, went straight to his chamber, after having assured himself that there was no uniform overcoat in the vestibule. Contrary to his usual habit, instead of going to bed he
ing.

walked up and down his room till three o'clock in the mornAnger kept him awake, for he couldn't forgive his wife for not fulfilling the one condition that he had imposed no attention to

should not receive her lover in his house. this order, he should punish threat, demand a divorce, and take away This threat was not easy to execute, but The Countess Lidia had often his word. said that this was the easiest way out of his deplorable situation and at the present time the practice of divorce had become so frequent, and was obtained so easily, that Aleksei Aleksandrovitch saw in it a means of escaping its formal

upon her, that she Since she had paid her, carry out his his son from her. he wanted to keep
;

difficulties.

Misfortunes never come single and the trouble arising from the organization of the foreign population, and the
;

floods in the

government of Zarai, so worried him, that for

in

some time he had been

;

a perpetual state of irritation.

He

passed the night without sleeping, his anger increasing all and at last, from sheer exasperation, he left his the while bed, dressed hastily, and went to Anna as soon as he knew she was up. He was afraid of losing the energy which he needed and it was, to a certain extent, as though he carried his cup of grief in both hands, lest it should overflow on the
;

way.

Anna believed that she thoroughly knew her husband but she was amazed to see him come in with gloom}- face, his eyes sadly fixed before him, without looking at her, and his Never had she seen so much lips compressed with scorn. decision in his bearing. He entered without wishing her good-morning, and went directly to the writing-desk, and opened the drawer.
;

378

ANNA KARNINA.

" " What do cried Anna. you wish to find? " Your lover's letters." " They are not there," she said, closing the drawer. But he knew by her action that he had guessed aright, and, roughly pushing away her hand, he took possession of the
In spite portfolio where Anna kept her important papers. of her efforts to regain it, he held it at a distance. " Sit down : I want to speak to you," said he, and placed
the portfolio under his arm, holding it so firmly with his elbow that his shoulder was raised by it. Anna looked at him, astonished and frightened. " Have I not forbidden you to receive your lover in this

" house? " I needed to see him to " She stopped, unable to find a plausible explanation. " I will not enter into details, and have no desire to know why a woman needs to see her lover." "I only wished," she said, blushing, and feeling that her husband's rudeness made her bold "is it possible that " are not aware how easy it is for you to wound me? u One can wound an honest man or an honest woman only but to tell a thief that he is a thief, is only the statement of
;

a fact."

"That
you." " Ah
!

is

a degree of cruelty that I never recognized in

you find a husband cruel because he gives his wife perfect freedom, on the sole condition that she respect the " laws of propriety? You call that cruelty, do you? "It is worse than that it is cowardice, if you insist on knowing," cried Anna passionately, and she rose to go. " No," cried he, in a piercing voice, forcing her to sit down again, and taking her by the arm. His great, bony fingers seized her so roughly, that one of Anna's bracelets left a red print on her flesh. "Cowardice, indeed! That applies to her who abandons her son and husband for a lover, and nevertheless eats her husband's bread." Anna bowed her head the justice of these words overwhelmed her she no longer dared to accuse her husband, as she had done the night before, of being de trap, and she
: ;

replied gently,

myself

" You cannot judge my position more severely than I do " but why do you tell me that? " do I tell you that?" continued he angrily; "so Why
;

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

379

that you may know, that, since you pay no attention to my wishes, I shall take the necessary measures to put an end to this state of affairs." " Soon, very soon, it will terminate itself," said Anna, her eyes full of tears at the thought of that death which she felt near at hand, and now so desirable. " Sooner even than you and your lover have dreamed of! You only think of yourself the suffering of one who has been your husband is of little interest to you what does it matter that his life has been turned upside down, that he In his emotion, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch spoke suffers" so rapidly that he stammered and this stammering seemed ridiculous to Anna, who nevertheless immediately reproached herself because she could be sensible to the ridiculous at such a moment. For the first time, and for a moment, she
:

understood her husband's suffering, and pitied him. But what could she do, except be silent and bow her head? He also was silent, then begun again, in a severe voice, emphasizing words of no special importance
:

' '

came

to tell

' '

you

herself,
self,

She glanced " No,

at him, and, recalling his stammering, said to this man, with his dull eyes, so full of himI

cannot feel any thing.

I

have been the toy of

my

im-

agination."

cannot change," she murmured. have come to tell you that I am going to leave for Moscow, and that I shall not enter this house again. You will learn of my determination from the lawyer, who will have charge of the preliminaries of the divorce. My son will go to one of my relatives," he added, recalling with difficulty what he wanted to say about the child. " You are going to take Serozha away, to cause me pain," she stammered, raising her eyes to his: "you do not love him leave him with me." " You are right: the repulsion that you have inspired in me reflects on my son but I shall keep him, nevertheless.

"

"I

Good-morning." He was about to go, but she detained him. " Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch, leave Serozha with me," she " that is all I ask of said again you leave him with me
;

for the present."

him back, and

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch pushed away the arm that held left her without replying.

380

ANNA EAR&NINA.
V.

reception-room of the celebrated lawyer, where AlekAleksandrovitch now betook himself, was full of people when he entered. Three ladies, one old, another young, and the third evidently belonging to the class of merchants, were waiting there, as well as a German banker wearing a very large ring on his hand, a merchant with a long beard, and a tchinovnik dressed in uniform with a decoration around his neck they had all, apparently, been waiting a long time. Two secretaries were writing with scratching pens one of them turned his head, with an air of annoyance, towards the new-comer, and, without rising, asked him, with half-closed
sei
:
:

THE

eyes,

do you want?" have business with the lawyer." "He is busy," replied the secretary severely, pointing with his pen towards those who were already waiting and he went back to his writing. " Will he not find a moment to receive me? " asked Alek-

"What
"
I

s6i

Aleksandrovitch.
; :

" He is not at he is always busy liberty a single moment have the goodness to wait." " Be so good as to give him my card," said Aleksi Aleksandrovitch, with dignity, seeing that it was impossible to
preserve his incognito. The secretary took his card, examined
displeasure, and
it

with an air of

went

out.

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, on principle, approved of judiciary reform, but criticised certain details, as much as he was capable of criticising an institution sanctioned by the supreme power. He admitted that there was error in all things, as an inevitable evil, which could be remedied in certain cases ; but the important position given to lawyers by this reform had always been the object of his disapproval, and this reception
that he

had met with did not destroy his prejudices. " The lawj'er will see you," said the secretary, as he came

back.

Accordingly, in about two minutes the door opened, and the lawyer appeared, bringing with him a thin-looking justice of the peace. The lawyer was a short, thick-set man, with a bald head,

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

381
and large, and double
of a dandy. pretentious

a reddish-black beard, a prominent forehead, His dress, from his necktie shiny eyebrows. watch-chain down to his polished boots, was that His face was intelligent, but vulgar his manner
;

and

in

bad

taste.

so good as to walk in," said he, Aleksandrovitch and ushering him into closed the door. He pushed out an arm-chair near his papers, begged Aleksei Aleksandrovitch
;

"Be

turning to Alekse"! the next room, he

desk covered with to be seated, and rubbing his short, hairy hands together, he settled himself in front of the desk, with an air of attention. But he was hardby seated when a moth-miller flew on the table, and the little man, with unexpected liveliness, caught it on the wing then he resumed quickly his former attitude. Before beginning to explain my business," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, following the movements of the lawyer with allow me to ask you to let the subject which astonishment, brings me here rest between ourselves."
: '

'

imperceptible smile slightly moved the lawyer's lips. were not capable of keeping a secret I should not be a lawyer," said he " but if you wish to be assured " Aleksei Aleksandrovitch glanced at him, and noticed that his gray eyes, full of intelligence, had guessed all.

An
"

If I

" " Do ou know 3 my name? " I know and again he caught a miller, " and how you," valuable your services are and so does all Russia," replied
; ;

the lawyer, bowing.

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch sighed it was with difficulty that he brought himself to speak but when he had once begun, he continued, unhesitatingly, in a clear, sharp voice, emphasizing certain words. '' I have the misfortune to be a deceived husband. I wish to obtain legal separation from my wife, that is, a divorce, and, above all, to separate my son from his mother." The lawyer's gray eyes did their best to remain serious, but Aleksei Aleksandrovitch could not help seeing that they were full of an amusement which was not caused solely by the prospect of a good suit they shone with enthusiasm, with triumph, something like the brilliancy he had noticed
;

in his wife's eyes.

tk

"

You wish my

assistance to obtain the divorce? Exactly; but I run the risk of wasting your time, be-

"

382

ANNA

KAIitiNINA.

cause I have only come to ask preliminary advice.

I wish to remain within certain limits, and I shall give up the divorce unless it is consonant with the forms I wish to keep." " Oh you will alwa3"s remain perfectly free," replied the
!

lawyer.

The little man, that he might not offend his client by the delight which his face ill-concealed, fixed his eyes on Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch's feet, and, although out of the corner of one eye he saw another moth-miller flying about, he restrained himself, out of respect to the situation. "The general features of the laws of divorce are well known to me," said Karuin, " but I should like to know the different forms customary in the practice." " In short, you wish to learn on what grounds you can obtain a legal divorce?" said the lawyer, divining, with a certain pleasure, his client's meaning and, at an affirmative gesture from the latter, he continued, casting a furtive glance now and then at Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's face, which
;

burned with emotion. he had a shade of "Divorce, according to our laws," disdain for our laws, "is possible, as you know, in the " he three following cases Let them wait cried, seeing his secretary open the door. However, he rose, went to say a few words to him, came back, and sat down again "in. the three following cases physical defect of one of the parin ties, disappearance of one of them for five years," making this enumeration he bent down his large, hairy fin"and finally the Scriptural reagers, one after another, " There son." He said this in a tone of satisfaction. you have the theoretical side but I think, that, in doing me the honor to consult me, you desire to know the practical side, do you not? So it being neither a case of physical defect, nor " absence of one of the parties, as far as I understand? Aleksei Alexandrovitch assented, with an inclination of
!

the head.

" The reason last named remains, in which case one of the parties must plead guilty." The lawyer silently looked at his client, with the air of a gunsmith who explains to a purchaser the use of two pistols of different caliber, leaving him free to choose between them. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch remaining silent, he continued,

"The

simplest, the most reasonable way, in

my

opinion,

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

I should not is to recognize the guilt by mutual consent. dare to say this to everybody, but I suppose that we understand each other." Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch was so troubled, that the advan-

tage of the last proposition which the lawyer made entirely escaped him, and surprise was painted on his face the man of law came at once to his aid. " Suppose that a man and wife can no longer live together if both consent to a divorce, the details and formalities amount to nothing. This is the simplest and surest way." Aleksi Aleksandrovitch understood now, but his religious sentiments were opposed to this measure. " In the present case, this means is out of the question," "Could not proofs, like a correspondence, estabsaid he. lish the crime indirectly ? These proofs are in my posses:
:

sion."

The lawyer, pressing his lips together, uttered an exclamation both of pity arid disdain. "I beg you not to forget that affairs of this sort are in "Our archthe province of the upper clergy," he said. bishops love to plunge into certain details," he added, with a sigh of sympathy for the taste of these worthy fathers, " and If you do me the honor to proofs demand witnesses. trust your case to me, you must give me the choice of measWhere there is a will, there is a way." ures to be pursued. Alekse'i Aleksaudrovitch arose, looking very pale, while
the lawyer again ran to the door, to reply to a fresh interruption from his secretary. " Tell her, then, that this is not a cheap shop," he called and he caught another out, before taking his seat again moth on the way, muttering sorrowfully, reps will surely be ruined by them." " " You did me the honor to say " I will write you my decision," replied Aleksi Aleksandrovitch, leaning against the table; "and since I conclude from your words that a divorce is possible, I will be obliged to you if you will make your conditions known to me."
;

"My

" Every thing is possible if you will give me entire freedom of action," said the lawyer, eluding the last question. " When may I expect a communication from you?" asked
he, following his client with eyes as shiny as his boots. " In You will then have the goodness to let eight days. me know whether you accept the case, and on what terms?"

384
"
Certainly."

ANNA

KAEtiNINA,

respectfully, conducted his client to the he was so door, and, left alone, his joy knew no bounds happy, that, contrary to his principles, he made a deduction He even to a lady skilled in the art of making a bargain. forgot the moths, resolving to recover his furniture the next winter with velvet, such as his rival, Sigonin, had.
:

The lawyer bowed

VI.

THE brilliant victory won by Aleksi Aleksandrovitch in the assembly of the 1 7th of August had unfavorable results. The new commission, appointed to study the situation of the foreign population, had acted with a promptness surat the end of three months it preprising to Kare'nin The condition of this population had sented its report. been studied from political, administrative, economical, ethEach nographical, material, and religious points of view. question was followed by an admirably concise reply, leaving no room to doubt that these answers were the work, not of a human mind, always liable to mistake, but of an experi:

These answers were based on official enced bureaucracy. such as the reports of governors and archbishops, based again on the reports of heads of districts and ecclesiastical superintendents, in their turn based upon the reports from communal administrations and country parishes. How could their correctness be doubted? Questions such as these, "Why are the harvests poor?" and, "Why do the
data,

inhabitants of certain localities persist in their beliefs? questions which the official machine alone could solve, and to which ages would not have found a reply, were clearly solved, in conformity with the opinions of Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch. But Stremof, stung to the quick, had thought of a course unexpected by his adversary. Enlisting several members of the committee in his cause, he suddenly went over to Kare"nin's side and, not satisfied with warmly supporting the measures proposed by the latter, he proposed others, of the same nature, which far outstripped Aleks^i AleksandroCarried to extremes, these measures vitch's intentions. seemed so ridiculous, that the government, public opinion, ladies of influence, and the daily papers, were all indignant
;
;

"

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

385

and their dissatisfaction reflected on the originator of the commission, Kareniu himself. Delighted with the success of his scheme, Stremof put on an Innocent air, affected astonishment at the results obtained,

and alleged that him with over-confidence.

by
all

his colleague's plan

Although

ill,

had inspired and much affected

:

these troubles, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch did not give some of split into two factious them, with Stremof, explained their mistake through overcon fideuce, and declared the reports of the committee of others, with Kare"nin, fearing inspection to be absurd this revolutionary method of treating a commission, upheld

up.

The committee was

it.

Official circles,

tion

and even society, saw this interesting quesbecome so confused, that the misery and the prosperity

Karof the foreign population were equall}' problematical. nin's position, already threatened by the bad effect caused by his domestic misfortunes, seemed precarious. He then had the courage to make a difficult resolution to the great astonishment of the commission, he announced that he demanded the right to go and study these questions himself on the spot and, permission having been granted him, he set out for a distant province. His departure made a great sensation, especially as he officially refused the travelling-expenses necessary for twelve
:
;

post-horses.

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch went by

way

of

Moscow, and

stopped there three days. The next day after his arrival, as he was going to visit the governor-general, he heard his name called at the crossing of the Gazetnaia Street, where carriages of every description are always thronging and turning at the sound of a gay, sonorous voice, he saw Stepan Arkady evitch on the sidewalk. Dressed in an overcoat of the latest fashion, his great stylish hat on one side, his face glowing with 3'outh and good health, he called with such persistency that Karnin was In the carriage, on the door of which Steobliged to stop.
;

in a velvet hat, she gesticulated to him, smiling amicably. It was Dolly and her children. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had not counted on seeing in Moscow anybody whom he knew, and least of all his wife's brother; so he would have gone on his way, after bowing :,

pan Arkadyevitch was leaning, was a woman

:

with two children

386

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

but Oblonsky motioned to the coachman to stop, and ran through the snow to the carriage. "How long have you been here? What a shame not to I saw the name of Kareuin let us know you were coming on the list of arrivals at Dusseaux's last evening, but it never occurred to me that it was you," said he, passing his
!

head through the door, and striking his feet together to " How is it that shake off the snow. you didn't send us

word?"
" I hadn't time. sandrovitch briefly.
I

am
to

ver} busy," replied Alekse"i Alek-

" Come and speak much."

my

wife

she wants to see you very

Kare"nin threw off the robe which covered his chilly limbs, and, leaving his carriage, made a way through the snow to Dolly's.

Why, what has happened, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, that " said she, smiling. you avoid us in this way? " I am delighted to see you," replied Kar^nin, in a tone which clearly proved the contrary. " I hope you are well." " " How is dear Anna?

"

my

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch muttered a few words, and was about to leave her, but Stepau Arkadyevitch detained him.
Dolly, invite j'ou know what we are going to do? to dine to-morrow with Koznuishef and Pestsof , the representative intellects of Moscow."

"Do

him

that
is

" frowning. Very happy to have met you." And he went back to his carriage. " You will

said Dolly: "we will name any hour five or six, as you please. Nu! What convenient " dear Anna doing? It is so long my "She is well," muttered Aleksei Aleksandrovitch again,

"Oh, do come!"
is

come?"

Kare"nin said something in reply which cried Dolly again. did not reach her ears. "I am coming to see you to-morrow!" cried Stepan Arkadyevitch at the same time. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch shut himself up in his carriage, as though he would like to vanish out of sight. "What a strange fellow!" said Stepan Arkadyevitch to Dolly and looking at his watch he made an affectionate sign of farewell to his wife and children, and started off at a brisk
;

pace.

"

Stiva, Stiva!

"

cried Dolly, blushing.

He came

back.

ANNA
"What
cloaks ?
' '

KABtiNINA.

387

shall I

do about the money for the children's

"Tell them that I will settle the bill." And he disappeared, gayly bowing to some acquaintances as he went.

VII.

THE
;

next day was Sunday, and Stepan Arkadyevitch went

to the Bolsho'i [Great] theatre, to attend the rehearsal of the and taking advantage of the dim light of the greenballet room, he gave the coral necklace to the pretty dancing-girl

who was making

her debut under his protection, as he had promised the day before. From the theatre Stepan Arkadyevitch went to the market to select himself some fish and asparagus for the dinner and at noon he went to Dusseaux's, where three travellers, friends of his, by happy chance, were Levin, just returned from his journey abroad; stopping, his new natchalnik [chief], who had just been appointed, and had come to Moscow to look into affairs and lastly, his brother-in-law, Kar^nin. Stepan Arkadyevitch was fond of a good dinner, but what
;

little dinner-party with a house. The menu that he made out for this day pleased him, fresh perch, with asparagus, and a simple but superb roast of beef, as piece de resistance, and the right kinds of wine. Among the guests he expected Kitty and Levin, and, to offset them, a cousin and the young Shcherbatsky the lions of the occasion were to be Sergei
still

he liked better

was a choice

few select friends at

his

own

Koznuishef, a Muscovite and philosopher; and Karnin, a Petersburger and a man of affairs. As a sort of connecting link, he had invited Pestsof, a charming man of fifty years, an enthusiast, a musician, a ready talker, a historian and a

who always put everybody in good spirits. Fortune smiled on Stepan Arkadyevitch at this time the money from the sale of the wood was not all gone Dolly for some time had been lovely and charming every thing would have been at its best, if two things had not impressed him disagreeably, without, however, disturbing his good
liberal,
:

humor in the first place, his brother-in-law's cool welcome uniting the fact of Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch's coolness with certain rumors that had reached his ears about his sister's relations with Vrousky, he suspected serious trouble between
: ;

388

ANNA

KAEtiNlNA.

the husband and wife. The second shadow was the arrival of the new nukhalnik, who, like all new chiefs, had the reputation of being terribly exacting. An untiring worker, he passed for a veritable bear, and was absolutely opposed to
his predecessor's liberal tendencies, which Stepan Arkadyevitch had shared. His first presentation had taken place the
in uniform and Oblonsky had been so cordially received, that he thought it his duty to pay him an unofficial visit. The thought that the new natchalnik might not receive him cordially was the second disturbing element, but Stepan Arkadyevitch felt instinctively that all would be arranged to perfection. "All people, all men," thought he, "are " transgressors as well as we. get angry and quarrel? said he, as he went through the corridor, "Well, Vasili," and met a lackey of his acquaintance, " have you sacrificed

day before,

Why

your whiskers? Levin ? in number seven ? you know, is Count Anitchkin at home?"

Thanks! Do, This was the

new

natchalnik.

" We have your service," said Vasili with a smile. not seen you for a long time." "I was here yesterday, but came up another stairway." When Stepan Arkadyevitch entered, Levin was standing with a peasant in the middle of his room, measuring a bear-

"At

skin.

"Ah! did you kill him?" cried Stepan Arkadyevitch. "Splendid skin! A bear! Good-morning, Arkhip." He held out his hand to the peasant, and then sat down in his overcoat and hat. " Take off your coat, and stay a while," said Levin. " I haven't time. I came in for a little
only

second,"

replied Oblonsky, which did not prevent him from unbuttoning his overcoat, then taking it off, and staying a whole hour to talk with Levin about the hunt and other subjects. " Nu! Tell me what you did while you were gone where have you been? " he asked after the peasant had gone. " I went to Germany, to France, and England, but only to the manufacturing centres, and not to the capitals. I saw a great deal that was new." " Yes, yes. I know your ideas of workingmen's associations." " Oh, no the question of the workingman doesn't concern
:

the only important question for Russia is the relation of the workman to the soil the question exists there, but it is " impossible to remedy it there, while here
:
;

us

ANNA
Oblonsky listened " it is
Yes, yes,

KARfiNINA.

389

attentively. possible that you are right, but I am glad that you are in better spirits you hunt the bear, you work, are enthusiastic. Shcherbatsky told me that he had you found 3'ou blue and melancholy, talking of nothing but
:

death."

"What of that? I am continually thinking of death," " It's true that there is a time to die, and replied Levin. that all is vanity. I love to work ; but think of this world this world of ours, a little mould making just take notice and we imagine that our ideas, the smallest of the planets " our works, are something grand. It's all grains of dust " All that is as old as the hills, brother " "It is old but when this idea becomes clear to us, how When we know that death will surely miserable life seerns come, and that there will be nothing left of us, the most important things seem as insignificant as the turning over of It is to keep away thoughts of death, that this bear-skin. we hunt and work, and try to divert ourselves."
! ! !

Stepan Arkadyevitch smiled, and gave Levin one of his

affectionate looks.

me because I " so severe, O moralist " What there is in life" Levin, becoming replied good "Da! I don't know. I only know that we confused. must soon die."

"

Nu!

Do

you know that you pounce upon

seek pleasure in life?

Be not

there is less charm in life when we think of death, but more restfulness." " must enjoy what there is of it, any way. But," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, rising for the tenth time, " I

"Why " We

soon?"

And you know,

must go." " Da! Stay a little longer," said Levin, holding him back " when shall we see each other I leave to-morrow." again? "I am a queer fellow. I came to I had entirely forgotten what I came for I insist on your coming to dine with us to-day. Your brother will be with us my brother-in-law, there." Karnin, will be " " Is he here? asked Levin, who was dying to hear news of Kitty he knew that she had been in Petersburg at the
:
!

beginning of the winter, visiting her

diplomatist.
k%

sister,

the wife of a

Whether she has come back or

accept," he thought.

not, it's all the same.

will

390

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

" " Will you come ? " Nu! Of course I will." " At five o'clock in frock-coat."

And Stepan
new
ful

Arkadyevitch rose, and went down to see the Instinct had not deceived him this dreadman proved to be a good fellow he lunched with him,
natchalnik.
: ;

and stayed so long

to talk, that

it

was nearly four o'clock

when he reached Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's.

VIII.

AFTER he returned from mass, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch

He had two things to acspent the morning in his room. complish on this day first, to receive a deputation of foreigners and then to write to his lawyer, as he had promised. He had a long discussion with the members of the deputation, heard their complaints and their needs, made out a programme, from which they were not to deviate on any account in their dealings with the government, and finally gave them a letter of introduction to the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, who would be his principal auxiliary in this matter: the countess has a specialty for deputations, and knew better than anybody else how to manage them. When he had dismissed these people, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch wrote to his lawyer, giving him full power to do as he thought best, and sent three notes of Vronsky's, and one from Anna, which he had found in the portfolio. Just as he was sealing his letter, he heard Stepan Arkadyevitch's clear voice asking the servant if bis brother-in-law
: ;

were at home, and insisting upon being announced. " So much the worse," thought Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, " or rather, so much the better. I will tell him how it and
is,

he will understand that it is impossible for me to dine at his house." " Come in," he cried, gathering up his papers, and pushing them into a writing-case. "JV-M/ but you see you lied, and he is at home," said Stepan Arkadyevitch to the servant, who would not let him in then taking off his overcoat as he walked along, he came into Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch's room. " I am he began gayly. " I hope" delighted to find," will be impossible for me to go," replied Alekse'i "It
:

ANNA KAE&NINA.

391

Aleksandrovitch curtly, receiving his brother-in-law standing, without asking him to sit down, resolved to adopt with his wife's brother the cool relations which seemed proper He forgot Stepan since he had decided to get a divorce. Oblonsky Arkadyevitch 's irresistible kindness of heart. opened wide his beautiful bright eyes. " Why can't you come? Won't you tell me?" he asked " But in French with some hesitation. you promised to come, and we count on you." " I wish to tell you that I cannot come because our family relations must be broken." " " How is that? Why? said Oblonsky with a smile. " Because I think of getting a divorce from my wife, your
sister.

must "

The sentence was not

finished, for

Stepan Arkadyevitch,

contrary to his brother-in-law's expectations, sank into an arm-chair, with a deep sigh. " Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch, it can't be possible," he cried, with pain expressed in his face. "It is true." "Pardon me. I cannot, I cannot believe it." he felt that his words Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch sat down had not produced the desired effect, and that no explanation, however categorical, would change his relations with Oblon:

sky.

"It is a cruel necessity, but I am forced to demand the divorce," he replied. " I will say only one filing to you. I know you for a man exof principle, and Anna for one of the best of women, I cannot cuse me if I cannot change my opinion of her, " believe it: there must be some misunderstanding " " Da ! if it were a misunderstanding only " Excuse me I understand but I beg of you, do not be in haste."
! ! : ;

have done nothing hastily," said Alekse"i Aleksandro"but in such a case, one cannot ask advice of anybody I am decided." " I beseech " It is terrible," sighed Stepan Arkadyevitch. if, as I understand, proceedings have not 3'et begun, you, not to do any thing until you have talked with my wife. She loves Anna like a sister, she loves you, and she is a woman
I

"

vitch

of good sense. For God's sake, talk with her. favor, I beg of you."

Do me

this

392

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch was silent, and was considering. Stepan Arkadyevitch respected his silence he looked at him
:

sympathetically. " Why not come and dine with us, at least to-day? Come and talk with her she is, I assure wife expects you. you, a superior woman. Talk with her, I beg of you." "If you wish it for this reason, I will go," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, sighing. And to change the conversation, he asked Stepan Arkadyevitch how he liked his new natchalnik, a man still young, whose rapid advancement was aston:

My

Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch had never liked Count ishing. Anitchkin, and he couldn't help a feeling of envy natural to an official with failure staring him in the face. " He is a man who seems to be very well informed and

possible? but how does he employ his acdoing good, or in destroying what others have done before him? The plague of our government is this scribbling bureaucracy, of which Anitchkin is a worthy
it

very active." " Active? is

Is
it

tivity?

in

' '

representative.

"At any rate, he is a very good fellow," replied Stepan a very good Arkadyevitch. "I have just been with him fellow we lunched together, and I taught him how to make wine and oranges." a drink, you know " Ach, bdtiushStepan Arkadyevitch looked at his watch.
:

ka!

it

is is

"It

after four o'clock decided, then, that

!

Both my wife and myself to come."

will dine with us, isn't it? will feel really hurt if you refuse

and you

must see Dolgovoshin.

Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch took leave of his brother-in-law

very differently from the wa}- in which he had greeted him. " I have promised, and I will come," he replied in a melanchoVy tone. " Thank you and I hope you will not regret it." And putting on his overcoat in the hall, he shook his fist
;

at the servant's head,

and went

out.

IX.

THE clock had just struck five when the master of the house entered, meeting Serge"! Ivanovitch Kozuuishef and Pestsof at the door. The old Prince Aleksaudr Dmitrievitch

ANNA EARNINA.

393

Shcherbatsky, Karenin, Turovtsuin, Kitty, and the young Shcherbatsky were already in the drawing-room. Conversation was languishing. Darya Aleksandrovna, anxious because her husband was late, did not succeed in enlivening her guests, whom the presence of Karenin, in black coat and white necktie, according to the Petersburg custom, involuntarily chilled. Stepan Arkady evitch excused himself with a jest, and with his usual good grace changed the gloomy appearance of the room in a twinkling he presented his guests to one another, furnished Koznuishef and Kareniu a subject of conversation, the Russification of Poland, installed the old prince near Dolly, complimented Kitty on her beauty, and went to glance at the dinner-table, and see about the wines. Levin met him at the door of the dining-room.
:

"

am "'How
I

not late, am I? could you be?" replied Oblonsky, taking him by

"

the arm.

"Are there mam- people here? Who are they?" asked Levin, blushing involuntarily, and with his glove brushing
away the snow from his hat. " Nobody but relatives. Kitty
is

here.

Come and

let

me

present you to Karenin." Levin grew timid when he knew that he should meet her whom he had not seen since that fatal evening, except for a glimpse of her that he once caught as she sat in her carriage.

How will she seem? Just as she used to? If Dolly had " wasn't she right? he thought. only been right " Ach! Present Whyto me Karenin, 1 beg of you," he succeeded in stammering, as he entered the drawing-room with
!

"

the courage of despair. She was there, and altogether different from what she had been before. She saw him the moment he entered and her joy was so great, that, while he was greeting Dolly, the poor child was afraid of bursting into tears. Levin and Dolly both noticed it. Blushing and growing pale by turns, she was so agitated that her lips trembled. Levin approached to speak to her : she gave him her cold hand with a smile which would have
;

appeared calm

"It

is

if her moist eyes had not been so brilliant. a long time since we have seen each other," she

forced herself to say.

394

ANNA
:

KARtiNINA.

" You have not seen me but I saw you one day in a carriage, on the road to Yergushovo, coming from the railway station," replied Levin, glowing with happiness. " When was it? " asked she in surprise. " You were on your way to your sister's," said Levin, "How," thought he, "could I have suffocating with joy. imputed any thing but innocence to this fascinating creature? Darya Aleksandrovna was right." Stepan Arkadyevitch came to conduct him to Kare'nin. " Allow me to make you acquainted," said he, presenting them to one another. " Delighted to find you here," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch coolly, as he took Levin's hand. " asked " What do Oblonyou already know each other?
!

sky with surprise.

travelled together smiling, "but we parted as was the case with me."

"

We

for three hours,"

from a masked

ball

said Levin, at least, it

"Really?

room?"
door.
Jcuska

said

Gentlemen, will you pass into the diningStepan Arkadyevitch, pointing towards the

The men followed him, and went to a table, where the zawas served. It was composed of six kinds of vodka, as many varieties of cheese, as well as caviare, preserves, The men
;

plateful of French bread, cut in very thin slices. ate standing around the table and, while waiting for the dinner, the Russification of Poland began to lanJust as they were leaving the drawing-room, Aleksei guish. Aleksandrovitch was trying to prove that the high principles introduced by the Russian administration could alone obtain this result. Pestsof maintained that one nation could only assimilate another by surpassing it in density of population. Koznuishef with certain restrictions, shared the opinions of
,

and a

both

and

to close this serious conversation with a joke,

he

added, smiling,
logical way, then, for us to assimilate foreignseems to me, is to have as many children as possible. while you, It is there where my brother and I are in fault gentlemen, and above all Stepan Arkadyevitch, are acting the part of good patriots. How many have you?" he asked of the latter, handing him a little glass of cordial. Everybody laughed, and Oblonsky most of all. "Do you still practise g}'mnastics ? " said Oblonsky, takers, it
;

" The most

ANNA
;

KARfiNlNA.

395

ing Levin by the arm and, feeling his friend's tense muscles swell beneath the cloth of his coat, he said, "What biceps! You are a regular Samson." "I suppose it is necessary to be endowed with remarkable
vitch,

strength, to hunt bears, isn't it?" said Aleksi Aleksandrowhose ideas about this sort of hunting were of the

vaguest.

Levin smiled.

"No: a child could kill a bear;" and he drew back, with a slight bow, to make room for the ladies, who were
killed a bear," said Kitty, trying to get her fork into a recalcitrant mushroom, and showing her pretty arm a little, as she threw back the lace in her "Are there really bears where you live?" she sleeve. added, half turning her pretty, smiling face towards him. What a charm these words, of so little importance in themselves the sound of her voice ; the motion of her hands, of all had for him He saw in them her arms, and her head, a prayer, an act of confidence, a sweet and timid caress, a promise, a hope, even a proof of love, which filled him with
;
!

coming to the table. " I hear that you have just

happiness.

and

"Oh, no! we were hunting in the government of Tver; it was on my way from there, that I met your brotherStiva's brother-in-law,

in-law,

on the train," said he,

smiling.

meeting was very funny." And he gave a lively and amusing description of how, after having been awake half the night, he was forced to enter Karenin's car in his polushubok [fur jacket]. "The conductor wanted to put me out on account of my
;

"The

appearance I felt mortified and you, sir," said he, turning towards Karenin, " after scanning my costume, took my part, for which I felt very grateful to you."
;

rights to their choice of place are generally considered," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, wiping the ends of his fingers with his napkin after eating a bit of bread and cheese. "Oh! I noticed that you hesitated," replied Levin, smil" that was why I hastened to open a serious subject of ing

" Travellers'
little

too

make you forget my sheepskin." Koznuishef, who was talking with the mistress of the house, and at the same time lending an ear to the conversation, turned his head towards his brother.
conversation, to

396

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

" " What makes him look so triumphant? thought he. And really, Levin felt as though he had wings. For she was listening to him, she was taking pleasure in what he said He was ever}' other interest disappeared before that.
:

alone with her, not only in this room, but in the whole world, and looked down from dizzy heights on these excellent people, Oblonsky, Karenin, and the rest of humanity.

Stepan Arkadyevitch seemed entirely to forget Levin and Kitty in placing his guests at table then suddenly remembering them, he put them side by side. " Nu! you can sit there," said he to Levin. for Stepan Arkadyevitch The dinner, elegantly served, made a great point of this, was a complete success. The Marie-Louise soup, served with little pasties which melted in the mouth, was perfect and Matve" with two servants in white neckties, waited skilfully and noiselessly. The success was no less great from a conversational point of view sometimes general, sometimes special, it never lagged and when they left the table, after dinner, even Aleksei Aleksandrovitch was thawed out.
: ;

X.
PESTSOF, who liked to discuss a question thoroughly, was not satisfied with Koznuishef's interrupting him he felt that he hadn't been allowed to express his thought sufficiently. " In speaking of the density of the population, I didn't intend to make it the principle of an assimilation, but only a means," said he after the soup, addressing himself particularly to Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch.
:

It seems to me that that amounts to the same thing," "In my judgment, a people can replied Kareniii slowly. have no influence over another people unless they are supe' rior in point of civilization
'

"

"That is precisely the question," interrupted Pestsof, much ardor, that he seemed to put his whole soul " How is one to into defending his own opinions. recognize this superior civilization? Which, among the different nawith so
Is it France, or Engtions of Europe, shall take the lead? land, or Germany, which shall nationalize her neighbors? have seen the Rhine provinces nationalized by the French is No: it a proof of inferiority on the side of the Germans? there is some other law," he cried in his bass voice.
:

We

ANNA
' '

KARtfNINA.

397

I believe that the balance will always turn in favor of

this true civilization."

" " But what are the signs of this true civilization? " I believe that everybody knows them."

"But are they really known?" asked Sergei Ivanovitch " One with a subtle smile. willingly believes for the moment, that civilization does not exist outside of classical instruction we have furious debates on this point, and each side brings forward proofs that are not lacking in value." "Are you in favor of the classics, Sergei Ivanovitch?" " " Shall I said Oblonsky. give you some claret? "I am not speaking of my personal opinions," replied Koznuishef, with the condescension that he would have shown a child as he reached his glass. " I only pretend that the reasons alleged are good on both sides," continued he,
;

As for my education, it was classiaddressing Kare'nin. cal but that doesn't hinder me from finding that classical studies do not offer unexceptional proofs of their superiority to others." " The natural sciences tend just as much to the pedagogical development of the human mind," replied Pestsof. " Look at astronomy, botany, and zoology, with the unity of their laws " That is an opinion that I cannot share," replied Aleks6i Aleksaudrovitch. " Can the happy influence on the development of intelligence be denied in the study of the forms of language? Ancient literature is eminently moral; while, unfortunately for us, the study of the natural sciences has been complicated with fatal and false doctrines, which are the bane of our time." Sergei Ivanovitch was going to reply, but Pestsof interrupted him in his deep voice, to demonstrate, with excitement, the injustice of this statement when Koznuishef at last had a chance to speak, he said, smiling, to Aleksi
; ' '
!

"

Aleksandrovitch,

" You acknowledge that the pros and cons of the two syswill
it

tems
call

be

difficult to establish, if

the anti-nihilistic

let

us

by

its
' '

right

name

moral influence does not militate

in its favor ?

"Undoubtedly." " We shall leave the field more free to both systems do not look upon classical education as a sort of pill

if

we
be

to

offered freely to our patients as an antidote to nihilism. But are we perfectly sure of the healing-properties of these pills?"

398

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

This made everybody laugh, especially the big Turovtsuin, who had tried in vain to be lively until this moment.

Stepan Arkadyevitch had been right in counting on Pestzof to carry on the conversation for Koznuishef had hardly finished with his jest when he replied, " One cannot well accuse the government of proposing a cure, for it remains to all appearances indifferent to the consequences of the measure it takes it is public opinion which I will quote as an example, the question of directs it. It must be looked upon as higher education for women. dangerous, since the government opens the public lectures and the universities to women." And the conversation turned upon the new theme of the education of women. Aleksei Aleksandnrvitch expressed the thought that the education of women was too much confused with their emancipation, and could be considered dangerous only from that point of view. " I believe, on the contrary, that these two questions are ''Woman is deprived intimately connected," said Pestzof. of rights because she is deprived of education, and the lack Let us not forof education tends to the absence of rights. get that the bondage of woman is so ancient, so interwoven with our customs, that we are very often incapable of understanding the legal abyss that separates her from us." " You speak of rights," said Sergei Ivanovitch, as soon as " is it a he had a chance to put in a word right to fulfil the functions of jurist, of municipal counsellor, of president of the tribunal, of public functionary, of member of parlia;
:

ment?" "Without doubt." " But if women can

wouldn't
it

exceptionally

fill

these

functions,

of rights? Let us say, then, to speak logically, that women are seeking for duties, and in this case we shall sympathize with their desire to take part in man's work." "That is fair," affirmed Aleksei Aleksandrovitch "the principal thing is to know whether they are capable of fulfilling these duties." " They will be, certainly, as soon as they have been gener" " see it ally educated," said Stepan Arkadyevitch. "And the proverb?" asked the old prince, whose little,
:

be more fair to give it the name of duties instead lawyer, a telegraph employer, fulfils a duty.

We

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

399

" I scornful eyes shone as he listened to this conversation. ' Woman has long may repeat it before my daughters
:

hair'"

"That is the way we judged the negroes before their " cried Peetsof with dissatisfaction. emancipation! " I admit that what astonishes me most," said Sergei " is to see women to undertake new
Ivanuitch,
trying

when we

see, unfortunately, that

men

duties, shirk theirs as much

as possible." 'Duties are accompanied by rights: honor, influence, money, these are what women are after," said Pestsof. ' Exactly as though I solicited the right to become a nurse, and found it hard to be refused, while women are paid for it," said the old prince. Turovtsuin burst out laughing, and Serg6i Ivanovitch reEven gretted that he was not the author of this pleasantry. Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch himself smiled. "Da! enough of nurses," said Sergei Ivanuitch. "But
;

women "

" But what about young Stepan Arkady evitch, who,

thinking
all

girls,

without any family?

" asked

the time

" If you look closely into the lives of these young girls," interposed Darya Aleksandrovna, with a shade of bitter" ness, you will doubtless find that they have left a family or a sister, and that women's duties were within their reach." Dolly instinctively understood what sort of women Stepan Arkadyevitch meant. " But we are defending a principle, an ideal," answered " Woman claims the voice. Pestsof, in his
thundering
right

in taking Pestsof 's part, had been of Chibisovaia, his little dancing-girl.

to be independent and educated she suffers ity to obtain independence and education."
:

from her

inabil-

"And I suffer from not being admitted as nurse to the foundling-asylum," repeated the old prince, to the great amusement of Turovtsuin, letting the large cud of a piece of asparagus fall into his sauce.
XI.
KITTY and Levin were the only ones who had not taken part in the conversation. At the beginning of the dinner, when they were talking about the influence of one people over another, Levin re-

400

ANNA KARNINA.
; ;

called the opinions that he had formed on the subject but they quickly disappeared, as of no longer any interest he thought it strange that people could trouble themselves about such useless questions. Kitty, for her part, ought to haVe been interested in the discussion of women's rights, for not only had she often considered them, on account of her friend Varenka, whose dependence was so hard to bear, but also on her own account, She had often had disputes in case she should not many. with her sister on the subject. How little interest she felt Between Levin and herself there had sprung up in it now a mysterious affinity, which brought them nearer and nearer to one another, and filled them with a joyful fear, on the
!

new life that they caught a glimpse of. Kitty asked how he had happened to see her in the summer, and Levin told her that he was returning from the prairies by the highway after the mowing. " It was very early in the morning. You had probably just waked your mamma was still asleep in her corner. The
threshold of the
:

I was walking along, saying to myWhose can it be?' carriage with four horses? They were four fine horses with bells. And quick as a I saw }T OU through the door flash, you passed before me. you were sitting like this, holding the ribbons of your bonnet in your hands, and you seemed plunged in deep thought. How I wished I could know," he added with a smile, " what

morning was superb.

self,

'A

3'ou

Was it something very imporwere thinking about tant?" " " Is it possible that I didn't haA*e my bonnet on? thought But seeing the enthusiastic smile which lighted up Kitty. Levin's face, she felt re-assured about the impression she had produced, and replied, blushing, and laughing merrily, " I really don't know an}' thing about it." " "
!
!

How heartily Turovtsuin laughs said Levin, admiring the gayety of this big fellow, whose eyes were moist, and his sides shaking with laughter. " asked " Have you known him long? Kitty. " Who doesn't know him? " " And I see that you think that he is a bad man." " That is saying too much but he isn't worth much." " That is I beg you not to think so any more," unjust. said Kitty. "I, too, once misjudged him but he is an exHis heart true gold." cellent man.
; ;

ANNA
"

KARtiNINA.
"

401

can you know what kind of a heart he has? We are very good friends. Last winter, a short time after you stopped coming to our house," said she, after rather guiltily, but with a confiding smile, " Dolly's children had the sicarlatiua, and one day Turovtsuin happened to call " on my sister. Would you believe it? she said, lowering her " he was so voice sorry for them, that he staid to take care of the little invalids. For three weeks he played nurse to I am telling Konstautin Dmitritch of Turovtthe children. suin's kindness at the tune of the scarlatina," said she, turning towards her sister. " " Yes, it was remarkable it was lovely replied Dolly, at Turovtsuiu with a grateful smile. Levin also looking looked at him, and was surprised that he had never understood him till then.

"

How

XII.

THE

discussion about the emancipation of

women was a

delicate one to carry on in the presence of the ladies, so it was dropped. But as soon as dinner was over, Pestsof addressed Aleksi Aleksandrovitch, and tried to explain this

question from the stand-point of inequality of rights between husband and wife in marriage the principal reason for this inequality depending, in his opinion, on the difference established bylaw, and by public opinion, between the infidelity of a wife and that of a husband. Stepan Arkadyevitch suddenly offered a cigar to Kareniu. " No, I do not smoke," replied the latter calmly and as if to prove that he was not afraid of this conversation, he turned towards Pestsof with his icy smile. " This inequality goes, it seems to me, to the very root of things," said he, and he turned towards the drawing-room but here Turovtsuin again interrupted him. " " Have he you heard the story about Priatchnikof ? asked, animated by the champagne, and taking advantage of a moment that he had been impatiently awaiting, to break a silence which weighed heavily on him. " Vasia Priatchnikof?" and he turned towards Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, as towards the most important guest, with a good-natured " I smile on his thick lips, red and moist. heard, this morning, that he fought a duel at Tver, with Kvuitsky, and
; ; ;

killed

him."

402

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

The conversation seemed fated, on this occasion, to touch Aleksei Aleksandrovitch on the sore spot. Stepan Arkactyevitch noticed it, and wished to come to his brother-in-law's assistance; but Kareuin asked, with curiosity, "Why did " he fight a duel? "On account of his wife he behaved bravely about it, for he challenged his rival, and killed him." "Ah!" said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, with unconcern; and, raising his eyebrows, he left the room. Dolly was waiting for him in a little parlor, and said,
:

smiling timidly, " How glad I am that you came I want to talk with you. Let us sit down here." Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch, preserving the air of indifference caused by his elevated eyebrows, sat down near her. " as I wish to ask " All the more willingly," said he, you to excuse me for leaving you as soon as possible. I go away
!

to-morrow morning." Darya Aleksandrovna, firmly convinced of Anna's innocence, was conscious of growing pale and trembling with anger before this heartless, unfeeling man, who coolly proposed to ruin her friend. "Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," she said, with desperate courage, collecting all her firmness to look him full in the " I have asked face, .you to give me news of Anna, and " you have not replied how is she? " I think that she is well, Darya Aleksandrovna," replied
:

Karenin, without looking at her. "Pardon me, if I have no right to insist upon it; but I love Anna like a sister tell me, I pray you, what has happened between you and her, and what you accuse her of." Kareniu frowned, and bent his head, almost closing his
;

" Your husband must have told you, I think, the reasons which oblige me to break my relations with Anna Arkadyevna," said he, casting a glance of annoyance towards Shcherbatsky, who was passing through the room. " I do not believe and I never will it, I do not believe it " murmured Dolly, pressing her thin hands tobelieve it! She rose quickly, and, touching Alekgether energetically. "We shall be disturbed s6i Aleksandrovitch' s arm, said, here let us go in there, please." Dolly's emotion was communicated to Kareuin he arose,
!
:

eyes.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

403

and followed her into the children's schoolroom, where they seated themselves in front of a table covered with an oilcloth, somewhat the worse for pen-knife strokes. " 1 don't believe it, I don't believe it! " repeated Dolly, trying to catch his eye, which avoided hers.

"One

cannot deny facts, Darya Aleksandrovna,"

said

word facts. " " But what has she done? precisely what has she done? " She has failed to do her and betrayed her husband. duty, That is what she has done." " No, no it is no, thank the Lord, you are " cried impossible mistaken! her hands to her
he, dwelling on the
!
!

Dolly, putting and closing her eyes.

:

temples,

Aleks^i Aleksaudrovitch smiled coolly out of the corners of his mouth he wished to prove to Dolly, and to prove to But at this himself, that his conviction was immovable. heated interference, his wound opened afresh and although it was impossible for him to doubt, he replied with less cold;

" It is difficult to make a mistake when a woman herself declares to her husband that eight years of married life and a sou count for nothing, and that she wishes to begin life over again," he replied angrily, dilating his nostrils. " Anna and vice I cannot associate the two ideas I cannot believe it." " " said he angrily, now looking Darya Aleksandrovna straight at Dolly's distressed face, and feeling his tongue " I would involuntarily unloosed, give a great deal to be able still to have any doubts Yesterday, doubt was cruel, but the present is still more cruel. When I doubted, I hoped in spite of every thing. Now there is no hope, and, moreI am so full of doubt that over, I have doubted every thing. I cannot bear to see my sou. I sometimes do not believe " that he is my son. I am very unhappy As soon as Dolly met his look, she understood that he was telling her what was true. She pitied him, and her faith in her friend's innocence was shaken. "Adi! it is terrible! but are you really decided about the divorce ? " " I have resorted to this at last, because " Don't do it! Don't do it! " said Dolly, with tears in " No, don't do it " her eyes. " I see no other way to take. The most dreadful thing
!

ness,

' '

404

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

about a misfortune of this kind is, that one cannot bear his a loss or a death," said he, divining cross as in any other, "You cannot remain in the humiliating Dolly's thought. " position brought upon you, on ne pent vivre ct trois! " I I understand perfectly," replied Dolly, understand, bowing her head. She was silent, and her own domestic troubut suddenly she folded her hands bles came to her mind with a supplicating gesture, and, lifting her eyes fearlessly " to Kare"niu, " Wait a bit," she said you are a Christian. Think what will become of her if you abandon her." " I have thought of it. I have thought a great deal about He looked at her with troubled it, Darya Aleksandrovna." Dolly pitied him now eyes, and his face turned crimson. from the bottom of her heart. " When she told me of her disgrace herself, I gave her a chance to re-instate herself. I tried to save her. What did she do then ? She paid no " attention to the least of demands, respect to propriety
;

he added, choking. "One can save a man who does not want to perish but with a nature corrupt to the extent of finding " happiness in his destruction, what would you have one do?
:

beginning very grateful to you for your sympathy, but I am compelled to leave you," he added, rising. "No, wait a moment! you must not give her up listen to me I speak from experience. I, too, am married, and my husband deceived me in my jealousy and my indignation, I too wished to leave him but I considered the matter, and who saved me? Anna. Now I am living again. Now my children are growing up, my husband has returned to his
:
;

thing, except " " What do you mean by every thing? " Only think that she will no" longer be anybody's wife. It is terrible She will be lost " What can I do? " replied Kare'nin, raising his shoulders and his eyebrows and the memory of his last explanation with his wife, suddenly brought him back to the same degree " I am of the interview. of coldness as at the
!
!

"Every

divorce."

his wrong-doing, is growing better, nobler. " have forgiven him and you ought to forgive her Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch listened but Dolly's words were of no effect, for the anger which caused him to decide upon

family,

knows

I live, I

a divorce was rankling in his soul. He replied in a loud, penetrating voice, "Forgive her? I cannot, nor do I wish I have done what was next to imIt would be unjust. to.

ANNA
possible for this
in the mire,

KAKtiNINA.

405

man, and

woman, and she has dragged every thing which seems to suit her better. I am not a bad have never hated anybody before; but her I

hate with all the strength of my soul, and I will not forgive " and tears of her, for she has done me too great wrong! trembled in his voice. anger Love them that hate you," murmured Dolly, almost
k

ashamed.
Aleksei Aleksandrovitch smiled scornfully. He was familwith these words, but the}" did not apply to his situation. " We can love those who hate us, but not those whom we I beg your pardon for having troubled you hate. sufficient unto every man is his own burden." And having recovered his self -possession, Kaie"nin calmly took leave of Dolly, and
iar
:

went away.
XIII.

LEVIN resisted the temptation to follow Kitty into the drawing-room after leaving the table, lest she should be offended by too marked attention from him he remained with the men, and took part in the general conversation. But, without looking at Kitty, he saw every motion that she made, aud knew just where she was in the drawing-room.
:

At

first he fulfilled, without the least effort, the promise that he had made to love his neighbor, and to think nothing but good of him. The conversation turned on the commune in Russia, which Pestsof considered as a new order of things, destined to serve as an example to the rest of the world. Levin agreed as little with him as he did with Sergei Ivanovitch, who recognized, and at the same time denied, the value of this institution but he tried to reconcile them by toning down the terms which they used, without showing the
;

His one desire was, to see both of them happy and contented. The one person from henceforth of any importance to him was coming near the door. He felt a look and a smile fixed upon him, and was She was standing there with obliged to look around. Shcherbatsky, and looking at him. "I thought you were going to sit down at the piano," said " Music is what I have to do without he, approaching her.
least partiality in the discussion.
in the

"

country."
to find

No, we merely came

you

and I thank you for

406
coming to us," she

ANNA
replied,

KAEfiNINA.
recompensing him with a smile.

"What

pleasure can there be in discussing?

is

Nobody

is

ever convinced."

" Da! how true that

"
!

Levin had so many times noticed that long discussions, with great efforts to be logical, and a great waste of words, often produced no result, that he was delighted to hear
Kitty express his thoughts so exactly. Shcherbatsk}- stepped away and the young girl, going to a card-table, sat down, and, taking a piece of chalk in her baud, began to draw circles on the cloth. " Ach! I have covered the table with my scrawls," said she, laying down the chalk, after a moment's silence, with a movement, as if she were going to rise. "What shall I do to stay with her?" thought Levin,
;

terrified.

" Wait," said he, sitting down near the table. wanted for a long time to ask you something."

" I have

He

"What

looked at her fondly, but a

is

little

disturbed.

it?"

"This is it," said he, taking the chalk, and writing the letters w, y, s, ?', i, i, w, i, i, t, o, a? These letters were the

When you said, 'It is impossible,' words, " impossible then, or always? It was not at all likely that Kitty would be able to make Levin looked at her, neverout this complicated question. theless, as though his life depended on whether she could guess these words. She studied it seriously, resting her forehead on her hand, and gave her whole attention to deciphering it, interrogating Levin occasionally with her eyes.
initials of the

"

was

it

" I know what it is," said she, blushing. " What is this word? " he asked, pointing to the i of the word impossible, " That letter stands for The word is not impossible.
right," she replied. He quickly rubbed out what he had written, and gave the chalk to her. She wrote /, c, n, a, d. Dolly, seeing her sister with the chalk in her hand, a timid and happy smile on her lips, raising her eyes to Levin, who was leaning over the table, beaming now at her, now at the cloth, felt consoled for her conversation with Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. She saw Levin light up with joy he had understood the reply " Then I could not answer differently."
: ,
;

ANNA
He
"

KARtiNINA.

407

looked at Kitty timidly and inquiringly.

girl's smile.

"Only then?"
Yes," replied the young

"And
' '

now?"

" Read this.

forget.

I will tell

traced the initials

" and she quickly of the words, "That you can forgive and
you what
I wish
;

he asked.

seized the chalk in turn, with his excited, trembling and replied in the same way, " I have never ceased love you." to Kitty looked at him, and her smile died away. " I understand," she murmured. " " You are said the old prince, playing secretaire, are you ? " Nu! to them. But, if you are going to the coming up theatre, it is time to start." Levin rose and accompanied Kitty to the door. This confingers,

He

versation decided every thing Kitty had acknowledged her love for him, and had given him permission to come the next morning to speak to her parents.
:

XIV.
felt a restlessness come over he dreaded as he dreaded death the fourteen hours to be endured before to-morrow when he should see her again. To pass away the time, he felt it absolutel}- necessary not to remain alone, but to have somebody to talk to. Stepan Arkadyevitch. whom he would have liked to keep with him, was going apparently to a reception, but in reality to the Levin could only tell him that he was happy, and ballet. should never, never forget what he owed to him. "What! Then you have nothing more to say about dy-

AFTER Kitty had gone, Levin

:

him

ing?" said Oblonsky, pressing

ately.

his friend's

hand

affection-

No," replied the latter. Dolly, too, almost congratulated him when she bade him She said, " How glad I am that you have made good-night. with Kitty !" and her words displeased Levin. Nothing up would allow him to allude to his good fortune. To avoid being alone, he joined his brother. " " Where are you going? " To a meeting." Nu I I'll go with you. May I ? "
' '

"

N_N N

408
"

ANNA KARNINA.
Why not?
to

"

happened

said Sergei Ivanovitch, smiling. "

" What has

Good fortune," said Levin, let" Have ting clown the carriage window. you any objection? I am suffocating. have you never been married? " Sergei Ivanovitch smiled.

"What

3-011 to-day? has happened?

Why
:

"

it! cried Levin, seizing the collar of his shuba, and covering his face with the fur. charming girl : what commonplace words and how feebly they corresponded to his

about

I am delighted she is a charming girl," he began. "No, don't say any thing about it, don't say any thing "

" To-morrow you may speak but not another word now, not another word, not another word Be silent. I love you What is your subject for discussion to-day?" very much.
; !

feelings

asked Levin, still smiling. They had reached their destination. During the meeting Levin heard the secretary stammer through the report that he did not understand but he could see, from this secretary's it was face, that he was a good, amiable, sympathetic fellow evident from the way that he hesitated and became confused
: ;

while reading. Then came the debates. They discussed about the disposal of certain sums of money, and the laying of certain sewer-pipes. Sergei Ivanovitch attacked two members of the commission, and made a triumphant speech after which another member, reading from a against them paper, after some timid hesitation, replied briefly in a charmand then Sviazhsky, in his turn, ing though bitter fashion
; ;

Levin listened expressed his opinions nobh* and eloquently. all the while, feeling that the money to be expended, the sewer-pipes, and the rest, were of no serious importance that they were only a pretext to bring together pleasant, congenial people. Nobody was bored, and Levin noticed with from some trifling incidents which once would surprise have entirely escaped his notice that he could now penetrate the thoughts of each of the speakers, read their souls, and see what excellent natures they possessed and he felt that they all liked him. Those who did not know him seemed to speak to him, to look at him pleasantly and in a friendly
; ;

manner. " " asked Serge" i Ivanovitch. Well, how do you like it? " Very much I never should have believed that it would be so interesting."
:

ANNA
to

KARfiNINA.

409

Sviazhsky approached the two brothers, and invited Levin come and take a cup of tea at his house. " I should be delighted," replied the latter, forgetting his old prejudices and he immediately inquired after Madame Sviazhsky and her sister. By a strange association of ideas, as Sviazhsky's sister-in-law suggested marriage, he concluded that nobody would be more interested than she and her sister to hear of his happiness. So he was very much pleased with the idea of going to see them. Sviazhsky questioned him about his affairs, always refusing to admit that any thing could be discovered which had not already been discovered in Europe but his theory did not arouse Levin's opposition. Sviazhsky ought to be right on all points, and Levin admired the gentleness and delicacy with which he avoided proving it too clearly. The ladies were charming. Levin believed that they knew all, and that they shared his joy, but that they avoided speaking of it from discretion. He remained for three hours, talking on various subjects, and continually alluding to what filled his soul, without noticing that he was mortally tiring his friends, and that they were falling asleep. At last, Sviazhsky, yawning, accompanied him to the vesLevin tibule, very much surprised at his friend's behavior. reached his hotel between one and two o'clock in the morning, and was frightened at the thought of passing ten hours The watchman who was on alone, a prey to his impatience. duty in the corridor lighted his candles, and was about to withdraw when Levin stopped him. This fellow was called Yegor. Never before had he paid any attention to him but he suddenly became aware that he was a good, intelligent man, and, above all, kind-hearted. " Tell me, Ygor, don't you find it hard to go without
; ; ;

your sleep?" " What difference does it make? It is our We calling. have an easier time in gentlemen's houses, but less profit." He found out that Ye"gor was the father of a family of four children, three boys, and a girl whom he hoped to marry to a harness-maker's clerk. At the announcement of this plan, Levin communicated his ideas about love in marriage to Ye"gor, remarking that people are always happy where there is love, because their happiness is in themselves. Y4gor listened attentively, and evidently understood Levin's meaning but he confirmed it
;

410

ANNA

KARlSNINA.

that when he, Ye"gor, had by an unexpected reflection, served good masters, he had always been satisfied with them, and that he was contented with his master now, although he was a Frenchman. " '" What an excellent fellow "JV/ and thought Levin. " when did love married her?
!

you your wife, Yegor, " Why shouldn't I love her? replied Yegor. And Levin noticed how eager Yegor was to confide to him his inmost you
'

thoughts.
life, too, has been an extraordinary one," he began, his eyes shining, overcome by Levin's enthusiasm as one is " From overcome by the contagion of yawning. my child'

My

" But the bell rang: Yegor departed, and Levin hood was left alone. Although he had eaten scarcely any thing at dinner, although he had refused to take any tea or supper at Sviazhsky's, still he couldn't eat; and although he hadn't slept the preceding night, he didn't think of sleeping now. He couldn't breathe in his room and, in spite of the cold, he opened a window, and seated himself on a table in front of it. Above the roofs covered with snow rose the carved cross of a church, and higher still were the constellations of the While breathing the cold Charioteer and the bright Capella. air which filled his room, he looked now at the cross, now at the stars, rising as in a dream among the figures and memories called up by his imagination. Towards four o'clock in the morning footsteps were heard in the corridor he opened his door, and saw a gambler reIt was a man named Miaskin, whom turning from his club. He walked along, coughing, gloomy, and Levin knew. "Poor, unfortunate fellow!" thought Levin, scowling. whose eyes filled with tears of pity. He wanted to stop him, to speak to him, and console him but, remembering that he was undressed, he went back, and sat down to bathe himself in the icy air, and to look at the strangely formed cross, so full of meaning to him in the silence, and at the beautiful, bright stars above it. Towards seven o'clock the men polishing the floors began to make a noise, the bells rang for early morning service, and Levin began to feel that he was taking cold. He closed the window, made his toilet, and went out.
;
: ;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

411

XV.
THE streets were still deserted when Levin reached the Shcherbatskys' house everybody was asleep, and the principal entrance was still closed. He went back to the hotel, and asked for coffee. It was the day watchman who brought it Levin wished to enter into converto him, and not Yegor. sation with him but, unfortunately, somebody rang, and he went out. He tried to take his coffee, but was unable to swallow the piece of kalatch [white-bread] that he put in his mouth. Then he put on his overcoat again, and returned to It was just ten o'clock, and they the Shcherbatskys' house. were beginning to get up the cook was going to market. He must make up his mind to wait at least two hours longer. Levin had passed the whole night and the morning in a complete state of indifference to the material conditions of existence he had neither eaten nor slept had been exposed, with almost no clothing, to the cold for several hours and he not only was fresh and heart}-, but he felt freed from all the slavery of body, master of his powers, and capable of the most extraordinary actions, such as flying through the air or jumping over the top of a house. He roamed about the
:

away the time, consulting his \vatch every or two, and looking about him. What he saw that day he never saw again. He was particularly struck by the children on their way to school the pigeons, with ever-changing plumage, flying from the roof to the sidewalk the su'ikis [little cakes] powdered with flour that an invisible hand was arranging in a window. All these things seemed extraordichild ran towards one of the pigeons, and looked at nary. Levin, smiling the pigeon spread its wings, and shone in the sunlight through a cloud of fine snow and the smell of hot bread came through the window where the sa'ikis were disAll these, taken as a whole, produced so lively an played. impression on Levin that he began to laugh aloud. After going around by the Gazetnaia and Kislovka Streets, he went back to the hotel, sat down, placed his watch before him, and waited till the hands pointed to the hour of noon. When it struck twelve he went on the steps of the hotel and the izwshchiks, with happy faces, surrounded him, disputing as to which should offer his services. Evidently they knew all about it. He chose one, and, not to offend the others, promstreets to pass

moment

412
ised to take

ANNA
;

them some other time then he drove to the The izvoshcJuk was charming, with his white shirt-collar above his kaftan surrounding his strong, red neck. He had a comfortable sleigh, more comfortable than ordinary such a sleigh as Levin had never seen before, sleighs, drawn by a good horse, who did his best to run, without making the least progress. The izvoshchik knew the ShcherShclierbatskys'.

he stopped before the door, flourishing his batsky house " " arms, and turned respectfully towards Levin, saying Whoa
:

to his horse.

The Shcherbatskys' servant knew all about it, surely that was plain from the look in his eyes, and the way he said, " Nu! it is a have been here, Kontime since
:

long

3'ou

stantin Dmitritch,"

Not only did he know what had happened, but he was full Levin felt a shade of delight, and tried to conceal his joy. happier when he caught the old man's good-natured eyes.

" " Are they up? "Please come in. Leave that here," added the Swiss as Levin was turning back to get his shapka [fur cap]. "That must have some significance," he thought. " asked a " To whom shall I announce lackey. you, sir? This lackey, though young, new in the house, and with some pretension to elegance, was very obliging, very attenand he, too, seemed to understand the situation. tive "To the princess I mean the prince; no, the young
;

princess," replied Levin. The first person whom he met was Mademoiselle Linon. She was passing through the hall, radiant in her little curls and her shining face. He had hardly spoken to her when the Mademoiselle rustling of a dress was heard near the door. Linon disappeared from before his eyes, and he was overcome with the thought of the happiness awaiting him. Hardly had the old governess hastened away, when little, light-tripping feet ran over the floor, and his happiness, his life, the better part of himself, that which he yearned for so long, drew near. She did not walk some invisible power seemed to He saw only her bright, truthful bring her towards him. filled with the same timid joy that filled his own heart. eyes, These eyes, shining nearer and nearer to him, almost blinded him with their light of love. She stood before him, almost touching him then she placed her two hands gently on his shoulders and then she gave herself to him, trembling and
:
;

ANNA
happy.
hers.

KARtiNINA.

413

He

folded her in his arms, and pressed his lips to

a sleepless night, had been waiting for him Her parents were perfectly agreed, and the morning. happy in her happiness. She had been on the wateh for his coming. She wanted to be the first to tell him of their happiness. Shy and confused, she hardly knew how to carry out her plan. She heard his steps and voice, and hid herself behind the door to wait till Mademoiselle Linon had gone. Then, without questioning further, she came to him. " Now, let us find mamma," said she, taking his hand. For a long time he could not utter a word, because not only was he afraid of lessening the intensity of his joy by words, but because his tears choked him. He took her by the hand, and kissed her. " he said at last in a "I " Is it really true? husky voice. cannot believe that you love me." She smiled at his tui and at the timidity with which he
.She, too, after
all

looked at her. "Yes," she replied, slowly lingering on this word.

"I

am

so happy

' '
!

Without letting go his hand, she went with him into the As soon as the princess saw them, she drawing-room. almost went into hysterics then, running to Levin with a sudden energy, she seized his head, and kissed him, bedew;

ing his face with her tears. "So all is settled? I am delighted. Love her. I am " so glad for you Kitty " It didn't take to arrange matters," said the old you long
!

prince, trying to appear calm with tears.

but Levin saw his eyes

fill

"

It is

something

have long been anxious for," said the

prince, drawing Levin towards him.

"

"And when

this little

goose thought "

hand over his mouth. very well, I won't say any thing," said Ach ! how stupid I am " he. "I am very hap very And he took Kitty in his arms, kissed her face, her hands, and then her face again, blessing her with the sign of the
!

" Papa " Nu!

cried Kitty, putttog her

well,

Very

cross.

Levin felt a new and strange affection for the old prince when he saw how tenderly and fervently Kitty kissed his
great, strong hand.

414

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.
XVI.

princess was sitting in her easy-chair, silent and the prince was sitting beside her Kitty was standing near her father, holding his hand. Everybody was silent. The princess was the first to bring their thoughts and feeland the transition gave ings back to the affairs of real life each of them, for a moment, a strange and painful impression. "When shall the wedding be? must announce the What do you think marriage, and have them betrothed.

THE

beaming

We

about it, Aleksandr?" " There is the person most interested said the prince, pointing to Levin.

let

him decide

it,"
if

"When?"

replied the latter, blushing.

;

"To-morrow,
;

you wish my opinion to-day, the betrothal to-morrow, the wedding." " Nul Come, now, mon cher, no nonsense." " Well, in a week, then." " One would really suppose that you had lost your
senses."
said the mother, smiling gayly at his impatience. " Is it possible that a trousseau and all the rest are indis-

"But why not?" " And the trousseau? "

" After all, neither pensable?" thought Levin, with alarm. the trousseau, nor the betrothal, nor any thing else, can spoil " He looked at Kitty, and noticed that the my happiness! idea of the trousseau did not offend her at all. " It must be he said to himself. " I admit that I know

very necessary," nothing about it. I have merely expressed my desire," said he, excusing himself. " will consider the matter now we will have the betrothal, and announce the marriage." The princess stepped up to 'her husband, kissed him, and was about to move away again but he held her, and kissed her again and again, like a young lover. The two old people seemed agitated, and ready to believe that it was not their daughter who was to be married, but themselves.

We

When they had gone out, Levin approached his fiancee, and took her hand he had regained his self-possession, and could speak he had many other things on his mind to tell her, but he did not say at all what he intended to say.
;

ANNA
' '

KAEtiNINA.
:

415

at the bottom of my I knew that it would be like this heart I was sure of it, without ever daring to hope. I believe that it was predestined." "And I," replied Kitty, "even when," she hesitated, then continued, looking at -him resolutely out of her sincere " even when I rejected my happiness. I never loved eyes, anybody but you I was led away. I must ask you, can you
:

forget it?"

" Perhaps it was best that it should be so. You, too, will have to pardon me, for I must confess to you." This was one of the things that he had on his mind to He had decided to confess every thing to her, from tell her. his earliest life, first, that he was not as pure as she, and
then that he was not a believer. He thought it his duty to make these confessions to her, however cruel they might be. " No, not now later," he added. " But tell me every thing. I am not afraid of any thing.
;

" want to know all, every thing " " that you take me just Every thing is," he interrupted, " as I am you do not take back your word " " No, oh, no Their conversation was interrupted by Mademoiselle Linon, who, trying to look properly serious, came to congratulate her favorite pupil she had not left the drawing-room, before
:

the servants wished to offer their congratulations. The relatives and friends came next and this was the beginning of that absurdly happ}* period, from which Levin was not free till the day after his marriage. Although he always felt constrained and ill at ease, this strain of mind did not prevent his happiness from increashe imagined that if the time preceding his marriage ing passed exactly in accordance with the usual customs, his joy would suffer but although he did exactly as everybody else did in such cases, his happiness, inste.ad of diminishing, knew
; ; ;

no bounds. " Now," said Mademoiselle Linon, " we shall have all the bonbons we wish for " and Levin ran to buy bonbons,
;

very glad! I advise you to get your bouquets at Famin's," said Sviazhsky. " " Do said Levin and he went to Famin's. you? His brother advised him to borrow money, because there would be many expenses for presents and other necessities
f
;

"Nu.

of the hour.

416

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
off

to

" and he started " For presents? Really? at Fulda's. buy jewellery

on the run

the confectioner's, at Famin's, at Fulda's, everybody to expect him, and everybody seemed happy and triumphant, like himself strange as it may seem, his enthusiasm was shared by even those who before had seemed cold and indifferent people approved of him in every way, they

At

seemed

treated his feelings with delicacy and gentleness, they shared his conviction that he was the happiest man in the world, because his fiancee was the pink of perfection and Kitty was impressed in the same way. When the Countess Nordstone alluded to the more brilliant hopes that she had conceived for her friend, Kitty became angry, and declared so vehemently that it would have been impossible for her to prefer anybody to Levin, that the From that time countess was convinced that she was right. she never met Kitty with her lover without smiling enthusiastically, though she did not approve of Levin. painful, a very painful, incident happened at this period. He had It concerned the confession which he had promised. consulted the old prince. Acting on his advice, Levin gave Kitty a journal containing his confessions, written purposely Of the two to show to the one whom he should marry. delicate points with which it was concerned, the one which She was a passed almost unnoticed was his unbelief. Christian herself, and incapable of doubting her religion, but her lover's lack of piety was a matter of indifference to
:

Kitty this heart that love had made her acquainted with, contained all that she needed to find there it was of little importance to her that he termed the state of his soul increBut the second acknowledgment caused her to shed dulity.
:
;

bitter tears.

to

Levin had a great struggle with himself before he decided make this confession he was resolved to make it because he wished to have no secrets between them, but he did not The realize what an effect it would have on a young girl. abyss which separated his miserable past from her dovelike purity became plain to him when, as he entered Kitty's room one evening before going to the theatre, he saw her lovely face bathed in tears he understood then the irreparable harm he had done, and he was filled with alarm. "Take back these terrible papers!" she said, pushing
: :

away

the sheets lying

on the

table.

"

Why

did you give

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

417

them to me? However, perhaps it was for the best," she added, seized with pity at the sight of Levin's despairing "
face.

" But

He hung

murmured. ''You " " Yes, I have forgiven you but it is terrible This incident, however, only served to add a shade more He understood the worth of it still to his immense joy.
!

it is terrible, terrible his head, unable to say " he will not forgive me
;

a word in reply.
!

better after this pardon.

XVII.

WHEN he returned to his lonely room, Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch involuntarily recalled, little by little, the conversations that had taken place at the dinner and in the evening. Dolly's words had only succeeded in arousing his vexation. His situation was too difficult to allow him to apply the precepts of the New Testament besides, he had already considered this question, and decided it in the negative. Of all that had been said that day, the remark of that honest fool Turovtsuin had made tne liveliest impression on his mind " He did bravely, for he challenged his rival, and killed
:
:

him."
Evidently this conduct was approved by all and if they had not said so openly, it was out of pure politeness. "But what good would it do to think about it? Had he not resolved what to do?" And Aleksei Aleksandrovitch gave no more thought to any thing except the preparations for his departure, and his tour of inspection. He took a cup of tea, opened a railway guide and looked
;

for the departure of trains, to arrange for his journey. At this moment the servant brought him two despatches. Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch opened them the first announced the nomination of Stremof to the place for which he had been ambitious. Kare'nin threw down the telegram, and " Quos vult perdere began to walk up and down the room. said he, applying quos to all those who Jujnter dementat,"
:

had taken part in this nomination. He was less disturbed by the fact that he himself had not been nominated, than to
see Stremof, that babbler, that speechifier, filling the place. Couldn't they understand that they were ruining themselves, that they were destroying their prestige, by such a choice? " Some more news of the same sort," he thought with

418

ANNA
:

KARfiNINA.

bitterness as he opened the second telegram. It was from his wife her name, " Anna," in blue pencil, stood out before his eyes. " I am I beg you to come I shall die easier if I dying.
:

have your forgiveness." He read these words with scorn, and threw the paper on the floor. "Some new scheme," was his first thought. " There is no deceitfulness of which- she is not She capable. must be on the eve of her confinement, and there is someBut what can be her object? To compromise thing amiss. me ? to prevent the divorce ? The despatch says, I am He re-read the telegram, and suddenly realized dying.' its full meaning. "If it were true, if the suffering, the approach of death, had caused her to repent sincerely, and if I should call this pretence, and refuse to go to her, that would not only be cruel, but foolish, and all would blame me." " " I am going to Petersburg he Piotr, order a carriage
' '
:
!

cried to the servant.

Karenin decided to go to his wife, and be ready to return if her illness was a pretence on the other hand, if she were really repentant, and wanted to see him before she died, he would forgive her and, if he reached her too
at once
: ;

late,

he could at least pay his last respects to her. Having made up his mind to do this, he gave it no more

thought during the journey. Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch, tired and dusty with his night of travelling, reached Petersburg in the early morning. He crossed the still deserted Xevsky Perspective, looking straight before him through the morning mist, without wishing to think of what was awaiting him He did not wish to think about it, because he at home. couldn't help feeling that his wife's death would put a
all difficulties of his situation. The bakers, the night izvoshchiks, the dvorniks sweeping the sidewalks, the closed shops, all passed like a flash before his eyes he noticed every thing, and tried to stifle the hope that he When he reached his reproached himself for entertaining. house he saw an izvoshchik, and a carnage with a coachman On the steps Aleks^i asleep, standing before the door. Aleksandrovitch made another effort to come to a decision, wrested, it seemed to him, from the most hidden recess of "If she has his brain, and which was something like this deceived me, I will be calm, and go away again but if she has told the truth, I will do what is proper."

speedy end to

ANNA
The Swiss opened
;

KARfiNINA.

419

the door even before Kar^nin rang the the Swiss presented a strange appearance, without any necktie, dressed in an old coat and slippers. " How is the baruina? " " She is as comfortable as could be expected." Aleksi Aleksandrovitch turned very pale he realized how deeply he had hoped for her death. Kornei, the servant in morning-dress, came quickly down the stairs. " There was a consul" Madame is very low," he said. and the doctor is here now." tation yesterday, " Take my things," said Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch, a little comforted to learn that all hope of death was not lost and he went into the reception-room. uniform overcoat hung in the hall. Aleksi Aleksandrovitch noticed it, and asked,
bell
:

is here?" " The doctor, the nurse, and Count Vronsky." Kar6nin went into the drawing-room. There was nobody there but the sound of his steps brought the nurse, in a cap with lilac ribbons, out of the boudoir. She came to Aleksi Aleksandrovitch, and, taking him by the hand with the familiarity that the approach of death permits, led him into
;

"Who

the sleeping-room. " Thank the Lord that She talks of nothyou have come ing but you always of you," she said. "Bring some ice quick!" said the imperative voice of the doctor from the chamber. In the boudoir, sitting on a little low chair, Aleksi Aleksandrovitch saw Vronsky weeping, his face covered with his hands. He started at the sound of the doctor's voice, uncovered his face, and found himself in the presence of Kar6niu. The sight of him disturbed him so much that he sank down in his chair, as if he wanted to disappear out of sight ; then, making a great effort, he rose, and said, " She is dying the doctors say that there is no hope. I am in your power. Only allow me to remain here. I will " conform to your wishes in every other respect. I
! ; :

he saw Vronsky in tears, Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch involuntary tenderness that the sufferings of others always caused him he turned away his head without replying, and went to the door. Anna's voice could be heard from the sleeping-room, livefelt the
:

When

420
ly, ga}', went in,

ANNA

and articulating clearly. Aleksi Aleksandrovitch and approached her bed. Her face was turned towards him. Her cheeks were bright, her eyes brilliant her
:

white hands, coining out of the sleeves of her nightNot dress, were playing with the corner of the coverlet. only did she seem fresh and well, but in the happiest frame of mind she talked fast and loud, accenting her words with
little
:

precision and nicety. " For Aleksei. I am speaking of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch strange, isn't it, and cruel, that both should be named Aleksei ? Aleksei would not have refused me I should
:

have forgotten. he not come?

!

good he is. Ach ! but that is not good for her, water, quick my little daughter. Nu! then very well: give her to the nurse. I am willing that will be even better. Nu! when he comes, she will be hateful in his sight; take her away." " Anna Arkadyevna, he has come here he is," said the nurse, trying to draw her attention to Aleksei Aleksaudro!

He would have forgiven Da! why does He is good: he himself does not know how Aclil Bozhe mo'i! what agony Give me some

vitch.

"Acli! what nonsense!" continued Anna, without see"Da! give the little one to me. give ing her husband. her to me He hasn't come yet. You pretend that he will not forgive me, because you do not know him. Nobody knows him. I alone His eyes, one must know them. Serozha's are very like them that is why I can no longer look at them. Has Serozha had his dinner? I know he will be Let Serozha be brought Oh, do not forget him forgotten. into the corner-chamber, and let Mariette sleep near him." Suddenly she was silent: she looked frightened, and raised her arms above her head as if to ward off a blow. She had recognized her husband. " " I am not afraid of him No, no," she said quickly, I am afraid of dying. I am in a Aleksei, come here. hurry, because there is no time to be lost. I have only a few minutes to live the fever will be upon me again, and I shall know nothing more. Now I am conscious I understand every thing and I see every thing." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch 's wrinkled face expressed acute suffering he wanted to speak, but his lower lip trembled so that he could not utter a word, and his emotion hardly allowed him to glance at the dying woman. He took her
!

ANNA
his

KAKtiNINA.

421

hand, and held it between his own. Every time that he turned head towards her, he saw her eyes fixed on him with a sweetness and a humility that he had never seen there before. " She " Wait Wait, wait stopped you do not know to collect her thoughts. "Yes," she began again, ".yes, Do not be astonished. yes, yes, this is what I want to say. I am always the same, but there is another being within me, whom I fear: it is she who loved him, him, and hated you and I could not forget what I had once been. Now I am myself, entirely, really myself, and not another. I am dying, I know that I am dying ask him if I am not. I feel
! !

there are those terrible weights on my hand and my feet and on my fingers. fingers they are enormous ; but all that will soon be over. One thing only is indispenI am a sinner ; sable to me forgive me, forgive me wholly but Serozha's nurse told me that there was a holy martyr what was her name? who was worse than I. I will go to Rome : there is a desert there. I shall not trouble anybody
it
;

now

My

I will only take Serozha and my little daughter. No, you cannot forgive me I know very well that it is imGo away, go away you are too perfect! " possible. She held him with one of her burning hands, and pushed him away with the other. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's emotion became so great that he could no longer control himself. He suddenly felt his emotions change to a moral reconciliation, which seemed like a new and unknown happiness. He had not believed that the Christian law, which he had taken for a guide in life, ordered him to forgive and love his enemies and yet his soul was filled with love and forgiveness. Kneeling beside the bed, he laid his forehead on her arm, the fever of which burned through the sleeve, and sobbed like a child. She bent towards him, placed her arm around her husband's bald head, and raised her eyes defiantly. " There, I knew that it would be so. Now farewell, farewell to all They are coming back again. Why "don't they go away? Da! take off all these furs from me The doctor laid her back gently on her pillows, and drew the covering over her arms. Anna made no resistance,

there.

looking

all

I have only asked your pardon I ask nothing more. Why doesn't, he come?" she said, suddenly "Come! come looking towards the door, towards Vronsky. here, and give him your hand."
:

" Remember that

the while straight before her, with shining eyes.

422

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Vronsky came to the side of the bed, and, when he saw Anna, he hid his face in his hands. " Uncover your face look at him, he is a saint," said she. " " Uncover she repeated in an irriyour face look at him
;
!

tated manner. " Aleksel Aleksandrovitch, uncover his face I want to see him." Aleksel Aleksandrovitch took Vronsky's hands and uncovered his face, disfigured by suffering and humiliation.
:

Give him your hand forgive him." Aleksel Aleksandrovitch held out his hand to him, without trying to keep back the tears. " Thank the Lord thank the Lord!" said she; "now I will stretch out my feet a little, like every thing is right. that that is better. How ugly those flowers are they do not look like violets," she said, pointing to the hangings in her room. "Bozhe mo'i! Bozhe mo'i! when will this be over? Give me some morphine, doctor; some morphine. Bozhe " And she tossed mo'i! Bozhe moll about on the bed.
;

"

doctors said that in this fever there was not one in a hundred of her living. She passed the day delirious and unconscious. Towards midnight her pulse became very low the end was expected every moment. Vronsky went home, but he came back the next morning Aleksei Aleksandrovitch came to to learn how she was. meet him in the reception-room, and said to him, " Stay here perhaps she will ask for you." Then he took him to his wife's In the morning the restlessness, the rapidboudoir himself. but soon unconsciousity of thought and speech, returned The third day was much the same, ness intervened again. and the doctors began to hope. On this day Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch went into the boudoir where Vronsky was, closed the door, and sat down in front of him. " Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," said Vronsky, feeling that an

The

chance

" I cannot speak, I cannot think. explanation was to be made, on me Have pity Whatever may be your suffering, believe
!

that mine

is still

more

terrible."
;

going to rise but Aleksei Aleksandrovitch prevented him, and said, "Pray listen to me it is unavoidable. I am forced to explain to you the feelings that guide me, and will continue to guide me, that you may avoid making any mistake in regard to me. You know that I had decided on a divorce, and that I had taken the preliminary steps to ob:

He was

ANNA K A It/: NINA.

tain

423

I will not deny that at first I was undecided, I torment. I confess that I wanted to avenge myself. When I received the telegram, and came home, I felt the same I hoped that she would die. But desire. I will say more he was silent for a moment, considering whether he would " but I have seen her: I have wholly reveal his thoughts The happiness I feel at being able her absolutely. forgiven I offer the other to forgive, clearly shows me my duty. cheek to the smiter I give my last cloak to him who has that he will not robbed me. I only ask one thing of God, take awa}r from me this joy of forgiving."

one?
in

"

was

'

'

Tears filled his eyes. Vrousky was amazed at the calm, luminous face. These are my feelings. You may drag me in the dust, and make me the laughing-stock of creation but I will not give up Anna for that, nor will I utter a word of reproach " to you," continued Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. My duty seems clear and plain to me I must remain with her I If she wishes to see you, I shall inshall remain with her. form you of it but now I think it will be better for you to
'
; : ; ;

go away." Karenin rose

sobs choked his voice. Yronsky rose too, and, standing with bowed head and humble attitude, looked up at Karenin, without a word to say. He was incapable of understanding Aleksei Aleksandrovitch 's feelings but he felt that such magnanimity was above him, and irreconcilable with his conception of life.
:
;

XVIII.

WHEN Vronsky left the Karenin house after this interview, he stopped on the steps to ask himself where he was and what he had to do. Humiliated and perplexed, he felt dethrown prived of all means of washing away his shame, out of the path where till now he had walked proudly and All the rules which had been the guides of his life, easily. and which he had believed irreproachable, proved false and untrue. The deceived husband, that melancholy character whom he had considered an accidental obstacle, at times absurd, happily for him had suddenly been raised by her to a height inspiring respect; and, instead of appearing ridiculous, he had shown himself good, grand, and generous. Vronsky could not understand it their rdles had been inter:

424
changed.
ness,

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

He felt Karnin's grandeur and straightforwardand his own baseness. This deceived husband appeared magnanimous in his grief, while he himself seemed little and But this feeling of inferiority, in comparison to miserable. a man whom he had unjustly scorned, was only a small part
of his grief.
losing

What made him profoundly unhappy was the thought of Anna forever. His passion, though for a time grown

cool, had awakened more violent than ever. During her illness he had learned to know her better, and he believed that he had never really loved her till now. He must lose her just as he had come to know her and love her truly, lose her, and be left with the most humiliating recollections. He recalled with horror the ridiculous and odious moment when Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch had uncovered his face while he was hiding it in his hands. Standing motionless on the steps of the Karenin house, he seemed to be entirely unconscious of what he was doing. " Shall I call an izvoshchik?" asked the Swiss. "Yes, an izvoshchik." When he reached home, after three nights without sleep, Vronsky, without undressing, threw himself down on a divan, The strangest reminiscrossing his arms above his head. cences, thoughts, and impressions succeeded each other in his mind with extraordinary rapidity and clearness. Now it was a drink that he wanted to give the invalid, and he dropped the spoon now he saw the nurse's white hands, then Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch's singular attitude as he knelt on the floor by the bed. " Sleep, and forget," he said to himself, with the calm resolution of a man in good health who knows that he can His ideas became consleep at will when he feels tired. fused he felt himself falling into the abyss of forgetfulness. Suddenly, just at the moment when he was becoming unconscious, as though the waves of an ocean had closed above his head, a violent electric shock seemed to make his body bound on the springs of the divan and he found himself on his knees, with his eyes as wide open as if he had never dreamed of sleeping, and without any longer feeling in the
; : ;

least weary.

" You may drag me in the dust." These words of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch rang in his ears. He saw him standing before him he saw, too, Anna's feverish
;

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

425

face, and her brilliant eyes looking tenderly, not at /urn, but he saw his own absurd, ridiculous face at her husband when Aleksei Aleksandrovitch drew away his hauds from his

face

and throwing himself back on the divan, and closing

his eyes,

Sleep, and forget," he repeated to himself. face, just as it looked on that memorable evening of the races, appeared still more radiant, although her eyes were closed. " It's impossible, and will not be how can she efface that from her memory ? I cannot live like this How can we be

"

Then Anna's

reconciled?

"

He unconsciously pronounced these words aloud, and their mechanical repetition prevented the recollections and forms which besieged his brain from returning for some minutes. But the sweet moments of the past, and his recent humilia"Uncover his face," said tion, soon resumed their sway. Anna's voice. He took away his hands, and realized how humiliated and ridiculous he must have appeared. Vronsky remained lying down, hopelessly trying to sleep, and repeating some formula to drive away the new and distressing hallucinations which he thought he could prevent from arising. He listened to his own voice repeating, with a strange persistence, "You did not know how to appreciate her, you did not know how to value her you did not know how to appreciate her, .you did not know how to value her."
:

and why do they commit suicide? " And, while he was answering himself, he opened his eyes, surprised to see beside him a cushion embroidered by his sister-in-law Varia. He tried to fix the thought of Varia in his mind b}" playing with the tassel of the cushion, but any idea foreign to what tormented him was still more intolerable. " No, I must sleep." And, placing the cushion under his head, he made an effort to keep his eyes closed. Suddenly he was again seized with " And a shock. "All is over with me what else can I do? his imagination vividly pictured what life without Anna would
;

"What is going to happen to " he asked himself. Perhaps so.

me?

Am

Why

I going mad?" do people go mad?

be.

that once had

"Ambition? Serpukhovskoi? the world? the court?" all some meaning, but it had none now. He rose,
off his coat,

took

loosened his necktie that he might breathe

to stride

more

freely,

and began

up and down the room.

426
"
It is this that

ANNA

EARlZNINA.

makes people insane," he repeated, "that

;

to avoid disgrace," he added slowly. to the door and closed it then, with a look of determination, and with his teeth set, he went to the table, took his revolver, examined it, loaded it, and stopped to

causes suicide,

He went

He stood motionless for two minutes, with the consider. revolver in his hand, his head bowed, his mind bent appar" ently on a single thought. Certainly," he said to himself, and this decision seemed to be the logical result of a sequence of clear and exact ideas but in reality he was continually turning around in the same circle of impressions that he had " Cergone over for the hundredth time in the last hour. he repeated, his thoughts still bent on these recoltainly," lections of a lost happiness, of a future become impossible, and of a crushing shame and, holding the revolver to the left side of his breast, with an unflinching grip he pulled the He did not hear the slightest sound of the report, trigger. but the violent blow that he received in the chest knocked him over. He tried to save himself by catching hold of the table he dropped his revolver, tottered, and fell on the floor,
; ; :

He could hardly reclooking about him with astonishment. the twisted legs of the table, the wasteognize his room all seemed strange paper basket, the tiger-skin on the floor, to him. The quick steps of his servant running to the drawing-room obliged him to get control of himself: he collected his thoughts with an effort, and found that he was on the floor, and that blood was on his hands and on the tiger-skin. Then he realized what he had done. "What stupidity! I have made a fool of myself," he It was quite near muttered, feeling round for his pistol. him, and he began to reload it, but in doing so he lost his balance, and fell again, bathed in his own blood. The valet de chambre, an elegant person with side-whiskers, who complained freely to his friends about his delicate nerves, was so frightened at the sight of his master, that he let him lie, and ran for help. In an hour Varia, Vronsky's sister-in-law, arrived, and at the same time the three doctors whom she sent for in all directions, and who all came at once and with this assistance she succeeded in putting the wounded man to bed, and established herself as his nurse.
:
;

ANNA KAR&NINA.
XIX.

427

ALEKSKI ALEKSAXDROVTTCH had not foreseen what would happen if his wife should recover after she had obtained his pardon. This mistake appeared to him in all its seriousness two months after his return from Moscow but if he had made a mistake, it was not alone because he had not foreseen this eventuality, but also because he had not understood his heart till then. Beside the bed of his dying wife, he had given way, for the first time in his life, to that feeling of pity for the griefs of others, against which he had always fought as one fights against a dangerous weakness. Remorse at having wished for Anna's death, the pity with which she inspired him, but above all the joy of forgiving, had transformed AlekseM Aleksandrovitch's moral anguish to a deep peace, and changed a source of suffering to a source of joy. All the difficulties that he had thought insoluble when he was filled with hatred and anger, became clear and simple now that he loved and forgave. He had pardoned his wife, and he pitied her. He had forgiven Vronsky, and since his despair he pitied him too. He pitied his son more than before, because he felt that he had neglected him. But what he felt for the new-born child was more than pity, it was almost tenderness. Seeing this poor little weak being neglected during its mother's illness,
;

he looked after it, prevented it from dying, and, before he was aware of it, became attached to it. The nurses saw him come several times a day into the nursery, and, a little intimidated at first, they gradually became accustomed to his presence. He staid sometimes for half an hour, silently gazing
at the saffron-red, wrinkled,

downy

face of the sleeping child,

who was not

own, following her motions as she scowled, and puckered her lips, watching her rub her eyes with the back of her little hands, with their round fingers. And at these moments Aleksei Aleksandrovitch felt calm and at peace with himself, seeing nothing abnormal in his situation, nothing that he felt the need of changing. However, as time went on, he felt more and more that he would not be permitted to remain in this situation, which seemed natural to him, and that nobody would allow it. He felt, that, besides the holy and spiritual force which guided his soul, there was another force, brutal, all-powerful,
his

428
which directed

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

his life in spite of himself, and gave him no He felt that everybody was looking at him, and peace. questioning his attitude, not understanding it, and expecting him to do something. Especially he felt the unnaturalness and constraint of his relations with his wife. When the tenderness caused by the expectation of her death had passed away, Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch began to notice how Anna feared him, how she dreaded his presence, and did not dare to look him in the face she seemed to be that always pursued by a thought she dared not express, she, too, had a presentiment of the short duration of their present relations, and that, without knowing why, she expected some move from her husband. Towards the end of February, the little girl, who had been named Anna for her mother, was taken ill. Alekse'i Aleksaudrovitch had seen her one morning before going to the ministry meeting, and went to call the physician when he returned at four o'clock, he noticed an Adonis of a lackey, in stock and bear-skin, holding a circular lined with white fur. " Who is here?" he asked. "The Princess Yelizavyeta Fyodorovna Tverskaia," replied the lackey. All through this painful period Aleksi Aleksandrovitch noticed that his society friends, especially the feminine portion, showed a very marked interest in him and in his wife. He noticed in them all that veiled look of amusement which he saw in the lawyer's eyes, and which he now saw in those of the lackey. When people met him, and inquired after his health, they did so with this same half-concealed hilarity. They all seemed delighted, as if they were going to a wedding. The presence of the princess was not agreeable to Kar6nin he had never liked her, and she called up unpleasant memories so he went directly to the nursery. In the first room, Serozha, leaning on a table, with his feet
:

in a chair,

was drawing, and chattering merrily. The Engwho had replaced the French woman soon after Anna's illness, was sitting near the child, with her crocheting in her hand as soon as she saw Karnin come in, she rose, made a courtesy, and put Serozha's feet down.
lish governess,
:

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch caressed his son's head, answered the governess's questions about his wife's health, and asked what the doctor said about baby. " The doctor said nothing was out of the way with it. He

ordered baths, sir."

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

429

"She is in pain, nevertheless," said Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch, hearing the child cry in the next room. " I don't believe, sir, that the nurse is good," replied the
English

" " What makes you think so? " It was the same at the Countess Pahl's, sir. They dosed the child with medicine, while it was merely suffering from
hunger, sir." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch considered for a few moments, and then went into the adjoining room. The child was crying as she lay in her nurse's arms, with her head thrown back, refusing the breast, and without yielding to the blandishments of the two women bending over her. " " Isn't she asked Aleksei Aleksandro.vitch. any better? "She is very worrisome," replied the old nurse in an undertone. " Miss Edwards thinks that the nurse hasn't enough nourishment for her," said he. " I think so too, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch." " " Why haven't you said so? " Whom should I Anna Arkadyevna is still it to? say ill," replied the old nurse discontentedly. The old nurse had been in the family a long time, and these simple words struck Karuiu as an allusion to his
position. The child cried harder

woman

decidedly.

becoming hoarse.

The

despair, took the little her in order to pacify her. "You must ask the doctor to said Aleksel Aleksandrovitch.

and harder, losing its breath, and old nurse threw up her hands in one from the 3'oung nurse, and rocked
examine the young nurse,"

The young nurse, a healthy looking woman of fine appearance, sprucely dressed, who was afraid of losing her position, smiled scornfully, and muttered to herself, as she fastened her dress, at the idea of anybody's suspecting that she hadn't
enough nourishment. " " Poor little said the old nurse. thing
!

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch sat down in a chair, sad and crestfallen, and followed the old nurse with his eyes as she walked up and down with the child. As soon as she had placed the baby in the cradle, and, having arranged the little pillow, had moved away, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch rose, and went up to her on tiptoe. For a moment he was silent, and

430

ANNA

KAEtiNlNA.

looked with melancholy face at the little thing. But suddenly a smile spread over its face, and, still on tiptoe, he left the room. He went into the dining-room, rang the bell, and sent for the doctor again. He was displeased because his wife seemed to take so little interest in this charming baby, and he wished neither to go to her room, nor to meet the Princess Betsy but his wife might wonder why he didn't come as usual he crushed his feelings, and went towards the door. thick carpet deadened the sound of his footsteps as he approached, and he unintentionally overheard the following conversation. "If he were rtot going away, I should understand your But your husband ought to be above refusal, and his also.
; :

" It is not for my husband's sake, but my own, that I don't wish it. So say nothing more about it," replied
Anna's agitated voice. " Da! However, you can't help wanting to say good-by " to the man who shot himself on your account "It is for that very reason that I do not wish to see him
again." Kardnin, with an expression of fear and guilt, stopped, and would have gone away without being heard but considering that this would lack dignity, he went on his way coughing the voices were hushed, and he went into the room. Anna, in a gray wrapper, with her dark hair cut short, All her animation disapwas sitting in a reclining-chair. peared, as usual, at the sight of her husband she bowed her head, and glanced uneasily towards Betsy the latter, dressed in the latest fashion, with a little hat perched on the top of her head, like a cap over a lamp, in a dove-colored dress, trimmed with bands cut bias on the waist on one side, and on the skirt on the other, was sitting beside Anna. She sat up as straight as possible, and welcomed Alekse"! Aleksandrovitch with a bow and a sarcastic smile. "Ah!" she began, affecting surprise, "I am delighted to meet you at home. You never show yourself anywhere, and I haven't seen you since Anna was taken ill. I learned of your anxiety from others. Da! you are a wonderful husband!" She gave him a friendly, flattering look, as much as to say that she approved of Kareiiiu's behavior towards his wife.
;

that," said Betsy.

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

431
his

Alekse"! Aleksandrovitch bowed coldly, and, kissing wife's hand, inquired how she was. " Better, I think," she replied, avoiding his look.

"However, you look

last

feverish," he said, emphasizing the

word.

"
on

We

have. talked too

my

part,
;

and

She rose

much," said Betsy. " It was selfish going now." but Anna, suddenly flushing, seized her quickly
I

am

by the arm. " No, stay,

I must tell you, no, you," I beg of you. she turned towards her husband, while the color increased on her neck and brow. "I cannot, nor do I wish to, hide

any thing from you." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch bent

knuckles.

his head,

and cracked

his

" Bets3* has told me that Count Vronsky wishes to come to our house to say good-by before he goes to Tashkend." She spoke rapidly, without looking at her husband, anxious "I have said that I could not receive to get through with it. him."

"You

said,

my

dear, that

it

would depend on Alekse'i

Aleksandrovitch," corrected Betsy. " Da! No, I cannot see him, and that should not lead " she stopped suddenly to question her husband's face he was " " In I do not wish not at her.
:

short, looking Aleksei Aleksandrovitch approached, and wanted to take her hand. Anna's first impulse was to withdraw her hand from her husband's but she controlled herself, and pressed it.
;

he very grateful to you for your confidence," but, looking at the princess, he stopped speaking. What he could easily and clearly decide when by himself, became impossible in the presence of Betsy, who was the incarnation of that brutal force, independent of his will, but

"I am
;

began

the eyes of the world to renounce the his love and his generous feelings. " Nu! She. proshclui'ite, my treasure," said Betsy, rising. kissed Anna, and went out. Kare"nin accompanied her. "Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," said Betsy, stopping in the middle of the boudoir to press his hand again, in a significant " I know that manner, you are an extraordinary, magnanimous man and I love her so much, and esteem you so highly, that I am going to give you a bit of advice, however
in

which obliged him

ruling

power of

his life,

432

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

disinterested I may be in the matter. Let him come. Aleksei Vronsky is the soul of honor, and he is going to Tashkend." ' I am very grateful to you for your sympathy and y our advice, princess but the question is, can my wife see anybody, or not? It is for her to decide." He spoke these words with dignity, raising his eyebrows as usual but he felt at once, that, whatever his words had been, dignity was inconsistent with the situation. The sarcastic and wicked smile with which Betsy greeted his remark
' ; ;

proved

it

beyond a doubt.

XX.
AFTER taking leave of Betsy, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch returned to his wife she was lying back in her reclining-chair but hearing her husband return, she rose quickly, and looked at him in a frightened way. He saw that she had been crying. "I am very grateful to thee for thy confidence," said he gently, repeating in Russian the reply that he had just made in French before Betsy. When he spoke to her in Russian he used the familiar tui, and this tui irritated Anna in spite "I am very grateful for your decision; for I of herself. agree with you, that, since Count Vronsky is going away,
; ;

" is no necessity of his coming here besides "Z>a/ but as I have decided it, why say any more about it?" interrupted Anna, with an annoyance that she did not
there
;

know how to control. "No necessity," she thought, " for a man who has wished to commit suicide, to say farewell to the woman he loves, and who for her part cannot live without him !"

She pressed her lips together, and looked down at her husband's hands with their swollen veins, as he stood rubbing them together. " Let us not say any more about that," she added, more
calmly.

"

and
' ;

have given you perfect freedom to decide this question, am happy to see " Aleksei Aleksandrovitch began

again.

Anna

my desires are in conformity with yours," finished quickly, exasperated to hear him speak so slowly, when she knew beforehand what he was going to say. " " and the Princess Tverskaia shows Yes," he affirmed very poor taste to meddle in family affairs, she of all others."
;

That

ANNA
' '

KAEtiNINA.

433

I don't

believe

that she loves me sincerely." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch sighed, and was silent. Anna played nervouslj with the tassels of her wrapper, and looked at him now and then, with that feeling of physical repulsion which she reproached herself for, without being able to overcome. All that she wished for at this moment, was to be rid of his presence. " Ah I have just sent for the doctor," said Karenin. "What for? I am well." " For the baby, she cries so much they think that the nurse hasn't enough nourishment for her." " Why didn't you let me nurse her, when I begged them In spite of every thing [Aleksei Aleksanto let me try ? drovitch understood what she meant by in spite of every thing'] , she is a baby, and they will kill her." She rang, and sent " I wanted to nurse for the little one. her, and you wouldn't

Anna.

"

any thing they say about her," said

I only

know

" But unjust," she said, trying to control herself. go away." this state of things cannot go on," said Aleksei "No, Aleksandrovitch, as he left his wife's room. Never before had he been so convinced of the impossibility of prolonging such a situation before the world never had his wife's dislike of him, and the strength of that mysterious force which had taken possession of his life, to rule it contrary to the needs of his soul, appeared to him with such evidence. The world and his wife exacted something from him that he did not fully understand but it aroused within him feelings of hatred, which disturbed his peace, and destroyed the worth of his victory over himself. Anna, in his opinion, ought to have nothing more to do with Vronsky but if everybody considered this impossible, he was ready to tolerate their meeting, on condition that the children should not be disgraced, nor his own life disturbed. This was wretched, less wretched, however, than to give Anna o'ver to a shameful and hopeless position, and to deBut he felt his powerlessprive himself of all that he loved. ness in this struggle, and knew beforehand that he would be prevented from doing what seemed to him wise and good,
: ;

me, and now you blame me." " " I do not blame you for any thing " Yes, do blame me Acli! Bozhe mot! why didn't I you die!" She began to sob. '"Forgive me: I am nervous and
let
!

434

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
to

and that he would be obliged

but necessary to be done.

do what was painful to him,

XXI.
BETSY had not left the hall when Stepan Arkadyevitch appeared on the threshold. He had come from Eliseef 's, where they had just received fresh oysters. " Ah, I princess you here? AVhat a fortunate meeting have just come from your house." " The meeting is but for a moment I am going," replied Betsy, smiling, as she buttoned her gloves. " AVait just a moment, princess: allow me to kiss your hand before you put on your glove. Nothing pleases me so much, in returning to ancient ways, as the custom of kissing a lady's hand." He took Betsy's hand. " " When shall we meet again? " You don't deserve to see me," replied Betsy, laughing. " Oh, yes, I do for I have become a serious man. 1 not only take care of my own affairs, but also other people's," said he with importance. " Ach! I am delighted to hear it," replied Betsy, knowing that he referred to Anna. Going back into the hall, they stood in a corner. " im" He is killing her," she whispered with conviction
!

possible to

"

"I am very glad that you think so," replied Stepan Arkadyevitch, shaking his head with sympathetic commiseration. " That is why I am in Petersburg." " The whole town are talking about it," said she: "this She is fading away before our very situation is intolerable. He doesn't understand that she is one of those women eyes. whose feelings cannot be treated lightly. One of two things, either he ought to take her away, and act decidedly, or else be divorced. But this is killing her."

"I have come yes, exactly," sighed Oblonsky. that is to say, not entirely for that. They have nu ! had to thank them ; but the just made me chamberlain main thing was to arrange this matter." " said " Nu ! Betsy. may the Lord help you Stepan Arkadyevitch accompanied the princess to the door, kissed her wrist just above her glove, where the pulse
"Yes,
for that
; ;
!

ANNA
beat,

KARtiNINA.

435

and after paying her an impudent compliment, at which she laughed, rather than take offence, he left her to go to his
sister.

Anna was

in tears.

In spite of his lively humor, Stepan Arkadyevitch passed very easily from the most exuberant gayety to the tone of poetical tenderness which suited his sister's frame of mind. He asked how she felt, and how she had passed the day.

and the
look

Wretchedly, very wretchedly Night and day, the future wretched," she replied. past, all " You see things under a cloud. You must have courage ;
!

"

the face. It is hard, I know, but" have heard that some women love those whom they " but I hate him for his despise," began Anna suddenly genI cannot live with him. Understand me, he has a erosity. I physical effect on me which drives me out of my mind. cannot live with him! What shall I do? I have been unI thought it impossible to be more so, but happ}' before. this surpasses all that I could have imagined. Knowing how good and perfect he is, and aware of my inferiority, can you conceive of my hating him nevertheless ? There is absolutely " she was going to add " die," nothing left for me but to but her brother would not let her finish. " You are ill and nervous, and you see every thing exagThere is really nothing so very terrible." gerated.
life in

"

And Stepan Arkadyevitch smiled at her evident despair without seeming rude his smile was so full of kindness, and an almost effeminate sweetness, that, instead of irritating, it was calming and soothing his words acted like oil of sweet almonds. Anna at once felt the effect. " " I am worse than lost. No, Stiva," said she, lost, lost And yet, I am not yet lost I cannot still say that all is over, I feel the contrary. alas I seem like a cord too tightly But the end has stretched, which must of necessity break. not yet come, and it will be terrible." " No, no the cord can be carefully loosened. There is no difficulty without some way out of it." " I have thought it over, and thought it over again, and I
;

only see one

' '

by her look of dismay that the one way that she meant was death, and again he did not allow her to finish. " No listen to me you cannot judge of your position so well as I. Let me tell you frankly my opinion." He smiled
;
;

He saw

again cautiously, with his almond-oily smile.

"

I will begin

436
at the beginning
:

ANNA KARNINA.

" time to reply, but she said nothing. Now, the question is, can you continue to live with your husband? do you wish " it? does he wish it? " I know nothing about it, nothing." " But you 3'ourself have just said that you could no longer " endure " No, I did not say so. I deny it. I know nothing. I understand nothing." "Da! but allow" " You cannot understand it. I am precipitated, head first, into an abyss, and I may not save myself. I cannot." " You will see that we can prevent you from falling, and from being crushed. I understand you. I feel that you are not able to express your feelings, your desires."

you married a man twenty years older than and you married without love, or, at least, without knowing what love was. It was a mistake, as well admit it." "A terrible mistake " said Anna. " But, I Let us repeat it, it was an accomplished fact. not with say you then had the misfortune to fall in love your husband that was a misfortune, but that, too, was an Your husband knew it, and forgave accomplished fact. After each sentence he stopped, as if to give her you."
yourself,
!

"

I desire

"He

nothing, nothing sees this, and knows

it.

only to end all this." Do you suppose that he

doesn't suffer too? You suffer, he suffers; and what way of escape is there from all this torture? divorce would

settle every thing."

Stepan Arkad^-evitch had not reached this point without and, having expressed his principal idea, he looked at Anna to see what effect it would have. She shook her head without replying, but her beautiful face lighted up for a moment and he came to the conclusion, that, if she did not express her wishes, it was because
difficulty
;
;

the thought of their being realized was too enticing. "I am extremely sorry for you! how happy I should be " said " Don't to arrange it for you Stepan Arkadyevitch. a word If God will only permit me to express all that say I feel I am going to find Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch." Anna looked at him out of her brilliant, thoughtful eyes, and did not reply.
!
!

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.
XXII.

437

STEFAN ARKADYEVITCH went into his brother-in-law's study, with the solemn face which he tried to assume when he sat in his official chair at a council-meeting. Kareuiu, with his arms behind his back, was walking up and down the room, considering the same thing that Stepan Arkadyevitch had been discussing with his wife. " asked " Shall I disturb Stepan Arkadyevitch, sudyou? and to conceal embarrassed when he saw Kareniu denly his embarrassment, he took a new cigar-case out of his pocket, smelt of the leather, and took out a cigarette. " " No. Do asked Aleksei Aleksanyou wish to see me? drovitch with indifference. " Yes 1 would like I must yes, I must have a talk with you," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, surprised at his con;

fusion.

This feeling was so strange and unexpected to him, that he did not recognize in it the voice of conscience, warning him that what he hoped to do was evil. He recovered himself with an effort, and conquered the weakness which took
possession of him.

sister,

want you," he said, " to believe in my love for my and in my sincere sympathy and regard for you." Aleksei Aleksandrovitch listened, and made no reply but his face struck Stepan Arkadyevitch by its expression of
"
I
;

humility and pain. " I intended, I came on purpose, to speak with you about my sister, and the situation in which you and she are

placed." Aleksei Aleksandroviteh smiled sadly, looked at his brotherin-law, and without replying went to the table, took up a half-written letter, and handed it to him. " I can think of nothing else. This is what I began to write, thinking that I could express myself better in a letter,
for

my
;

presence irritates her," said he, giving him the

letter.

Stepan Arkad3'evitch took the paper, and looked with surprise at his brother-in-law's dull eyes, which were fixed on

him "

then he read,

know

that

to recognize it, I know that cannot be otherwise. I do not reproach you.

ful as it is for

me

my

presence

is

disagreeable to you
it is

pain-

and it God knows,

so,

438
that, daring

ANNA KAR&NINA.

your illness, I resolved to forget the past, and to begin a new life. I am not sorry, I never shall be sorry, for what I did then. I desired only one thing, your salvation, the salvation of your soul. I have not succeeded. Tell me
yourself, what will give you peace and happiness, and I will submit to whatever you ma}- deem just and right." Oblonsky gave the letter back to his brother-in-law ; and in his perplexity, he simply stared at his brother-in-law, not knowing what to say. This silence was so painful, that

Stepan Arkadyevitch's lips trembled convulsively, while he did not take his eyes from Karenin's face. " That is what I wanted to say to her," said Aleks6i
Aleksandrovitch. " Yes, yes I understand you," he at last stammered out,
:

as though tears choked his utterance. " I should like to know what she wishes." " I am afraid that she herself does not realize her own situation. IShe is not a judge of the matter," said Stepan " She is crushed, Arkadyevitch, trying to recover himself. if she should literally crushed by your generosity of soul read your letter, she would be unable to say a word, and could only bow her head still lower." "Da! But what is to be done? How can it be settled?
:

How
"
is

can I

know what

she wishes?

"

If you will allow me to express my opinion, I think it for you to state clearly what measure you believe necessary to put an end to this situation at once." " " Consequently, you think it ought to be ended at once?

"But how?" he added, passing his interrupted Karenin. hand over his eyes in an unusual way. "I see no possible " way out of it " There is a way out of every difficulty, however serious it may be," said Oblonsky, rising, and growing more animated. " You once if }-ou are convinced that spoke of divorce you can never- be happy together again
!
' '

Happiness may be understood in different ways. Let us grant that I agree to every thing, what escape is there from our situation? " " If said Stepan Arkadyevitch, you wish for my advice," with the same oily smile with which he had spoken to his sister and this smile was so persuasive, that Kar6niu, giving himself up to the weakness which overpowered him, was inclined to believe his brother-in-law. " She will never say what
;

"

ANNA EARgyiXA.

439

her wishes are. But there is one thing possible, one thing that she may hope for," continued Stepan Arkadyevitch " and that is, to break the bonds which are only the cause In my opinion, it is indispensable to of cruel recollections. put your relations on an entirely new footing, and that can
;

only be done by mutually resuming your freedom." "Divorce!" interrupted Aleksel Aleksandrovitch,
disgust.

with

da! divorce," repeated Stepan Yes, divorce I mean " Taking every thing into considArkadyevitch, blushing. eration, that is the most sensible course when two married people find themselves in such a situation as yours. What is to be done, when living together becomes unbearable? "
:

"

And

that may often happen Aleksi Aleksaudrovitch drew a deep

sigh,

and covered

his eyes.

"There is only one consideration, whether one of the If not, it is very simple," parties wishes to marry again. continued Stepan Arkadyevitch, becoming less constrained. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, with his face distorted by grief, muttered a few unintelligible words, but made no reply. What seemed so simple to Oblonsky, he had turned over a thousand times in his mind, and, instead of finding it very easy, found it utterly impossible. Now that the conditions for divorce were known to him, his personal dignity, as well as his respect for religion, prevented him from taking the necessary steps to procure one. And, besides, what would become of their son? To leave
him with his mother was impossible. The divorced mother would have a new family, in which the child's position and Should he keep the child for training would be wretched. himself ? But he knew that would be an act of vengeance, and vengeance he did not want. But, above all, what made divorce impossible in his eyes, was the thought that, in consenting to it, he himself would contribute to Anna's destruction. Dolly's words, when he was in Moscow, remained " In in his heart a divorce, think of
graven
:

getting

3*011

only

yourself."

These words, now that he had forgiven her, and had become attached to the children, had a very significant meaning to him. To consent to a divorce, to give Anna her

liberty, was to take away her last help in the way of salvaOnce divorced, he tion, and to push her over the precipice.

knew very

well that she would be united to Vronsky by a

440

ANNA
;

criminal and illegal bond for marriage, according to the Church, can only be dissolved by death. " And who knows, but, after a year or two, either he might abandon her, or she might form a new liaison?"

"and I, having allowed thought Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch a divorce, should be responsible for her fall." He went over all this a hundred times, and was convinced that divorce was not at all as simple as his brother-in-law
;

would make

it

out.

did not admit a word of what Stepan Arkadyevitch said he had a thousand arguments to refute such reasoning and, notwithstanding this, he listened, feeling that his words were the manifestation of that irresistible force which was ruling him, and to which he would finally submit.
;
;

He

"The only question is, how, on what conditions, you will consent to a divorce for she will never dare to ask any thing
;

"My God! my God! why has this come upon me?" and, as he remembered thought Aleksei Aleksandrovitch the condition of divorce in which the husband assumed the blame, he buried his face in his hands, as Vronsky had done. "You are distressed; I understand it; but if } ou will consider" " Whosoever smiteth thee on the right cheek, turn to him
;
-

of you, and will give herself up entirely to your generosity."

'

and if any man would take away thy coat, him have thy cloak also,' " thought Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. "Yes, yes !" he cried, almost shrieking. " I will take all the shame upon myself I will even give up my son. But will it not be better to leave all that? However, do as you please." And turning away from his brother-in-law, that he might not see his face, he sat down near the window. He was humiliated he was mortified but nevertheless he felt a sense of happiness and emotion in the consciousness of his
the other also
let
; : ;

own

humility.

Stepan Arkadyevitch was touched. " Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, be assured that she will appreciate 3'our generosity. It is, without doubt, the will of God," he added but he felt, as soon as the words were out of his mouth, what a foolish remark it was. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch would have replied, but tears
;

prevented him. " This trial comes by fate, and

it

must be accepted.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

441

accept it as an accomplished fact, and I will try to help you and her," said Stepan Arkady evitch. When Oblousky left his brother-in-law's study, he was sincerely affected, which did not prevent him from being delighted at having settled this matter for he was certain that Alekse"i Alek^androvitch would not go back on his word. His satisfaction suggested a conundrum which he could ask his wife and intimate friends \Vhat is the difference between me and a field-marshal?
;

The
for

field-marshal makes divorces, and nobody is the better while I make divorces, and three people are better off. Or, rather, what resemblance is there between me and a field-marshal? Where but by and by I'll improve on it," he said to himself.
it
;

XXIII.
VROXSKY'S wound was dangerous, although
it

did not reach

the heart. He hung for several days between life and death. When for the first time he was able to speak, Varia, his sisterin-law, was alone with him in the room. "Varia " said he, looking at her gravely, "I was wounded
!

accidentally, and please tell everybody so, otherwise seem too ridiculous "
!

it

will

Varia bent towards him without replying, examining his face with a happy smile. His eyes were bright, but no longer feverish, but their expression was stern. " Nu! Thank the Lord " she " are replied you suffer!

"

ing?

" Let me change the dressing, then." He watched her change it, and when she had finished, " You know," said he, " that I am not delirious now. See, beg of you, that nobody says that I shot myself intention"

"A little on this

side," said he, pointing to his chest.

ally."

Nobody says

will give

so. I hope, however, that after this you up shooting yourself accidentally," she said with a

" Probably I shall not, but it would have been better." In spite of these words, as soon as he was out of danger, Vronsky felt that he was free from a part of his misfortunes. By his action he had washed away, as it were, his shame and humiliation which had weighed on him before. Henceforth

questioning smile.

442

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

he could think calmly of Aleksei Aleksanclrovitch, recognizing his magnanimity without being crushed by it. Besides, he was able to be himself again, to look people in the face, and to resume his customary habits. AVhat he could not tear

from

his heart, in spite of all his efforts,

was

the regret, bor-

dering on despair, at having lost Anna forever ;^ since he was firmly resolved, now that he had redeemed his sin towards Karenin, not to place himself between the repentant wife and her husband. But he could not put out of his heart the regret at the loss of her love, any more than he could blot out the memory of happy moments spent with her, and not half appreciated till now, and whose charm pursued him continually.

Serpukhovsko'i thought of sending him to Tashkend, and Vronsky accepted the proposition without the least hesitation. But the nearer the time for his leaving came, the more cruel seemed the sacrifice to duty. "To see her once more, and then bury myself and die," he thought and while paying his farewell visit to Betsy, he
;

wish to her. out at once as an ambassador to Anna, but brought back her refusal. u So much the better," thought Vronsky, on receiving her " this is a weakness which would have cost me reply my

expressed

this

The

latter set

strength."

The next morning Betsy herself went to Vronsky, announcing that she had heard, through Oblonsk}% that Alekse"! Aleksandrovitch consented to a divorce, and that consequently there was no longer any thing to hinder Vronsky from seeing Anna. Without giving another thought to his resolutions without finding out when he could see her, nor where her husband would be; forgetting even to escort Betsy home, Vronsky ran to the Karenins'. He flew up the steps, rushed into the house, almost ran across the hall, entered Anna's room, and, without even considering whether there might not be some one else in the room, he took her in his arms, covering her hands, her face, and her neck with kisses. Anna was prepared to see him again, and had made up her mind what to say to him but she had no time to speak Vrousky's passion overpowered her. She wanted to calm him, to calm herself, but it was impossible her lips trembled, and for a long time she was unable to speak a word.
;

ANNA
ceeded
in
it
it

KAEtiNINA.
I

443
T

"Yes, you have conquered me:

" So
I

am

ours
it

"
!

she suc:

saying at had to be

last.
!

and so long as we

five,

must be so

know
"

now."
growing paler and paler as she

It is true," she replied,

"However, there is put her arms around Vronsky's neck. something terrible in this after what has happened." "All that will be forgotten, forgotten: we shall be so If there were any need of our love increasing, it happy would increase, because there is something terrible about it," said he, raising his head. She could only reply with a look out of her loving eyes. "I You are lovehardly know you with your short hair. But how pale you are " Just like a little boy ly "Yes: I am still very weak," she replied, smiling; and her lips began to tremble again.
! !
!

go to Italy you will grow strong there." possible that we could be like husband and wife, " said she, looking him in the eye. alone, by ourselves? "I am only surprised at one thing, that it has not always
will
:

" "

We

Is

it

been so."

" Stiva says that lie will consent to every thing, but I will not accept his generosity," said she, looking thoughtfully above Vronsky's head. " I do not wish for a divorce. It I only wonder what he will is all the same to me now. decide with regard to Serozha." Vronsky could not understand how, in these first moments of their reconciliation, she could think of her son and of divorce. How could it be all the same to her? " Don't speak of that, don't think of it," said he, turning Anna's hand over and over in his, to draw her attention to him but she did not look at him. Acli! why didn't I die? it would have been so much better!" said she; and tears flooded her face; she tried, nevertheless, to smile, that she might not give him pain.
; '

Once Vronsky would have thought it impossible to give up the flattering and perilous mission of Tashkend, but now he refused it without any hesitation then, noticing that his refusal was misinterpreted by the authorities, he gave in his
:

resignation.

month later, Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch was left alone with his son, and Anna went abroad with Vronsky, refusing a divorce, and peremptorily taking leave of him.

444

ANNA KARfiNINA.

PART
I.

V.

THE Princess Shcherbatska'ia thought it would not be possible to have the wedding any time within the five weeks before Lent, on account of the trousseau, which would not be half done she acknowledged, however, that there was a risk of having to defer it still longer on account of mourning, if they waited till Easter, as an old aunt of the prince's was So a medium course was taken, very ill, and liable to die. by deciding to have the wedding before Lent, and to prepare only a small part of the trousseau at once, leaving the larger The young couple intended to set out part till afterwards. for the country immediately after the ceremony, and would not need the larger part of the things. The princess was indignant to find Levin indifferent to all these questions still more than half beside himself, he continued to believe his happiness and his own person the centre, the only aim, of creation he did not trouble himself in the least about his affairs, but left everything to his friends, feeling sure that His brother, they would arrange everything for the best. Serge" i Ivanovitch, Stepan Arkadyevitch, and the princess ruled him absolutely he was satisfied to accept whatever
; :
; ;

propositions they might make. His brother borrowed the money that he needed the princess advised him to leave Moscow after the wedding; Stepan Arkadyevitch advised him to go abroad. He consented to everything. Make whatever plans you please," he thought, "I am happy; and whatever you may decide But when he on, my joy will be neither greater nor less." told Kitty of Stepan Arkadyevitch's suggestion, he was surprised to see that she did not approve of it, and that she had very decided plans for the future. She knew that Levin's heart was at home in his work, and although she neither understood his affairs, nor tried to understand them, still they seemed to her very important as their home would be in the country, she did not wish to go abroad where they were not going to live, but insisted on settling down in the
;

k '

country where their home was to be.

This very firm deter-

ANNA KARENINA.
;

445

but it seemed to him all right, ruination surprised Levin and he begged Stepau Arkadyevitch, who had excellent taste, to go to Pokrovsky and take charge of the improvements in his house. It seemed to him that that belonged to
his friend's province.

"

By

his return

the way," said Stepan Arkadyevitch one day, after from the country, where he had arranged every-

thing for the young couple's reception,

certificate of

" have you your

confession?"

" You can't be married without it." "Ay, ay, ay!" cried Levin; ''but it is nine years since and I haven't even thought have been to confession
!

"No; why?"

of

it

"

''That

is

good!"
look on
;

"and you
" When
?

me
are

said Stepan Arkadyevitch, laughing, as a nihilist! But that can't be

to

allowed to go on

you must go

communion."
"
!

only four days more Stepan Arkadyevitch arranged this matter as he had every other, and Levin prepared for his devotions. An unbeliever himself, he nevertheless respected the faith of others, but he found it very hard to attend and participate in all religious ceremonies. In his tender and sentimental frame of mind, the necessity of dissimulating was not only odious to him ; it was well-nigh Now, he would be obliged impossible. either to mock at sacred things, or to lie, at a time when his heart was bursting, when he felt at the height of bliss. He felt that he could do neither. But in spite of all his efforts to persuade Stepan Arkadyevitch that there must be some other way of obtaining a certificate without being forced to confess, Stepan Arkadyevitch declared that it was imthere
possible.

"Da! What harm

will

it

the priest is a capital, bright little old man. He will pull this tooth without your knowing it." During the first mass that he attended Levin did his best to recall the strong religious impressions of his youth, when he was between sixteen and seventeen years old but he found it impossible. He then tried to look upon religious forms as an ancient custom, without any real meaning, something like the habit of making calls this also he felt that he could never do. Like most of his contemporaries, Levin was completely undecided in regard to his religious
; ;

do you? only two days! and

446
views.

ANNA KAR&NINA.
He
;

lie was also could not believe equally unable This confusion of feelings caused him extreme pain and annoyance during the time allotted to his conscience cried out that to act \vithout his devotions

absolutely to disbelieve.
;

understanding was an evil and deceitful action. Not to be in too open contradiction with his convictions, he tried at first to attribute some meaning to the divine service with its different rites but, finding that he was criticizing instead of understanding, he tried not to listen, but to lose himself in his inmost thoughts, which encroached upon him during the solemn night office in the church.
;

Mass, vespers, and evening prayers passed in this way the next morning he rose early, and came at eight o'clock, without having eaten anything, to morning prayers and confession. The church was deserted he saw nobody except a mendicant soldier, two old women, and the officiating priests. A young deacon came to meet him his long, thin back was he clearly defined in two halves beneath his short cassock approached a little table near the wall, and began to read Levin, hearing him repeat in a hurried, monotoprayers. nous voice, clipping his words, the refrain, " Lord, have mercy upon us," remained standing behind him, trying to keep from listening and criticizing, so that his own thoughts
; ; ;
;

might not be disturbed.

What a charm there is about her hands," he thought, recalling the evening before, which he had spent with Kitty There had at the table in one corner of the drawing-room.
ki

she had been nothing exciting about their conversation amused herself by opening and shutting her hand as it rested on the table, all the while laughing at her childishness. He remembered how he had kissed this hand, and examined its " Still have lines. mercy upon us," thought Levin, making the sign of the cross, and bowing, while he noticed the deacon's supple movements, as he prostrated himself in front " Then she took of him. my hand, and in turn examined it. You have a famous hand,' she said to me." He looked at his own hand, and then at the deacon's, with its stubbed " Da! Now it will soon be over. No; he is fingers. beginning another prayer. Yes he is bowing to the ground
;

'

that

is

the end."

The deacon took

into his hand,

the three-ruble note, discreetly slipped

his
;

and moved quickly away, making

new

boots echo over the flag-stones of the empty church

he dis-

ANNA
appeared behind the
his

KARtfNINA.

447

name

altar, after promising Levin to register In a moment he reappeared and for confession.

He Levin went towards the ambo. to him. mounted several steps, turned to the right, and saw the priest, a little old man, whose beard was almost white, with kindly but rather weary eyes, standing near the reading-desk, turnbeckoned
ing over the leaves of a missal. After a slight bow to Levin, he began to read the prayers then he kneeled down as he
;

finished,

"May the invisible Christ be present at your confession," towards Levin and holding up the crucifix. said^he, turning " Do 3*ou believe all that the Holy Apostolic Church teaches us?", he continued, crossing his hands under his stole. " I have doubted, I still doubt everything," said Levin, in a voice which sounded disagreeable to his own ears, and
he was
silent.

priest waited a few moments, then closing his eyes and speaking very rapidly, " To doubt is characteristic of human weakness we must pray the Lord Almighty to strengthen you. What are your
;

The

principal sins?" The priest spoke without the least interruption, though he were afraid of losing time.

and as

My principal sin is doubt, which I cannot get rid of; I nearly always in doubt, and I doubt everything." " To doubt is characteristic of human weakness," repeated the priest, using the same words; "what do you doubt
am
principally?" " Everything. I sometimes even doubt the existence of God," said Levin, in spite of himself almost frightened at But they did not seem to the impropriety of these words. produce on the priest the effect that he feared. "How can you doubt the existence of God?" he asked, with an almost imperceptible smile.

"

Levin was silent. " What doubts can you have about the Creator when you Who ornamented the celestial his works? contemplate vault with its stars, decked the earth with all its beauty? How can these things exist without a Creator?" And he
cast a questioning glance at Levin. Levin felt the impossibility of a philosophical discussion with a priest, and replied to his last question,

"

do not know."

448

ANNA KARENINA.
do not know?

"You

But then why do you doubt that

replied Levin, blushing, and feeling the absurdity of replies, which in the present case could not be anything else than mere words. " Pray to God, have recourse to him the Fathers of the Church themselves doubted, and asked God to strengthen their faith. The devil is mighty, and we should resist him. Pray to God, pray to God," repeated the priest rapidly. Then he kept silent for a moment, as though he were
;

God lius created everything?" "I cannot understand it,"

buried in thought.

They tell me that you intend to marry the daughter of parishioner and spiritual son, the Prince Shcherbataky," " She is an he added with a smile. accomplished young

"

my

girl."

"Yes," replied Levin, blushing for the priest. "Why " does he need to ask such questions at confession ? he said to
himself.

The

" You are thinking of marriage, and perhaps God may grant you offspring. What education will you give to 3'our little children if you do not succeed in conquering the tempIf you love tations of the devil, who causes you to doubt? your children, you will not only wish for them riches, abundance, and honor, but still more, as a good father, the salvation of their souls and the light of truth; is this not so?

priest continued

How
'

will you reply to the innocent child who asks you, Papasha, who made all that delights me on the earth, the Will you water, the sunshine, the flowers, the plants?' answer, I know nothing about it ? Can you ignore what the Lord God in his infinite goodness has revealed to you ? And if the child asks you, What awaits me beyond the tomb?' what will you say to him if you know nothing? How Will you give him up to the temptawill you answer him? That is not right " said tions of the world and the devil ? and turning his head on one side, looked at he, stopping Levin out of his kindly, gentle eyes. Levin was silent, not because he was afraid this time of an unbecoming discussion, but because nobody had ever put such questions to him before, and because he thought there
' ' '
!

was plenty

of time to consider them before his children should be in a state to question him. " You are about to enter upon a phase of life," continued

ANNA KAR&NWA.
the priest, " where one
in his
:

449

must choose his path and keep to it. mercy to keep and sustain you and in conclusion May our Lord God, Jesus Christ, pardon you, my sou, in his goodness and loving kindness to all mankind."
Pray God
;

And

the priest, ending the formulas of absolution, took leave of him, after giving him his blessing. Levin began the day full of happiness at the thought of being free from a false situation without having been obliged to lie. Besides, he carried away from this good old monk's little sermon a vague impression that, instead of listening to absurdities, he had heard things worth the trouble of investigation.
felt

later on." Levin keenly at this time that there were troubled and obscure places in his soul concerning his religion, he was exactly where Sviazhsky and others were, whose incoherent opinions
;

Not now, of course," he thought, " but

struck him disagreeably.

That evening which Levin spent with his fiancee at Dolly's was very gay while talking with Stepan Arkadyevitch, he said that he was like a dog being trained to jump through
;

a hoop, which, delighted at having finally learned his lesson, his tail, and is eager to leap over the table and through the window.

wags

II.

princess and Dolly strictly observed the established so Levin was not allowed to see his fiancee on the day of the wedding he dined at his hotel with three bache-

THE

customs

room by chance they were Katavasof, an old university friend, now professor of natural sciences, whom Levin had met on the street, and brought home to dinner; Tchirikof, his best man, justice of the peace at Moscow, a bear-hunting companion and finally, Sergei Ivanlors,

who met

in his

ovitch.

The dinner was very lively. Sergei Ivanovitch was in excellent spirits, and Katavasof's originality amused him very much the latter, feeling that he was appreciated, tried to show off, and Tchirikof added his share of gayety to the conversation. " So, here is our friend Konstantin Dmitrie'vitch," said Katavasof, with the slow speech of a professor accustomed to be listened to. " What a talented fellow he was
;

450
I

AXXA KARENINA.

'

speak of him in the past, for he no longer exists. He he took an interest loved science when he lelt the university
;

humanity now he employs half his faculties in deceiving himself, and the other half in trying to give an appearance
in
;

of reason to his illusions." I never met a more confirmed enemy of marriage than you," said Sergei Ivanovitch. 'Not at all; I am a friend of the distribution of labor. People who do nothing cannot, ought not, to be the ones to propagate the race. Others should devote themselves
' '

to their intellectual development and welfare. That is my I know a great many people are inclined to conopinion. found these two branches of work; but I am not of the

number."

"How
ding."

delighted I should be to hear that you were in

love!" exclaimed Levin.

"Pray

invite

me

to your

wed-

already in love." with your mollusks. You know," said Levin, " Mikhail Smenuitch has written a work on the nutrition,
I
;

'But

am

" Yes

and"
" Nu! I It is of no beg of you not to confuse matters consequence what I have written but it is a fact that I love
!

inollusks."

" That need not prevent your loving a wife."

' '

No

but

my

wife would object to

my

loving the mol-

lusks."

how it will be. Now, you love hunting, Nu! just wait awhile " agronomy "I met Arkhip to-day," said Tchirikof; "he says that
will see
!

'Why
"You

so?"

there are quantities of elk at Prudnof, and two bears."

" Nu ! " You

may

" Da! see how it is," said Sergei Ivanovitch. you as well say good-bye to bear-hunting your wife won't
:

You may hunt them

without me."

allow

it."

Levin smiled. The idea that his wife would object to his hunting seemed so delightful that he was ready to renounce the pleasure of ever meeting a bear again. " The custom of saying good-bye to one's bachelor life is " However not without meaning." said Sergei Ivanovitch. happy one may be, he is always sorry to give up his liberty."

ANNA
" Confess
feel like

KARtiNIXA.

451
you.

that, like Gogolevsky, when he was engaged, jumping out the window."
;

but he won't confess it," said Katavasof, Certainly with a loud laugh. " The window is Let us go to Tver We might open find one bear in her den. Indeed, we have still time to catch the five o'clock train," said Tchirikof, smiling. "Hear
!

them laugh Well, upon

!

"

my honor," replied Levin, smiling, too, cannot discover the least trace of regret in my soul for
lost liberty."

'

"I my

soul is in such a chaos that you cannot find " Wait till it becomes anything in it," said Katavasof. calmer; then you will see. You are a hopeless case. NIL! Let us drink to his recovery." After dinner, the guests separated, to dress for the wedding.

" Da! Your

When alone, Levin again asked himself whether he really regretted the liberty of which his friends had just been tanking, and he smiled at the idea. "Liberty? What of liberty? Happiness for me consists in loving, in thinking her thoughts, in wishing her wishes, " without any liberty. That is happiness " But can I know her her wishes, her feelings?" thoughts, The smile disappeared from said something like a voice. his face. He fell into a deep study, and was suddenly seized "And if she does not love me? If with fear and doubt. she is marrying me merely for the sake of being married? If she does not herself know what she is doing? Will she, perhaps, see her mistake, and discover, after we are married, that she does not love me, and that she never can love
!

a strange, even painful, thought about Kitty he began to be violently jealous of Vrousky, just as he had been the year before there came up before him, like the memory of yesterday, that evening when he had seen them together, and he suspected her of not having confessed everything to him.

me?"

And

came

to his

mind

" I cannot let this chair, I will talk with her,

time :uv?
' :

"No," thought

he, with despair,

remain so

jumping up from his I will go and find her,

and say to her again, for the last are free is it not better to stop just where we Anything is better than life-long unhnppiness, shame, ' ' distrust And with despair in his heart, full of hatred to-

We
!

452
wards
all

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

mankind, towards himself and Kitty, he hastened

to her house.

He found her sitting on a large chest, busy with her maid, looking over dresses of all colors, spread out on the floor, and over the backs of the chairs. " Ach!" she exclaimed, beaming with joy at seeing him. "Is it tui? is it vui? [Till this last day she had sometimes said tui, sometimes vi.] 1 did not expect this I am just disposing of my maiden wardrobe." " he " Ah that is replied, frowning at the maid. good
!

away, Duniasha I will call you," said Kitty; and as soon as she had gone she asked, " What is the matter?" She was surprised at her lover's strange, confused, and angry face, and was seized with fear. "Kitty, I am in torture, and I cannot suffer alone!" he said to her in despair, stopping in front of her in a beseech;

"Run

Her beautiful, limpid eyes, full ing way, to read her eyes. of love and frankness, showed him at once how idle his fears were, but he felt an urgent need of being reassured. " I came to tell you that it is not yet too late ; that every" What? thee?"
thing can even
I

now be taken back." do not understand. What

is

the matter with

"lam as I have said and thought a thousand times You once could not conbefore I am not worthy of you. Think of it sent to marry me. Perhaps you are mistaken if now. Think of it well. You cannot love me it is " better to acknowledge it he continued, without looking at her. "I shall be miserable, but no matter; let people say what they please anything is better than unhappiness Now, while there is yet time" " I do not understand you," she replied, looking frightened at him. "You mean you want to take back your word " ? break off our " Yes, if do not love me." you " You must be insane " she exclaimed, red with vexation. But the sight of Levin's piteous face arrested her anger; and pushing aside the dresses, which covered the chairs, she drew near to him. " What are you thinking of? tell me all." " I think that you cannot love me. Why should you love
!

me?"
' '

Bozhe

mo'i

" what can I do ? said she

and she burst

into tears.

ANNA KARfiNINA.
" Ack ! what have
"

453

over

Levin found the explanation perfectly satisfactory. When the princess came in, they were sitting side by side on the big chest, looking over the dresses, and discussing their fate. Kitty wanted to give Duniasha the brown dress that she wore the day Levin proposed to her and he insisted that it should not be given to anybody, and that Duniasha should have the blue dress. " But don't you see that she is a brunette, and the blue I have thought it all dress will not be becoming to her? "
;

I done ? he cried instantly, and throwing himself on his knees, he covered her hands with kisses. When the princess came into the room five minutes later, she found them completely reconciled. Kitty had not only convinced her fianct of her love, but she had explained to him why she loved him. She said that she loved him because because she knew' that he she understood him perfectly could love, and that all he loved was good and beautiful.
;

When she learned why Levin was there, the princess was half vexed nt him, and sent him home to make his own toilet, as Charles was going to dress Kitty's hair. " she has eaten " She is quite excited enough," said she ;
and here nothing for days, and is loosing all her beauty you come to trouble "her with your foolishness. Come, go away now, my dear Levin went back to the hotel, guilty and ashamed, but His brother, Darya Aleksandrovna, and Stepan reassured. Arkadyevitch, in full dress, were already waiting with holy images to bless him. There was no time to be lost. Darya Aleksandrovna had to go home again to get her son perfumed and curled for the occasion the child was to carry Then one carriage must the sacred image before the bride. be sent for the shafer (best man), while another was to come This day was full of to the hotel for Sergei Ivanovitch.
; ! ;

complications. past six.

He must make

haste, for

it

was already

half-

The ceremony of the benediction was anything but solemn. Stepan Arkadyevitch assumed a comically grave attitude beside his wife, raised the sacred image, and obliged Levin to kneel before it, while he blessed him with an affectionate and wicked smile at last he kissed him three times and Darya Aleksandrovna did the same very hastily, for she was in a great hurry to get awaj', and in great perplexity about
; ;

the carriage arrangements.

454

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

This is what we will do: you go for him in our carriage, and perhaps Sergei Ivanovitch will be so good as " to come immediately, and send back his

"Nu!

"

"We
dress.

Certainly, with pleasure." will come back together.

Has

the luggage been

to help

sent?" asked Stepan Arkadyevitch. " Yes," replied Levin, and he called
III.

Kuzma

him

church, brilliantly lighted, was crowded with people, women those who could not get inside were pushing up around the windows, and elbowing each other as they strove for the best places. More than twenty carriages stood in a line in the street, under the supervision of policemen. police officer in brilliant uniform, unmindful of the cold, stood under the peristyle, where one after another the carriages left sometimes ladies in full dress, holding up their trains, now men The lustres taking off their hats as they entered the church. and candles burning before the images shed a flood of light on the golden ikonostds with its red background, on the gilded chacing of the ikons, the great silver candelabra, the censers, the choir banners, the steps of the pulpit, the old dingy missals, and the priestly robes. In the elegant crowd on the right-hand side of the church people dressed in uniforms, white neckties, and satin, silk, and velvet robes, with flowers and gloves, were holding lively conversations in an undertone, and the murmur of their voices echoed strangely beneath the high, vaulted roof. Whenever the door opened with a plaintive creak, the murmur ceased, and everybody turned around, hoping at last to see the bridal pair. But the door had already opened more than ten times, and each time it proved to be some late comer who was to join the group of invited guests, or some spectator who had been clever enough to deceive or elude the police officer. The friends and strangers had passed through every phase of waiting at first they did not attach any importance to the delay then they began to turn around more frequently, wondering what could have happened at last the relatives and invited guests assumed an air of indifference, as though they were absorbed in their conversation, to conceal their uneasiness.
principally
;

THE

ANNA KARENINA.

455

The archdeacon, as though regretful of his time, every now and then gave an impatient cough, which made the winrattle the singers, tired of waiting, were trying their voices in the choir the priest sent now a sacristan, now a deacon, to find out when the bridal party should arrive, and appeared himself at one of the side-doors in a lilac gown with an embroidered sash. Finally a lady looked at her " This is watch, and said to the one sitting next her, very " And immediately all the invited guests expressed strange One of the ushers (shafera) their surprise and discontent. went to see what could have happened. During all this time Kitty, in her white dress, long veil, and wreath of orange blossoms, was standing in the Shcherbatskys' drawing-room, with her sister, Madame Lvova, and her nuptial god-mother (posazhinna'ia mat) looking out of the window, waiting in vain for the shafer to announce her lover's arrival at the church.
;
; !

dows

Levin, meanwhile, in black trousers, but without either vest or coat, was walking up and down his room at the hotel, opening the door every minute to look out into the hall. But in the hall nothing was to be seen, and wringing his hands in despair, he would pour forth his complaints to Stepan Arkadyevitch,

who was calmly smoking. " Did you ever see a man in such a horribly absurd situation?" "Da! abominable!" said Stepan Arkadyevitch, with his "But be calm; they will bring it right tranquil smile.
away." " " said Levin, with difficulty restraining his No, hang it " And these miserable open vests. Absolutely useanger. " less he added, looking at his tumbled shirt bosom. " And what if my trunks have already gone " he exclaimed, quite
!

beside himself.

" You can wear mine." "I might have done that in the first place." " No good being absurd wait it will all come out right." The fact was that when Levin began to dress, Kuzma, his old servant, was supposed to have taken out his dress coat, his vest, and all that was necessary. " But the shirt " cried Levin. " You have your shirt on," replied Kuzma, with an inno: ;
!

cent smile. All his things had been taken to the Shcherbatskys' house,

456

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

whence they were to be sent to the railway station. The one that Levin had worn all day was not fit to put on, and besides, it did not go with his open vest it would take too long to send to the Shcherbatskys'. They sent out to buy one; there were no shops open it was Sunday. shirt was
; ;

brought from Stepan Arkadyevitch's house it was ridicuat last, in despair, he had to send to lously broad and short the Shcherbatskys' to have his trunks opened. So, while the people were waiting in the church, the unfortunate groom was ramping with despair up and down his room like a wild beast in a c;ige, and wondering what Kitty would think now. Finally the guilty Kuzma rushed into the room all out of breath, with the shirt in his hand. " I got there just in time, as they were carrying off the " he exclaimed. trunks Inside of three minutes Levin rushed through the hall, without daring to look at his watch, for fear of increasing his agony of mind.
;
;
!

to him, following leisurely. out right."

" You can't change anything," said Stepan Arkadyevitch "I told you it would all come

IV.

There he is Which one? Is it the youngest? Just look at her! Poor little Mdtvskka, more " dead than alive was murmured through the crowd, as Levin came in with Kitty. Stepan Arkadyevitch told his wife why they were late, and a smile passed over the congregation as it was whispered about. As for Levin, he neither saw anybody nor anything, but kept his eyes fixed on his bride. Everybody said that she had grown very homely during these last days, and cer! ! !

" HERE they come

tainly she did not look as pretty as usual in her bridal dress but such was not Levin's opinion. He looked at her high
;

trimming of her dress modestly encircling her slender neck, and just showing and she it a little in front, her remarkably graceful figure seemed more beautiful to him than ever. But it was not because the flowers or her veil or her Parisian dress added anything to her beauty it was the expression of her lovely face, her eyes, her lips, with their innocent sincerity, preserved in spite of all this adornment.
coiffure, her long white veil, her flowers, the
; :

ANNA KARENINA.

457

" I was beginning to think that you had made up your mind to run away, she said to him vvitu a smile. " What happened to me was so absurd that I am ashamed to tell you about it," he replied, blushing, and turning to
" The tale of the shirt is a good one," said the latter, throwing back his head with a laugh. " Yes, yes," replied Levin, without understanding a word that had been said. " No, ! Kostia, now is the time to make a serious decision," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, pretending to be greatly embarrassed. " The question is a grave one, and you must appreI have been asked ciate its full importance. candles shall be new ones, or those that have

Sergei Ivanovitch.

burned; the difference decided about it, but I

of it."

is

am

whether the been partly "I have ten rubles," he added. afraid that you will not approve
;

Levin knew that there was some joke about it but he could not smile. "What will you decide on? new ones, or old ones? that is the question." " Yes, yes new ones." " Nu! I am very glad. The question is settled," said " Of how little importance a man is Stepan Arkadyevitch. " he murmured to Tchirikof while at such a time as this Levin drew near to his bride, after looking at her in a bewil;
!

" " Notice, said Kitty, who first sets foot on the carpet! "You look the Countess Nordstoue, stepping up to her. your best," she added, addressing Levin. " Are you frightened?" asked Marya Dmitrievna, an old
aunt.

dered way.

a moment," said

Y"ou look pale. Bend forward raising her beautiful round arms to repair some disarrangement of her sister's flowers. Dolly approached in her turn, and tried to say something; but her emotion choked the words, and she began to laugh
aren't cold, are

" You

you

Madame Lvova,

nervously. Kitty looked at those around her as absent-mindedly as Levin. During this time the officiating clerg}" had again put on their sacerdotal robes, and the priest, accompanied by the deacon, came to the lectern placed at the entrance of the

458

ANNA KARENINA.
;

sacred doors. The priest addressed a few words to Levin but Levin failed to understand what lie said. " Take her hand and go forward," whispered his shafer to him. For a long time he was unable to make out what was expected of him. Then he did the opposite of what he was
Finally, just as everybody was discouraged and ready his own inspiration, he comprehended that he was to take Kitty's right hand with his right hand, withtold.

to let

him follow

out changing his position. The priest then took a few steps, The relatives and and stopped in front of the lectern. a murmur of invited guests followed the young couple voices and a rustling of dresses ensued. Somebody stooped down to arrange the bride's train then a silence so profound reigned in the church, that the drops of wax could be heard
;
;

falling

from the candles.

old priest, in a calotte, his white hair shining like drawn back behind his ears, drew forth his little

The
silver,

wrinkled hands from beneath his heavy silver chasuble, ornamented with a cross of gold, approached the lectern,, and turned over the leaves of the missal.

Stepan Arkadyevitch came softly, and spoke in his ear, made a sign to Levin, and then stepped back. The priest lighted two candles decorated with flowers, and,
holding them in his left hand, without minding the dripping It was the same wax, turned towards the young couple. old man who had heard Levin's confession. He looked at the bride and bridegroom out of his sad, weary eyes, and then, with a sigh, blessed Levin with his right hand then, with especial tenderness, placed his fingers on Kitty's bended head, gave them the candles, moved quietly away, and took
;

tlie

censer.
this
all

"Is
profile,

real?" thought Levin, glancing at Kitty's

and noticing from the motion of her lips and her eyebrows, that she felt his look. She did not raise her head; but he knew from the trembling of the ruche, which reached to her little pink ear, that she was stifling a sigh, and he saw her hand, imprisoned in a long glove, tremble as it held
the candle.

Everything at once vanished from his memory,

;

his late

arrival, his dissatisfaction with his friends, the foolish affair of the shirt he no longer was conscious of anything but a

mixed

feeling of terror

and

joy.

ANNA KARENINA.
The archdeacon,
his

459

a handsome man with hair curling all head, wearing a dalmatica of silver cloth, advanced, raised his stole with two fingers, in an easy way, and stopped before the priest. "Bless us, O Lord!" he intoned slowly, and the words

around

echoed solemnly through the " the Lord bless

air.

May

replied the old priest in turning over the leaves. And the response chanted

you now and through all ages," a sweet and musical voice, still

by the

invisible choir, filled the

church with a deep, full sound, which increased, then ceased for a moment, and softly died away. They prayed as usual for the eternal repose and welfare of their souls, for the synod, and the emperor, and then for the servants of God, Konstantin and Ekaterina. " Let us pray the Lord to send them his love, his peace, and his aid," the whole church seemed to say in the voice of the archdeacon. Levin listened to these words, and was impressed by them. " How did they know that aid was exactly what I need? Yes, aid. What can I know, what can I do, without help?" he thought, recalling his doubts and his recent
fears.

the deacon had ended the liturgy, the priest, with a hand, turned toward the bridal couple, God Eternal, who unitest by an indissoluble bond those who are separate," he read in a strong, melodious voice, "thou who didst bless Isaac and Rebecca, and showest thy mercy to their descendants, bless also thy servants, Konstantin and Ekaterina, and pour forth thy benefits upon them. For the glory of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever

When

book

in his

"O

shall

be" "Amen,"
"
'

by an indissoluble bond those who are those profound words respond to what Does she understand it as I do?" one feels at such a time And he gazed into her face, and tried to thought Levin. read her thoughts. From the expression of Kitty's face he concluded that she but he was mistaken did feel it as he did absorbed by the feeling which overpowered and filled her heart more and more, she had scarcely followed the religious service. She
unitest
'

Who
!

again chanted the invisible choir.

separate

How

400
felt

ANNA KARENINA.

a deep joy at seeing at last fulfilled that which, for six weeks, had made her happy and restless by turns. From the moment when, in her cinnamon-colored dress, she had approached Levin to give herself silently wholly to him, the past, she felt, had been torn from her soul, and had given place to another existence, new and unknown, without, howThese six weeks had been ever, changing her outward life. at once a very happy and very trying time. Her whole life, her hopes and desires, were all concentrated on this man, whom she did not fully understand, towards whom she felt a sentiment which she understood still less, and who, attracting her and repelling her by turns, inspired her with a comHer plete and absolute indifference towards her past life. former habits, the things that she had loved, and even her relatives, whom she loved, and who loved her, her mother, who was pained by her indifference, and her gentle father, whom she had loved more than any one else in the world, none of them were anything more to her and while alarmed by her disloyalty, she rejoiced in the sentiment which was But this new life had not yet begun, and the cause of it. she could form no definite idea of it. It was a sweet and
;

terrible expectation of

this expectation, as well as the past, were at an end, and the

and something new and unknown remorse of not regretting the

;

new

life

was beginning.

She

naturalty, but the present moment was only the sanctification of the decisive hour which came six weeks before. The priest, turning towards the lectern, took Kitty's little ring, and with difficulty passed it as far as the first joint of

was frightened

Levin's finger. " I unite thee, Konstantin, servant of God, to Ekatarina, " and he repeated the same formula in placservant of God a large ring on Kitty's delicate little finger. ing The bridal pair tried to understand what was expected of them, but each time made a mistake, and the priest corrected them in a low voice. At last the priest, blessing them with his fingers, again gave Kitty the large ring, and Levin the small one, and again they failed to interchange them as they should have done. Dolly, Tchirikof and Stepan Arkadyevitch stepped out to assist them in their difficulty. The people
;

around them smiled, and whispered; but they remained more serious and solemn than before and the smile on Stepan Arkadyevitoh's face, as he went to them, died away. It seemed to him that a smile might be offensive to them.
;

ANNA KABENINA.
"

461

O Thou who, from the beginning of the world, hast created man, male and female," continued the priest after the ceremony of the rings, " and hast given him woman to be la's inseparable aid, do Thou, our Lord God, bless thy servants Konstantin and Ekatarina, and confirm their nuptials " in faith and concord and truth and love disobedient tears filled his eyes. Levin's breast heaved He felt that all his thoughts on marriage, his visions of the
! ;

future, had hitherto been infantile. And this that had never been comprehensible to him understood its meaning less than ever.

was something and now he

V.

ALL Moscow was

at the marriage.

In this crowd of hand-

somely dressed women, and men

in white neckties or in uni-

form, there was a cautious whispering, especially among the men, for the women were absorbed in observing all the details of the ceremony so full of interest for them. little group of friends surrounded the bride, and among them were her two sisters, Dolly, and the beautiful Madame Lvova just returned from abroad. " Why is Mary in lilac at a wedding? It is almost mourning," said Madame KorsuuskaTa. " With her complexion it's her only salvation," replied Madame Drubetskai'a. k 'But why did the}' have the ceremony in the evening? That savors of the merchant." "It is pleasauter. I, too, was married in the evening," said Madame Korsunska'ia, sighing, and recalling how beautiful she had been on that day, and how ridiculously in love with her her husband had been. Now it was all so different " They say that those who have been shafers more than ten times never marry. I tried to make myself proof against marriage, in this way, but the place was taken," said Count Siniavin to the handsome young Princess Tcharskaia, who had designs on him. The latter only replied with a smile. She was looking at Kitty and thinking what she would do when it came her turn to l>e standing in Kitty's place, with Count Siniavin ; then she would remind him of the joke that he had made. Shcherbatsky confided to the old Freilina Nikolayeva his intention to place the crown on Kitty's headdress to bring her good luck.

462
"

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

There is no need of wearing a headdress," replied Fre"ilina Nikolayeva, deciding that it' the widower whom she was setting her cap for should offer himself, she would be married " I don't like this very simply. display."
Sergei Ivanovitch was jesting with the lady next him, declaring that the fashion of wedding tours was becoming wide-

spread because young couples were shamefaced. " Your brother may well be proud of his choice.. She is charming. You must envy him." " The time has gone by for that, Darya Dmitrievna," he replied, and an unexpected expression of sadness overspread
his face.

Stepan Arkadyevitch was

telling his sister-in-law his

conun-

to arrange her wreath," replied the without listening. What a shame that she has grown so ugly " said the Countess Nordstone to Madame Lvova. After all, he isn't " worth her little finger, is he ? "I don't agree with yon; I am very much pleased with him, and not only because he is going to be my leav-fr&re" " How well he It is so replied Madame Lvova. appears difficult to appear well at such a time. He is neither ridiculous nor stiff one feels that he is touched."
latter,
' k
! k '
!

drum about divorce. " Somebody ought

step on the have advised Kitty to look out for that." "That was not worth while," replied Madame Lvova "in our family we are all submissive to our husbands." " But I have taken pains to keep mine under the thumb. How is it with you, Dolly?" Dolly was standing near them, and heard them, but she did not reply. She was affected tears filled her eyes, and She was she could not have uttered a word without crying. she was thinking of her own glad for Kitty and Levin wedding; and as she glanced at the- brilliant Stepau Arkadyevitch, she forgot the real state of things, and only remembered his first, innocent love. She was thinking, too, of
carpet.
I
;
;

" Did you expect this marriage?" " Almost. He has always been in love with her." " Nu! We shall see which will be the first to

whom she remembered at this other women, her friends, how they, like important and solemn hour of their lives how they renounced the p.-ist Kitty, stood under the crown with joy, and began a mysterious future, with hope and fear
;

AXNA
in their hearts.

KARtiXZXA.

463

Amoug

the

Aimu, who she had

just heard

number she recalled her dear was to be divorced; she had

veil, as

seen her enveloped iu a white her wreath of orange-blossoms. " she whispered. strange
!

pure as Kitty, with

is

And now? "It

terribly

The sisters and friends were not the only ones to follow there with interest the minutest details of the ceremony were women among the strangers looking on, who held their breath, for fear of losing a single movement of bride or
;

bridegroom, and who replied absent-mindedly to the jokes or idle remarks of the men, often not even hearing them. " Why "is she so troubled? Are they marrying her against
her will?

"Against her "

prince?

will? to such a

handsome man?

Is he a

" Is the one in white satin her sister? NIL! Just hear Let her fear her husband' !" the deacon howl, l " Are the singers from Tchudof ?" " No from the synod." "I have asked the servant about it. He says that her husband is going to take her away to his estate. Awfully
' ;

rich, they say.

That is why she is marrying him." "They make a pretty pair." " And you pretend to sa}', Ma^a Vasilievna, that
!

they

Just look at that one in don't wear hoop-skirts any longer. You would say she was an ambassaa puce-colored dress Do you see now? " dor's wife by the way she is dressed. like a lamb What a sweet little creature the bride is You may say what you please, I can't for the slaughter. help pitying her." Such were the remarks of the spectators who had been smart enough to get past the door.
'
!

VI.

JUST at this moment one of the officiating priests came to spread a piece of rose-colored silk through the centre of the church, while the choir intoned a psalm of difficult and complicated execution, in which the tenor and bass sang responthe priest sively carpet.
;

motioned to the pair and pointed to the

that which-

They were both familiar with the superstition A monastery, famous for its singers.
1

464

ANNA KARENINA.
real

ever one of a bridal couple

first sets foot on the carpet behead of the family, but neither Kitty nor Levin thought anything about it alter they had gone a few And they did not hear the remarks exchanged about steps. them or the discussions between those who thought that he was the first and those who were sure that they touched it

comes the

simultaneously.

new office began. Kitty listened to the words of the prayers and tried to understand them, but without success. The further the ceremony proceeded, the more her heart overflowed with triumphant joy, which prevented her from fixing her attention.
chastity,

to God that " the pair might have the gift of and might rejoice in the sight of many sons and daughters"; they recalled how God had made "the first woman from Adam's side," that "the woman must leave father and mother and cling to her husband, and they twain " to give them fecunshall be one flesh they prayed God and prosperity, as he had blessed Isaac and Rebecca, dity Joseph, Moses, and Sephora, and to let them see their children to the third and fourth generation."

They prayed

' '

"All this is lovely," thought Kitt_y as she heard these words, and a smile of happiness, which was reflected on the faces of all who saw her, shone on her fair, lovely face. " Put it entirely on," were the words heard in every part of the church as the priest brought forward the crowns, and
Shcherbatsky, in his three-button gloves, tremblingly held the wreath high above Kitty's head. " Put it on," whispered the latter, smiling. Levin turned round, and, struck by her radiant face, he felt, like her, happy and serene. They listened with joy in their hearts to the reading of the Epistle, and the deacon's voice echoing the last verse fully appreciated by the strangers, who were impatiently waiting for it. Joyfully they drank the warm red wine and water from the flat cup. and followed the priest almost gayly as he led them around the lectern, holding both their hands in his. Shcherbatsky and Tchirikof, carrying the crowns, followed them smiling, and constantly treading on the bride's train. The gleam of joy on Kitty's face seemed to be communicated Levin was sure that the deacon and the to all present. priest fell under its influence as well as himself. When the crowns had been laid aside, the priest read the

ANNA KARBNINA.

465

last prayers and congratulated the young couple. Levin looked at Kitty ami thought he had never seen her so beautiit was the beauty of that inward radiance which transformed her he wanted to speak to her, but checked himself, The priest said fearing that the ceremony was not yet over.

ful

gently to him, with a kindly smile, "Kiss your wife, and you, kiss your husband," and he took their candles. Levin with circumspection kissed bis wife's smiling lips, gave her his arm, and went out of the church with a new and strange feeling of being suddenly very near to her. He had not been able to realize all that was happening until now, and did not begin to believe it until their astonished and timid eyes met then he felt very really that they were indeed one. That same evening, after the supper, the young couple started for the country.
;

VII.

VRONSKY and Anna had been travelling together in Europe They had visited Venice, Rome, Naples and now they were just arrived at a small Italian city, where they intended to make a considerable stay. A gentleman was asking some questions of the imposing hotel-clerk, who stood with his hands in his pockets, and He was a handsome man, with scarcely deigned to reply. thick, pomaded hair, through which ran a part that started
for three months.
;

his neck. He wore a dress suit, and a huge expanse of white linen covered his bosom. bunch of watch-charms was poised upon his rotund belly. Hearing steps on the other side of the entrance, the major-domo turned around, and seeing the Russian count, who rented his most expen-

from

drew his hands out o his pockets, and, with a low bow, informed the count that a messenger had come to say that the palazzo was at his service. The agent was ready to sign the agreement. "Ah! Very good," said Vronsky. "Is madame at
sive apartments, he respectfully

home?"
" She has been
major-domo.
out, but she has returned," replied the

Vronsky took

off his

his heated forehead with his handkerchief,

wide-brimmed soft hat, and wiped and smoothed

466
his hair,

ANNA KAREN1NA.

Then he

which was so arranged as to hide his baldness. cast a hasty glance at the stranger, who had stopped, and was looking at him earnestly. 'This gentleman is a Russian, and was inquiring for you," said the major-domo. With a ridiculous feeling of anger because he never could get away from acquaintances, and at the same time a pleasure at the idea of any distraction from his monotonous existence, Vronsky turned about, and at one and the same
time their eyes met. ' Golennishchef !" " "
!

Vronsky was indeed Golennishchef, one of Vronsky's schoolmates in the Corps of Pages. He belonged to the liberal
It

party

and,

after

his

graduation,

he

took

civil

rank

(fc/im),

and did not enter the army.

The comrades had

entirely drifted apart since their graduation, and had not At this meeting Vronsky perceived even met but once. that Goleunishchef looked down from the lofty heights of his liberal profession upon Vrousky's profession and career.

consequence to me you must prize me if you want to know me.' Golenuishchef was entirely indifferent to Vronsky's manner. That meeting, it would seem, must have driven them still further apart yet, now at the sight of each other, they each uttered a cry of delight. Vronsky had never realized how glad he would be to see Golennishchef but the fact was, that he did not know how bored he was. He forgot the unpleasant circumstances of their previous meetAnd ing, and with manifest pleasure extended his hand. likewise a look of satisfaction succeeded the troubled expression on Golennishchef 's face.
;
;

Consequently, Vronsky, at this meeting with Golennishchef, gave him that cold and haughty reception which it was his 'You may fashion to treat people withal, as much as to say like or dislike my manner of life, but it is absolutely of no
:

" said Vronsky, with a you handsome white teeth. friendly smile, that showed *' I heard the name Vronsky, but which I did not know

"

How

glad I

am

to see

his

" But come

very, very glad."

!

"Oh,
ing."

in Nu! What are you doing?" I have been living here for more than a year, work-

"

Ah

"
!

said Vronsky, with interest.

" But come

in."

KARtiXIXA.

467

And, according to the habit of Russians when the^y do not wish to be understood by their servants, he said in
French,

" Do you know Madame Kar6nina? "We have been travI was just going to her room." And while elling together. he was speaking he studied Golennishchef s face. "Ah! I did not know" (but he did know), remarked Golennishchef carelessly. " Have you been here long?" "I? Oh, this is the fourth day," replied Vrousky, continuing to study his companion. "Da! He is a gentleman, and looks upon things in the right light," he said to himself, giving a favorable interpretation to Golennishchef's way of turning the conversation ; "he can be presented to Anna his views are all right." Vronsky, during this three months of travel with Anna, had felt every time that he met with new acquaintances a hesitation as to the manner in which they would look upon his relations with Anna, and for the most part the men had looked upon them " in the right light." If he or they had been asked what they meant by the expression " in the right light," they would have found it hard to tell but they did not care to press the matter, and contented themselves with a wise discretion, not asking questions or making allusions, and behaved altogether in the way of well-bred people when presented with a delicate and complex situation. Vronsky instantly saw that Golennishchef was one of these discreet people, and was therefore glad of the encounter. Indeed, Golennishchef would behave towards Madame
; ;

in exactly the manner that Vronsky demanded, and evidently would cost him no effort to avoid all words that would lead to unpleasant suggestions.

Kar6nina
it

He had never seen Anna before, and was delighted with her beauty, and still more with the perfect simplicity with which she accepted the situation. She flushed when she saw Vronsky come in with Golennishchef, and this infantile color which spread over her frank and lovely face pleased him immensely. But he was delighted because, even in the presence of a stranger, which might have caused restraint, she called Vronsky Aleksi, and told about their plans for a new house of their own, which she dignified with the name of This simple and straightforward facing of their palazzo. situation was delightful to Golennishchef. Perceiving Anna a happy and vivacious manner, knowing Aleksei Alek-

468

ANNA KAR&NINA.

sandrovitch and Vronsk}', it seemed to him that he understood, as she herself did not understand) how she could desert her unhappy husband and her son, and lose her good
repute,

and
is

still

" There
"

"This palazzo

feel animated, gay, and happy. is in the guide-book," said Golennishchef.

Do

you know?

a superb Tintoretto there. In his latest manner." It is splendid weather let's go over and
;

look at it again," said Vronsky, addressing Anna. il l should like to very much. I will go and put on my " Did you say it was hot? halting on the threshold and hat.

looking back to Vronsky. And again the bright color came into her face. Vronsky saw by her look that she was uncertain in what
to treat Golennishchef, and was mutely entreating to tell her if her behavior was what he desired. He looked at her long and tenderly. Then he replied,

way

him

" No, not very."

perceived by his eyes that he was satisfied with her, and replying with a smile, she went out with a quick and
graceful motion. The friends looked at each other, and there came into the faces of both an expression of embarrassment, as though Golennishchef, admiring her, wished to make some complimentary remark and had not the courage, while Vronsky both wished and feared to hear it. " Talc vot Jeak," Vronsky began, so that some conversa" So tion might be started. you are settled here? Are you still interested in the same pursuits?" he asked, remembering that he had been told that Golennishchef was writing

Anna

something.
I have been writing the second part of the Tit-o Origins," replied Golennishchef, kindling with delight at this " that is, to be more exact, I am not writing yet, question but have been collecting and preparing my materials. It will be far more extended, and will endeavor to answer all With us, in Russia, they can't understand that questions. we are the successors of Byzantium," and he began a long
; ;
'

" Yes

dissertation. Vronsky at first

was confused because he did not know about the first part of the Two Origins, about which the author spoke as though it were a classic. But afterwards, as Golennishchef began to develop his thought, and Vronsky saw what he meant, his interest wakened even though he did

ANNA KARBNINA.
not

469

Two Origins; and as he listened, he But it was unpleasant for were good. him to see Goleuuishehefs agitation. The longer he spoke, the brighter grew his eyes, the more animated were his arguments in refutation of his opponents, and the more angry
know about
the
felt that his ideas

and excited the expression of

his face.

Vronsky remem-

a lad of bered Goleunishchef at the School of Pages, small stature, thin, nervous, agile, a good-hearted and goodnatured molehill,, always at the head of his class, and he could not imagine how he had changed so much and become

And it was especially incomprehensible to him so irritable. that Goleuuishchef, a man of good social standing, should put himself down on the level of these common scribblers, and get angry with them because they criticised him. Was it worth while? It displeased him but, as he felt that Golennishchef was making himself miserable, he was sorry for him. This unhappy expression was particularly noticeable on his vivacious, handsome face just as Anna came in, he was so much occupied with the angry expression of his thoughts. As Anna, in walking costume, and with a sunshade in her lovely, slender hand, came in and stood near them, Vronsky was happy to turn away from Golennishchef's keen and feverish eyes, and to look with ever-new love at his charming friend, radiant with life and gayety.
;

It
first

was hard

for

Golennishchef to come to himself, and at

;

he was surly and cross but Anna, through her amiable disposition, quickly brought him into sympathy with her gay She gradually led the conversation and natural manner. round to painting, about which he spoke very well, and she
listened to him attentively. " I am very glad of one thing," said " Aleksei will have a nice atelier. chef,

Anna

to Golennish-

been into

this

Of course thou hast room?" she added, turning to Vronsky and

speaking to him in Russian, using the familiar tui (thou) as though she already looked upon Golennishchef as an intimate, before whom it was not necessary to be reserved. "Do you paint?" asked Golennishchef, turning vivaciously to Vronsky. " Yes, I used to paint long ago, and now I am going to take it up again," replied Vronsky, with color. " He has great talent," cried Anna, with a radiant smile. "Of course I am not a judge. But good judges whom I

know say

so."

470

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

VIII.

ANNA, during this first period of freedom and rapid convalescence, felt herself exuberantly happy and full of joyous The memory of her husband's unhappiness did not life. poison her pleasure. This memory in one way was too horIn another, her husband's uuhappiness rible to think of. was the cause of a happiness for her too great to allow The memory of everything that had followed since regret. her sickness, the reconciliation with her husband, the quarrel, Vronsky's wound, his sudden appearance, the preparations for the divorce, the flight from her husband's home, the all this seemed like a frightful separation from her son, dream, from which her journey abroad alone with Vrousky had relieved her. Of course, what she had done was evil, but this was her only salvation, and it was better not to return to those horrible memories. There was one consolation which somewhat appeased her conscience whenever she thought of the past. She expressed it to herself at the very first moment of her departure " I have done my husband an irrevocable injury, but at least I also suffer and I get no advantage from his misfortune. I give up shall suffer. I give up all that was dearest to me my good name and my son. I have sinned, and therefore I do not desire happiness or a divorce, and I accept my shame and the separation from my son." But however sincere Anna was when she reasoned thus, With that she had not suffered. She had felt no shame. tact which both she and Vronsky possessed to perfection they had avoided, while abroad, any meeting with Russian ladies, and the\" had never put themselves into any false position, but had associated only with those who pretended to understand their situation much better than they themselves did.
:
;

Nor even

the

separation from her son,

whom

she loved,

caused her any pain at this time. Her baby, her daughter, was so lovely and so filled her heart, that she seemed to have only the daughter, and rarely thought of the sou. The joy of living caused by her convalescence was so keen, the conditions of her existence were so new and delightful,

Anna felt extraordinarily happy. The more she came know Vronsky, the more she loved. She loved him for his own sake and for his love for her. The complete surrender
that
to

ANNA
to

KARfiNINA.

471

him was a
traits of

the

His presence was always a joy. All delight. his character seemed to her to improve on
His appearance, now that he dressed
in civil

acquaintance.

attire instead of uniform, was as young girl desperately in love.

entrancing to her as for a In everything that he said, thought, or did she saw only the good and the noble side. She herself felt almost frightened at this excessive worship of him. She tried in vain to find any imperfection in him. She did not dare to confess to him her own inferiority, lest And now there was he, knowing it, should love her less. nothing that terrified her so as the thought of losing his love. But her terror was not justified by Vronsky's conduct he never manifested the slightest regret at having sacrificed to his passion a career in which he would certainly have played an important part. Moreover, he was always respectful, and careful that she should never feel in the slightest degree the compromising character of her position. This man, so masculine, so wilful, had no will beside hers, and his only aim seemed to be to anticipate her desires. And she could not but appreciate this, though this assiduity itself in his attentions, this atmosphere of lover which he threw around her, sometimes wearied her.
;

Vronsky, meantime, notwithstanding the complete realiall that he had desired so long, was not entirely He soon began to feel that the accomplishment happy. of his desires was only a small portion of the mountain of This reality now came pleasure which he had anticipated. to him like the eternal error which people make, who imagine how great their pleasure will be in the accomplishment of
zation of

When he was first united with her, and had their desires. put on his citizen's clothes, he felt all the pleasure of a and he was freedom such as he had never known before He satisfied with that, and with her love, but not for long. soon began to feel in his soul desires that caused pain. Involuntarily, he began to follow every light caprice as though they were serious aspirations and ends. To fill sixteen hours of each day was not easy, living as they did abroad in perfect freedom, away from the social and military duties that took his time at Petersburg. He could not think of trying the distractions which he had known in the previous trips abroad one time a scheme of a supper with some acquaintances caused Anna a most unexpected and uncomfortable storm of despair. The enjoyment
;
;

472

ANNA

KARtiNIXA.

with foreign or Russian society was impossible on account of And to amuse himself with the peculiarity of their relation. the curiosities of the country was not to be spoken of, not only because he had already seen them, but because in his quality of Russian and man of sense, he could not find
in

them that immense importance that the English are pleased to attach to them. And as a hungry animal throws itself on everything that falls before its teeth, so Vronsky, with extraordinary indiscrimination, attacked,

now

politics,

now

painting,

now new

books.

he was young, he had shown some inclination and not knowing what to do with his money, had made a collection of engravings. And now he took up the idea of painting, in order to give his activity some scope. He was not lacking in good task, and he had a gift of imitaAll styles tion, which he confounded with original talent. were one to him, and for some time he hung doubtful which the religious, the historical, genre, or the he would choose, He understood all kinds, and could get inspiration realistic. but he did not seek his inspiration directly from for each and thus he understood neither, except as nature, from life he had seen them expressed in art but he executed tolerable sketches. More than all others, the graceful and effective French school appealed to him, and he began a portrait of Anna in this style. She wore an Italian costume and

When

towards

art,

this portrait

seemed to him, and

IX.

to

all

who saw

it,

very

successful.

THE old, dilapitated palazzo in which they set up their establishment served to endow Vrousky with an agreeable it seemed to him that he had gone through a metaillusion morphosis, and from a Russian proprietor, a colonel in retirement, he had been changed into an enlightened amateur and protector of art, who, in his own modest way, painted a little, while sacrificing the world, his ties, his ambition, for a woman's love. The ancient palace, with lofty painted ceilings, its walls covered with frescoes, its mosaic floors, its vases on mantel-piece and console, its yellow tapestries, its thick, yellow curtains at the windows, its carved doors, and its vast, melancholy halls, filled with paintings, lent itself
;

readilv to his illusion.

ANXA KAEtiNINA.

473

His new role satisfied Vronsky for some time. He made the acquaintance of an Italian paiuter, under whose instrucAt the same time, tion he made some studies from nature. he undertook to make investigations into Italian lite during the middle ages, which inspired him with such a lively interest, that he began to wear a mediaeval hat, and throw his plaid over his shoulders in the antique st}"le, which was very

becoming to him. Do you like Mikhailof's painting?" asked Vronsky one morning of (iolennishchef, who came in to see him, and at the same time he handed him a Russian paper, containing an article on this artist, who had just completed a picture of such merit, that it had been sold on the easel. He was living in this same city, without receiving any official encouragement or aid and the article severely criticised the government and the academy for neglecting an artist of such
' ;

genius. " I know

him," replied Golennishchef.

"

He

certainly has

no lack of talent, but his theories are absolutely false. He always shows the Ivanof-Strausz-Renan tendencies in his conceptions of Christ and the religious life." " What is the subject of his painting?" asked Anna. " Christ before Pilate. The Christ is a Jew of the most pronounced type of realism." And as this subject was a favorite one with him, he began

" I cannot understand how they can fall into such a gross The type of the Christ in art was well defined by mistake. If they want to represent a sage or a the old masters. revolutionist, let them take Franklin or Sokrates, or Charlotte Corday, but not Christ. anybody they please, He is the oulv one that art ought not to meddle with, and " then "Is it true that this Mikhailof is in misery ? " asked Vronsky, who felt that in his quality of Russian Maecenas he ought to find some way of aiding the artist without regard to " Couldn't we ask him to the value of his painting. paint

to develop his ideas.

Anna Arkadyevna's

portrait?"

'Why
me.
I

mine?" she demanded.

It

"After

.your portrait
let

of

want no other.

would be better to

him paint

Ani [so she

called her daughter], or her," she added, with a furtive glance at Vronsky, and pointing to the pretty Italian nurse, who was just taking the baby into the garden.

474

ANNA KARtiNINA.

This Italian woman, whose mediaeval type of beauty Vrousky admired, and whose face he had taken as a model, was the She was afraid that she was only shadow in Anna's life. going to be jealous, and was accordingly all the more kind to her and her little boy. Vronsky looked out of the window, and then catching Anna's e}'es, he turned to Golenuishchef. " Do you know this Mikhailof ?" "I have met him. He is an original \_tcl>udak~\ without one of these new-fashioned savages such any education,
,

as you meet with now-a-days these freeyou know them thinkers, who rush d'emblee [headlong] into atheism, mateOnce," Golennishchef went on rialism, universal negation. to say, without allowing Vronsky or Anna to put in a word, " once the free-thinker was a man of lofty, religious, and moral ideas, who did not ignore the laws by which society is regulated, and who reached freedom of thought only after But now we have a new type of them, long struggles. free-thinkers who grow up without even knowing that there are such things as laws in morality and religion, who will not admit that sure authorities exist, and who possess only the sentiment of negation in a word, savages. Mikhai'lof is one of these. He is the son of a major-domo \_ober-laMi~] at He entered the Moscow, and never had any education.
, ;

academy, and showed some promise. He was willing to be and, with this end in view, he taught, for he is not a fool the magazines and turned to that source of all learning, let us say a In the good old times, if a man reviews. Frenchman wanted to get an education, he would study
;

the preachers, the tragic poets, the historians, the classics, and you can see all the intellectual labor the philosophers But now-a-days it is far more simple he that involved. turns to negative literature, and it is very easy to get a smattering of such a science. And, again, twenty years ago, this same literature bore traces of the struggle against the and these authorities and secular traditions of the past very traces of struggle gave an inkling that these things But now no longer are pains taken to combat with existed. natural selection, the past. Men are contented with words. In my Evolution, struggle for existence, negation, and all. article" "I'll tell you what we must do," said Anna, resolutely, cutting short Golennishchef s verbiage, after exchanging a glance with Vronsky "let us go and see your painter."
; ; ;

ANNA KAR&NINA.
;

475

Golennishchef readily consented and as the artist's studio situated in a remote quarter, they had a carriage called. An hour later, the carriage, with Golennishchef, Vronsk}-, and Anna, stopped in front of a new and ugly house. woman came to receive them, and told them that Mikhai'lof The visitors was at his studio, only a few steps away. sent in their cards, and begged to be admitted to see his

was

paintings.

X.
MIKHAILOF was at work as usual, when the cards of Count He had Vronsky and Golennishchef were brought him. been painting all the morning in his studio but when he reached his house, he became enraged with his wife because of her failure to make terms with an exacting landlady. "I have told you tweuty times not to dispute with her. You are a fool anyway but when you try to argue in Italian, you are three times as much of a fool." "Why do you get behindhand so? It is not my fault. " If I had any money " " For heaven's sake, cried Mikhai'give me some peace and putting his hands over lof, his voice thick with tears his ears, he hastily rushed to his workroom, separated from " She the sitting-room by a partition, and bolted the door. hasn't any common sense," he said to himself, sitting down at his table and addressing himself to his work with feverish
;

ardor.

He never worked better than when money was wanting, and especially after a quarrel with his wife. He had begun
a study of a man suddenly seized with a tempest of wrath. But now he was not able to find it, and so he went back to his wife with an air of vexation, and without looking at her, asked his eldest daughter for the sketch which he had given her. After a long search it was found, soiled and covered with drops of tallow. He took it as it was, laid it on the table, examined it from a distance, squinting his eyes, and then smiled, with a satisfied gesture. "So! so!" he cried, taking a pencil and drawing some One of the tallow spots gave his sketch a new rapid lines.
aspect.

As he worked he remembered the prominent chin of man of whom lie bought his cigars, and instantly he gave

the
his

design an energetic and sharp outline, and the sketch ceased

476
to be something
alive.

ANNA
He

KARtiNINA.

vague and dead, but became animated and laughed with delight. As he carefully finished his design, the two cards were brought him. "1 will come instantly," he replied. Then he went back
to his wife.

at once tender
tion,

"Nit, come, Sasha, don't be vexed," he said, with a smile and timid. "You were wrong; so was J.

I will settle matters." hat,

And giving her a kiss of reconciliahe put on an olive overcoat with velvet collar, took his
his studio, greatly wondering what the stylish Russian geutlemen, who came to see

and hurried to

visit of these

him

in a carriage, could mean. In last analysis his opinion on the painting which was on exhibition then was as follows: "No one could produce another like it." It was not that he believed himself superior but he was sure that he had accomplished to the Raphaels in it his utmost desires, and he did not believe that others Yet in spite of this conviction, which could do as much. dated from the day that the picture wr as begun, he attached great value to the judgment of the public, and the expectation of what this judgment would be stirred him to the depths of his soul. He felt that his critics had a depth of insight superior even to his own, and he expected to have them discover in his picture new features that had escaped his own observation. As he hurried on with long strides he was struck, in spite of his preoccupation, by the appearance of Anna, who was standing in a soft radiance in the shadow of the portico, talking with Golennishchef and watching the artist's approach, as though she were trying to study him from a distance. The artist, without definite consciousness of it, instantly stowed away in the pigeon-holes of his brain the impression that she made on him, to make use of it some day, just as he had used the tobacconist's chin. The visitors, whose ideas of Mikhaflof had been greatly modified by Golenuishchef's description of him, were still more disenchanted when they saw him. He was a thick-set man, of medium height, and his nervous walk, his chestnutcolored hat, his olive-green coat, and his tight trousers, out of date, produced an impression which the vulgarity of bis long face and the mixture of timidity and pretentious dignity which it expressed were not calculated to render more favorable. " Do me the honor to enter," he said, trying to assume an air of indifference, while he turned the key and opened the door of his studio.
;

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

477

XI.
as they entered, Mikhai'lof again glanced at his Vrousky's face, with its rather prominent cheekbones, instantly engraved itself in his memory, for this man's artistic sense was always at work, storing up new materials. His delicate and shrewd observations were based on almost " That one imperceptible indications. [meaning Golennishmust be a Russian resident in Italy." Mikhai'lof chef] could not remember either his name or the place where he had met him, and still less, whether he had ever spoken but he remembered the faces that he saw, and he to him knew that he had once before classed him in the immense category of faces which lack expression in spite an apparent A very high forehead and an abundance air of originality. of long hair gave his head a semblance of individuality which might easily deceive, while an expression of puerile agitation was concentrated in the narrow space between his eyes.
;

As soon

guests.

Vronsky and Anna were, according to Mikhai'lof's intuition, Russians of high rank, rich, and ignorant of art, like all rich Russians who play the amateur and the connoisseur.

"They have undoubtedly seen all the old galleries," he thought, "and now are visiting the studios of the German charlatans and the imbecile English pre-Raphaelites, and bring their tour to an end by doing me the honor of a visit." He knew very well the fashion in which dilettante visited the studios of modern painters, and they amused him rather than vexed him. He saw that their single aim was to be able to prove the incontestible superiority of ancient over modern art. He expected all this, and he read it in the indifference with which his visitors conversed together as they walked up and down the studio, leisurely examining the manikins and busts, while he was arranging his paintings.

Notwithstanding his prejudice and his private conviction and titled Russians were infallibly fools and imbeciles, he got out his studies, raised his curtains, and with
that rich

eager hand unveiled his masterpiece. " Here," he said, stepping back from the easel and beck" is the Christ before Pilate." oning to the sightseers, He felt his lips tremble with (Matthew, chapter xxvii.) emotion, and he took his place behind his guests. During

478

ANNA KARENINA.

the few seconds of silence that followed, Mikhai'lof looked at his picture with a sort of indifference, us though he were one of the spectators. In spite of him he expected a superior criticism, an infallible judgment, from these three people, whom but a moment before he despised. Forgetting his own opinion as well as the indubitable merits which during three years had constantly appealed to him, he looked at it now with the cold and critical look of a stranger, and found it full of faults. How far would the politeh' hypocrit-

remarks which he expected to hear be justified? how right his guests would have to pity him and ridicule him after they were gone The silence, which in reality did not last a minute, seemed to him intolerably long, and to abridge it and hide his trouble, he made an effort to address Golennishchef. " I think that I have had the honor of meeting you beical

much

fore," said he, glancing anxiously first at

Anna, then

at

Vronsky, so that he might not lose for an instant the changthat don't you remember?" replied Golennishchef, turning away his face without the least show of regret. He saw, however, that Mikhai'lof was expecting him to say something about the picture, and he added, "Your work has made great progress since the last time I saw it and now I am greatly impressed with your Pilate, You have represented a good but feeble just as I was then. who is aba tchinovnik to the bottom of his soul, man, But it seems solutely blind to the meaning of his action. " to me Mikhai'lof's mobile face lighted up, his eyes gleamed, he wanted to reply but his emotion prevented him, and he This discriminating pretended to have a fit of coughing. observation, though it was valueless to him, because he had such a low estimation of Golennishchef 's artistic instinct, He suddenly conceived a liking for his filled him with joy.
; ; ;

ing expression of their faces. " we met at Rossi's the evening Certainly Italian girl, the new Rachel, made a recitation

when

guest, and suddenly flew from dejection to enthusiasm. Instantly his painting regained in his eyes its meaning so complex and so profound. Vronsky and Anna were talking in that low tone of voice peculiar to picture exhibitions, and caused by the desire not to say anything that might give offence, and, more than all,

ANNA KAREXIXA.
not to
easily
let

479

any one hear those absurd remarks which are so Mikhtd'lof thought that he in regard to art. and he drew heard a favorable criticism on his picture

made

closer to them.

" What an admirable expression the Christ has," said Anna, thinking that this eulogy could not help being agreeable to the artist, as the Christ was the principal figure in the She added, ''One can see that he pities Pilate." painting. This, again, was one of those million accurate but idle obser-

The Christ's face, of course, vations which mean so little. should represent resignation to death, the feeling of absolute disenchantment with the world, a supernatural peace, a sublime love, and, in consequence, also pity for his enemies. should represent the fleshly life in Pilate, the tchinovnik contradistinction to Christ, the pattern of the spiritual life, and therefore have the aspect of a vulgar office-holder but, nevertheless, Mikhai'lof s face was radiant with joy. ^ Da! And how that One could go figure is painted! round it," said Golennishchef, meaning to show by this observation that he did not approve of the realistic element in the Christ. " How alive " Yes it is a master- work," said Yronsky. in the background are What technique " he those figures added, turning to Golennishchef, and alluding to a discussion in which he had avowed his discouragement in the technique of the art. "Yes, yes; very remarkable," said Golennishchef and Anna simultaneously. But Yronsky's last remark nettled Mikhai'lof he scowled and looked at Vronsky with an angry He did not know what he meant by the word expression. He had often noticed, even in the praises which technique. his work called forth, that technical skill was opposed to the intrinsic merit of a work as though it were possible to paint a bad picture with talent. "The only criticism that I should dare 'to make, if you " will allow me "Ach! I should be very glad, beg you to favor me," replied Mikhai'lof, smiling without gayety. "It is that you have painted a man made God, and not God made man. However, I know that that was your intention." " I cannot paint any Christ except the one I comprehend," replied Mikhai'lof gloomily.
,
;

480

ANNA
;

KARfiNlNA.
if

" In that case, excuse me

standpoint

I look at

it

from

my own

your painting is so beautiful, that this observation can do it no harm. Take Ivanof for example why does he reduce the Christ to the proportions of an historical figure ? He would do better to choose a new theme less hackneyed." " But suppose this theme is the grandest of all for art?" " By searching, one might be found just as grand. Art, in my estimation, cannot suffer discussion now this ques,
;

tion

and

"Why

raised by Ivanof's painting Is that God, or not God? thus the unity of the impression is destroyed." so? It seems to me that this question can no
is
: ;

longer be asked by enlightened men," replied Mikliai'lof. Golennishchef was not of this opinion and, full of his idea, drew the painter into a discussion in which he could not defend himself.

XII.

ANNA and Vronsky, wearying of their friend's learned Finally they left the two loquacity, exchanged glances. men to their discussion, and went to make a further examination of the studio. They stopped before a small
painting.

"Ach!
them

How

charming!

What

gem!"

said both of

at once.

"What pleases them so?" thought Mikhailof. He had completely forgotten this picture, painted three years before. When once he had painted a picture, he no longer cared to see it, and he had brought this one out only because an Englishman had thought of purchasing it. " " That is only an old study." nothing," he said "But it is capital," replied Golennishchef very honestly, falling under the charm of the painting. Two children "were fishing under the shade of a laburnum. The elder, all absorbed, was cautiously pulling his The younger, lying in the grass, leaning line from the water. his blond, frowsly head on his hand, was gazing at the water, with great, pensive eyes. What was he thinking about? The enthusiasm caused by this study brought back somewhat of Mikhai'lof's first emotion but he did not love the vain memories of the past, and he preferred to take his But Vronsky angered him guests to a third painting.
;

ANNA KARENINA.
;

481

the question of by asking if the painting was for sale money seemed to him to be in bad taste, and he frowned as

he replied,

was put up for sale." his visitors had gone, Mikhailof sat down before his painting of Christ and Pilate, and mentally reviewed all that had been said and understood by them. And how strange the observations which seemed so weighty when they were present, and when he put himself on their plane, now lost all As he examined his work with his artist's eye significance. he regained his full conviction of its perfection and its lofty value, and he therefore again felt the disposition of mind
It

"

After

necessary for the continuance of his work. The foreshortening in the log of the Christ was not quite He seized his palette, and while he was correcting correct. it, looked long at the head of John, which seemed to him to

show the highest degree of perfection

and

his visitors

had
;

not even noticed it. He tried to give this also a few touches but to work well he must be less excited and reach the right

At this medium between indifference and exultation. moment he was agitated. He started to cover the canvas. Then he stopped, and, lifting the drapery with one hand, he smiled ecstatically at his St. John. At last, tearing himself
from his contemplation, he let the curtain fall, and went home, weary but happy. Vronsky, Anna, and Golennishchef, returning to the pnlazzo, were very lively and gay. They talked about MikThe word talent was often heard hailof and his paintings. as the}* talked they meant by it not onby an inner gift, almost physical, independent of spirit and heart, but also something more extended, the real meaning of which escaped
;

them. " Talent," they said, "he certainly has, but this talent is not sufficiently developed, because he lacks intellectual culture, a fault common to all Russian artists."

But the painting of the two boys appealed to their tastes, and again and again they recurred to it. " How charming How natural and how simple And he did not realize how
!
!

good

it

was.

Da !

I must not fail to buy

it,"

said Vronsky.

482

ANNA KAR&NINA.
XIII.

MIKHAILOF sold Vronsky the little picture, and also decided to paiiit Anna's portrait. He came on the appointed da}' and began his work, which even on the fifth sitting struck Vronsky by its resemblance and by its very delicate feeling for the beauty of his subject. 'One must know her and love her as I love her, to get her gentle and spiritual expression," thought Vronsky and yet he found in Mikhailof s portrait exactly that very
;

expression.

"I have been struggling so long and never get ahead," said Vronsky, referring to his portrait of Anna, " and he has only to look at her to paint her. That is what I call knowing one's profession." ''That will come," said Golenuishchef, to console him, for in his eyes Vronsky had talent, and, moreover, had a trainBut ing which ought to wake in him the feeling for art. Golennishchef's convictions in this regard were corroborated by the need that he felt for Vrousky to praise him and sympathize with him in his own work : it was a fair exchange. In the house of strangers, and especially in Vronsky's
palazzo, Mikhailof was an entirely different man from what he was at home and in his studio. He showed himself respectful almost to affectation, as though he were anxious to avoid all intimac}* with people whom at heart he did not " regard. He always called Vronsky "Your Excellency [vdshe and in spite of Vronsky's and Anna's repeated sidtelstvo~\ invitations, he never would stay to dinner or come except at the hours for the sitting. Anna was even more genial to him than to the others Vronsky was more than polite to
; ;

him, and was anxious for his criticism on his paintings Goleunishchef never lost an opportunity of inculcating sound theories of art But Anna still Mikhailof kept his distance. felt that he liked to look at her even though he avoided all conversation with her. When Vronsky desired his opinion on his work, he remained obstinatelv silent, and looked at the pictures without ever a word, and he took no pains to conceal the weariness which Golennishchef's sermons caused him. This mute hostility produced a painful impression, and relief was felt by all when the sittings were over, and Mikhailof, having completed an admirable portrait, ceased to come
;
:

ANNA KARENINA.
to the palazzo.

483

Goleunishchef was the first to express a thought which all had been thinking, that the painter was envious of Vronsky. "What makes him furious is to see a wealthy man, of

and apparently they are all vexed at high position, a count, reaching without trouble the skill to paint as well, if not better, than he. 'He has devoted his liie to painting, but you have a mental culture which people like Mikhai'lof never succeed in attaining." Vronsky, though he took the painter's part, felt at heart
that,

that his friend was right for it seemed to him extremely natural that a man in an inferior position should env}' him. The two portraits of Anna might have shown him the difIt was only after ference between him and Mikhai'lof. Mikhai'lof's portrait was done, that he began to see it. He felt it sufficiently to lay his own aside, saying that it was a and he devoted himself wholly to his mediseval superfluity He himself and Golennishchef and Anna espepainting. cially felt that it was good, because it resembled, more than all that Mikhai'lof did, the works of the old masters. Mikhai'lof, meantime, in spite of the pleasure which he took in doing Anna's portrait, was glad to be freed from Goleunishchef's discourses and Vronsky's paintings. Of
;
;

course, it was impossible to prevent Vronsky from amusing himself, he and all other dilettante having unfortunately the but he suffered in conright to paint as much as they please sequence of this amateurish occupation. No one can prevent a man from making for himself a big wax doll and kissing it ; but if this man takes his doll and sits in the presence of lovers and makes his caresses before them, then it becomes unpleasant to the lover. Vronsky's painting produced on him a similar feeling it was ridiculous, and disgusting, and pitiable, and vexatious. Vronsky's enthusiasm for painting and the middle ages was, however, of short duration his art instinct was strong
;
;

to prevent him from finishing his painting, and he recognized sadly, that his faults, at first apparently trifling, grew more and more grievous as he went on. He was like

enough

who willingly nurtured himself on illusions, and imagined that he was collecting materials, and storing up ripened thoughts, because he felt that there was a void in his mind. But while Golennishchef grew bitter and irritable, Vronsky remained perfectly calm incapable of self-decepGolennishchef,
:

484
tion,

ANNA KARtfNINA.

he simply gave up his painting, with his habitual decision of character, without seeking to justify himself or to offer explanations. But, without this occupation, life in this little Italian city the palazzo suddenly appeared quickly became intolerable the spots on the curtains assumed a sordid old and dirty the cracks in the mosaics, the bi'oken stucco of aspect the cornices, the eternal Golennishchef the Italian professor, and the German tourist, all became unspeakably wearisome.
; ;

Anna was

surprised by this

abrupt disenchantment,

but

willingly consented to return to Russia to live in the country. Vronsky wanted to pass through Petersburg to make business

her son.

arrangements with his brother, and Anna was anxious to see They decided to spend the summer on Vronsky's

large patrimonial estate.

XIV.
LEVIN had been married three months. He was happy, but in a different way from what he had anticipated and, notwithstanding certain unlooked-for delights, he was met at Married life every step with some new disenchantment. He seemed like a was utterly different from his dreams. man who has been charmed with the graceful and joyful motion of a boat on the sea, and afterwards finds himself in the boat. He felt the difference between simple contemplation and action. It was not enough to sit still and not rock it was necessary to be on the lookout, never for a moment forgetful of the course, to think of the water under his feet, to direct the sailors, and not alone to look on, but to work, and with unskilful hands move the heavy oars.
;
;

In other days, when still a bachelor, he often laughed in his sleeve at the little miseries of conjugal life, quarrels, jealnever should any such thing ousies, vexatious details happen in his future married life, never should his private life resemble that of others. But now, lo and behold all these same petty tribulations reappeared, and, in spite of him, assumed an extraordinary and irrefutable importance. Like all men, Levin had expected to find in marriage the satisfaction of his love, without the admixture of any prosaic details love was to give him rest after labor his wife was to be his love, and that was all. Like all men, he absolutely His surprise was great to forgot that she too had to work.
: !
;

ANNA KARtiNINA.
find this

485

in the first days of thinking, planning, taking charge of the linen, the furniture, the mattresses, the table service, the kitchen. The decided way in which she refused to travel, so that they might come immediately to their country home, and her willingness to let it be known that she knew something about domestic economy, and could think of such things in spite of her love, had struck him even during their

charming and poetic Kitty, even

lile,

their married

engagement. It vexed him then, and now he felt still more vexed to find that she cared for these wearisome minutiae But he saw that it was and the material sides of life.
he bantered her on the subject. Yet, in spite of her occupations, he loved her, and was amused to see her presiding over the arrangement of the new furniture which came from Moscow, hanging curtains,
unavoidable
;

providing for the guest-rooms and the rooms that Dolly would have, directing the new chamber-maid and the old cook, discussing with Agaf} a Mikhai'lovna, whom she removed from the charge of the provisions. The old cook smiled gently as he received fantastic orders, impossible to execute Agafya Mikhai'lovna shook her head pensively at the new measures introduced by her young bandna. Levin looked on, and thought her wonderfully charming when she came to him, half laughing, half crying, to complain because her maid, Masha, insisted on treating her like a child, and no one took her seriously. It all seemed to him charming, but strange. He could not comprehend the sense of metamorphosis which she felt at finding herself the mistress, obliged to see to the preparation of cauliflower and kvas, or confections, to spend and to command as she pleased, after having always had her parents to restrain her fancies.
-

She was now making joyful preparations for the arrival of Dolly and the children, and was thinking of the pies which she would have made for them. The details of housekeeping had an irresistible attraction for her, and, as though she foresaw evil days to come, she instinctively prepared her little nest ngainst the approaching spring. This zeal for trifles, so entirely opposed to Levin's lofty ideal of happiness, seemed to him one of his lost illusions, while this same activity, the meaning of which escaped him, but which he could not see without pleasure, seemed to him
a new delight.

486

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

The quarrels were also a surprise. Never had it entered into Levin's head that between him and his wile there could be any relations other than those of gentleness, respect, tenin their honeymoon, they were disKitty declared that he was selfish, and burst into tears and wrung her hands. The first of these little differences arose in consequence of a ride that Levin took to see a new farm he stayed half an hour longer than he had said, having missed his way in trying As he approached the to come home by a shorter road. house, Kitty occupied his thought to the exclusion of everything else, and as he galloped along, his heart was on fire at He hurthe idea of his happiness, of his love for his wife. ried into the drawing-room in a state of mind somewhat like that which he had experienced on the day that he became engaged. An angry expression, such as he had never seen in her face, received him. He went to kiss her she pushed

derness
puting
!

and here, even

him away.

"What

is

the matter?"

"You've been having a good to show herself cold and bitter.

jealousy, which

time," she began, wishing

But hardly had she opened her mouth when the ridiculous had been tormenting her while she sat on the window-seat during his absence, broke out in a torrent of angry words. He then began for the first time to understand clearly what before he had seen only confusedly, when after the crowning they went out of the church. He saw that she was not only near to him, but that he did not know at all where his own personality began or her personality ended. He felt a painful sensation of internal division. Never had such an impression come to him so clearly. He was vexed at first, but in a second he perceived he must not vex her. He wanted to exonerate himself, and show Kitty how wrong she was his natural temptation was to cast the blame on her, but then he would have irritated her still more and inTo remain under the shadow of creased their unhappiness. an injustice was cruel, to irritate her under the pretext of a Like a man half justification was still more blameworthy. asleep who struggles to free himself from some terrible pain, and on waking finds that the pain is in himself, he recognized that, patience was the only remedy. Reconciliation quickly followed. Kitty, though she did
;

487
not confess it, felt herself in the wrong, and was more than ever tender to him, so that they felt that their love was doubled.

Unhappily, these differences kept constantly rising, often from causes as idle as they were unexpected, and because they were still ignorant of what was indispensable for each. These first months were trying neither of them was in a natural state of mind, and the most childish things were sufficient to provoke misunderstandings, the causes of which
;

Each of them pulled in contrary ways they quickly forgot. on the chain that bound them, and this honeymoon, from
which Levin expected such wonders, left them in reality Both of them afterwards tried to only painful memories. blot from their memories the thousand unfortunate, but almost ludicrous, incidents of this period, during which they so rarely found themselves in a normal state of mind. Life became better regulated only after their return from Moscow, where they made a short visit in the third mouth
after the wedding.

XV.
just back from Moscow, and enjoyed their soliLevin was sitting at his library-table, writing Kitty, dressed in a dark-violet dress, which she had worn in the first days of their marriage, and which Levin had always

THEY were

tude.

was making broderie anglaise (English embroidery) as she sat on the great leather divan which ever since the days of Levin's father and grandfather had stood in the
liked,
library.

Levin enjoyed her presence while he was writing and His investigations and his labors and his books, through which he was trying to evolve his new method of conducting his estate, were not given up but just as they seemed to him small and useless in those unhappy days when his life was overshadowed, so now in the full light of joy he found them significant. In former days this occupation seemed like the salvation of his life in former days he felt that without it life would be altogether gloomy now these occupations were necessary in order that his life might not be too monotonously bright. As he read over what he had written, Levin felt a joyous
thinking.
;

realization that

it

was valuable

in spite of

some exaggerated

488

ANXA KARtiNINA.

notions, and he began to fill in mam- gaps as he got a new conception of the question. He now wrote a new chapter, in which he treated of the unfavorable conditions under Avhich

Russian agriculture suffered. The poverty of the country, in was not caused entirely by the unequal distribution of the land property and false economical tendencies, but rather to a premature introduction of European civilization railroads, constructed, not by reason of actual necessity, but from political motives, produced an exaggerated
his estimation,
:

centralization in the cities the development of luxury, and consequently the creation of new industries at the expense of agriculture, an extraordinary extension of the credit system and its concomitant, stock speculation. It seemed to him that the normal increase in the riches of the country admitted these signs of exterior civilization only when the cultivation of the land had attained a proportional develop;

ment.

While Levin was writing, Kitty was thinking of her husband's unnatural behavior on the evening before they left Moscow towards the young Prince Tcharsky, who, with remarkable lack of tact, had made love to her. " He is " Bozlie tnoi! how jealous," she said to herself. good and he is To be jealous of me If he only knew what stupid an effect on me they all have exactly the same as Piotr the cook !" And she glanced with a strange feeling of proprietorship at the back of her husband's head and his strong neck. " It is a shame to interrupt him, but he has plenty of I must see his face time. will he feel how I am looking at him? I will will for him to turn round, Nu ." And she opened her eyes as wide as she could, as if to concentrate more strength into her gaze.
! !

"Da/ they attract all the best sap and give a false appearance of wealth," murmured Levin, dropping his pen as he He turned around. felt his wife's eyes fixed on him. " AVhat is it? " he asked, smiling. " He did turn round," she thought. " Nothing; I only willed to make you turn around," and she looked at him as if to fathom whether he was vexed because he had been disturbed. " Nu! How For me, at good it is to be alone together least," said he, getting up, radiant with joy, and going out to where she sat.
!

ANNA
I am so happy here again, especially not to

KARtiNINA.
I never, never,

489
waut to go away

"

Moscow."

" But what were you thinking about?" I was thinking no, no; go on with your writing! don't let your mind be distracted," she replied, pouting. "I must cut all these oeilletholes now; do you see?" And she

"I?

took her scissors and began to snip. "No ; tell me what you were thinking about " he insisted, sitting down near her, and following all the movements of her little scissors. " Ach! What was I thinking about? About Moscow and " the nape of thy neck " What have I done to deserve this great happiness? It is supernatural. It is too good," said he, kissing her hand.
! !

" The happier I am, the more natural

little

I find it

"

"You have a around carefully.

pigtail," he

said,

turning her head

"A

pigtail?

let it

be.

We

must think about serious

;

things." But the serious things were interrupted and, when Kuzma came to announce tea, they separated as though they were
guilty.

"Have
" Come

"Just come,

they come from town?" asked Levin of Kuzma. everything was sold all right." as quickly as you can," said Kitty, going from

the library. Levin, left alone, shut up his books and papers in a new portfolio, bought by his wife, washed his hands in an elegant new washbasin, also bought by her, and, smiling at his thoughts, raised his head with a feeling that resembled remorse. His life had become too indolent, too spoiled. It was a life of a Capuan, and he felt ashamed of it. "To " live so is not good," he thought. Here, for three months, I have not done a thing To-day, for the first time, I have set about anything seriously, and I have hardly begun before I give up. I even neglect my ordinary occupations. I don't watch the men. I don't go anywhere. Sometimes I am sometimes I fear that she will get lonely ; sorry to leave her I who believed that existence before marriage counted for
! ;

And here, for nothing, and only began after marriage three months, I have been spending my time in absolute idleThis must not go on. It is not her fault, and one ness. could not lay the least blame on her. But I must show firm!

490
ness, and preserve
sluill

ANNA KARENINA.
my manly
independence
get into confirmed bad habits "
otherwise, I of course, she is not to
;

blame

discontented man finds it hard not to blame some one And so Levin felt with sadness, or other for his discontent. and he could not lay it that if the fault was not his wife's, it was owing to her bringing up. "This to her charge, I know she durak [fool] of a Tcharsky, for example, wanted to get rid of him but she did not know how."
;

she petty interests of housekeeping looks out for those, and enjoys them besides her toilet and her broderie angluise, nothing seriously interests her. No sympathy in my labors, for my schemes, or for the muzhiks, no taste for reading or music and yet she is a good musician. She does absolutely nothing, and yet she is perfectly content." Levin, in judging her thus, did not comprehend that his wife was making ready for a time of activity, which would oblige her to be at once wife, mother, mistress of the house He did not understand that she (khoza'ika), nurse, teacher.
; ;

Then he went on again, " Da! Besides, the

knew

this by intuition, and was preparing for this task, and could not blame herself for these indolent moments, and the enjoyment of love, which made her so happy, while she was slowly building her nest for the future.

XVI.
Levin came upstairs again, he found his wife new, silver samovar, reading a letter from Dolly, with whom she kept up a brisk correspondence. Agafya Mikhai'lovna, with a cup of tea before her, was cosily ensconced at a small table beside her. "You see, your wife [banrina~] has asked me to sit here,"
sitting in front of the

WHEN

said the old

women, looking

affectionately at Kitty.

These last words showed Levin that the domestic drama which had been going on between Kitty and Agafya Mikhai'lovna was at an end. Notwithstanding the chagrin
which the
latter felt at resigning the reigns of government, Kitty was victorious, and had just made peace with her. " Here I have been looking over your letters," said Kitty, handing her husbnnd an illiterate-looking envelope. "I think it is from that woman you know of your

ANNA KA&&NINA.

491

This is from Doll}* I have not read it. brother's imagine it: she has been to take Grisha and Tania to a children's Tania was dressed like a little ball at the Sarmatskys's.
marchioness." He took the letter of But Levin was not listening. Marya Nikolayevua, his brother's discarded mistress, and This was already the second time that she had read it. In her first letter she told him that Nikolai written him. had sent her away without reason, and she added with touching simplicity, that she asked no assistance though she was reduced to penury, but that the thought of Nikolai Dmitritch was killing her. What would become of him without her, feeble as he was? She begged his brother not to lose him out of his sight. Her second letter was in a different tone. She said that she had found Nikolai' in Moscow, and had gone with him to a provincial city, where he had received There he quarrelled with the chief and an appointment. but having been taken immediately started for Moscow violently ill on the way, he would probably never leave his
;

"

bed again. " He constantly calls for you, and besides, we have no money," she wrote. " Read what Dolly writes about thee," Kitty began; but when she saw her husband's dejected face, she stopped
speaking.

Then she

said,
is

" What is it what has happened?" " She writes me that Nikolai, my brother, must go to him."
Kitty's
'

dying.

I
all

face
shall

suddenly changed.
3-011

Dolly,

Tania, and

were forgotten.

When

go?"

To-morrow." Can I go with thee? " she asked. " he replied reproachfully. Kitty what an idea what an idea?" she exclaimed, vexed to see her 'Why " proposal received with such bad grace. Why, pray, should I not go with you? I should not hinder you in any way."
' '
! !

" I am going because my brother is dying," said Levin. " What can you do?" " Whatever yon do." " At a time so solemn for me, she thinks only of the discomfort of being left alone," said Levin to himself, and this

reflexion troubled him.

"It

is

impossible," he replied sternly.

Agafya Mikhai-

492

AXNA KARENINA.

lovna, seeing that a quarrel was imminent, put down her cup and went out. Kitty did not even notice it. Her husband's tone wounded her all the more deeply because he evidently did not believe what she said.

go with

I shall certainly you, if you go, I am going too. "I you," said she with angry determination. should like to know why it would be impossible. Why did
k>

I tell

you say that? " Because God knows when or in what place I shall find him, or by what means I shall reach him. You would only hinder me," said he, doing his best to retain his self-control. "Not at all. I don't need anything. Where you can
go, I can go, too,

"

and"
this

"

Nu!
to

If

it

were only because of

in

woman, with whom

you cannot come

contact."

"

Why
my

want
that

not? I know nothing about all that, and don't know. I know that my husband's brother is dying husband is going to see him and I am going too,
;

because

"

"Kitty! don't be angry! and remember that in such a it is painful for me to have you add to my grief the fear of being alone. Nu! by showing such weakness, If you are lonely, go to Moscow" " You always ascribe to me that I have such miserable " I sentiments," she cried, choking with tears of vexation. am not so weak ... I know that it is my duty to be with my husband when he is in sorrow, and you want to wound me on purpose. You don't want to take me"
serious time
cried Levin, at rising from the table, no longer able to hide his anger the same instant he perceived that he was doing himself
!

"No

this is frightful

to be such a slave

"

harm. "
free.

Why,

then, did you get married

if

You might have been

and Kitty
fled

Why

you repent already?"

from the room. When he went to

He began
one of

find her, she was sobbing. to speak, striving to find words not to persuade

listen, and did not allow bent over her, took one of her recalcitrant hands, kissed it, kissed her hair, and then her hands again but still she refused to speak. But when, at length, he took her head between his two hands and called her " Kitty," she softly wept, and the reconciliation was

her. but to calm her. his arguments.

She would not

He

complete.

AXXA

KAlttiXINA.

493

It was decided that they should go together on the next Levin declared that he was satisfied that she wished day. nothing but to be useful, and that there was nothing unpleasant in Marys Nikolayevua's presence with his brother but at the bottom of his heart he was angry, and he was angry with his wife. Strange he who had not been able to believe in the possibility of such a joy as her loving him, now felt almost unhappy because she loved him too well. Disgusted at his own weakness, he felt shocked to think of the inevita;

ble acquaintance

The thought

between his wife and his brother's mistress. of seeing them together in the same room filled him with horror and repulsion.

XVII.

THE provincial inn where Nikolai Levin was dying was one of those establishments of recent construction pretending to offer neatness, comfort, and even elegance, to a public little accustomed to these modern refinements. But the same public had caused it to degenerate into an ill-kept grog-shop. Everything about it produced an unpleasant ett'ect on Levin's the soldier in dirty uniform, who served as Swiss, mind,
and was smoking a cigarette in the vestibule melancholy, dark, cast-iron staircase; the lazy waiter in black coat covered with grease-spots the common diuing-table decorated with a frightful bouquet of wax flowers gray with dust the general condition of disorder and discomfort; even the abundant liveliness, which seemed to him entirely in keeping with the spirit introduced by the new railroad. The whole establishment was in absolute contrast to their recent happiness, and it gave them the most painful impression when they thought of what was waiting for them. one b}- the They found that the best rooms were taken, supervisor of the railroad, another by a Muscovite lawyer, the third by Princess Astavyeva from the country. One disorderly bed-room was left for them, with the promise of another when evening came. Levin took his wife to it, vexed to find his prognostications so speedily realized, and impatient because lie was obliged to get settled instead of hurrying to
; ; ;

his brother.

"Go, go!"
trition.

said Kitty, with a melancholy look of con-

He

left her

without saying a word, and just outside the

494

ANNA KARENINA.

door he ran against Mary a Nikolayevna, who had just heard of liis arrival. She had not changed since he last saw her in Moscow. She wore the same woolen dress, without collar or
cuffs, and her pock-marked face expressed the same unfailing good nature. " Nu! How is he?" " Very bad. He doesn't sit up, and he is all the time

Is your wife with you?" she asking for you. You Levin at first did not see why she seemed confused but she immediately explained herself. " I am going to the kitchen he will be glad he remembers seeing her abroad." Levin perceived that she meant his wife, and did not
; ; ;

know what

to say.

"Come,"

But they had not gone a opened and Kitty appeared.

said he, "come." step, before the chamber door

;

Levin grew red with vexation but Marya Nikolayevna was still more confused, and crouching back against the wall ready to cry, she caught the ends of her apron and wound it around her red hands, not knowing what to say or to do. Levin saw the expression of lively curiosity in the look with which Kitty regarded this creature, so incomprehensible and almost terrible to her it lasted but a moment.
to see his wife in such a predicament

" Nu! what is it? how is he?" she asked, turning husband, and then to the woman. "Z)a/ we cannot stay to talk in the corridor,"
Levin, looking angrily at his wife, had now come out into the hall-way.

to her

who with quick

replied steps

said Kitty, addressing to beat a retreat ; then seeing her husband's horror-stricken face, she added, as she turned back to the room, " Or rather go go, and send after me." Levin hastened to his brother. He expected to find him in that state of illusion so common to consumptives, and which had so struck him during his visit. He expected to see him looking still more emaciated and feeble than before, with the indications of approaching death. He expected that he should be moved with pity for
into the

" Nu! come

room then,"

Marya Nikolayevna, who was beginning

well-beloved brother, and should feel again, even stronger than before, the terrors which the thought of his death had caused for him. He was quite prepared for all this. But what he saw was absolutely different.
this

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

495

In a little, close, clingy, ill-smelling room, the walls of which were marked by the bad usage of many travellers, separated by a thin partition from another room, where conversation was going on, he saw lying on a wretched bed a body lightly covered with a counterpane. Stretched out upon it was a hand huge as a rake, and holding in a strange way by the end a sort of long and slender bobbin. The head, resting on the pillow, showed the thin hair glued to his temples, and an almost transparent brow. " Can it be that this horrible body is my brother Nikolai'?" thought Levin; but as he came near, the doubt ceased. It was enough to glance at the lively eyes turned towards him as he entered, or the motions of his mouth under the long moustache, to recognize the frightful truth that this corpse
indeed was his brother. Nikolai looked at his brother with a stern and angry face. His look seemed to bring living relations between living Koustantin felt in it a reproach for his own health, beings. and a regret. He took his brother's hand. Nikolai smiled but the smile was so slight and feeble that it did not change the expression
;

of his eyes. " You did

not expect to find

me

so," he succeeded in

saying.
didn't

replied Levin, with confusion. sooner, before my marriage? I had a regular search to find you." He wanted to keep on speaking, so as to avoid a painful but he did not know what to say, the more as his silence brother looked at him without replying, and seemed to be weighing each one of his words. Finally he told him that

"Yes

no,"

you

let

me know

"Why

had come with him, and Nikolai appeared delighted, adding, however, that he was afraid he should frighten her. silence followed suddenly Nikolai began to speak, and Levin felt by the expression of his face that he had something of importance to tell him, but he spoke only of his health. He blamed his doctor, and regretted that he could not have consulted a celebrity in Moscow. Levin perceived that he still was hopeful. After a moment Levin got up. with the pretext that he was going to get his wife, but in reality to tear himself away, for a little while at least, from these cruel impressions. "Nu! good! I will have things put in order here. It is
his wife

496

ANNA KARBNINA.

dirty here and smells bad ; I guess Masha attended to things," 'Da! and when you have put said the sick man, with effort. things to rights, go away," he added, looking at his brother

questioningly.

Levin went out without replying but he had scarcely reached the corridor, when he began to repent of having promised to bring his wife thinking of what he himself had suffered, he made up his mind to persuade her that this visit was unnecessary. " Why torment her as I am tormented?" he asked himself. " Nu, how is it? " asked Kitty, with frightened face.
; ;

" Ach !

it is

horrible, horrible

Why did you

;

come ? " Kitty

;

looked at her husband for an instant without speaking then going to him she put both hands on his arm. She said tim" take me to him it will be easier for both of
idly,

Kostia,

leave me with him can't you see that it is more cruel to me than anything else to witness your grief and not see the cause of it? Perhaps I shall be useful to him, and to you also. I beg of you. let me go." She besought him as though it were for the happiness of her life, and Levin was obliged to let her go with him. In his haste he completely forgot all about Marya Nikolayevna. Kitty, walking lightly and showing her husband a courageous and affectionate face, stepped quietly into the room and shut the door noiselessly. She went with light, quick steps up to the bed, and sat down so as not to make the sick man turn his head, and with her fresh, soft hand she took the dying man's enormous band, and employing that tact peculiar to women, of showing sympathy without wounding, she began to speak to him with a gentle cheerfulness. saw each other at Soden without becoming acquainted you did not think then that I should ever become "
us.

Take me and

"We

your

sister ?

his face

would not have known me, would you?" he said; was lighted up with a smile when he saw her come in. "O yes, indeed. How glad I am that you sent for us! Not a day has passed without Kostia speaking of you. He has been very anxious because he did not hear from you." The sick man's animation lasted only a short time. Kitty had not finished speaking, before that expression of severe reproach towards one who is in good health came back to his
face.

"You

ANNA KAR&NINA,

497

"I am afraid that you are not very comfortable here," continued the young woman, avoiding the look which he
gave her, and examining the room. " We must ask for another room, and be nearer to him," she said to her husband.

XVIII.
leel at

to look at his brother, could not even When he came into the sick ease in his presence. man's room, his eyes and his motions entirely absorbed him, and he did not see and did not realize his frightful situation.

LEVIN could not bear

He was now
the room,

struck with the uncleanliness'and disorder of

and the bad air which oppressed them, and the sick man's groans, and it seemed to him that there was. no hope. ]t did not occur to him to investigate how his poor limbs were lying under the coverlid, to try to comfort him materially, and if he could not improve his condition, at least to make the best of a bad situation. The mere thought of these details made a cold chill run down his back and the sick man, feeling instinctively that his brother was powerless to help him, was irritated. So Levin kept leaving the room under various pretexts, and coming back again, unhappy to be with his brother, still more unhappy to be away from him, and unable to stay alone by himself. as Kitty saw these things under a very different light soon as she came near the dying man, she was filled with pity for him, and instead of feeling fear or repulsion, her womanly heart moved her to seek every means of amelioratConvinced that it was her duty to ing his sad condition. help him, she did not doubt the possibility of making him more comfortable, and she set herself to work without delay. The details which repelled her husband were the very ones which attracted her attention. She sent for a doctor, she sent to the drug store she set her maid and Marya Nikolayevna to sweeping, washing, and dusting, and she even helped them herself. She had all needless articles carried away, and she had them replaced by things that were needed. Without minding those whom she met on the way, she came and went from her room to her brother-in-law's, unpackcloths, pillow-cases, ing the articles that were necessary,
;

towels, nightshirts.

498

ANNA KARfiNINA.

The waiter who served the table d'hdte dinner several times came with surly face when she rang but she gave her orders
;

with such gentle authority, that he never failed to execute them. Levin did not approve of all this commotion. He did not see any reason for it, and he was afraid of worrying his brother. But Nikolai remained calm and indifferent, albeit somewhat confused, and followed with his eyes the

young woman's movements. When Levin came back from the

doctor's, he saw,

on open-

ing the door, that they were changing the sick man's linen. His enormous back and his stooping shoulders, his prominent ribs, were all uncovered, while Mary a Nikolayevna and the maid were in great perplexity over the sleeves of Nikolai's
nightshirt, into which they were vainly striving to get his Kitty quickly closed the door, without long, thin arms. looking at her brother-in-law but he groaned, and she hastened to him.
;

trying get looking," the nightshirt. "Marya Nikolayevna, you go to the other side of the bed and help us. Go and get a little flask out of my bag, and bring it to me," she said to her husband. " In the meantime we will finish fixing him." When Levin came back with the flask, the invalid was Vying
in bed, and everything about him had assumed a difInstead of the stuffy air which they ferent appearance. were breathing before, Kitty was perfuming the room with aromatic vinegar from an atomizer. The dust was all gone on a little table were a carpet was spread under the bed arranged the medicine vials, a carafe, the necessary linen, and Kitty's English embroidery. On another table, near the The sick bed, stood a candle, his medicine, and powders. man, bathed, with smoothly brushed hair, lying between clean sheets, and propped up by several pillows, was dressed in a clean nightshirt, the white collar of which came around new expression of his extraordinarily long, thin neck. shone in his eyes as he looked at Kitty. hope The doctor whom Levin found at the club was not the one
; ;

" Be quick," she said. Don't come near me," muttered the sick man, " I will put it on myself." angrily. " " What do asked Marya. you say ? But Kitty heard and understood that he was ashamed of being found in such a state. " I am not to his arm into said she,

"Da!

down

ANNA KAEENINA.

499

who had vexed Nikolai'. He came and carefully sounded the sick man's lungs, raised his head, wrote a prescription, a iid gave explicit directions about the applications of his He ordered fresh remedies and about his nourishment. eggs, almost raw, and seltzer water with milk heated to a After he was gone, the sick man said certain temperature. a few words to his brother, only the last words of which were audible: "... your Katva." But by his face Levin knew'that he said something in her praise. Then he called Katya, as he had named her. " I feel much better," he said to her. "With you I should get well ; everything is so nice now." He tried to lift his sister-in-law's hand to his lips ; but fearing that it might be unpleasant to her, he contented himself with caressing it. Kitty pressed his hand affectionately between her own. " Now turn me over on the left side, and all of you go to bed." Kitty alone understood what he said, because she
was near him. " Turn him on his side," said she to her husband. " He always sleeps on that side. I cannot do it myself and I should not like to leave it to the man. Can }-ou lift him?"
;

she asked of

" I am afraid not," she

Marya Nikolayevna.
replied.

Levin, though terrified at the thought of lifting this frightful body under his coverlid, submitted to his wife's influence, and put his arms around the invalid, with that resolute air The great weight of these emaciated she knew so well. limbs surprised him. While he was, with difficulty, changing his brother's position, Nikolai threw his arms around his neck, and Kitty quickly turned the pillows so as to make the bed more comfortable. Nikolai kept one of his brother's hands in his, and drew it towards him. Levin's heart failed him when he felt him put it to his lips to kiss it. He let him do then, shaken with sobs, he hurried from the so, however room, without being able to utter a word.
;

XIX.
has hidden it from the wise, and revealed it unto children and fools," thought Levin as he was talking with his wife a little while later. It was not that he meant to compare himself to a wise man, in thus quoting the Gospel.

"HE

500

ANNA KARtfNINA.

He

did not call himself wise ; but he could not help feeling that he was more intellectual than his wife and Agaf'ya Mikhaylovna, that he employed all the powers of his soul, when he thought about death. This terrible thought other manly spirits before him had tried to fathom, with all the He had read their works ; but forces of their intellects. they too had not seemed to know one hundredth part as much as his wife and his old nurse, Agalya Mikhaylovua, and T as his brother called her, and he also now began Kat} a,
to take pleasure in doing,

had, in this respect, a perfect otherwise they were entirely opposite. sympathy, though Both knew, without a particle of doubt, the meaning of life and of death, and though they were of course incapable of answering the questions fermenting in Levin's mind, they had their own way of explaining these great facts of human existence; and they shared 'their belief in this regard with millions of human beings. As a proof of their familiarity with death, they could, without an instant's delay, know what to do for those who were dying, and feel no fear, while Levin and those who like him could spin out long discussions on the theme of death, had no courage, and felt incapaKonstantin Levin, when alone ble of aiding a dying man. with his brother, would gaze with terror into his face, and, with growing terror, await his end with fear, and be able to think of nothing to do for him. The sight of the sick man paralyzed him he did not know what to say, how to look or to walk. To speak of indifferent things seemed unworthy, impossible to speak of melancholy things, of death, was likewise impossible to be " If I look at him, he will think that silent was even worse. if I do not look at him, he will I am studying him, I fear To walk on tiptoe believe that my thoughts are elsewhere. irritates him, to walk as usual seems brutal." Kitty apparently did not think about herself, and she had not the time. Occupied only with the invalid, she seemed to have a clear idea of what to do and she succeeded in her endeavor. She related the circumstances of their marriage she told about herself she smiled upon him she caressed him cited cases of extraordinary cures and it was all delightful she understood how to do it. Levin could not see where she had obtained this inner wisdom. And neither Kitty nor Agafya Mikhaylovna was satisfied with offering physical
; ;
;

ANNA KARNINA.
solace or performing purely material acts
:

501
both of them

instinctively, vitally, uureasoniugly, turned their attention to In speaking of the old serthe dying man's higher needs.

vant who had lately passed away, Agafya Mikhaylovna said, " Thank God, he had confession and extreme unction God grant us all to die likewise." Katya, though she was busy with her care of the linen, the medicines, and the bandages, even on the first day succeeded in persuading her brotherin-law to receive the sacrament. When Levin came to their rooms at the end of the day, he sat down with bowed head, confused, not knowing what to do, unable to think of eating his supper, of arranging for the night, of doing anything at all, even talking with his wife. But Kitty showed extraordinary animation. She had supper brought, she herself unpacked tbe trunks, helped undress the beds and even remembered to scatter Persian powder upon them. She felt the same excitement and quickness of thought which men of genius show on the eve of battle, or
;

at those serious and critical moments in their lives chance of showing their value presents itself.
It was not yet twelve and carefully arranged
:

when

the

o'clock, when everything their two hotel rooms

;

was neatly
presented

the appearance of private apartments near Kitty's bed, on a table covered with a white towel, stood her travelling mirror, with her combs and brushes. Levin found it unpardonable in himself to eat, to sleep, even to speak ; every motion seemed inappropriate. She, on the contrary, arranged her toilet articles without her activity seeming in the least disturbing or unsuitable. Neither of them could eat, however, and they sat long before they could make up their minds to go to bed. " I am very glad that I persuaded him to receive extreme unction to-morrow," said Kitty, as she brushed her perfumed "I never saw it hair, before her mirror, in her nightgown. given ; but mamma told me that they repeat prayers for restoration to health." you believe that he can get well?" asked Levin, as he watched the part disappear from her hair, when she took the comb awa^y from her little round head. "I asked the doctor; he says that he cannot live more than three days. But what does he know about it? I am glad that I persuaded him," she said, looking at her husband. "All things are possible," she added, with that peculiar,

"Do

502

ANNA KARtfNINA.

almost crafty expression which came over her face when she spoke about religion. Never, since the conversation that they had while they but Kitty were engaged, had they spoken about religion still continued to go to church and to say her prayers with the calm conviction that she was fulfilling a duty. Notwithstanding the confession, which her husband had felt impelled to make, she firmly believed that he was a good Christian, perhaps better even than herself. He amused himself, possibly, by calling himself an unbeliever, just as he did when he jested about her broderie anglaise. "Da! This woman, Marya Nikolayevna, would never have " and I must been able to persuade him," said Levin You confess that I am very, very glad that you succeeded. made everything look so neat and comfortable." He took her hand without daring to kiss it it seemed to him a profanation even to kiss her hand in the presence of death, but he pressed it, as he looked into her shining eyes with evident contrition. "You would have suffered too terribly all alone," she said, as she raised her arms to cover the glow of satisfaction that she felt in her cheeks, and at the same time to coil up " She does her hair and fasten it to the top of her head. not know, but I learned many things at Soden." " Were there people there as ill as he is?"
; ; ;

" Yes more so." "It is terrible to me not to see him as he used to be when he was a boy. You can't imagine what a handsome
;

was but I did not understand him then." I feel that we should Indeed, indeed, I believe you. have been friends," said she, and she turned toward her husband, frightened at what she had said, and the tears shone in her eyes. "Yes, would have been," he said, mournful!}-. "He is one of those men of whom one can say with reason that he was not meant for this world." " Meanwhile, we must not forget that we have many days ahead of us it is time to go to bed," said Kitty, consulting her tiny watch.
fellow he
;

"

ANNA KARtfNINA.
XX.
DEATH.

503

COMMUHION was administered

prayed fervently during
the

the next morning.

ceremony.

Nikolai Passionate and

" Heal this man if Thou dost exist," he said, addressing " and Thou will save me also." God, The invalid felt suddenly better after the ceremony for He assured more than an hour he did not cough once. Kitty, as he kissed her hand with smiles and tears of joy, that he was not suffering, and that he felt a return of When his broth was brought, he got strength and appetite. up by himself and asked for a cutlet. Impossible as his recovery was, Levin and Kitty spent this hour in a kind of
;

hopeful entreaty could be read in his great eyes gazing at the sacred image placed on a card-table covered with a colored towel. It was terrible for Levin to look at him so for he knew that the pain at tearing himself from life, to which he clung so desperately, would be all the more cruel. He knew his brother and his brother's ideas knew that his skepticism was not the result of a desire to abandon religion for the sake of a freer life. His religious beliefs had been shaken by the theories of modern science therefore his return to faith was not logical or normal, owing simply to his overmastering desire for recovery it could not be anything else than temporary and unreal. Kitty had formed this hope by her stories of extraordinary cures. Levin was troubled by these thoughts as he looked at his brother's hopeful face, as he saw his difficulty in lifting his emaciated hand to touch his yellowed forehead to make the sign of the cross, and saw his fleshless shoulders, and his hollow, rattling chest, unable longer to contain the life which he was begging to have restored. During the sacrament Levin did what he had done a thousand times, skeptic that he was,
;
;

timid joy.

"Is

tie

not better?"

" Much better." " It is astonishing." " Why should it be astonishing?

He

is

certainly better,"

they whispered, smiling at each other. The illusion did not last. After a painful nap of half an

504

ANNA KAfiENINA.
wakened by a terrible spell The hopes vanished for all, even for the
Forgetting
to
his

hour, the invalid was

ing.

of coughsick man

himself.

belief
it,

of

ashamed even
iodine to breath.

remember
and

he

an hour before, and asked for a bottle of

looked at
it

Levin gave

it

to him,

his brother

with the

same imploring, passionate look which he had given the image, as if to confirm the words of the doctor, who attributed miraculous virtues to iodine. " Kitty isn't here?" he asked, in his hoarse whisper, when Levin had unwillingly repeated the doctor's words. " Non? then I can I played the comedy for her speak! sake. She is so sweet But you and I cannot deceive ourselves This is what I pin my faith to," said he, pressing the bottle in his long hands as he smelled of the iodine. About eight o'clock in the evening Levin and his wife were taking tea in their room, when Marya Nikolayevmi came running towards them all out of breath. She was " " He is she stammered, pale, and her lips trembled. dying " " I am afraid that he is dying
!

Both of them hurried to Nikolai'. He was sitting up, leaning over one side of the bed, his head bowed, his long back bent. " "

How do you feel ?

asked Levin tenderly, after a moment

of silence.

" I feel that I am going," whispered Nikolai, struggling painfully to speak, but as yet pronouncing the words distinctly. Without raising his head he turned his eyes towards " his brother, whose face he could no longer see. Katya, " he whispered once again. go away Levin led his wife gently from the room. " I am going," the dying man whispered once again. do you think so?" asked Levin for the sake of
!

"Why

saying something.

" Because

tion for the phrase.

lying calmly, dead," he whispered with a sort of mournful irony. Bury me whenever you please." Levin laid his brother down on his back, took a seat near him, and, hardly able to breathe, studied his face. The dy-

Marya " Lie down you will " Soon I shall be

;

going," he repeated, as " Jt is the end." Nikolayevna came to him.

I feel better."

am

if

he had an affec-

"Nu!

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

505

ing man's eyes were shut, but the muscles of his forehead twitched from time to time as though he were in deep thought. Levin involuntarily tried to unriddle what was passing in the dying man's mind this stern face, and the play of the muscles above his eyebrows, seemed to show that his brother perceived mysteries hidden from him. " Yes So," the dying man murmured slowly, yes " " Then long silence with long pauses lay me down "So!" said he suddenly, as though all had been followed. " O Lord " and he explained for him. sighed heavily. " The}* are growing Marya Nikolayevna felt of his feet. cold," she said in a low voice. Long the sick man remained motionless but he was still alive, and sighed from time to time. Weary from the mental strain, Levin felt that he could not understand what his He seemed to be fur away from brother meant to express. he could no longer think of the mystery of the dying man death the most incongruous ideas came into his mind. He to close his eyes, asked himself what he was going to do dress him, order the coffin ? Strange he felt cold and indifferent the principal feeling that he had was one almost envy his brother now would know the certainty which lie himself could not approach. Long he waited by his bedside, expecting the end it did The door opened, and Kitty came in. He got not come. up to stop her, but instantly the dying man moved. " " said Nikolai', stretching out his No, don't go away hand. Levin took it, and angrily motioned his wife away. Still holding the dying man's hand, he waited a half-hour an hour and still another hour. He ceased to think of death he thought what Kitty was doing. Who could it be that had the next room ? Had the doctor a house of his own ? Then he became hungry and sleepy. He gently let go the dying man's hand and felt of his feet. They were cold but still Levin tried to stand on his tiptoes Nikolai' was breathing. " but again the invalid stirred, and said, " Don't go away
;

the situation was unchanged. Levin gently Morning and without looking at his brother went to his room, threw himself on the bed, and fell asleep. When he awoke,
:

arose,

instead of hearing of his brother's death as he expected, he was told that he had come to his senses again. He was sit-

506
ting

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

up in bed and wanted something to eat. He no longer spoke of death, but expressed the hope of getting well again, and was more irritable and restless than before. No one, not even his brother or Kitty, could calm him. He blamed every one for his sufferings, demanded that the famous doctor from Moscow should be sent for and whenever they asked him how he was, he replied with expressions of anger and " I am reproach, suffering terrible, unendurable agony." He suffered more and more, and his irritableness increased. Even Kitty could not control him and Leviu saw that she
;

was

suffering physically as well as morally,

it.

although she

would not confess

of death

was joined end was inevitable they saw the invalid almost dead, they felt that the sooner it came, the better it would be
; ;

The sadness caused by the approach with other feelings. All knew that the
arid

yet,

continued to give medicines, to call the doctor, and But they deceived him and themselves and each other and this dissimulation was more painful to Konstantin than to the others, because he loved his brother more deeply, and because nothing was more contrary to his nature than lack of sincerity.
still, the}'

try

new remedies.
;

Levin, who had long felt the desire to reconcile his two brothers before Nikolai should die, wrote to Sergei Ivanovitch. He replied, and Konstantin read the letter to the sick man Sergei Ivanovitch could not come, but he asked his brother's pardon in touching terms. Nikolai said nothing. " What shall I write him? " asked Konstantin. " I hope that you are not angry with him." " No, not at all," replied Nikolai, in a tone of vexation. " Write him to send me the doctor." Three cruel days passed in this manner, the invalid remainAll those who saw him the ing in the same condition. waiter and the landlord and all the lodgers and the doctor
:

and Marya Nikolayevna and Levin and Kitty wished only one thing, and spoke only of death but the invalid alone did not express any such wish, and he continually grumbled because they did not send for the doctor and he took his remedies and he spoke of life. At rare moments, when he was under the influence of opiates, he would forget his pangs, and in a sort of doze confess what weighed on his mind as well as on the others': "Ach! If this could only end!" or
;
;

" When

this is over."

ANNA
their

KARfiNlNA.

507

His sufferings, growing ever more and more severe, did work and prepared him to die. Every movement was a pang every member of his poor body caused him pain. The memories, the impressions, and the thoughts of the past were odious to him the sight of those who surrounded him, and their talk, were a trial to him. Every one felt it no one dared to use any freedom of motion, to express a wish Life for all concerned was concentrated in the or an idea. feeling of the dying man's sufferings, and in an ardent desire to see him freed from them. The supreme moment came when death to him seemed desirable as a truce to his pains, even as a joy. Everything,
;

these sensations which once after hunger, weariness, thirst, suffering or privation caused him a certain pleasure, were now He could only hope to be delivered from the only painful. very source of his woes, from his tortured body. Without finding words to express this thought, he continued out of " Turn me habit to ask for what once gave him comfort. on the other side," he would say, and then immediately wish " Give me bouillon! Take to return to his former position. " and as soon as it away Speak, and don't stay so still one began to speak, he would shut his eyes and show any
!
!

and disgust. the tenth day after their arrival Kitty was taken ill and the doctor declared that it was caused by her emotions and weariness. He advised quiet and rest. Yet, after dinner, she got up and went as usual with her work to Nikolai's room. He looked at her sternly, and smiled All day scornfully when she told him that she had been ill.
fatigue, indifference,

On

long he never ceased to cough and to groan piteously. " " How do she asked. you feel? he replied with difficulty. " I am in pain." "Worse," " " Where do you feel the pain ? "All over." " You will see it'll be all over to-day," said Marya Nikolayevna in an undertone.

Levin hushed her, thinking that his brother, whose ear was very acute, might hear he turned and looked at him. Nikolai had heard, but the words made no impression his look remained as before, reproachful and intense. " What makes you think so?" asked Levin, taking her into
; ;

the corridor.

"

He

tries to

uncover himself."

508

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

" What do you mean ?" " This way," she said, plucking
dress.

at the folds of her

all

woolen

Levin himself noticed that

been plucking at his bed-clothes

himself.

that day the invalid had as though to uncover

Marya Nikolayevna's prediction came true. Towards evening Nikolai had not strength enough left to lift his arms, and his motionless eyes assumed an expression of concentrated attention. Even when his brother and Kitty bent over him in order that he might see them, this look remained unchanged. Kitty had the priest summoned to
say the prayers for the dying.

During the ceremony the invalid, by whose bedside stood Konstantin, Kitty, and MaiTa Nikolayevna, gave no sign of life. But before the prayers were ended, he stretched himself a little, sighed, and opened his eyes. The priest,
having finished the prayer, placed the crucifix on his icy brow, for a moment or two he stood silently near the bed, then he touched with his fingers the huge bloodless hand of
the dying man. "It is all over," he said at last, about to go

away; then trembled slightly, and from the depths of his breast came these words, which sounded distinctly in the room, " Not soon." yet
suddenh
7

Nicola'i's lips

A moment

lips,

and the women hastened

later his face brightened, a smile came to his to perform the last service of

his mortal toilet.

All Levin's horror at the terrible enigma of death was awakened with the same intensity as on that autumn night when his brother came to see him. More than ever he felt his inability to fathom this mystery and the terror, now that he felt it so near to him, and so inevitable. His wife's presence prevented him from falling into despair for in spite of his terrors he felt the need of living, and loving. He felt that love alone saved him from despair, and became all the stronger and purer because it was threatened. And scarcely had this mystery of death taken place before
;

he found himself face to face with another miracle of love and of life equally unfathomable. The doctor told him of Kitty's hopes of maternity.

ANNA KAR&NINA.
XXI.

509

soon as Kar^nin learned from Betsy and Stepan Arkaevitch that every oue, and Aima more than all, expected dy him to give his wife her freedom, he. felt himself in perUnable to make a decision personally, he placed plexity. his fate in the hands of the others, glad enough to rid himself of it, and ready to accept anything that might be proposed to him. He did not awake to the reality until the morning after Anna's departure, when the English governess asked if she should dine with him or by herself. During the first days after Anna's departure, Alekse"! Aleksandrovitch kept up his audiences, went to Council, dined all the powers of his mind had only one at home as usual
;

As

to appear calm and indifferent. He made superhuman efforts to answer the questions of the servants in regard to

aim,

what should be done about Anna's rooms and her things, and to show the manner of a man prepared for whatever happened, and who saw nothing extraordinary in it. Two days he succeeded in hiding his pain, but on the third, when Kerne"! handed him a bill from the milliner's shops, which Anna had forgotten to pay, and told him that the messenger was there, Aleksei had him introduced.

"Your Excellency
'

will please

ger,

and give us Madam's address,

excuse us," said the messenif it be to her that we

must write."
Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch appeared to be cogitating, then suddenly turning round, he sat down near the table for some time he sat there, his head resting on his hand, trying in vain
;

to speak.

Kornei understood

his master,

and

told the

messenger to

Left alone, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch felt that he had no longer the power to keep up the show of firmness and ease he sent away his carriage, which was waiting for him, refused to see visitors, and no longer went out to dine. He felt that he could not endure the disdain and hardness which he clearly read on the faces of the messenger, of his If he had servants, of all whom he met, without exception. deserved this public detestation by blameworthy conduct, he might have hoped to regain the esteem of the world by improvement in conduct but he was not to blame he was
time.
; :

come another

510

ANNA KARENINA.

He knew that it was precisely for the reason that was torn that they would be pitiless to him. It seemed to him that his fellow-men persecuted him as dogs torture to death some poor cur maimed and howling with He knew that the only safety -from men was to hide pain. his wounds but two days of struggle had already used up his
shameful.
his heart
;

unhappy, and with an unhappiness that was odious and

energies.

His despair was made deeper by the knowledge that he was absolutely alone with his suffering. In all Petersburg there was not a man to whom he could confide all his wretchedness, not one who would have any pity for him now, not
as a lofty tchinovnik or a member of society, but simply as a in despair. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch had lost his mother when he was ten years old he had no remembrance of his father he and his one brother were left orphans with a very small inheritance their uncle Kareniu, a man of influence, held in high esteem by the late emperor, took charge of their bringing up. After a successful course at the gymnasium and the university. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, through his uncle's aid, made a brilliant start in official life, and burning with ambiHe formed tion, devoted himself exclusively to his career. no ties of intimacy either in the gymnasium or the university, or afterward in society his brother alone was dear to him, but he entered the department of foreign affairs, and died abroad soon after Aleksei Aleksandrovitch' s marriage. While Karenin was governor of one of the provinces, Anna's aunt, a very wealthy bartiina, introduced her niece to this governor, who was young for such a position, if not in years, and she forced him to the alternative of getting married or leaving the city. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch long hesiThere seemed as many reasons against marriage as tated. in its favor, but he could not in the present case apply his Anna's aunt sent favorite maxim, " when in doubt, don't." word to him through a friend that his attentions had compromised the young lady, and that as a man of honor he must He offered himself, and gave her, first as offer her his hand. fiancee, afterwards as wife, all the affection which it was in

human being

power to show. This attachment prevented him from feeling the need of any other intimacy. And now out of all the number of his acquaintances he had not one friend. His position was sue h
his

ANXA KARtfNINA.
them some

511

that he could invite great personages to dinner, ask favors of in the interests of his pumic capacity or protection for petition ; he could even discuss and freely criticize the actions of other people and have a certain number of listeners, but his relations of cordiality with these people were exclusively confined to this official domain, from which it was impossible to escape. There was one university professor with whom he felt well acquainted, and to whom he would have been willing to speak of his private sorrows, but this professor happened to be away. Of all the people in Petersburg the nearest and most practicable acquaintances were his chief secretary and his doctor. Mikhail Basilic vitch Sliudin was a simple, good, intelligent, and well-bred man, and he seemed full of S3'mpathy for Kar6nin but the hierarchy of office put a barrier between them which silenced confidences. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, having signed the papers which he brought, found it impossible, as he looked at Sliudin, to " Do open his heart to him. The question, you know my
;

misfortune?" was on his

of farewell,
k '

lips

and when they parted, he limited himself

he could not give it utterance, to his usual formula

You

will

have the goodness to prepare

me

this

work."

The doctor was another man who was well disposed to him, but Aleksei Aleksandrovitch knew he was a very busy man, and between them there was a tacit pledge by which each recognized the other as full of business, and thus cut short their
interviews. As to friends

among women, and chief among these the Countess Lidia, Karnin did not think of them at ah Women simply as women were strange and repulsive.
1

XXII.
ALEKSEI ALEKSANDROVITCH forgot the Countess Lidia Ivanovua, but she did not forget him. She reached his house at that very moment of solitary despair when he sat She did not motionless, with his head between his hands. wait to be announced, but made her way to Karenin's
library.
la consigne [I have broken your commands], she said, as she came in with rapid steps, breathless with emotion and agitation. "I know all, Aleksei Aleksandro-

" j'ai for$

"

512
vitch,

ANNA
my
friend
"
!

KARtiNINA.

and she pressed his hand between her own, and looked at him from the depths of her beautiful eyes. Aleksel Aleksandrovitch, with a frown, arose, and, having withdrawn his hand, offered her a chair. " I beg you to sit down. I am not receiving because I am suffering, Countess," he said, and his lips quivered.
friend!" repeated the countess, without taking her She lifted her eyebrows so that they formed eyes from him. a triangle on her forehead, and this grimace made her natuAleks6i Aleksanrally ugly face still more ugly than before. drovitch understood that she was on the point of crying from He seized her fat pity, and his heart softened towards her. hand and kissed it. " My friend," she said again, in a voice -half stifled with " emotion, you must not give yourself up in this way to 3"our It is great, but you must try to conquer it." grief. " I am wounded, I am killed, 1 am no longer a man," said Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch, letting go the countess's hand and " still looking at her with his eyes full of tears. My situation is all the more unbearable because I can find neither in myself nor outside of mvself any help toward endurance of
it."

"My

not in me, though I beg you to Our help is love, the love which friendship. He has given for an inheritance. His yoke is easy," she continued, with the exalted look that Karenin knew so well. " He will hear you and will give you His aid." These words were sweet to Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch, albeit the}- were the signs of a new mystical exaltation just
will find this help,

" You

believe in

my

introduced into Petersburg. " I am weak, I am humiliated.

I foresaw nothing of this,

and now

I cannot

understand

it."

friend !" repeated the countess. my loss," said Aleksi Alek' ' but' I cannot help a feeling of shame for the sandrovitch It situation in which I am placed in the t^yes of the world.

" "

My
I

do not mourn so much

;

bad, and I cannot, I cannot bear it." "It is not you who have performed this noble act of forgiveness which has filled me with envy. It is He dwelling in your heart. So, too, you have no cause for shame," said the countess, ecstatically raising her eyes.
is

Karenin

frowned, and

pressing his hands together, he

made

his knuckles crack.

ANNA
"You
voice.

KARfiNINA.

513

must know all "Man's powers

the details," he said, in his shrill are limited, countess; and i have

reached the limit of mine. All this day I have wasted in domestic details, arisiar/ [he accented the word] from my new, lonely situation. The servants, the governess, the acthis is a slow fire devouring me, and 1 have not counts, I cannot Yesterday- at dinner strength to endure it. I cannot endure to have my son look at contain myself me he did not dare to ask me any questions, and I did He was afraid to look at me not dare to look at him. but that is a mere trifle." Kare"nin wanted to speak of the bill that had been brought him. His voice trembled, and he stopped. This bill on blue paper, for a hat and ribbons, was a recollection that made

him pity himself. " I understand,

Aid and nvy friend, I understand it all. consolation you will not find in me, but I have come to help you if I can. If I could take from you these petty annoying I think that a woman's word, a woman's hand tasks " are needed will you let me help you ?
;

silent, and pressed her hand gratefully. I am not strong look after Serozha together. in practical affairs, but I can get used to them, and I will be your ekonomka. Do not thank me I do not do it of my-

Karenin was

"We

will

self"

cannot help being grateful." friend, do not yield to the sentiment of which spoke a moment ago. How can you be ashamed of you what is the highest degree of Christian perfection? He u-lio humbles himself shall be exalted. And you cannot thank me. Thank Him, pray to Him for help. In Him alone we can
I

"

"But, my

find peace, consolation, salvation, She raised her eyes to heaven,

and love." and Aleksi Aleksandro-

vitch felt that she was praying. Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch listened to her, and this phraseology which was once unpleasant to him now seemed natural and soothing. He did not approve this new ecstatic mystiHe was a sincere cism which was now so fashionable. believer, and religion interested him principally in its relation to politics thus the new teachings aroused his antipathy
;

from principle.

The countess had not

his approval in her

enthusiastic acceptation of them, but instead of discussing the subject with her, he generally turned the conversation or

514
did not reply.
a,

ANNA KARENINA.

But now he let her speak without hindrance, ml even found a secret pleasure in her words. " I am very, very grateful to you, botli for your words and for your sympathy," he said, when she had ended her
prayer.

" Now 1 am going to set to work," said she with a smile, " I am going wiping away the traces of tears on her face.
to Serozha,
difficulties."

Again the countess pressed her

friend's hand.

and I

shall not trouble

you except

in serious

Tne Countess Lidia Ivanovna arose and went to the boy, and while she bathed the scared little fellow's cheeks with her tears, she told him that his father was a saint and his mother was dead. The countess fulfilled her promise. She took charge of
details of Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch's house, but she exaggerated in no respect when she declared that she was not strong in practical affairs. It was impossible to carry out her orders, and so they were not executed, and the management gradually came into the hands of Kornei, the He by degrees wonted his master to listen (while he valet. was dressing) to such reports as he deemed it best to make. The countess's help was none the less useful, however. Her affection and esteem were a moral support to him, and, to her consolation, she almost succeeded in converting him.

the

least, his lukewarmness through her influence was changed into a fervent and genuine sympathy for Christian instruction, such as shortly alter came into vogue in PetersThis conversion was not difficult. Aleksei Alekburg. sandrovitch, as well as the countess and all those who fell under the sway of these new ideas, were not gifted with

At

great imagination, or at least that faculty of the mind by which the illusions of the imagination have sufficient conformity with reality to cause their acceptation. Thus he saw no impossibility or unlikelihood in death existing for unbelievers and not for him, his soul being already free from sin because he held a complete and unquestioning faith, judged in his own way, or that even in this world he might look up >n his safety as assured. Nevertheless, the frivolity, the error, of these doctrines He then felt how much deeper was the joy often struck him. caused by the irresistible feeling that impelled him to grant Anna's pardon than from that caused by the constant thought

ANNA

KAntiXIXA.

515

that Christ dwelt in his soul, and that by signing certain But illusory as this papers he was following His will. moral loftiness was, it was indispensable in his present humiliation. He felt the imperious necessity of looking down from the height of this imaginary elevation, upon those who despised him, and he clung to his new convictions as to a plauk of safety.

XXIII.

THE Countess Lidia Ivanovna had been married when she was a very young and enthusiastic girl to a good-natured young fellow, very wealthy, aristocratic, and dissolute. Two months after the wedding her husband deserted her. He had replied to her effusive expressions of love with scorn and even hatred which no one who knew the count's kindliness, and were not acquainted with the faults of Lidia's romantic nature, could comprehend. Since then, without any formal divorce, they had lived apart, each in his own way the husband never meeting his wife without that bit;

terness which puzzled people to understand. The countess long ago ceased to worship her husband, but she was always in love with some one and not seldom with several at once men and women indiscriminately, and Thus she lost her heart to each generally with notabilities. of the new princes and princesses who married into the Then she was in love with one metroimperial family. Then she was in love politan, one vicar, and one priest. with one journalist, three Slavophiles and Komisarof then with one foreign minister, one doctor, one English missionThese multifarious love affairs ary, and finally Karenin. and their different phases of warmth or coldness in nowise hindered her from keeping up the most complicated relations both with the court and society. But from the day when she took Karenin under her special protection, from the time when she began to busy herself with his domestic affairs and work for his salvation, she felt that all her former passions were of no account, but that she now loved Karenin alone with perfect sincerity. Besides, as she analyzed her former sentiments and compared them with those that she now experienced, she clearly saw that she would never have loved Komisarof if he had not saved the Emperor's life, or Ristilsh-Kudzhitsky, had not the Slav question existed.
;

516

ANNA KARfiNINA

But Karnin she loved for himself, for his great, unappreciated spirit, for his character, for the sound of his voice, his deliberate speech, his weary eyes, and his soft white hands with their swollen veins. Not only did the thought of seeing him fill her with joy, but it seemed to her that she saw on her friend's face the expression of a feeling like her own. She did her best to please him, no less by her person than by her conversation. Never before had she spent so much on her toilet. More than once she found herself wondering

what would happen

!

if she were not married and he were When he came in, she colored with pleasure and only free she could not restrain a smile of ecstasy if he said some-

thing pleasant to her. For several days the countess had been greatly annoyed. She knew that Yronsky and Anna were back in Petersburg. It was necessary now to spare Aleksei Aleksandrovitch the How could she free him from the torture of seeing his wife. odious thought that this wretched woman was living in the same town with him and might meet him at any instant? Lidia Ivanovna set enquirers on foot to discover the plans of these repulsive people, as she called Anna and Vronsky, and she tried to direct all of Kare"nin's movements so that he might not meet them. The young adjutant, a friend of Vronsky's, from whom she learned about them, and who was hoping through the Countess Lidia Ivanovna's influence to get a position, told her that they were completing their arrangements and expected to depart on the following day. Lidia Ivanovna was beginning to breathe freely once more, when on the next morning she received a note, the handIt was from writing of which she recognized with terror. Anna Karnina. The envelope of English paper thick as bark, on the oblong, yellow sheet of paper adorned with an immense monogram. The note exhaled a delicious perfume. brought it?" " The Commissioner from the hotel." The countess waited long before she had the courage to Her emotion almost brought on one sit down and read it. of her attacks of asthma. At last, when she felt calmer, she opened the following note written in French

"Who

Madame la Comtesse: "The Christian sentiments

11

filling

your heart prompt me,

I am with unpardonable boldness, I fear, to address you. unhappy at being separated from my son, and I ask you to

ANNA KAREN1NA.

517

do me the favor of letting me see him once more before I It' I do not make direct application to Aleksel depart. Aleksandrovitch, it is because I do not wish to give this

man the pain of thinking of me. Knowing your friendship for him, I felt that you would understand me will you have Serozha sent to me here ? or do you prefer that I should come at an appointed hour? or would you let me know bow and at what place I could see him? You cangenerous-hearted
;

not imagine my desire to see my child again, and consequently you cannot comprehend the extent of my gratefulness for the assistance that you can render me in these ANNA." circumstances.

Everything about this note exasperated the Countess Lidia Ivanovna its tenor, the allusions to Kar6niu's magnanimity, and the especially free and easy tone which pervaded it. " Say that there is no reply," and, hurriedly opening her
;

blotting-pad, she wrote to Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch that she hoped to meet him about one o'clock at the Palace it was the Emperor's birthday, and the Imperial family received
;

congratulations. " I must consult with you in regard to a sad and serious we will decide at the Palace when I can see }'ou. affair The best plan would be at my house, where I will have your He imposes the It is absolutely necessary. tea ready. cross, but He gives us also the strength," she added, that
;

mind might be somewhat prepared. The countess wrote Aleksi Aleksandrovitch two or three times a day she liked this way of keeping up her relations
his
;

with him, and thought it both elegant and mysterious, while ordinary ways were not sufficient.

XXIV.
As they went away, they congratulations were over. talked about the latest news, the rewards given on this day, and the changed positions of some high officials. What should you say if the Countess Mary a Borisovna was made minister of war, and the Princess Vatkovskai'a, chief of staff?" asked a little, gray-haired old man, in a gold-embroidered uniform, who was talking with a tall, handsome maid of honor about the recent changes. "In that case, I should be made adjutant," replied the
'

THE

young

girl,

smiling.

518

ANNA
Your
place
is

KARtiNIXA.
already settled.

"You?

You

are to have
is

charge of the department of religions, aud Kar6nin your assistant."

to be

"How

do you do, Prince?" said the

little

old man,

shaking hands with some one who came along. " Were you speaking of Kare"niu?" asked the prince. "Yes; he and Putiatof have been decorated with the order of Alexander Nevsky." " "I thought he had it already. " No look at him," said the little old man, pointing with his gold-laced hat towards Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, who was standing in the doorway, talking with one of the influential members of the Imperial Council he wore the court uniform, with his new red ribbon across his shoulder. "Happy and " contented as a copper kopek isn't he ? And the old man stopped to press the hand of a handsome, athletic chamber;
; !

lain passing by.

;

" No he has grown old," said the chamberlain. " With cares. He spends his life in writing projects. He has buttonholed his unhappy prey, and will not let him go until he has explained everything point by point." " What, grown old?" II fait des passions. The Coun-

tess Lidia ought to be jealous of his wife." 1 beg of you not to speak ill of

"Nu!

the Countess

Lidia."

" Is there any harm in her being in love with Kareniu?" "Is Madame Kar6nina really here?" "Not here at the Palace, but in Petersburg. I met her yesterday with Alekse'i Vronsky bras dessus, bras dessous [arm in arm], on the Morska'ia." " C'est un homme qui n'a pas" began the chamberlain, in French but he broke short off to salute and make way for a member of the Imperial family who was passing. While they were thus criticising and ridiculing Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, the latter was barring the way of the Imperial Counsellor, and without pausing to take breath, lest he should lose him, was giving a detailed explanation of a
;

financial

scheme.

Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch. about the time that his wife left the him, had reached a situation painful for an official,

culmination of his upward career. Possibly he was the only Either his his career was ended. collision with Stremof, or his trouble with his wife, or the

one who did not see that

519
simple fact that Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch had reached his remained that every one saw clearly that his official race was run. He still held an important place he was a member of many important committees and councils but he was one of those men of whom nothing more is expected his day was over. All that he said, all that he proBut Alekse'i Aleksanposed, seemed antiquated and vain. drovitch himself did not realize this, but felt that he could appreciate the acts of the government more fairly since he had ceased to take an active share in it, and thought that it was his duty to indicate certain reforms which should be introduced. Shortly after his wife's departure he began to write his first pamphlet about the new tribunals, and proposed to follow it up with a series on the different branches of the administration. He not only did not realize his hopeless situation in the official world, and therefore did not lose heart, but he took
limit, the fact
:
; :

immense delight in his activity. " He that is unmarried is careful for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord but he that is married
;

careful for the things of the world, how he may please his wife," said the Apostle Paul. And Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch, who now directed his life in all respects according to the It seemed to him, now that Epistle, often quoted this text. he was deprived of his wife, that l)y devotion to these projects he served the Lord more faithfull}* than ever. The Imperial Counsellor's very manifest impatience in no way abashed Kare'nin, but he stopped a moment as a prince of the Imperial family was passing, and his victim seized his opportunity to escape. Left to himself, Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch bowed his head, tried to collect his thoughts, and, with an absent-minded glance about him, stepped towards the door, hoping to meet the countess there. " " How he said to himself, strong and healthy they look! as he caught sight of the vigorous neck of the prince, who wore a close-fitting uniform, and the handsome chamberlain with his perfumed side-whiskers. "It is only too true that all is evil in this world," he thought, as he looked at the
is

chamberlain's sturdy legs. ki Ah Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch " cried the little old man, with a wicked light glowing in his eyes, as Kare'nin passed him with a cold bow. t; I have not yet congratulated you," and he pointed to the newly received ribbon.
! !

520
"
I

ANNA
thank you.
This
is

KARtiNINA.
!

" replied Alekse"i Alekthe adjective, as was his habit. sandrovitch, accentuating He knew that these gentlemen were making sport of him ; but, as he expected nothing but hostile feelings, he was

afoie day

entirely indifferent.

The countess's yellow shoulders and soft, pensive eyes now became visible and invited him from afar with a smile that showed his even, white teeth, he went to join her. Lidia Ivanovna's toilet had cost her much labor, like all her recent efforts in this direction for she was pursuing a very different aim from that which she had set thirty years before. Formerly she had thought only of adorning herself, and was
; ;

never too elegant for her taste now she sought to render the contrast endurable between her person and her toilet, and in he thought Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's eyes she succeeded This woman's sympath} and tenderness were her charming. from the for him a sole refuge from the general animosity midst of this throng of enemies he felt drawn to her like a plant towards the light. "I congratulate you," she said, looking at his decoration. Karenin shrugged his shoulders and half closed his eyes, as if to say that this was nothing to him. The countess knew that these distinctions, even though he would not confess it, caused him the keenest pleasure. " " How is our she asked, referring to Serozha. angel? that I am very well satisfied with him," "I cannot say replied Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, lifting his e}-ebrows and " Sitnikof does not please him. [Sitnikof opening his eyes. was Serozha's tutor.] As I told you, I find in him a certain apathy towards the essential questions which ought to move And Aleksei the soul of every man and of every child." Aleksandrovitch began to discourse on a subject which, next to the questions of administration, gave him the most con; :

cern,

his son's education.

Never till the present time had educational questions interested him but having been called upon to look after his son's training, he spent a portion of his time in studying works on anthropology, pedagogy, and didactics, and he conceived a plan of stud}" which the best tutor in Petersburg was then entrusted to put into practice. And this work constantly
;

occupied him. "Yes; but his heart? I find in this child his father's heart, and with that he cannot be bad," said the countess with enthusiasm.

ANNA KARENINA.
"

521

Da! Possibly. For me, I perform my duty: it is all that I can do." Will you come to my house?" asked the countess after " I have a a moment's silence. very painful matter to talk I would have given the world to spare you with you about. I have others do not think the same. certain memories had a letter from her. She is in Petersburg." Aleksi Aleksandrovitch quivered at the recollection of his wife but his face instantly assumed an expression of mortal petrifaction that showed how absolutely unable he was to treat of such a subject.
;

"

expected

it,"

he said.

at him with exaltation, and in the presence of a soul so great, tears of transport sprang to her

The countess looked

eyes.

XXV.

WHEN

Alekse"!

entered the Countess Lidia

Ivanovna's
failed

library, decorated with portraits to find his friend.

and old porcelains, he

She was changing her dress. a round table covered with a cloth, stood a Chinese teaAleks6i Aleksaudrovitch service and a silver spirit-teapot. studied the numberless paintings that adorned the room then he sat down near a table and picked up the New Testament.

On

The rustling of a silk dress put his thoughts to flight. " Nu! Vot! Now we can be a little more free from

dis-

turbance," said the countess- with a smile, gliding between the table and the divan. "-We can talk while drinking our
tea."

After several words, meant to prepare his mind, she sighed and with a tinge of color in her cheeks, she put Anna's letter into his hands. He read it, and sat long in silence. "I do not feel that I have the right to refuse her," he said at length, raising his eyes with some timidity. " My friend, you never can see evil anywhere."
deeply,

"On

the contrary, I find evil everywhere.

But would

it

be fair to"

His face expressed indecision, desire for advice, for support, for guidance in such a thorny question. "No," interrupted Lidia Ivanovna, "there are limits to
all

things.

I understand immorality,"

she said, not with

522

ANNA KARtfNINA.

absolute sincerity, since she did not know why women could be immoral, " but what 1 do not undersUind is cruelty Towards you How can she remain in towards any one One is never too old to learn, and the same city with you? " I learn every day your grandeur and her baseness " Who shall cast the first stone?" asked Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, evidently satisfied with the part that he was acting. " After giving her everything, can I deprive her of what is her love for the child?" a need of her heart, " But is it love, my friend? Is it all sincere? You hove But forgiven her, and you still forgive her I am willing. have you the right to vex the soul of this little angel ? He he prays for her and asks God to believes that she is dead pardon her sins. It is better so. What would he think now ?" " I had not thought of that," said Aleksei Aleksandroviteh, perceiving the justice of her words. The countess covered her face with her hands and was she was praying. silent " " Jf you will you ask my advice," she replied at length, not do this. Do I not see how you suffer, how your wound bleeds? Admit that you make a mere abstraction of yourYou are laying up for self, but where will it lead you? yourself new sufferings, and an unknown trouble for the If she were still capable of human feelings, she child would be the first to feel it herself. No I have no hesita! ! !

tion about

it,

and

if

you give me your authority,

consented,
:

I will reply

to her."

Aleksei Aleksandroviteh wrote, in French, this letter

and

the

countess

"Madame, Recalling your existence to your son would be likely to raise questions which it would be impossible to answer without obliging the child to judge that which should remain sacred to him. You would, therefore, easily understand that 3"our husband's refusal is in the spirit of Christian I pray the Omnipotent to be merciful to you. charity. " COMPTESSE LlDIA."
This letter accomplished the secret aim which the countess would not confess even to herself it wounded Anna to the bottom of her soul. Aleksei Aleksandroviteh went home disturbed, and unable to take up his ordinary occupations, or recover the peace of man who has grace, and feels that he is among the elect.
;

ANNA KARENINA.
The thought
towards

523

of his wife so guilty towards him, and he had acted like a saint, to use the countess's comparison, ought not to have disturbed him, and yet he was He could not understand a word of what he was ill at ease. reading, or succeed in driving away from his mind the cruel memories of the past. He remembered with a feeling like remorse Anna's confession the day of the races. Why had he not then obliged her to respect the proprieties ? Why had he not challenged Vronsky to a duel ? This was what troubled

whom

him most

of

all.

And

his letter

to his wife, his futile

pardon, his pains wasted on the baby that was not his, all came back to his memory, and overwhelmed his heart with

shame and confusion.

question
I at fault?" he asked himself and this was followed by another, "Do other men feel differently, fall in love differently, and marry differently,
;

"But how am

these Vronskvs, Oblonskys, these chamberlains with their His imagination called up a whole line of handsome caloers ? these vigorous minds, self-confident and strong, who had always attracted his curiosity and his wonder. The more he tried to drive away such thoughts as these, and to remember that since the end and aim of his life was not this world, peace and charity alone ought to dwell in his soul, the more he suffered, as though eternal salvation was only a chimera. Fortunately the temptation was not long, and soon Aleksei Aleksaudrovitch regained that serenity and elevation of mind, by which he succeeded in putting away all that he wished to forget.
'

'

XXVI.
"

Nu, Kapitonnich ?

"

said Serozha, as he

came

in,

rosy

on the evening before his birthday, while the old Swiss, smiling down from his superior height, helped the young man off with his coat, "did the bandaged tchinovnik come to-day? Did papa see him?" "Yes; the secretary had only just got here when I announced him," replied the Swiss, winking one eye gayly. " Serozha Serozha " called the Slavophile tutor, who was " take off standing by the door that led to the inner rooms, your coat yourself." But Serozha, though he heard his tutor's weak voice, paid
after his walk,
! !

and gay,

524
;

AXXA KARENIXA.
belt,

no heed standing by the Swiss, he held him by the and gazed at him with all his eyes. "And did papa do what he wanted?"

The Swiss nodded.

This tchinovnik, with his head in a bandage, who had come seven times to ask some favor of Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch, Serozha had met him interested Serozha and the Swiss. one day in the vestibule, and listened, as he begged the Swiss to let him be admitted, saying that nothing was left for him and his children but to die. Since that time the lad had felt great concern for the poor man. " " asked Serozha. Say, did he seem very glad? " Glad as he could be he went off almost leaping." " Has anything come?" asked Serozha, after a moment's
;

silence.

"

there

yes, sudar," said the Swiss, lifting his head, something from the countess." Serozha understood that it was a birthday present from

"Yes,

is

the countess. What did you say ?

'

Where ? "
;

Korn6i took
'

it

to

papa

it

How

A little
"No;
Lukitch
is

big ? as big as this ? Smaller, but beautiful."

"

must be something

beautiful."

book?"
7
.

Run away, run awa} Vasili something. calling you," said the Swiss, hearing the tutor's steps approach, and gently removing the little gloved hand
its

which held his

belt.

bit of a moment, Vasili Lukitch," said with the amiable and gracious smile to whose influence even the stern tutor submitted. Serozha was in radiant spirits, and wanted to tell his friend, the Swiss, about a piece of good fortune, which the countess, Lidia Ivanovna's niece, had told him while they

"In

little

Serozha,

were walking in the summer garden, had befallen the family. His happiness seemed greater still since he heard about the It seemed to Serozha tchinovnik's success and his present. that every one ought to be happy this beautiful day. " Do you know papa has received the Alexander Nevsky order?" "Why shouldn't I know? He has been receiving congratulations."

"Is he glad?"

ANNA KARENINA.

525

"How
Is
it

could he help being glad of the Emperor's favor? a proof that he deserves it?" asked the old Swiss,

gravely.

Serozha reflected as he looked into the Swiss's face, which he knew even to the least detail, but especially the chin, between his gray side-whiskers. No one had seen his chin except Serozha, who looked up at it from below. " Nu! and daughter? Isn'Mt a long time since she your " has been to see us ?
Swiss's daughter was a ballet-dancer. " could she find time to come on work-days ? he have their lessons as well as you yours, exclaimed. "They
' '

The

How

sudar."

When Serozha reached his room, instead of attending to his tasks, he poured out into the tutor's ears all his surmises " It must about the present which had been brought him.
be a locomotive engine; what do you think about it?" he asked but Vasili Lukitch was thinking of nothing except the grammar lesson, which had to be ready for the professor,
;

who came
" Tell

two o'clock. just one thing, Vasili Lukitch," asked the child, who was now sitting at his desk, with his book in his hands, "What is there higher than the Alexander Nevsky? You know that papa is decorated?" The tutor said that the order of Vladimir was higher.
at

me

" St Andrew above them " And above that?" " I don't know."

"And

above that?"
all."

"Why
on

don't you

know?" and

Serozha, leaning his head

;

his hand, began to think. The child's thoughts were very varied he imagined that his father perhaps was going to have the orders of Vladimir

and St. Andrew, and that, therefore, he would be more Then he said to himself, indulgent for his day's lessons. that when he grew up, he would do his best to deserve all the decorations, even those that would be given higher than that of St. Andrew. new order would scarcely have time to be founded before he would make himself worthy of it. These thoughts made the time pass so quick, that when it was the hour to recite, he did not know his lesson at all and the professor seemed not only vexed, but pained. Serozha was rueful his lesson, though he studied it, had

526
not

ANNA RARE NINA.

made any impression on his mind. When the professor was present, it was well for by listening, he imagined that he understood but when he was by himself, everything was mixed and contused. He seized a moment when his teacher was looking up some reference, to ask him, " Mikhai'l Ivauovitch, when is your birthday?" " You would do better to think about your work; birthdays have no importance for a reasonable being. It is only a day just like any other, and must be spent in work."
;
;

Serozha looked attentively at

his

teacher,

studied his

sparse beard, his eye-glasses far down on his nose, and got into such a deep brown study, that he heard nothing of the rest of the lesson. He was wondering if his teacher believed what he said. By the tone in which he said it, he felt that

was incredible. " But why do they all try to say to me the most tiresome things and the most useless things, and all in the same way? " Why does this man keep me from him, and not love me ? he asked himself, and he could not tell.
it

XXVII.
AFTER the professor, came the lesson with his father. Serozha, while waiting for him, played with his penknife as and he fell into new he leaned his elbow on the desk
;

thoughts. One of his favorite occupations was to look for his mother while he was out walking. He did not know much about death and he did not believe that his mother was dead, though his father and the Countess Lidia Ivanovna said she was. Every tall, graceful woman with dark hair he imagined to be his mother; at the sight of every such woman, his heart would swell with love, the tears would come into his eyes, and he would wait until the lady drew near him, and raised her veil then he would see her face she would kiss him, smile upon him he would feel the sweet caress of her hand, smell the well-known perfume, and weep with joy. as he did one evening when he lay at her feet, and she tickled him, because she and he laughed so heartily, and gently bit her white hand, covered with rings. Later, when he learned accidentally from the old nurse that his mother was alive, but his father and the countess told him that she was dead because she was a wicked woman, this seemed still more
;
; ;
;

ANXA KAEtiNINA.
;

527

impossible to Serozha, because he loved her and he looked and longed for her. This very day, in the Summer garden, he had seen a Inch' in a lilac veil, and his heart beat violently when he saw her take the same footpath where he was walking but suddenly she vanished. Serozha felt a stronger love than ever for his mother; and now, while waiting for his father, he was cutting his desk with his penwith shining eyes, was looking straight ahead, and knife
lor her
;
;

thinking of her.

Here comes your papa," said Vasili Lukitch. Serozha jumped up from the chair, ran to kiss his father's hand, and looked for some sign of pleasure because he had
'

received the decoration. " Did you have a good walk?" asked Alekse"! Aleksandrovitch, as he sat down in an armchair, and opened the Old

Testament.

Though he had often told Serozha that every Christian ought to know the Old Testament history by heart, he had
often to consult
it

for his lessons

and the

child noticed

it.

" "
I

Yes, papa,

enjoyed

it

very much," said Serozha,

and tipping it, which was forbidden. saw Xadenka [Nadenka was the countess's niece, whom she adopted], and she told me that they've given you a new decoration. Are you glad, papa?" "In the first place, don't tip your chair so, and in the second place, know that what ought to be dear to us is work for itself and not the reward. I want 3~ou to understand that. If you seek only the recompense, the work will seem painful but if you love work, your recompense will come of itself." And Aleksei Aleksandrovitch remembered that on this very day he had signed one hundred and eighteen different papers with no other support in a most unwelcome
sitting across his chair
;

task than the feeling of duty. Serozha's bright and shining eyes grew gloomy as his father looked at him. He felt that his father in speaking to him put on a peculiar tone as though he were addressing one of those imaginary children found in books, and whom Serozha did not in the least resemble. He was used to it, and he did his best to find wherein he had anything in common with these exemplary little malcMlts.

"You

understand me,
little

hope."
this

"Yes, papa,"
imaginary

replied the lad, playing the part of

personage.

528

AyyA KARgNINA.

The lesson consisted of the recitation of several verses of the Gospel and the review of the first part of the Old Testament. The lesson went fairly well. But suddenly Serozha was struck by the appearance of his father's forehead, which made almost a right angle near the temples, and he gave the end of the verse entirely wrong. Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch concluded that he did not understand the meaning of what
he was reciting, and he was vexed. He frowned, and began to explain what Serozha could not have forgotten, having heard it so many times. The child, scared, looked at his father and thought only one thing
:

would his father oblige him to repeat the explanation that he had given him, as he had done at other times? This fear kept him from understanding. Fortunately, his father passed on to the lesson in Sacred History. Serozha rapidly
but when it came to the explanation of their meaning, he did not know it at all, though it was part of his lesson. The place where he could not recite and was troubled, where he whittled the table and rocked the chair, was the critical moment when he had to repeat Not one could he rememthe list of antediluvian patriarchs. ber, not even Enoch, who went to heaven alive, though Enoch was his favorite character in Biblical history, and he connected with the translation of this patriarch a long string of ideas which completely absorbed him while he was staring at his father's watch-chain and a loose button on his coat.
narrated the facts themselves
;

Serozha absolutely disbelieved in death, though they had him about it many times. He could not believe that those whom he loved could die, and especially incredible
told

was the thought of his own death. It all seemed incredible and incomprehensible, but people in whom he had confidence told him that everybody must die. The nurse herBut Enoch self, though unwillingly, said the same thing. did not die, and perhaps others might not have to die. " Why did not others deserve as much as he to go up to heaven alive," asked Serozha. The wicked, those whom he disliked, might have to die, but the good might be like Enoch. " Nti! how about these patriarchs?" u Enoch Enos" " You have mentioned him. This is Serbad, already If you do not endeavor to learn the things ozha, very bad. essential for a Christian to know, what will become of you?"

ANNA KARtfNINA.

529

" I am dissatisfied with asked his father, getting up. you, and Piotr Ignatitch is dissatisfied with you, so I am
compelled to punish you." Father and pedagogue both found fault with him, and Serozha was doubtless making bad work of it, and yet he was not a stupid boy on the contrary, he was far superior to If he those whom his teacher held up to him as examples. did not want to learn what was taught him, it was because he could not, and for the reason that his mind had needs
;

very different from those that his teachers imagined. He was only nine years old. He was only a child but he knew his soul, and he objected to any one trying to force a way in without the key of love. He was blamed for being unwilling to learn, and yet he was all on fire with the yearning for knowledge but he got his lessons from Kapitonuitch, his old The water which the nurse, Nadenka, and Vasili Lukitch.
; ;

and the pedagogue poured on the mill-wheel was wasted, but the work was done in another place. Serozha was accordingly punished. He was refused permission to go to see Nadenka but his punishment turned Vasili Lukitch was in good humor, out to be an advantage. and taught him the art of making a little wind-mill. The afternoon was spent in working and thinking of the ways and means to make the mill go. Should he fasten wings to He forgot about his it, or fix it so he could turn it himself? mother all the evening but after he had got into bed, her memory suddenly came back to him, and he prayed in his own words that she might cease to veil herself, and make him a visit the next day, which was his birthday. "Vasili Lukitch, do you know what I prayed God for?" "To study better?"
father
; ;

" No."

"Toys?" "No. You must

comes

know ?

to pass, "

not guess. I will tell vou.

It

is a secret; when it Are you sure you don't

'No; you must tell me !" said Vasili Lukitch, smiling, which was rare with him. " Nu! get into bed I am going
;

to put out the light." " I see much better

isn't

what

I asked in

my

any

light.

There, I

almost

told

my

prayer when there "

secret
!

cried

Serozha, laughing gaylv. Serozha believed that he heard his mother and

felt

her

530

AXXA KARtiNINA

She was standing near presence when he was in the dark. him, and looking at him tenderly with her loving face then he saw a mill, a knife then all melted into darkness, and he
; ;

was

asleep.

XXVIII.
reached Petersburg, they stopped Vronsky had a room on the ground floor Anna, up one flight of stairs, with her baby, the nurse, and her maid, occupied a suite of four rooms. On the day of his return, Vronsky went to see his brother he found his mother there, who had come down from Moscow on business. His mother and sister-in-law received him as usual, asked him about his travels, spoke of common friends, but they made no allusion to Anna. His brother, who returned his call the next morning, asked him about her and Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch. Vronsky explained to him that he considered the bond which united him to Madame Kare'nina the same as marriage, that he hoped to obtain a divorce, and then he should marry her, which would regulate their situation he wanted his mother and sister-in-law to understand his intentions. " The world may not approve of me that is all one to me " he added, " but if my family wish to remain on good terms with me, they must show proper respect for my wife."
at one

WHEN Vronsky and Anna

of
the
;

best hotels.

The elder brother, always very respectful of his brother's opinions, allowed the world to settle this delicate question, and without hesitation went with Alekse"i to call upon Madame Kare'nina. Vronsky spoke to Anna with the formal vui (you) , as he always did before strangers, and treated her as a mere acquaintance but it was perfectly understood what her relations to him were, and they spoke freely of Anna's visit to the Vronsky estate. In spite of his knowledge of society, Vronsky fell into a strange error he who better than any one else ought to have understood that society would shut its doors upon them, persuaded himself by a strange freak of imagination that public opinion, having progressed beyond its ancient prejudices, must have yielded to the influence of civilization. "Of course, we can't count on being received at court," he
;
;

thought; "but our relatives, our friends, will understand things as they are."

ANNA KARtfNINA.

531

A man may sit for some time with his legs doubled up in one and the same position, provided he knows that he can change but if he knows that he must sit in such a con;

strained position, then his legs get cramps, he will feel drawn to get away. Vronsky experienced this in regard to society. Though he knew in the bottom of his soul that society was But he quickly shut to them, he tried to force its door. found that even if it were open to him, it was shut to Anna. One of the first ladies of Petersburg society whom he met was his cousin Betsy. " At last?" she cried joyously, " and Anna? How glad I am! Where are you stopping? I can easily imagine the hideous effect that Petersburg must have I can imagine your honeyupon you after such a journey moon in Rome And the divorce? is it arranged?" Vronsky saw that Betsy's enthusiasm cooled when she learned that the divorce was not yet forthcoming. " I know well that I shall be " but I am stoned," said she " coming to see Anna. You won't stay long, I imagine ? She came, in fact, on that very day but her manner was She seemed to entire!}" different from what it used to be. make much of her courage, and insisted that it was a proof of her fidelity and friendship towards Anna. After talking for about ten minutes on the news of the day, she got up, and said as she went away, "You have not told me yet when the divorce is to be. Grant that I throw my bonnet over the mill, but I guess few will do as much, and you will find that others will turn the cold shoulder so long as you are
!
!

not married, and it is so easy now-a-days, qa se fait. So you are going Friday ? I am sorry that I shall not be able to see you again." Betsy's manner might have warned Vronsky what sort of a He knew well reception society was waiting to show them. that his mother, though so enthusiastic in Anna's praise at their first meeting, would be relentless toward her now that she had spoiled her son's career but Vronsky founded the she certainly loftiest hopes on Varia, his sister-in-law would not be the first to cast a stone at Anna, but would come simply and naturally to see her. On the next day, finding her alone, he opened the subject. " You know, Aleksei, how fond I am of you," replied " and how devoted Varia, after hearing what he had to say, but if I am to you and willing I am to do anything for you
;

I kept silent,

it

is

because I know that I cannot be of the

532
least use to

ANNA KARENINA.

you and Anna Arkadyevna. [She accented the two names.] Don't for a moment think that I allow myself not at all perhaps 1 should have done the to judge her I cannot enter into details," she same thing in her place. added timidly, as she saw her brother-in-law's face darken "but we must call things by their right name. You would like me to go and see her, and then have her visit me, in order to restore her to society. But I cannot do it. My daughters are growing up ; I am obliged, on my husband's account, to go into society. Nu! I will go to call on Anna Arkadyevna but she knows that I cannot invite her here lest she should meet in my drawing-room people who do not think I cannot receive her." as I do, and that would wound her. " But I do not for an instant admit that she is a fallen woman, and I would not compare her to hundreds of women whom 3 ou receive," interrupted Vronsky, rising, and seeing that his sister-in-law was not going to yield. " Aleksei, don't be with me; it is not fault,"
;
; ;
r

angry

my

said Varia, with a timid sinile.

I am not angry with you, but I growing more and more gloomy.

"

suffer doubly," said he, "I suffer because this

;

for you breaks our friendship, or, at least, it wounds it must know that such will be for us the inevitable result." He left her with these words. He perceived the uselessness of new endeavors and, as he still had to spend a few days in Petersburg, he resolved to act as though he were in a foreign city, and to avoid all occasion for new vexations. One of the most painful circumstances that met him was to hear his name eve^where associated with that of Aleksi Aleksandrovitch. Every conversation brought up the affair and if he went out, he was sure to meet him, just as a person with a sore finger is always hitting it against the furniture. On the other side, Anna's behavior vexed him. He saw that she was in a strange, incomprehensible moral frame of mind which he had never seen before. Now tender, now cold, she
; ;

was always irritable and enigmatical. Evidently something tormented her but, instead of being sensitive to the indignities which Vronsky suffered so keenly, and which in her ordinary delicacy of perception she would have suffered also, she seemed occupied solely in hiding her pain, and perfectly
;

indifferent to the rest.

ANNA KARtfNINA.
XXIX.

533

ANNA'S chief desire on her return to Russia was to see her From the day that she left Italy she was filled with and her joy increased in proportion as she drew this idea near Petersburg. She did not trouble herself with the question how she should manage this meeting which seemed to her of such importance. It was a simple and natural thing, she thought, to see her child once more, now that she was in the same town with him but since her arrival she suddenly realized her present relation towards society, and found that the interview was not easy to obtain. She had been two days now in Petersburg, and never for an instant had she forgotten her son, but she had not seen
son.
; ;

him.

To go straight to her husband's house and risk coming face to face with her husband, seemed to her impossible. They might even refuse to admit her. To write to Aleks^i Aleksaudrovitcli and ask permission of him, seemed to her painful even to think of. She could be calm only when she did not think of her husband and yet she could not feel contented to see her son at a distance. She had too many kisses, too many caresses, to give him. Serozha's old nurse might have been an assistance to her, but she no longer lived with Aleksi Aleksandrovitch. On the third da}-, having learned of Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch's relations with the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, Anna decided to write her a letter composed with the greatest care, in which she would tell her frankly that the permission to see her son depended on her. She knew that if her husband
;

found it out, he, in his part of magnanimous man, would not refuse her. It was a cruel blow to have her messenger return without an answer. She had never felt so wounded, so humiliated and yet she had to acknowledge that the countess was right. Her grief was all the keener because she had to bear it alone. She could not and did not wish to confide it to Vronsky. She knew that though he was the chief cause of her unhappiness, he would look upon her meeting with her son as of little account and the mere thought of the unsympathetic tone in which he would speak of it, made him seem odious to her. And the fear that she might come to hate him was the worst
; ;

534

AXSiA KAEtiNINA.
mind
to hide

of all. Therefore she made up her her action in regard to the child.

from him

She stayed at home all day long and racked her brain to think of other ways of meeting her son, and finally she deto write directly to her cided upon the most painful of all, husband. Just as she was beginning her letter, Lidia IvanShe accepted it with silent resigovna's reply was brought. nation but the unfriendliness, the sarcasm, that she read between the lines, pierced deep into her soul. " What What hypocrisy!" she said to herself. cruelty! " They want to insult me and torment the child. I will not let them do so. She is worse than 1 am at least, I do not
;

lie."

She immediately decided to go on the morrow, which was Serozha's birthday, directly to her husband's house to see the child, no matter what it cost in fees to the servants, and to put an end to the ugly network of lies with which they were surrounding the innocent child. She went to a neighboring shop and purchased some toys, and thus she formed her plan of action she would start early she in the morning before Aleksei Aleksandrovitch was up would have the money in her hand all read}' to bribe the Swiss and the other servants to let her go up stairs without raising her veil, under the pretext of laying on Serozha's bed some presents sent by his god- father. As to what she should say to her son, she could not form the least idea she could not make an\- preparation for that. The next morning, at eight o'clock, Anna got out of her hired carriage and rang the door-bell of her former home.'
: ; ;

Go and see what is wanted! It's some baruina," said Kapitonuitch, in overcoat and galoshes, as he looked out of the window and saw a lady closely veiled standing on the porch. The Swiss's assistant, a young man whom Anna did not know, had scarcely opened the door before Anna thrust a three-ruble note into his hand. " Serozha Sergei Aleksievitch," she stammered; then she went one or two steps down the hall. The Swiss's assistant examined the note, and stopped the visitor at the inner glass door. " Whom do you wish to see?" he asked. She did not hear his words, and made no reply. Kapitonuitch. noticing the stranger's confusion, came out from his office and asked her what she wanted.

"

ANXA KAMSXIXA.
"
I

535

come from Prince Skorodumof

to see Serge" i Aleksie"-

vitch."

" He is not up yet," replied the Swiss, looking sharply at the veiled lady. Anua had never dreamed that she should be so troubled by One the sight of this house where she had lived nine 3*ears. after another, sweet and cruel memories arose in her mind, and for a moment she forgot why she was there. "Will you wait?" asked the Swiss, helping her to take When he saw her face, he recognized her, off her shubka.
and bowed profoundly. " Will 3 our ladyship 1 be pleased to enter?" he said to her. She tried to speak but her voice failed her, and with an
;

entreating look at the old servant she rapidly flew up the stairs. Kapitonuitch tried to overtake her, and followed
after her, catching his galoshes at every step. " Perhaps his tutor is not dressed yet I will speak to
;

him."

Anna kept on up the stairs which she knew so well, but she did not hear what the old man said. kk This way. Excuse it if all is in disorder. He sleeps in " Will the front room now," said the Swiss, out of breath. your ladyship be good enough to wait a moment? I will go and see." And opening the high door, he disappeared. Anna stopped and waited. u He has just waked up," said the Swiss, coming back through the same door. And as he spoke, Anna heard the sound of a child yawning, and merely by the sound of the yawn she recognized her son and seemed to see him alive before her. " " Let me let me she stammered, and hurriedly go in the door. pushed through At the right of the door was a bed, and on the bed a child
!

was sitting up in his little open nightgown his little body was leaning forward, and he was just finishing a yawn and
;

His lips were just closing into a sleepy stretching himself. smile, and he fell back upon his pillow still smiling. " '" she murmured as she went towards him. Serozha time since their separation that she had felt an Every access of love for the absent son, Anna looked upon him as still a child of four, the age when he had been most charmNow he no longer bore any resemblance to him whom ing.
!

Vasha prevoskhodttelstvo,

literally,

Your Excellency.

536
she had left
!

ANNA KAR&NINA.
: !
!

he had grown tall and thin. How long his face How short his hair What long arms How he seemed the shape of his had changed! But it was still the same, head, his lips, little slender neck, and his broad shoulders.
! she whispered in the child's ear. raised himself on his elbow, turned his frowzy head around, and trying to put things together, opened wide his For several seconds he looked with an inquiring face C3'es. Then he at his mother, who stood motionless before him. suddenly smiled with joy, and with his eyes still half-closed in sleep, he threw himself, not back upon his pillow, but into

" Serozha

"

He

his mother's arms.

she stammered, choking "Serozha, my dear little bo} with tears, and throwing her arms around his plump body. " Mamma " he into his mother's arms
!
!

"

whispered, cuddling so as to feel their encircling pressure. Smiling sleepily, he took his hand from the head of the bed and put it on his mother's shoulder and climbed into her lap, having that warm breath of sleep peculiar to children, and pressed his face to his mother's neck and shoulders. "I knew," he said, opening his eyes; "to-day is my
birthday
;

knew

that

you would come.

am

going to get

up now."

And

as he spoke he
e3~es.

with her
absence.

fell asleep again. Anna devoured him She saw how he had changed during her She would scarcely have known his long legs com-

ing below his nightgown, his hollow cheeks, his short hair She curled in the neck where she had so often kissed it. pressed him to her heart, and the tears prevented her from

" What are you crying for, mamma?" he asked, now en"What makes you cry?" he repeated, read}' tirely awake. to weep himself. it is for joy. It is all "I? I will not cry any more over now," said see, drying her tears and turning around. ' Nu! go and get dressed," she added, after she had grown a little calmer, but still holding Serozha's hand. She sat down near the bed on a chair which held the child's clothing. "How do you dress without me? How" - she wanted to speak simply and gayly, but she could not, and again she turned her head away. " I don't wash in cold water any more papa has forbidden but YOU have not seen Vasili Lukitch ? Here he comes. it
; :

speaking.

ANNA KAREN1NA.
heartily.
ling'],

537

But you are sitting on my things." And Serozha laughed She looked at him and smiled.

diishenka, golubtcltika ! [dear little soul, darhe cried again, throwing himself into her arms, as though he now better understood what had happened to him, as he saw her smile. " Take it And seeing off," said he, pulling off her hat. her head bare, he began to kiss her again. " What did you think of me? Did you believe that I was

"Mamma!

"

dead?" " I never believed it." " You believed me alive, my precious?" " I knew it! I knew it! " he replied, repeating his favorite phrase and seizing the hand which was smoothing his hair, he pressed the palm of it to his little mouth, and began to kiss it.
;

XXX.
VASILI LUKITCH, meantime, not at first knowing who this lady was, but learning from their conversation that it was Serozha's mother, the woman who had deserted her husband, and whom he did not know, as he had not come into the house till after her departure, was in great perplexity. Ought he to tell Aleksei Aleksandrovitch? On mature reflection he came to the conclusion that his duty consisted in going to dress Serozha at the usual hour, without paying any attenhis mother, or any one else. tion to a third person But as he reached the door and opened it, the sight of the caresses between the mother and child, the sound of their voices and their words, made him change his mind. He shook his head, sighed, and quietly closed the door. "I will wait ten minutes longer," he said to himself, coughing

and wiping his eyes. There was great excitement among the servants they all knew that the baruina had come, and that Kapitonuitch had let her in. and that she was in the child's room the}" knew, too, that their master was in the habit of going to Serozha each one felt that the husevery morning at nine o'clock band and wife ought not to meet, that it must be prevented. Kornei, the valet, went down to the Swiss to ask why Anna had been let in and finding that Kapitonuitch had taken her upstairs, he reprimanded him severely. The Swiss
slightly,
; ;
:

538

ANNA KARNINA.

maintained an obstinate silence till the valet declared that he deserved to lose his place, when the old man jumped at
him, and shaking his
fist in

his face, said,

you would not have let her in yourself? You've served here ten years, and had nothing but kindness from her, but you would have said, Now, go away You know what policy is, you sly dog. What from here you don't forget is to rob your master, and to carry off his
Vot,
' '
!

"Da/

raccoon-skin shubas ! " Soldier " replied KorneM, scornfull}*, and he turned towards the nurse, who was coming in just at this moment. " What do you think, Marya Yefimovna? He has let in Anna Arkadyevna, without saying anything to anybody, and just when Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, as soon as he is up, will be
!

"

going to the nursery." " " " What a said the nurse. But, scrape what a scrape Korne"i Vasilyevitch, find some way to keep your master, What while I run to warn her, and get her out of the way. " a scraps T hen the nurse went into the child's room, Serozha was telling his mother how Nddenka and he had fallen when sliding down a hill of ice, and turned three somersaults. Anna was listening to the sound of her son's voice, looking
! ! !

" Ach! nurse [iiyanya], my dear; I did not know that 3'ou were in the house," said Anna, coming to herself. " I don't live here I live with I came to
;

at his face, watching the play of his features, feeling his arms, but not hearing a word that he said. She must go away, she must leave him this alone she understood and felt. She had heard Vasili Lukitch's steps, and his little discreet cough, as he came to the door, and now she heard the nurse coming in ; but unable to move or to speak, she remained as fixed as a statue. " Baruina! Golubtcliika ! " [mistress, darling], said the nurse, coming up to Anna, and kissing her hands and her " God sent this shoulders. joy for our birthday celebraYou are not changed at all." tion
little
;
!

my

daughter.

give

my

best wishes to Serozha,

Anna Arkadyevna,

golub-

tchika."

The nurse suddenly began to weep, and to kiss Anna's hand. Serozha, with bright, joyful eyes, and holding his mother with one hand and his nurse with the other, was dancing in

KARENINA.

539

His old nurse's tenderhis little, bare feet on the carpet. ness towards his mother was delightful to him.

Mr.mma, she often comes to see me; and when she he began, but he stopped short when he perceived comes" that the nurse whispered something in his mother's ear, and that his mother's face assumed an expression of fear, and at the same time, of shame. Anna went to him.
"

My

"

precious

she said.
;

She could not say the word "farewell" [jpnxsftcftdS] but the expression of her face said it, and he understood. " " she said, calling him by My precious, precious Kutik " You will name which she used when he was a a
!

pet baby. " but she could not say another word. not forget me you Only then she began to remember the words which she
;

to say to him, but now it was impossible to say them. Serozha, however, understood all that she would have said he understood that she was unhappy, and that she loved him. He even understood what the nurse whispered in her ear he heard the words " always at nine o'clock," and he knew that they referred to his father, and that his mother must not meet him. He understood this, but one thing he could not understand why did her face express fear and shame? She was not to blame, but she was afraid of him, and seemed ashamed of something. He wanted to ask a question which would have explained this circumstance, but he did not dare he saw that she was in sorrow, and he pitied her. He silently clung close to her, and then he whispered, "Don't go yet! He will not come yet awhile." His mother pushed him away from her a little, in order to see if he understood the meaning of what he had said, and in the frightened expression of his face she perceived that he not only spoke of his father, but seemed to ask her how he ought to think about him. "Serozha, my dear," she said, "love him; he is better When you and I have been wicked to him. than I am have grown up, you will understand." No one is better than you," cried the child, with sobs of despair and, clinging to his mother's shoulders, he squeezed her with all the force of his little trembling arms. " " Dushenlca. my darling stammered Anna and, bursting into tears, she sobbed like a child, even as he sobbed. At this moment the door opened, and Vasili Lukitch came

wanted

'

540
in.

ANNA KARtfNINA.
;

Steps were heard at the other door and, in a frightened " He is whisper, he exclaimed, coming," and gave Anna her
hat.

Serozha threw himself on the bed, sobbing, and covered

his face with his hands.

Anna took them away to kiss yet once again his tear-stained cheeks, and then with quick steps Aleksei Aleksandrovitch met her at hurried from the room. When he saw her, he stopped and bowed his the door.
head.

Though she had declared a moment before that he was better than she, the swift glance that she gave him, taking in his whole person, awoke in her only a feeling of hatred and scorn for him, and jealousy on account of her son. She
hurriedly lowered her veil, and, quickening her step, almost She had entirety forgotten in her haste ran from the room. the playthings which, on the evening before, she had bought and she took them back with so much love and sadness with her to the hotel.
;

XXXI.
ALTHOUGH Anna had tried to be prepared beforehand, she did not realize how violently she would be moved at the sight of her son when she got back to the hotel again, she could " Yes not for a long time understand why she was there. I am alone again," she said to herself all is over and, without taking off her hat, she threw herself into an easychair near the fireplace. And, fixing her eyes on a bronze clock standing on a bracket between two windows, she
;

became absorbed in thought. The French maid, whom she had brought from abroad Anna looked at her with her, came in to get her orders A servant came with surprise, and replied, "By and by." to announce breakfast "By and by," she said once more. The Italian nurse came in, bringing the child whom she had just dressed the little one smik-d when she saw her mother, and beat the air with her little plump hands, like a she pulled at the starched tucks of her fish waving its fins embroidered skirt, and reached out her arms to Anna, who She could not help kissing lit r little could not resist her. daughter's fresh cheeks and pretty shoulders, and letting her catch hold of one of her fingers, screaming with delisiht, and jumping she could not help taking her in her arms, and
; : ; ; ;

ANNA KARENINA.
;

541

but the sight of this child made trotting her on her knee her feel clearly that the affection which she felt for it was not the same kind of love that she had for Serozha. Everybut she did not fill thing about this little girl was lovely the wants of her heart. All the strength of her affection had heretofore centered in her first-born, although he was the child of a man whom Her daughter was born under the saddest she did not love. circumstances, had never received the one hundredth part of the care which she had spent on Serozha. Moreover, the little girl only represented hopes, while Serozha was almost He had already begun to struggle a man, and a lovely man he loved his mother, unwith his thoughts and feelings derstood her, judged her perhaps, she thought, recalling and now she was separated from him, her son's words morally as well as materially and she saw no way of reme;
!

dying the situation. After she had given the

little one back to her nurse, and sent them away, Anna opened a locket containing Serozha's then, taking off her picture at the same age as his sister hat, she looked in an album for other pictures of him taken she wanted to compare them, and she at different periods took them all out of the album. (5ne was left, the last, the It represented Serozha astride a best photograph of him. chair, in a white frock, a smile on his lips, and a shadow in it was a perfect likeness of his best expression. his eyes Holding the album in her little deft hands, whiclx to-day moved with extraordinary effort, she tried with her slender but the photograph white fingers to take it from its place There was no paperstuck, and she could not get at it. cutter on the table, and she took up another photograph at random to push out the card from its place. It was a picture of Vronsky, taken in Rome, with long hair and a round felt hat. " Da! There he is," she said to herself, and as she looked at him she suddenly remembered that he was the cause of all her present suffering. Not once had she thought of him all the morning but the sight of this manly and noble face, which she knew and loved so well, brought a flood of affection to her heart. " Da! Where is he? Why does he leave me alone a prey to my grief?" she asked with bitterness, forgetting that she
; ;
;

herself carefully concealed

from him everything concerning

542

ANNA KARNINA.

her son. She sent a message to him, asking him to come to her immediately, and waited, with heavy heart, for the tender words with which he would try to console her. The servant returned to say that Vronsky had a visitor, but that he would could she receive him with Prince Yashvin, come very soon "He will not come who had just arrived in Petersburg. alone, and he has not seen me since yesterday at dinner," she thought; "and he does not come so that I can speak with him, but he comes with Yashvin." And a cruel thought " crossed her mind " If he no longer loves me ? She went over in her mind all the incidents of the past few she found her terrible thought confirmed by them. days The day before he had not dined with her they did not have
: : ;
;

same room now that they were in Petersburg and now he was bringing some one with him as if to avoid being alone
the
;

with her.

" But he must tell me this. I must know it. If it is true, I must do," she said, quite beside herself from imagining what would happen if Vronsky's indifference should prove to be true. She began to feel that he did not love her any more she imagined herself reduced to despair, and her she rang for her maid, went feelings made her over-excited * into her dressing-room and took extreme pains with her dress as though the sight of her toilet and way of dressing her hair would bring back Vronsky's love, if he had grown indifferent. The bell rung before she was ready. When she returned to the drawing-room, she saw not
I

know what

Vronsky but Yashvin, looking she had left lying on the table.

at Serozha's pictures, which

"We are old acquaintances," she said to him, going towards him and placing her small hand in Yashvin's enormous hand. He was all confusion, and this seemed odd, contrasted with his gigantic form and decided features. "We met last year at the races. Give them to me," she said, snatching her son's photographs from Vronksy who was
looking at them, while her eyes blazed at him significantly. " Were the races successful this saw the races year? at Rome on the Corso. But I believe you do not like life " I know abroad," she added, with a fascinating smile. we seldom meet, I know your tastes." you, and, although " I am very sorry for lhat, because my tastes are generhis moustache. ally bad," said Yashvin. biting the left side of After they had talked some little time, Yashviu, seeing

We

ANNA KARENINA.
Vronsky look at

543

his watch, asked Anna if she expected to Then stooping with his huge back, be in Petersburg long. he picked up his kepi. " Probably not long," she replied in some confusion, and looked at Vronsky. " " Then we shall not meet said Yashvin, turning again? '" "Where are you going to dine?" towards Vronsky. 'Come and dine with me," said Anna, with decision and, vexed because she could not conceal her confusion whenever her false situation became evident before a stranger, she " The table here is not blushed. good, but you will at least see each other. Of all AlekseVs messmates, you are his
;

favorite." " I should be delighted," replied Yashvin, with a smile which proved to Vronsky that he was very much pleased

with Anna. Yashvin took leave of them and went away, while Vrouksy lingered behind. " " Are you going too? she asked him. " I am alread\' late. Go ahead, I will overtake you," he shouted to Yashvin. She took his hand, and, without taking her eyes off from him, tried to find something to say to detain him. " Wait I want to ask you something," and she pressed " Da! did I do Vronsky 's hand against her cheek. wrong
;

him to dinner?" " You did quite right," he replied, with a calm smile. " Alekse"i, do you feel changed towards me?" she asked, " Alekse"i, I am tired pressing his hand between her own. of staying here. When shall we go away?" " how our life here soon. You can't
to invite

Soon, very imagine weighs upon me too," and he drew away his hand. "Nu! go, go away!" she said in an injured tone, and
quickly left him.

XXXII.
Vronsky came back to the hotel, Anna was not there. They told him that she had gone out with a lady who came to call upon her. This way of disappearing without saying where she was going, added to her agitated manner and the harsh tone with which she had taken away her son's photographs from him before Yashvin, made Vronsky wonder. He made up his mind to ask for an explanation, and waited in the drawing-room for her return.

WHEN

544

ANNA KAREN1XA.
;

Anna did not come back alone she brought with her her She was the lady who old aunt, the Princess Oblonskai'a. had come, and with whom she had been shopping. Without noticing Vronsky's uneasy, questioning manner, Anna began to talk gayly about the purchases she had made in the morning but he read a mental strain in her shining eyes, as she glanced at him furtively, and a feverish excitement in her movements which disturbed and troubled him. The table was laid for four, and just as they were going to
;

sit

down, Tushkievitch was announced.

He had come from

the Princess Betsy with a message for Anna. Betsy sent her excuses for not coming in person to say good-bye to her. She was not well, and asked Anna to come to see her between half -past seven and nine o'clock. Vronsky looked at Anna as if he would draw her attention to the fact that in naming a time she had taken the neces-

but Anna sary precautions against her meeting anybody did not seem to pay any attention to it. " I am very sorry, but I shall not be at liberty exactly between half-past seven and nine," she said with a slight
;

smile.

" The princess will be very much disappointed." " So shall I." "I suppose you are going to hear Patti," said Tushkievitch."

"Patti? You give me an idea. I could get a loge." " I can get you one."

I would

go

certainly, if

should be very much obliged to you," said Anna; but won't you dine with us?" Vronsky shrugged his shoulders slightly ; he did not know what to make of Anna. Why had she brought home the old princess, why was she keeping Tushkievitch to dinner, and above all, why did she ask him for a box? Was it to be thought of for a moment that she, in her position, could go to the opera on a subscription night, when she would meet all her acquaintances there ? He looked at her seriously, but she responded with a half -despairing, half-mocking look, the All through meaning of which he could not understand. dinner Anna was very lively, and seemed to flirt first with When the}' rose Tushkievitch, and then with Yashvin. from the table, Tushkievitch went to engage a box, and Yashvin went down-stairs to smoke with Vronsky after
;

"I "da!

ANNA KARtiNINA.
some time the

545

latter came upstairs again and found Anna in It was trimmed with a light silk dress bought in Paris. On her head she wore costly velvet and had an open front. white lace, which set off to advantage the striking beauty of her face. "Are you really going to the theatre?" he asked, trying to avoid looking at her. do you ask me in such a terrified way?" she replied, hurt because he did not look at her. shouldn't I go?" She did not seem to understand the meaning of his words. " Of course, there is no reason for it," said he, frowning. " That is exactly what I said," she replied, not wishing to see the sarcasm of his remark, and calmly putting on a long

"Why

"Why

perfumed glove. " for heaven's

sake, what is the matter with you? he said to her, trying to bring her to her senses, as her husband had more than once done in vain. " I don't know what you mean." " You know very well that you can't go there." " Why not? I am not going alone the Princess Varvara has gone to dress she is going with me." " " But don't he began. you know ? " " Da, I don't want to know she said, almost anything " I don't want to know. I sorry for anything crying. I have done ? No, no, no, indeed if it were to begin over

Anna,

"

Am

There is only one thing again, I would begin over again. of any consequence to you and me, and that is to know whether we love each other. Everything else is of no account. do we live separate here, and not see each other? Why can't I go where I please? I love you, and

Why

everything is right, if your feelings have not changed towards me," she said in Russian, with a peculiar look, which he could not understand; "why don't you look at

me?" He looked

at her, he saw her beauty, and the dress which was so becoming to her but this beauty and this elegance were pi'ecisely what irritated him.
;

"You know very well that nry feelings cannot change; but I beg you not to go out," he said again in French, in a beseeching voice, but with a cold look. She did not hear his words, but noticed only the coldness of his look, and replied with an injured air,

546
' '

ANNA
And
I for

KARfiNINA.

my

part beg you to explain

why

I should not

go."

Because it may cause you" He was confused. I don't understand at all Tushkie'vitch, n'est pas compromettant, and the Princess Varvara is no worse than anybody
''

"

else.

Ah

here she

is

"

XXXIII. FOR the first time in his life Vronsky felt towards Anna a sensation of vexation bordering on auger. What vexed him above all was that he could not explain the reason of his vexation that he could not tell Anna, frankly, that to appear at the opera in such a toilet, with a person like the princess, was equivalent to throwing down the gauntlet to public opinion to confessing herself a lost woman, and, consequently, renouncing all hope of 'ever going into society
;

again.

did she not understand it? What has happened her?" he asked himself. He felt at one and the same time a lessened esteem for Anna's character and a greater

"Why

to

sense of her beauty.

Going back
side Yashvin,

to his room, he sat

down,

full

of anxiety, be-

seltzer water and brandy, with his long legs stretched out on a chair. Vronsky followed his example. "You spoke of Lanskof's horse? He is a fine animal, and I advise you to buy him," began Yashvin, glancing at His crupper is tapering, but bis comrade's solemn face. You couldn't do better." what legs and what a head " I think I should do well to take him," replied Vronsky. All the while he was talking with his friend he never ceased thinking of Anna, and involuntarily listened to what was going on in the corridor, and kept looking at the clock on the mantel. "Anna Arkadyevna left word that she had gone to the theatre," a servant announced. Yashvin poured out another little glass of cognac and seltzer, drank it, and rose, buttoning up his uniform. "Well, shall we go?" said he, half smiling beneath his long mustachios, and showing that he understood the cause of Vronsky's vexation, without attaching much importance
!
!

who was drinking a mixture of

to

it.

ANNA
"
I

KARfiNINA.
r

547

not going," replied Vronsky, gloornil3 . promised, so 1 must go; good-bye! If 3"ou should change your mind, take Krasiusky's seat, which will be unoccupied," he added, as he went out. " No I have some work to do." " A man has trials with a wife, but with a not-wife it is still worse," thought Yashvin as he left the hotel. When Vronsky was alone, he rose, and began to walk up and down the room. "/}/ To-night? The fourth subscription night. My brother Yegor will be there with his wife, and with my in fact, all Petersburg will be there mother, probably Now she is going in, and is taking off her shuba, and there she is in the light Tushkivitch, Yashvin, the Princess Varvara What am I to do? am 1 afraid? or have I given Tushkievitch the right to protect her? However you may look at it, it is absurd, it is absurd Why should she place me in such a ridiculous position?" he said, with a gesture This movement jostled the stand on which the of despair. tray with the cognac and seltzer water was placed, and nearly knocked it over in trying to rescue it, he upset it he rang, and gave a kick to the table. entirely " If you want to remain in my service, don't forget what you have to do," said he to the valet who appeared. "Don't let this happen again; why didn't you take these things away before?" The valet, knowing his innocence, wished to justify himself; but one glance at the barin showed him that it was best for him to be silent and, making a hasty excuse, he got down upon the floor to pick up the broken glasses and water

am

"I

bottles.

"That
coat."

is

not your business; call a waiter, and get

my

Vronsky entered the theatre at half-past nine. had begun.

The play

The Kapelldiener recognized Vronsky, as he took off his shuba, and called him "your Excellency" \_Vashe /Sidtelstvo]. The lighted lobby was empty, with the exception of the Kapelldiener and two valets holding shubas, and listening at the doors the sound of the orchestra could be heard carethe door opened as fully accompanying a woman's voice another Kapelldiener, who had charge of seating the spec;

548
tators,'

ANNA KARENINA.

passed through, and the phrase, as it came to an end, readied Vronsky's ears. He could not hear the last part, for but from the applause which folthe door had closed again lowed, he knew that the aria was ended. The plaudits still continued as he went into the auditorium, brilliantly lighted with lustres and bronze chandeliers; on the stage, the prima donna, with bare shoulders and covered with diamonds, was bowing and smiling, and, with the assistance of the tenor, who gave her his hand, was bending forward to pick up numerous bouquets. gentleman with carefully oiled hair reached out his arms to hand her a jewel-case, and the whole audience, boxes and
;

The parquet, shouted, applauded, and rose to their feet. Kapelmeixter, fixing his white necktie, came to meet him. Vronsky went forward to the middle of the parquet, stopped and looked through the audience, paying less attention than ever to the stage, the noise, and all this crowd of spectators crammed into the theatre. There were the same ladies in the boxes, with the same officers behind them, the same gayly dressed women, the same uniforms, and the same dress coats in the gallery the
;

and in all this closely packed house, perhaps forty people, men and women, represented society. Vronsky's attention was turned towards this oasis. The act was just over as Vronsky went towards the first row of seats, and stopped near the railing beside Serpukhovskoi, who, seeing him at a distance, had beckoned to him
;

same disorderly crowd

with a smile.

Vronsky had not yet seen Anna, and purposely refrained from looking for her but from the direction in which all eyes were turned, he guessed the place where she was to be
;

found. Worse yet, he trembled for fear of seeing Aleksei Aleksandrovitch to his joy the latter was not at the theatre
;

this evening.

"How unmartial you look," said Serpukhovskoi; "one would take you for a diplomat an artist anybody." " Yes on my return home I put on citizen's dress," replied Vronsky, slowly taking out his opera-glasses. " That is why I envy you when I came back to Russia, I must confess that I regretted to put these on again, when I got home from abroad," said he, pointing to his epaulets.
;
;

"

mourn

for

my

liberty."

Serpukhovskoi had long since given up trying to push

ANNA KAKENINA.
Vronsky along

549

in his military career, but he continued to have a warm affection for him, and seemed especially friendly towards him on this evening. " It is too bad that you lost the first act." Vronskv, while listening with one ear, examined the boxes and the first tier of seats, with his opera-glass suddenly Anna's head came into view, proud, and strikingly beautiful, in its frame of laces, next a lady in a turban, and a baldheaded old man, who blinked as he gazed through his operaAnna was in the fifth box, not more than twenty feet glass. from him she was seated in the front of the box, turning Her neck, her slightly away, and was talking with Yashvin. beautiful, rich shoulders, the radiance of her eyes and face, all brought her back to him us she had looked that evening But her beauty no longer inspired at the ball in Moscow.
;
;

with the same feelings there was nothing mysterious about them so, while more than ever under the sway of her charm, he felt almost hurt to see her so beautiful. She did not look at him, but he felt that she had already seen him. When Vronsky again directed his opera-glass towards the box, he saw the Princess Varvara, very red in the face, looking frequently with a forced laugh at the next box Anna, striking her closed fan against red velvet, was looking away, evidently intending not to notice what was going on about her. Yashvin's face wore the same expression as when a game went against him he drew his left mustachio more and more into his mouth, frowned, and looked across into the neighboring box. In this box were the Kartasofs. Vronsky knew them, and he knew that Anna, too, had been on friendly terms with them Madame Kartasova, a little, thin woman, was standing with her back to Anna, and putting on an operaher face was pale cloak, which her husband handed to her and angry she seemed to be expressing her mind very Kartasof, a stumpy, bald-headed freely about something. man, kept looking at 'Anna, and trying to calm his wife. When Madame Kartasova left the box, her husband lingered, trying to catch Anna's eye, to bow to her; but she evidently did not wish to notice him, and leaned back to speak to Yashvin, whose shaven head was bent towards her. Kartasof went out without having bowed, and the box was
hiii)
; : ;

left

empty.
this
little

Vrousky did not understand the meaning of

550

ANNA KARtiNINA.

scene, but he felt perfectly sure that Anna had been mortihe saw by the expression of her face that she was summoning all her strength to keep up her part to the end, and to appear perfectly calm. Those who knew nothing of her history, who could not hear her old friends' expressions of indignation at her appearing in this way, in all the splendor of her beauty and of her dress, would not have suspected that this woman was undergoing the same feelings of shame as a malefactor at the pillory. Vronsky, deeply troubled, went to his brother's box, hoping to learn something about the matter. He intentionally crossed the parquet, on the side opposite to Anna's box, and as he went, ran across his old colonel, who was talking with two of his acquaintances. Vronsky heard the Karenius' name spoken, and noticed that the colonel hastened to call to him aloud, while he gave his friends a significant
fied
;

look.

"Ah! Vronsky! When shall we see you again in the regiment? we shan't ask your permission to give you a banYou are ours, every inch of you," said the colonel. quet. " I shan't have the time now. I am awfully sorry," replied Vronsk}', going rapidly up the steps which led to his
brother's box. The old countess, his mother, with her little steel-colored Varia and the young Princess Sorocurls* was in the box. kina were walking together in the lobby. As soon as she saw

her brother-in-law, Varia went back to her mother with her companion, and then, taking Vronsky's arm, broached the She showed more excitement subject which concerned him. than he had ever seen in her. " I think it is dastardly and vile Madame Kartasova had she began. no right to do so. Madame Karenina" "But what is- the matter? I don't know what you
;

mean." " What? you haven't heard anything about it?" " You know very well that I should be the last person to

know anything of the kind." "Is there a more wicked

creature in the world than this

Madame Kartasova

"

" But what has she done? " "My husband told me about it: she insulted Madame Rare" lina. Her husband began to speak across to her from his box, and Madame Kartasova made a scene about it.

ANXA
and went "
out.*'

A'AJIJ-:\1XA.

551

The}' say she said something very offensive in a loud voice,

Count, your maman is calling you," said the young Princess Sorokiua, opening the door of the box. 'I have been waiting for you all this time," said his mother to him, with a sarcastic smile; "we never see anything of you now." The son felt that she could not conceal a smile of satisfaction.

" Good evening, maman.

replied, coolly. " AVhat, I hope

am coming

to see you," he

you are not going faire la cour a Madame K<(renina" [to pay court to Madame Kare*mna], she added, when the young Princess Sorokina was out of hearing "elle
;

fjit sensation.

On
I

oublie la Patti

pour

elle" [she

is

making a

sensation.

Patti

is

" Maman,

forgotten for her].

to

have begged you not to speak

me

about

her," he replied, gloomily. "f only say what everybody is saying." Vronsky did not reply ; and after exchanging a few words He met his brother with the young princess, he went out. at the door. " said his brother, "how abominable! "Ah, Alekse"i She is a silly thing, nothing more. I am going to see Madame Kare'nina. Let us go together." Vronsky did not listen he ran hastily down the steps, feeling that he ought to do something, but knew not what it
!
;

was.
Stirred with anger, furious at the false position in which placed them both, he nevertheless was full of pity for her.

Anna had

As he went from the parquet towards Anna's loge, he saw Stremof leaning on the box, talking with her. "There are no more tenors," he said; " la moule en est
brise" [the mould
is

broken].
her,
it

Vronsky bowed to " You came late,

aria," s;iid scornful.

and stopped to speak with Stremof. seems to me, and you lost the best Anna to Vronsky, in a way which seemed to him

"

am
.

not a very good judge," he replied, looking at her

said, smiling,

severely

"Like Prince Yashvin," she

Patti sings too loud."

"who

thinks

552

ANNA KARfiNINA.

"Thank you," she said, taking the programme that Vronsky passed to her, iu her little hand, encased in a long glove and at the same moment her beautiful face quivered she rose and went to the back of the box. The last act had hardly begun, when Vronsk}-, seeing Anna's box empty, rose, left the parquet, and went back to
; ;

the hotel.
also returned Yronsky found her just as she at the theatre, sitting in the first chair she had come to, near the wall, looking straight before her. When she saw Vronsky enter, she glanced at him without moving.
;

Anna had

was

"Anna," he
"It
is

said.

you, you who are the cause of it all!" she exclaimed, rising, with tears of auger, and despair in her voice. "I begged you, I implored you, not to go I knew that it would be unpleasant to you." "Unpleasant!" she exclaimed; "it was horrible! If I She said should live a hundred years, I shouldn't forget it. that it was a disgrace to sit near me." " She was a fool to say such a thing but why did you run the risk of hearing it; why did you expose yourself?" " I hate your calm way. You should never have driven me to this if you loved me " " " Anna what has my love to do with this ? "Yes, if you loved me as I love you, if you suffered as " she said, looking terrified. I He pitied her and protested his love, because he saw that but in the bottom of his it was the only way to calm her heart he was angry with her. She, on the contrary, drank in his expi'essions of love, which he thought idle to repeat, and gradually became her; ;

self again.

Two

days later they

left

for

the

country,

completely

reconciled.

ANNA KARtiNINA.

553

PART
I.

VI.

DARYA ALEKSANDROVNA accepted the proposition which the Levins had made her, to come with her children and spend the summer at Pokrovsky for her place, Yergushovo,
;

Stepan Arkadyevitch, who was himself detained by business at Moscow, heartily approved of this arrangement, and expressed much regret that lie could come to them only for a day or two. Besides the Oblonskys and their troop of children, the Levins had with them the

was

falling to ruin.

old princess, who considered her presence near her daughter at this particular time indispensable they had also Varenka,
;'

Kitty's

among

friend, and Serge"! Ivanovitch, who alone this host at Pokrovsky represented the Levin side

Soden

Konof the family, and even he was but partly a Levin. stantin, though strongly attached to all those who lived beneath his roof, discovered within himself a slight longing for his old ways, which proved that the " Shcherbatsky element," as he called it, was somewhat overpowering. The old house, so long deserted, had now scarcely an unoccupied room. Each day, before seating herself at the table, the princess would count the guests, to make sure that there while Kitty, like an excellent housewere not thirteen keeper, devoted herself to providing chickens and ducks for the satisfaction of the various appetites of young and old, made keen by the country air. The family were at table, and the children were planning to go out and hunt for mushrooms with the governess and Varenka, when, to the great astonishment of all, Serge"! Ivanovitch evinced a desire to join the expedition. ; Allow me to go with you," said he, addressing Varenka. " I am very fond of getting mushrooms I think it is a very
; ' ;

occupation." With pleasure," she answered, blushing. Kitty exchanged looks with Dolly. This proposition confirmed an idea which had engrossed them for some time. After dinner the two brothers chatted over their coffee, but Sergei Ivanovitch watched the door through which the
*'

fine

554

ANNA KARfiNINA.

children woukl have to pass out on their way to the field, in her linen dress, with a white kerchief over her head, he interrupted the conversa-

and as soou as he saw Yarenka

tion,

swallowed the last drop in his cup, and exclaimed, " " I am I am coming, Varvara Andrevua coming " What do you think of my Varenka? Is she not charming?" said Kitty to her husband, loud enough to be heard bv Sergei Ivauovitdi. "And how lovely she is Perfectly
!

"

lovely

You constantly forget your condition, Kitty. You ought not to shout so," interrupted the princess, coming hastily through the way. On hearing Kitty's voice and her mother's reproof, Varenka Her face was animated, blushquickly retraced her steps. ing, disturbed, because she felt that there was something unusual going on. Kitty kissed her, and mentally bestowed a benediction. "I shall be very glad if a certain thing comes to pass," she said to her, in a whisper. "Are you coming with us?" asked the young girl of Levin, to hide her embarrassment. " I have some new carts to Yes, as far as the barns where shall I find you?" he asked examine. And you
;

"

his wife.

"

Upon

the terrace."
II.

THIS terrace was a favorite resort of the ladies after dinner, and to-day a very important matter was under considerBesides the usual manufacture of various articles ation. destined for the infant wardrobe, certain sweetmeats were
being concocted after a process used by the Shcherbatskys, but unknown to the old Agafya Mikhailovna. Flushed, with tumbled hair, and with her sleeves rolled up to the elbow, she held the pan of sweetmeats above a small portable stove, in very ill humor, inwardly registering a vow that The old princess, author of this the raspberry should burn. new concoction, and feeling herself abused because she was not allowed to superintend it. surveyed these actions of the housekeeper with a side glance, at the same time talking with an indifferent air to her daughters. The conversation of the three ladies fell upon Varenka, and Kitty, not wishing to be

ANNA KAR&NINA.

555

understood by Agafya Mikhuflovna, spoke in French. She hoped to learn that Sergei Ivauovitch had declared himself. What do you think of it, mamma?" " I think he can consider himself the best match in Russia but as for he is no longer in his first youth; I know her, she is an excellent person, but he might"
;

" But think,

mamma

Sergei Ivanovitch, with his position

;

no need to marry for family or fortune what he needs is some sweet, intelligent, loving }"oung girl. When they come in from their Oh, that would be so nice What do vou say to walk, I shall read it all in their eves it, Dolly?" " Do not get so excited," resumed the princess. "Mamma, how did papa ask you to marry him?" said
in the world, has
!

Kitty suddenly, proud, in her position as married woman, to be able to approach important subjects with her mother as

an equal. " Very simply," answered the princess, her face brightening at the remembrance. You loved him before he spoke ? " " Do you suppose that you have invented Certainty. something new ? It was decided, as it always is, by looks and smiles. I doubt if Kostia said anything so very partic' k

ular to you."

" Oh

he
it

seems since then, already " I've been thinking," began Kitty, after a silence, during which the three ladies had been preoccupied with the same " thoughts. Ought not Sergei Ivanovitch to be warned that Varenka has had a first love ? " " You imagine that all men attach as much importance to " I am convinced that that as your husband," said Dolly. " the remembrance of Vronsky torments him still " It said Kitty, with a pensive look. does," " should that him?" asked the dislong
! !

How

he wrote his declaration with a bit of chalk. "

Why
;

disquiet

princess,

posed to resent the inference that her maternal watchfulness seemed to be called in question. " Vronsky did make love to you but what young girl escapes that?"

"How

fortunate for Kitty that

said

scene,"
pitied.

Dolly;

"and how

Anna was happy

"It

then, while I've often thought of it." is quite useless to think of that heartless

the are changed! Kitty thought herself to be the

rdles

Anna appeared upon

woman,

"

556

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

exclaimed the princess, who was not resigned to having Levin for her son-in-law instead of Vronsky. " Yes, indeed; and as for me, I do not wish to think of
her at
all."

"

Whom
I

do you wish not

to think

appearing upon the terrace. not repeat his question.

No

about?" asked Levin, one answered, and he did

sorry to disturb your tte-d,-tete ," said he, vexed to he had interrupted a conversation which they were unwilling to continue in his presence and for a second he found himself in sympathy with the old servant, furious at having to submit to the dominion of the Shcherbatskys. Nevertheless, he approached Kitty with a smile. li Nu! Are you coming to meet the children? I have Will you join us, Princess?" ordered the horses. Levin could not bring himself to call the princess " Maman," as his brothers-in-law did, although he loved and
find that
;

"

am

respected her it seemed to him like disloyalty to the memory This fancy annoyed the princess. of his own mother. "Then I will walk," said Kitty, rising to take her husband's arm. " JVw/ Agafya Mikhai'lovna, are your preserves successIs the new method good?" asked Levin, smiling at ful? the housekeeper in his desire to cheer her. "Perhaps they're good; but, in my opinion, much overdone."
;

"At least it will prevent their spoiling, Agafya Mikha'i" And lovna," said Kitty, divining her husband's intention.
you know that there is no more in the ice-house. As for your spiced meats, mamma assures me that she has never eaten any better," she added, adjusting, with a smile, the
housekeeper's loosened neckerchief. "Do not try to console me, baruina," replied Agafya Mikhaflovna, giving Kitty a look of increased sadness. "To see you with him is enough to content me." This familiar way of speaking of her master touched Kitty. " Come and show us the best places to find mushrooms." The old woman raised her head, smiling. The smile

"One would gladly guard you from all were possible." " Follow my advice, and put over each pot of jelly a round piece of paper soaked in rum, and you will not need ice in order to preserve them," said the princess.
seemed
hatred,
to

say,

if

it

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

557

III.

KITTY had observed the momentary discontent which had

vividly betrayed itself in her husband's face, and she was very glad to have a moment alone with him. They set out along the dusty road quite bestrewn with corn and grain, and Levin quickly forgot his painful disquietude in the pure and ever fresh pleasure which his dear wife's presence gave

him. Without having anything especially to say to her, he yet longed to hear Kitty's voice, to see her eyes, to which her peculiar condition lent an expression unusually sweet
so glad to be alone with you for a minute I love my family, but yet I miss our winter evenings, when we two were alone together. Do you know what we were talking " about when you came ? " "
I
!

and "

serious.

" Lean on me

it

will tire

you

less."

am

About

jellies?

"Yes; but about marriage proposals, too; about Sergei Have you noticed them? What do you and Varenka.
think of it?" added she, turning towards her husband the
better to watch his face. " 1 don't know what to think. Sergei has always been a marvel to me. You know he loved a young girl once, and she died ; it is one of my childish memories. Since then I believe he ignores the existence of women."

"But

He has no life but the spiritual "You mean that he is incapable

envy him
that, in spite of
;

Varenka?" I do not know. "Perhaps Sergei "

is

too pure a man.

of falling in love," said she, expressing her husband's thought in her own way. " I do not say that, but he has no weak points, and I

my happiness. He does not live duty which guides him, and so he has a right to be serene and well satisfied." "And you? Why should you be dissatisfied with your" self ? she asked with a smile. She knew that her husband's extreme admiration for Serge"! Ivanovitch and his discouragement about himself were connected with a vivid realization of his own happiness
for himself
it

is

and a constant desire to grow better. " I am too happy. I have nothing on earth to wish for, except perhaps that you should never go wrong and when I
;

558

ANNA
conscious of
all

KARtfNINA.
especiallj*

compare myself with others,

with

am

my

brother, I

" But aren't you always thinking about your future, about your farming, about your book?" " Yes as of a task of which I am to
;

my

inferiority."

rid myself.
is

superficially, Ah, if 1 could love

trying
!

my

duty as I love you

It

you who are to blame." "Would you exchange with Sergei, love nothing but " your duty and the general welfare of mankind ? " The fact is, I am too happy to reason No, indeed. So you think the proposal will take place to-day, clearly. do you?" he asked, after a moment's silence. "Ah, here comes the wagonette to meet us." "Kitty, you haven't fatigued yourself?" cried the princess.

" Not the least in the world, mamma." They continued walking.
IV.

VARENKA seemed very charming to Sergei Ivanovitch to-day. As he walked beside her there came back to him all that he
had heard of her past life, and all the goodness and amiability which he had himself discovered in her. A strange feeling
a feeling experienced only once before, stole into his heart long ago in his first youth and the joy which the }'oung girl's presence caused him was so keen that, as he put into her basket a huge mushroom which he had just found, their eyes met with a too expressive look. " I'm going to hunt mushrooms on my own account," he said, fearing that he should yield like a child to the delight " for I see efforts are not appreciated." of the moment " my " Why should I resist? he thought, as he left the boundary line of the woods and was lost to view among the trees and there, as he lit his cigar, he gave himself up to his " The affection I have for her has no passion in thoughts. it. It seems to me it is a mutual inclination which would not
; ;

in the least. only serious objection to marthe promise I made myself when Marie died, to remain faithful to her memory." Sergei Ivanovitch was well aware that this objection related only to thnt poetical rMe which he played in the eyes of the No woman, no young girl, could answer better to all world. that he sought for in the one he should marry. She had the

fetter

my life

My

riage

is

ANNA KARNINA.
;

559

charm of youth without childishness was accustomed to society without wishing to shine in it; possessed a lofty reMoreover, she was ligion based upon serious conviction.
poor and without family, and would not, therefore, like Kitty, impose upon her husband a numerous relationship. And this young girl loved him. Modest as he was, he could not avoid The difference in age need be no obstacle. Hud seeing it. not Varenka herself once said that it was only in Russia that in France that dans la a man of fifty was considered old
;

Then at force de I'age was considered the vigor of life? forty one must be imjeune homme [a young man]. When he caught sight of Varenka's agile, graceful figure between the old birch trees, his heart beat joyously and as he tossed away his cigar he went to meet the young girl, determined to offer himself to her.
;

V.
" VARVARA ANDREVNA, when I was very young I made for nryself an ideal of the woman whom I should love, and whom
I should be very

happy

passed dream.

till

now without

to call niy finding her.

offer

wife.

I love

you and

You alone realize my you my hand." With these

My

life

has

Ivanovitch looked at Varenka as she knelt on the grass within ten steps of him, defending a mushroom from the attacks of Grisha, to save it for little Maslia. " This way, this way; here are quantities, little one," she called in her charming, ringing voice. She did not rise when she saw Koznuishef approaching, but her whole being expressed her joy at seeing him. " Did you find any?" she asked, turning her sweet face towards him with a smile. " Not any at all," he answered. After pointing out the best places to the children, she rose and joined Serge" i Ivauovitch. They walked a few steps in silence. Varenka, stifle.d with emotion, suspected what Koznuishef had in mind. Suddenly, though not really in the mood for talking, she said almost involuntarily, " If you have not found any, it is because there are never as many mushrooms in the woods as along the edge." Koznuishef sighed without answering. It displeased him because she spoke about trifles. They continued walking,

words

in his heart, Serge"!

560

ANNA KARENINA.
;

going further and further from the children. The moment was propitious for coining to an understanding and, as Sergei Ivanovitch observed the young girl's disturbed manner and downcast eyes, he felt that he should wrong her if he kept He made an effort to recall his recent thoughts on silence. but instead of the speech which he the subject of marriage had prepared, he asked, What is the difference between a toadstool and a mush;

'

room ? "

lips trembled as she answered, only difference is in the foot." Both of them felt The words which might have that this was the end of it. united them were not spoken, and the violent emotion which had stirred them died little by little away. " The foot of the mushroom reminds one of a black beard badly shaved," said Sergei Ivanovitch calmly.

Varenka's " The

"Quite true," answered Varenka, smiling.

Then

their

walk

took involuntarily the direction of the children. Varenka was puzzled and hurt, and yet relieved. Sergei Ivanovitch mentally reviewed his arguments in favor of marriage and found them mistaken. He could not be unfaithful to Marie's
Gently, children, gently," cried Levin, as the children sprang towards Kitty with shouts of glee. Behind the children came Sergei Ivanovitch and Varenka. She knew by their Kitty did not need to question them. calm and slightly mortified manner, that the hope which she had been nursing would not be realized. " That will not happen," she said to her husband as they

memory. "

went

in.

VI.

THE group reassembled on the terrace, while the children The consciousness that an important took their supper. event had occurred, although it was a negative one, weighed upon every one, and in order to cover the general embarrassment, they talked with a forced animation. Sergei Ivanovitch and Varenka seemed like a couple of students who had failed in their examinations. Levin and Kitty, more in love than ever with one another, felt guilty in their happiness, as if it were an impolite comment upon the unskilfulness of those who did not know how to be happy. Stepan

AXNA KAKENIXA.

5ol

Arkadvevitch and, perhaps, the old prince were expected by the e veiling train. "Take my word for it, Alexandre will not come," said the

ancient couple? The sound of a carriage in the aveuue interrupted the conversation. " "It's Stiva exclaimed Levin. "And 1 see some one beside him that must be papa. Grisha, run and meet
!

" He pretends to think it wrong to disturb the freedom of young married couples." "Papa has quite abandoned us thanks to this principle, we are not to see him any more. And why does he look upon us as young married people, when we are already an "
;

princess.

them."

But Levin was mistaken. Stepan Arkady evitch 's companion was a fine, tall fellow, named Vasenka Veslovsky. He wore a Scotch cap, with long floating ribbons, and was a distant relative of the Shcherbatskys, one of the ornaments of society at Moscow and Petersburg. Veslovsky was not in the least disconcerted by the surprise which his appearance caused he greeted Levin gayly, reminded him that they had met before, and lifted Grisha into the carriage. Levin followed on foot. He was put out at the non-arrival of the prince, whom he liked, and still more so at the intrusion of this stranger, whose presence was quite unnecessary. This unpleasant impression increased when he saw Vasenka gallantly kiss Kitty's hand, before all the people assembled on
;

the door-steps. "Your wife and I are cousins, and old acquaintances," said the young man, pressing Levin's hand a second time. ^V/" said Oblonsky, greeting his mother-in-law, and " Is there kissing his wife and children. any game? We've come with murderous intent, Veslovsky and I. How well " said he, kissing his wife's hand, and you look, D61inka caressing her affectionately. Levin, who had a few moments before been so happy, witnessed this scene with indignation. did those same lips kiss yesterday?" thought he ; " and why is Dolly so pleased, when she does not believe he loves her any longer?" He was vexed at the gracious reception given Veslovsky by the princess. The politeness of Sergei Ivanovitch towards Oblonsky struck him as hypocritical, for he knew
!

Whom

562

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

that his brother had no very high esteem for Stepan Arka-

dy evitdb.

As for Varenka, she seemed to him like some demure nun, capable of making herself pleasing for the sake of a But his stranger, though she did not dream of marriage. displeasure was at its height when he saw Kitty return the smile of this fellow, who apparently considered his visit as a piece of good fortune for every one. The smile would confirm him in this absurd conceit. When they all went chatting into the house, he seized the moment to escape. Kitty had observed her husband's illhumor, and ran after him but he shook her off, declaring that he had business to attend to at the office, and disapHis occupations had never seemed more important peared. to him than they did to-day.
;

VII.

ON being summoned to supper, Levin went into the house again he found Kitty and Agafya Mikha'ilovna standing on the stairs, consulting over what wines to put on the table. "Z)a/ Why all this fuss ? Have things just as usual." " No Stiva doesn't drink " "What is the matter, Kostia?" asked Kitty, trying to detain him but, instead of listening, he went his way, When there, he was taking great strides to the parlor. impatient to take part in the conversation.
;
;

"Well,

shall

we go hunting to-morrow?" asked Stepan

Arkady evitch. " Do let us

" Very willingly have you had any hunting this year?" answered Levin, with a false cordiality which Kitty under" I doubt if we find stood. any woodcock, but snipe are We shall have to start early shall you mind that, plenty.
;

go," said Veslovsky, leaning back in his chair, with one of his legs under him.

Stiva ?
like."

"

"No,

indeed; I'm ready to stay awake

;

all

night

if

you

" Ah, yes you are quite capable of it," said Dolly, with some irony, " and also of keeping other people awake. I'm
not going to eat any supper to-night, I'm going to bed." " No, Dolly," exclaimed Stepan Arkadyevitch, going and taking a seat near his wife.

ANNA KARtiNINA.
"

563

Do you know I've so many things to tell you about. She lives only seventy versts Veslovsky has seen Anna? [46.41 miles] away from here he is going there when he
;

leaves us, and I intend to go, too."

"Have you really been to Anna Arkady evna's ?" asked Dolly of Vasenka, who had come up to the ladies, and had seated himself beside Kitty at the supper-table. Levin was talking with the princess and Varenka, but he observed that this little group was full of animation.. He imagined that they were talking confidentially, and it seemed to him that his wife's face expressed a deep tenderness as she looked into Vasenka's pleasing face. " Their establishment is superb," Veslovsky went on viva" and it is It isn't my ciously, delightful to be with them. place to judge them."

" What are their plans?" " To pass the winter in Moscow, I believe." " It will be charming to meet^there again. "When shall " you be there ? Oblonsky asked the young man. " In July." " " And you? he asked his wife. " When you have gone away, I shall go alone that will not disturb 'any one, and I am determined to see Anna. She is a woman whom I both pity and love." " Just the " And answered
;

"

thing,"

Stepan Arkadyevitch.
;

you, Kitty?

'I?
question

Why

should I go to see her?" said Kitty

and the

"Do

still more, and with a "So you are glance at her husband she rose to join him. going hunting to-morrow, are you?" she asked him. Levin's jealousy at seeing Kitty blush was boundless, and her question seemed to him simply a proof of her interest in the young man. She was evidently in love with him, and wished to have him pleasantly entertained. " Certainly," he answered, in a voice so constrained that he himself was horrified at it. "I wish you would pass the day with us to-morrow; Dolly has hardly seen her husband yet." It was in this way that Levin translated these words. " Do not You may go but let me separate me from him. enjoy the enchanting presence of this attractive stranger."

" she "

is

made her blush with vexation. you know Anna Arkadyevna?" asked Veslovsky; a very fascinating woman."

Yes," answered Kitty, blushing

564

ANNA KARtfNINA.

Vasenka, not suspecting the effect his presence had produced, rose from the table and approached Kitty with an
affectionate smile.

" " How does he dare to look at her in that way ? thought Levin, pale with anger. are to go hunting to-morrow, are we not?" asked Vdsenka innocently, and again he seated himself across a chair with one leg under him, as his habit was. Levin was wild with jealousy, and already pictured himself in the position of a deceived husband, whom his wife and her lover were plotting to send away, that they might enjoy each other in peace. Nevertheless, he talked with Veslovsky, asked him about his hunting* gear, and promised him with a cordial air that their hunting party should be made up for the succeeding day. The old princess came near putting an end to her sonin-law's torture by advising Kitty to go to bed, when, as if expressly to exasperate l^evin, Vasenka tried to kiss her hand as he bade her good night. " That is not the custom with us," she said brusquely, drawing away her hand. How had she given this }"oung man the right to take such liberties with her? and how could she be so awkward in showing her disapprobation ?

"We

Oblonsky had been made good-humored by several glasses

of good wine, and a poetic mood came upon him. "Why should you go to bed this lovely evening, Kitty? See, the moon is rising ; it is just the time for serenading. Vasenka has a charming voice, and he has brought two new ballads with him which he and Varvara Audrevna might sing

tons."

For a long time after they had all left, Levin sat obstinately silent in an easy-chair, while the voices of his guests singing the new ballads reached him from the garden. After vainly questioning him as to the cause of his anno}'ance, Kitty finished by smilingly asking him whether Veslovsky were its cause. This question loosened his tongue. He stood up in front of his wife with his eyes flashing under his contracted brows, and his hands pressed against his chest as if to keep down his anger, and in a trembling voice and with a manner which would have been harsh if his face had not expressed such keen suffering, he said, "Don't think me jealous; the word

ANNA KARENINA.
is

565

Could I be jealous and at the same disgusting to me. time believe in you? But 1 am hurt, humiliated, that anyone dares to look at you so." " Why, how did he look at me?" asked Kitty, honestly She trying to recall the smallest incidents of the evening. had thought Vasenka's attitude at supper a little familiar, but You know you are the only she dared not acknowledge it. person in the world for me. But you would not wish me to shut myself up away from everybody?" She had been wounded by this jealousy of his, which spoiled even the most innocent pleasures; but she was ready now to renounce them all for the sake of quieting him. " This Try to understand how absurd my position is. fellow is my guest, and if it were not for this silly gallantry, and his habit of sitting on his leg, I should have nothing to he certainly thinks himself irreproachreproach him with " able. But I am obliged to seem polite, and " But, Kostia, you exaggerate things." interrupted Kitty, glad at heart to see how passionately he loved her. "And \rhen you are an object of worship to me, and we are so happy, that this trashy fellow should have the right after all, he may not be a trashy fellow but why should our " happiness be at his mercy ? ' I believe I know what has offended Listen, Kostia
'
;

you."

"

and she recounted the mysterious conversation which had aroused his suspicions. " Katya," cried he, observing his wife's pale, excited face, " I am I am a burden GolubcJiik, forgive me tiring you I am a fool to you, Katya How could I torture myself " over such a trifle
!
! ! ! !

Nu da? nu da?" asked Levin, "You watched us at supper"

excitedly.

"

am sorry for you." "For me? for me? How

I
I

absurd I am; and to punish

intend to heap the most irresistible favors upon this fellow," said Levin, kissing his wife's hands. "You'll " see

myself,
!

VIII.

Two hunting-wagons were waiting at the door the next morning before the ladies were awake. Laska followed the coachman, all alive with excitement, quite understanding

566

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

what was on foot, and strongly disapproving the huntsmen's Vasenka Veslovsky was the first to appear, in a tardiness.
green blouse, with a belt of fragrant Russia leather, shod in handsome new boots, his Scotch cap, with ribbons, on his head, and an old-fashioned English gun in his hand. Laska sprang towards him for a greeting, and to ask in her way if the others were coming but, finding that she was not understood, she returned to her post, and waited with At last the door opened bent head and pricked-up ears. noisily, and let out Krak, the pointer, followed by his master, Stepan Arkady ev itch, with gun in hand and cigar in mouth. " Down, down, Krak !" exclaimed Oblonsky, gayly, trying to avoid the dog's paws, who, in her joy, caught at his gun He had on great boots, old trousers, a and game-pouch. to make up for this, short overcoat, and * crushed hat
; ;

his

gun was of the most modern pattern, and

his

game-bag

Vasenka as well as his cartridge-box defied all criticism. saw that the height of elegance for a huntsman lay in subHe made ordinating everything to the hunting apparatus.
his mind to profit by this example next time, and looked admiringly at Stepan Arkadyevitch. " Nu! Our host is late," remarked he. " He has a young wife," said Oblonsky, smiling. " And what a He must have gone in to charming wife see her again, for I saw him all ready to start." Stepan Arkadyevitch was right. Levin had gone back to Kitty to make her say over again that she forgave him for his absurd behavior of the evening before. Kitty was obliged to declare that she did not begrudge his two days' absence, and promised to send news of her health the next This journey was not pleasing to the young wife, but day. she resigned herself to it cheerfully when she saw her husband's interest and animation. thousand pardons, gentlemen !" cried Levin, hurrying " Has the breakfast been towards his companions. put up?

up

"A
!

charge before he was waylaid by the cowherd, who wished to consult him about the heifers then by the carpenter, whose erroneous ideas as to the construction of a staircase he must correct. At last they were off, and Levin was so glad to be free from his domestic cares that he would have asked nothing Should better than to enjoy his happy mood in silence.
! !

Nu all is ready. Down, Laska He was scarcely in the carriage

"

AXNA

KAEJSNIXA.

567

they find any game? Would Laska be equal to Krak? bliould he do himself credit as huntsman before this stranger? Oblonsky was occupied with similar thoughts. Veslovsky was the only voluble one and as Levin listened to his prattle, he reproached himself for his injustice of the previous He was a very good fellow, after all, and one evening. could scarcely reproach him, except for his conceit In sup;

posing that carefully kept nails and elegant clothes were proofs of incontestable superiority. Beyond this, he was unaffected, gay, and well educated, speaking French and English admirably, and when he was younger, Levin would have made a friend of him.

They had scarcely gone three versts when Veslovsky missed his pocket-book and his cigars. There were three hundred and seventy rubles in the pocket-book, and he
wanted
house.
to

make

sure that he had forgotten and left

it

at the

u Let me ake your Cossack racer and gallop back to the house I can go and come back immediately." 'Do not trouble yourself," replied Levin "my coachman can easily do the errand."
; ;

The coachman was

Levin took the
reins.

sent in search of the pocket-book, and

IX.

" Nul what's our

vitch.

line of

march? " asked Stepan Arkadye-

is it. will go directly to the marshes at Gvozdef, about twenty versts from here, where we are sure to As we shall arrive there towards evening, find some game. we can take advantage of the coolness to do some shooting.

" This

We

We

will sleep at a peasant's hut, and to-morrow we will undertake the great marsh." " Is there nothing on the way?" "Yes there are two good places, but it is scarcely worth
;

while.

It's

too

warm."
;

Levin intended to reserve the hunting places near the but nothing escaped house for his own particular use Oblonsky's experienced eye, and as they were passing a small marsh, he exchiim^d, " Shall we not try this?" "Oh, yes let's stop, Levin," begged Vasenka and Levin
; ;

could not well refuse.

568

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

The dogs darted forward instantly, and Levin stayed behind to watch the horses. Veslovsky killed a moor-hen and a lapwing, which was all that the}' found, and Levin felt
somewhat consoled. As the huntsmen entered the carriages, Vasenka awkwardly held his gun and his game in one hand, when a shot went off, and the horses plunged. It was Veslovsky *S gun, which fortunately wounded no one, the shot burying itself in the ground. He was so filled with remorse but his remorse soon that no one had the heart to grumble place to an absurd gayety as he recalled their panic and gave
;

bump Levin gave himself with his gun. In spite of their host's remonstrances, they alighted again This time, after he had brought down at the next swamp. a woodcock, Vasenka took pity on Levin, and offered to take Levin did not refuse, and his place with the carriages. Laska, growling at the injustice of fate, sprang with a bound towards the haunts of the game, with a gravity which She did not seem to disturb the insignificant marsh-birds. circled about several times, sniffing the ground, and then stopped suddenly, while Levin, with a beating heart, followed cautiously. A woodcock rose he had already aimed, when the sound of steps advancing heavily through the water, and a shout from Veslovsky, made him turn just as he fired. The shot had missed. To his amazement, he beheld the carriages and
the
;

horses half buried in the mud. Veslovsky had driven them off the highroad, into the marsh, in order to help in the hunt. " " The devil take him murmured Levin. "What are you going in so far for?" he asked the young man, driby, as he hailed the coachman to come and help him disengage the horses. His companions had not only spoiled his shot, and nearly drowned his horses, but neither of them offered to help him unharness and lead the animals to a dry It is true that neither Stepan Arkadyevitch nor Vesplace. lovsky knew anything about the art of harnessing but the author of the mischief did his best to drag out the wagon!

and iu his zeal tore his sleeve. This good will pleased Levin, and he began to reproach himself for being out of humor. In order to hide the fact that he was so, he gave orders to have the breakfast unpacked. " Son bonne conscience ! " appetit "This chicken goes to the right spot," said Vasenka, in French, serenely devouring his second.
ette,

ANNA
"

KARfiNINA.

569

After this we over, friends. but as a punishment for my sins, I am going to act as coachman, and drive you." " 4> Levin protested, No, no I am a genuine Automedon but he was obliged to fearing for the safety of the horses give Veslovsky his own way and the young man's contagious jollity, as he sang ballads and imitated an Englishman driving a four-in-hand, at last succeeded in winning Levin. They reached the Gvozdef marshes, laughing and joking.

Nu!

Our misfortunes are

in

shall

succeed
!

everything

X.

As they neared the end of their journey, Levin and Obthat of wonlonsky were possessed by the same thought, dering how they might rid themselves of their inconvenient
companion.
'

What

a fine marsh,

and

I see the

hawks!" exclaimed
reached

" Where hawks the place, just in the heat of the day. are, there's sure to be game." "The marsh begins at this island," explained Levin, examining his gun, and pointing out a deep place in the vast
if you like, and take the from there we can go on direction of that group of trees I've killed as many as seventeen woodcock in to the mill.
;

Stepan Arkadyevitch,

as, after a furious drive, they

wet plain, trodden down in places. '' We'll separate into two camps,

this place."

Very well you two take the right," said Stepan Arka" I'll take the left." dyevitch, indifferently. " " All said Vasenka. " Nu! Come on, come on right," Levin was obliged to accept this arrangement but after the accidental discharge of the gun, he was suspicious of his companion, and advised him to keep in front. " I won't trouble you. Don't either of you trouble about me," said Veslovsky. The dogs separated, came nearer, then started off, each Levin understood Laska's befollowing his own scent. havior, and thought he alreadv heard the crv of a woodcock.
; ! ;

"

"Pif, paf!" was Vasenka, firing at some ducks. Half a dozen woodcock rose, one after the other, and Oblonsky seized the opportunity to hit two of them. Levin was less fortunate. Stepan Arkadyevitch picked up his game with an air
It

570
of
satisfaction,

ANNA RARE MSA.

and went off to the left, whistling to his Levin reloaded his gun, leaving Veslovsky lo fire at random. Always when Levin failed of hitting the first time, he easily lost his self-control, and spoiled the hunt. This was what happened to-day. The woodcock were so abundant that nothing would have been easier than to retrieve a first' misdog, while

but the further he went, the more disturbed he was. Laska watched the huntsmen with an air of doubt and reIn the distance ever}' one proach, and hunted indifferently. of Oblonsky's shots seemed to tell, and they could hear his " voice shouting, " Bring it here, Krak while, upon examining Levin's pouch after they had engaged a room at a muzhik's hut, in the midst of the marsh, it was found to contain only three small fowl, one of which was Vasenka's. " " exclaimed one of the peasants who were Hi, hunters seated near an unyoked cart, and holding a bottle of brandy, which glistened in the sun. " Come and have a drink." " Qu'est ce qu'ils disent?" asked Veslovsky. " are true chiloffer us some vodka to drink.
take
;
!

They

They

I would accept," added Levin, not dren of the steppe. without a secret hope that Veslovsky would fall a victim to the vodka. " But why should the} treat us?" "Probably in honor of some festival. Come it will amuse
1 ;

you." " Allans! c'est curieux! " " You can find your way to the mill afterwards," said Levin, delighted to see Veslovsky disappear, bent double, hitting

" You come, too," shouted the peasant to Levin. brandy would not have come amiss to Levin, who was tired and could hardly lift his feet from the marshy soil but he caught sight of Laska pointing, and forgot his

his tired feet against the clods of earth ing his gun in his heavy arms.

and languidly carry-

A glass of
;

Vasenka's presence fatigue in his impatience to join her. had brought him bad luck, he thought; and yet now that he was gone, Levin was as unfortunate as ever, although game was plenty. When he reached the spot where he had agreed to meet Oblonsky, he had five insignificant birds in his

game-bag. Krak, with a triumphant air, went before his master behind the dog came Stepan Arkady evitch, walking heavily,
;

ANXA
and covered with
game-bag.
!

KARtiNINA.
but with

571
an overflowing

perspiration,
"

kk What a marsh exclaimed he. " Veslovsky must haA-e bored you. It's impossible to hunt in couples with a dog," added he, to soften the effect of^his triumph.

XI.

LEVIN and Oblonsky found Veslovsky already established where they had engaged supper. He was sitting on a bench, and clutching it with both hands, while a soldier, the brother of the hostess, drew off his muddy boots. " I've just come," said he, with his contagious laugh. " Us out et charmants! after they had made Imagine it me eat and drink, they refused to take any pay. And what " bread what vodka ! deUdeux ! should you offer money?" remarked the soldier, "Why " at last succeeding in pulling off the boots they don't keep to sell." brandy The huntsmen were not alarmed at the dirtiness of the 72&a, which their boots and their dogs' paws had covered and they supped with an appetite only with black mud known when limiting then, after washing themselves, they went to rest in a hay-loft, where the coachman had prepared
at the izba
;
!

their beds.

and It grew dark, but they could not get to sleep Vasenka's raptures over the hospitality of the peasants, the pleasant odor of the hay, and the intelligence of the dogs, which lay at their feef, kept them awake. Oblonsky gave an account of a hunt at which he had been present the year before, at the place of Malthus, a railroad speculator worth millions. He described the immense game preserves, which Malthus owned in the department of Tver, the dog-carts, and how wngons were provided for the huntsmen and a great breakfast tent was carried out into the marshes. " " How odious such said Levin, raising himpeople are " Their self up on his straw bed. luxury is revolting. They get rich just as the brandy-farmers used to do, and
;
; !

deride public enterprise, knowing that their ill-gotten money will make them respected." " That's very true," exclaimed Veslovsky. "Oblonsky accents their invitations for good-fellowship's sake but many say Oblousky is visiting"
;

572

A SNA

KARE NINA.

are mistaken," said Oblonsky. "If I visit them, because I look upon them as rich merchants or proprietors, who owe their wealth to their own work and
it

"You
is

intelligence."
'

Da !

and sub-let "

but what do you call work ? "

it ?

Is

it

to get a contract

Certainly it trouble to do it,

is,

in the

sense that

if

no one took the

we shouldn't have any

such work

"Can you compare

labors, or a scholar

railroads." with that of a

man who

who studies?"

but none the less it has its results, railroads. It you do not approve of them." " That is another question but I maintain that when the compensation is dispi'oportionate to the labor, it is dishonThese fortunes are scandalous. Le roi est mort! vive est. leroi! we've given up farms railroads and banks supplant them." "All that may be true; but who can trace the exact For example, why is my limits of justice and injustice?
;

"

No

is

true,

remuneration greater than that of the business better than I do?"

my

chief clerk,

who knows

" I don't know." " Nu! Why do you make, say, five thousand rubles where, with more work, our host, the muzhik here, makes fifty? and why shouldn't Malthus make more than his overseers ? I cannot help believing that in reality the hatred inspired by these millionaires comes simply from envy." "You go too far," interrupted Veslovsky "it is not
;

" in " You are calling my five thouright," replied Levin, It troubles me." sand rubles income unjust. " Give your land to this muzhik he would not refuse it," said Oblonsky, who had been inclined for some time to make pointed remarks to his brother-in-law. Since they had formed parts of the same family, their relations had taken on a
;

envy, but there

is

something unfair

in this state

of things."

tinge of hostility. " I don't give it, because I have no right to dispossess myI have a family, and I recognize duties towards it." self of it. " If you look upon this inequality of fortune as an injustice, it is

"

I strive

your duty to put an end to it." towards that end by doing nothing to increase
a paradox

my" foilune."
What

"
!

AXXA
;

KABJ2XINA.

573

"Yes that savors of sophistry," added Veslovsky. "Hello ! khozydin," shouted he to a muzhik who just then opened the "Aren't you asleep door, making it creak ou its hinges.
yet, either?

"

but I thought you gentlemen were asleep. I want to get a hook. Will she bite?" said he, pointing to the dogs and slipping into the barn. " But where do you sleep? " We are on night duty." " Ach! AY hat a night!" exclaimed Vasenka, catching a glimpse of the house and the unharnessed wagons in the " Where do those women's moonlight, through the door. " voices come from ?

"Oh, no;

'

" Let's go out and walk, Oblonsky

sleep."

It's the girls

outside."
;

we can never go

to

" " He's a said Oblonsky to Levin good fellow, isn't he? when Vasenka and the peasant were gone. " Yes, capital," answered Levin, following the thread of his own thoughts. How did it happen that two sincere and intelligent men could accuse him of sophistry, when he had
expressed himself as clearly as possible? Whatever a man does," resumed Oblonsky, " he ought to take his stand and recognize either that society is right, or that it enjoys unfair privileges, and, in the latter case, do as I do,get what pleasure out of it he can." " No if you felt the iniquity of those privileges as I do, you could not do so ; at least, I could not." "After all, why shouldn't we go out for a turn?" said " Let's Stepan Arkadyevitch, tired of the conversation. go, for we cannot sleep."
k ' ;

Good-bye, hastily dressing. You've taining, I'll call you. companions, to be forgotten."

"It is pretty comfortable here." " Nu! .I'm going alone, then," said Vasenka, rising and " friends. If I find it enterbeen too good as hunting-

" No I shall stay here." " Is that from principle, too?" said Oblonsk3", groping
;

for

his hat.

No but what should I do out there? " " You are in a bad case," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, having found what he was looking for.
;

"Wbjrao?"

574

ANNA KAEEN1NA.

" Because you are spoiling your wile. I've noticed the importance you attach to having her permission when you are going away for a few days. That may be charmingly idyllic, but it can't last. A man must maintain his independence
;

he has
'

Oblonsky, opening the door. What are they? running after farm girls? "
his affairs," said

own

if it amuses him. fa ne lire pas ct consequence. wife would not object greatly to it, and the main thing is But it's not necessary to to respsct the sanctuary of home. tie one's hands." "I "Perhaps," said Levin drily, as he turned over. warn you that I shall leave at sunrise to-morrow morning,

"Yes,

My

without waking any one." "Messieurs, venez vite!" called Vasenka to them. " Charmante! I discovered her, a genuine Gretchen," added Levin pretended to be he, with the air of a connoisseur. He lay a long time without being asleep, and let them go. He could hear the horses munching their hay able to sleep. the muzhik setting out with his son to watch the animals in the pasture then the soldier going to bed in the hay on the The child other side of the barn with his little nephew. asked questions, in a low voice, about the dogs, who seemed The uncle finally quieted him, like terrible beasts to him.
;

and the silence was only broken b}- his snores. Levin, influenced by his conversation with Oblonsky, thought over the coming day, and said to himself, "I will get up at sunrise I will keep cool there are plenty of woodcock. When I get back I may find a word from Kitty. Da ! may be Stiva is right I am not manly I am effeminate towards her What is to be done about it? " As he was falling asleep he heard his companions come in, and opened his eyes an instant to see them, illumined by the moon, through the half-open door. "To-morrow at sunrise, gentlemen," he said, and fell
;
;

asleep.

XTI.

THE next morning it was impossible to awake Vasenka, as he lay upon his stomach, sleeping with clenched fists. Oblonsky also refused to get up and even Laska, lying in a round ball in the hay, stretched her hind legs lazily, before she could make up her mind to follow her master. Levin
;

yl.V-V.-l

KARtfXIXA.

575

put on his boots, took his gun, and cautiously went out. The coachmen were bleeping near the carriages, the horses were asleep it was scarcely daylight.
;

" You are up early," said the friendly old mistress hut, who was coming out of the door, accosting him
iarly as
kk

of the famil-

is

the

an old acquaintance. I'm going out to shoot, "

T6tuslika

[auntie].

"Which

way

to the

marsh ?

Follow the path behind the barns," said the old woman,

and she herself went with him, to show him the way. Laska ran ahead, and Levin followed cheerily, questioning the sky, intending to reach the marsh before the sun was The moon, which was still visible when he left the up. the morning star could barn, grew more and more dim scarcely be seen, and the points along the horizon, which were at first indistinct, became more and more definite they were hay-mows. The least sound could be distinctly heard and a bee which whizzed past Levin's in the absolute quiet ear, seemed to hiss like a cannon-ball. The white vapors rising from the marsh looked like islands bunches of cytisus indicated the beginning of the great marsh. Along its border lay men and children, wrapped in The horses kaftans, and sleeping soundly, after their vigil. were already grazing and clanking their chains. The sight of Laska startled them, and they ran to the water's edge,
;
;

paddling with their tied feet. The dog glanced at his master, and gave them a quizzical
look.

After he had passed the sleeping peasants, Levin examined his gun-case, and whistled to Laska, to tell her the hunt was about to begin. She instantly started, joyous and full of importance, snuffing the soft earth, 'with its well-known odors, searching for that special smell of the bird which touched her more than any other. The better to scent the direction of the game, she started off to the leeward, bounding gently, that she might the more easily come to a sudden stop. Presently her pace slackened, for she no longer followed a trail she was on the game itself. There was plenty of it, but where? Her master's voice came from the op;

Laska, here!" She stopped, hesitating, posite side, started to obey, but went back to the place which had attracted her she circled about to find the exact spot, and then, sure of her game, stopped, trembling with excitement,
;

576

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Her short legs prevented her from seebefore a little hill. She could scarcely ing, but her instinct did not deceive her. she stood rnotioiibreathe, in the jo\" of her anticipation less, and with half-open mouth, looking at her master, without daring to turn her head. It seemed to her he was slow but he was, in reality, running, hitting the clods to come of earth, and with a look which seemed to her terrible. For, with a huntsman's superstition, he feared, above everything, to lose his first shot. As he approached, he saw what Laska a woodcock hidden between two hilcould only scent,
;

locks.

"
"

"

Charge

cried he.
?

Na !
I

Isn't he mistaken
it
;

"

thought Laska.

but them."

do not see

if

I stir, I shall not

" I smell it, know where to find

But a nudge from her master encouraged her, and she bounded impulsively forward, no longer conscious of what she was doing. A woodcock rose immediately, and they could hear the whir of its wings. The bird fell, beating the moist ground with its white breast a second woodcock was destined to the same fate. "Well done, Lasotchka!" said Levin, putting the game, warm, into his bag. The sun was up as Levin went forward into the marsh the moon looked like a mere white speck in the sky all the The pools of water glittered with the stars had disappeared. roseate reflection of the sun the grass took an amber tint the marsh birds bestirred themselves amongst the bushes some vultures perched on the piles of corn, surveying their domain with an air of discontent, and the jackdaws flew about the fields. The smoke from the gun made a white
; ; ; ; ; ;

track like milk along the green grass. One of the sleepers had already put on his kaftan, and some children were leading horses along the road. 'Diddenka " [little uncle], shouted one of the boys to Levin. ' there were some ducks here yesterday." Levin experienced a feeling of delight as he killed three more woodcocks before the child, who was watching him.

ANNA KARtiNINA.

577

XIII.

THE
down

superstition of hunters, that if the first shot brings bird or beast, the field will be good, was justified.

Tired and hungry, but delighted, Levin returned about ten o'clock, after a run of thirty versts, having brought down nineteen woodcock and one duck, which, for want of room
in his game-bag, he hung at his belt. His companions had been long up and after waiting till they were famished, they had eaten breakfast. " Hold I know there are nineteen," cried on, hold on Levin, counting for the second time his grouse and snipe, with their bloodstained plumage and their drooping heads all laid one over the other, so different from what they were on the marsh. The count was verified, and Stepan Arkadyevitch's envy was delightful to Levin. To crown his happiness, he found a letter from Kitty. " I am " and if perfectly well and happy," she wi-ote you
; !

fear lest I shall not be sufficiently cared for, it will re-assure 7 3 ou to learn that Marya Vlasievna is here. [She was a

midwife, a new and very important personage in the She came over to see me. She thinks I am wonfamily.] derfully well, and we shall keep her till you get back. are all well and happy, and you need not hasten to come back if you are enjoying yourself and the hunting is good." These two pleasures his successful hunt and the letter from his wife were so great, that they effaced from Levin's mind two less agreeable incidents. The first was the fact that his fast horse, who had been overworked the evening The coachman said before, refused to eat and was tired out. " that she was used up. They abused her last evening, Konstantin Dmitritch," said he. "The idea! they drove " her ten versts at full speed The second and more serious unpleasantness was the absolute disappearance of all the abundant provisions which Kitty had put up for them at starting. Weary and hungry, Levin actually saw certain little pdtes so visibly in his mind's eye that when he returned he smelled the odor and tasted them in his mouth bxit they had all disappeared, as had nlso the chicken and the meat, and Laska was cracking the bones.

We

578

ANNA KARtfNINA.

" Nu! talk of appetites," said Stepan Arkady evitch, nodding at Vasenka Veslovsky "I cannot complain of mine, but this young man's goes ahead of it." " Nu! what shall I do?" cried Levin, glowering at Ves"Filipp, give me some cold beef." lovsky. "Beef's all eat, and the dogs have got the bones!"
;

replied Filipp. Levin was so irritated that he could not help exclaiming,

"I should think you might have left something forme!" and he felt like crying. " Then cook me a grouse." he said, with trembling voice, to look at Vasenka, " and me not to
Filipp,

daring

bring

But after he drank his milk he was mortified because he had shown his disappointment so plainly and before a stranger, and he began to laugh at himself for his

some milk."

anger. In the afternoon they went out into the fields again, and Veslovsky shot several birds, and at night they went home. They were as gay on their return as they had been while Veslovsky now sang songs, and now told of his adgoing. ventures with the muzhiks who gave him his vodka and bade him drink it down quick. Then he told his adventures in the court-yard with one of the girls and a muzhik, who asked him, "Are you married or not?" and when he said no, " Don't be offended with a stranger, but above all replied, make haste and get a wife." These words greatly things

amused Veslovsky. "Well, on the whole, I am awfully glad we went, aren't you, Levin?" " Very glad," replied Levin very sincerely, and he was happy because he no longer felt that animosity which he had felt at home towards Vasenka Veslovsky but, on the other
;

hand, really conceived a friendship for him.

XIV.

ABOUT ten oclock the next morning, after inspecting the farm, Levin knocked at Vasenka' s door. " Entrez," said " Excuse me, but I am just Veslovsky.
finishing

"Do

my

ablutions."

" Have by the window. you slept well?" " Like the dead. Is it a good day for hunting?"

not trouble yourself," said Levin, and he sat

down

.lA'A'.l

KAHL\\IXA.

579

" What do you drink, tea or coffee?" "Neither; I always go down to breakfast;
fied

am

morti-

up?

The ladies, I suppose, are already at being so late. You must show me your Spleudid time for a ride!

horses."

After walking around the garden, examining the stable, and performing a few gymnastic exercises together, Levin and his guest came back to the house and went into the
parlor.
'

had splendid sport," said Veslovsky, approaching " What a pity Kitty, who was sitting near the samovar. " that ladies are deprived of this pleasure " Nu! Of course he must have something to say to the And again he began to lady of the house," thought Levin. feel annoyance at the young man's lordly air. The princess was sitting on the other side of the table and
!

We

Marya Vlasievna and Stepan Arkadyevitch. She called Levin to her and began to explain to him the necessity of having her daughter settled at Moscow at the time of her confinement. Nothing anno3~ed Levin so much as this commonplace way of anticipating an event so extraordinary as the birth of a son, for he felt sure that this would be a son. He would not admit that this uncertain happiness, surrounded for him by so much mystery, should be discussed as a common occurrence by women who could count the time of the event on their fingers. Their talk, as well as the articles of the infant wardrobe, wounded him, and he refused to listen, as he had before, when he ought to have been thinktalking with

ing of the preparations for his marriage. The princess did not understand these prejudices, and this apparent indifference seemed to her like dullness and carelessness. She would not let him alone. She had just been charging Stepan Arkadyevitch to look up a suite of rooms, and insisted that Konstantin should give his advice. as you think best, Princess I* understand nothing about the matter." " But you will have to decide just when you will go to

"Do

Moscow."
" I don't know what I do know is that millions of children are born outside of Moscow, and doctors and all that" " Da ! In that case " " Let Kitty do as she pleases about it." "It is impossible to speak with Kitty about it. Do you
;

580

A XX A

Jf.<17?/?.V7V.l.

think I want to frighten her? Only this spring Natali Golitsuin died in confinement her second child."

" I shall do as you wish," repeated Levin angrily. The princess began to say something more to him, but he was not listening. Though his conversation with the princess upset him, he was not angered by what she said, but by what he saw at the samovar. No that can't go on," thought he, now and then casting a glance towards Vasenka, who was bending over Kitty, with a Mattering smile, and looking at his wife's disturbed and
'
;

blushing face.

There was something improper

in

Veslovsky's

So, too, Kitty's action and attitude, his smile, his eyes. appearance seemed to him unbecoming, and again the light flashed in his eves. And again, as happened two days before,

he

felt himself suddenly, without the least warning, precipitated from the height of happiness, contentment, and dignity, into an abyss of hatred and confusion. Again they seemed " Do to him, each and all, his enemies. just as you please, Princess," said he again, turning round. "Heavy is the cap of Monomakh," said Stepan Arkadyevitch in jest, referring, not to Levin's conversation with the princess, but to Levin's agitated face, which amused him. " "

How

late

you

are, Dolly

All arose to greet Darya Aleksandrovna, who came in. Vasenka also arose, but only for a moment and bowing slightly with the natural politeness of young men towards ladies, he resumed his conversation with some humorous
;

remark.

" Masha did not sleep well, and she wore me out," answered Darya Aleksandrovna. The conversation between Vasenka and Kitty turned again upon Anna, and the question whether it was possible to love
This talk displeased the illegal conditions. but she^was too inexperienced and too naive to know how to put an end to it. Consequently, to hide the torture which the young man's somewhat persecuting attention caused her, she wanted to put an end to it, but she did not know how to accomplish it. Fear of her husband's jealousy added to her distress, for she knew beforehand that he would misinterpret her every word and gesture. kt Where are you going, Kostia?" she asked, with a guilty air, as her husband, with deliberate steps, went by her on his way out of the room.

under these
;

young wife

ANNA KARfiNINA.

581

This guilty confusion confirmed his suspicion of his wife's %k I am going to speak to a machinist who came hypocrisy. while I was away," he answered, without looking at her. He had got down-stairs, but was not yet in his library, before he heard Kitty's well-known footsteps imprudently hurrying after him.

'What

is it?

am

" Excuse me," said Kitty, coming

busy," said he, curtly.

in,

German machinist; "I wish

and speaking to the

a few words to

to say

my

husband." The mechanic was about to leave when Levin stopped him. " Don't disturb yourself." " I don't want to lose the three o'clock train," remarked
the

German. Without answering him, Levin went out into the corridor

with his wife.

" What do you wish to say to me?" he asked in French. He did not look at her face, and did not want to see how
was contracted with mental suffering. "I I wanted to say to you that it is impossible to live so it is torture," murmured she. " There is some one there at the cupboard," he replied " Don't make a scene." angrily. " Let us go in here then." Kitty wanted to go into the next room, but there the English governess was teaching Tania. " Then let us go into the garden." In the garden they ran across a vmizhik who was weeding a path. And now no longer thinking that the muzhik would
it
;

see her tearful face or his anger, not thinking that they were in sight of people passing, she went with swift steps straight on, feeling that she must have an explanation with him, and find some lonely spot where they could talk, and free themselves from this misery that was oppressing them both.
It is torture. I suffer. It is impossible to live so. You is it?" she said, when at last they reached a bench standing by itself in the corner of the linden alley.
suffer.

"

Why

"But tell me one thing: was not his manner indecent, improper, horribly insulting?" he asked, standing in front of her in that position, with his fists doubled up on his chest, that he had taken up on that night when he stood before her. "It was," said she, with trembling voice; "but, Kostia,

582

ANNA KARENINA.

I wanted 3'esterday can't you see that I am not to blame ? to show such a manner, but these people Why did he

come?

How happy we were!" she said, choking with the sobs that shook her whole body. The gardener saw with surprise that though there was nothing especially attractive about the bench where they had been sitting, yet still they went past him back to the house with peaceful, shining faces.
XV.
had gone to her room, Levin went to As soon seek Doll} Darya Aleksaudrovua also was in a state of great excitement. She was pacing up and down her chamber, and scolding little Masha, who stood in a corner, crying. " You shall stay all day in the corner, and eat dinner alone, and have no dolls, and no new dress," she was saying, though " This she did not know why she was punishing the child. a naughty little girl," she said to Levin " where does she is
as his wife
. 7
;

get this abominable disposition?" " Da! what has she done?" asked Levin, annoyed at finding his sister-in-law in such a state when he wished to consult her.

" She and Grisha went into the raspberry bush, and but I can't tell you what she did. Thousand times there This governess doesn't look after rather have Miss Eliot
!

a perfect machine. Figurez vous, que la petite And she related Masha's [Just conceive, that the little one] misdeeds. " I don't see anything very bad in that. It is only a piece of childish mischief." " But what is the matter with you? You look troubled. " asked Dolly, and by the tone of her "What has happened ? Levin perceived that it would be easy for him to questions say what he had in his mind to say. " I have been alone in the garden with Kitty. We have " Stiva came. the second since just had a quarrel him. " Nu! Your Dolly turned her penetrating eyes upon hand on your heart," he said, " tell me, was the conduct, not of Kitty, but of this young man, anything else than unpleasant, not unpleasant, but intolerable, insulting even, to a

anything

husband?"

"What

shall I say to

you?

Stand in

the

corner!" said

ANNA KARENINA.
she to Masha,
face.

583

"In

who presumed on the smile on her mother's the eyes of society he is only playing a young

11 fait la cour a une jeune et jolie femme [He part. paying attention to a young wife], and her husband, as himself a gentleman of society, should be pleased with his

man's
is

gallantries."

Yes, yes," said Levin angrily; "but have you noticed it?" noticed it, of course; and Stiva said after tea, 4 Je " crois que Veslovsky fait un petit brin de cour a Kitty [I guess Veslovsky is trying to flirt with Kitty]. " Nu! See how calm I am. I am going to send the man away." said Levin. "Are you out of your senses?" cried Dolly, alarmed. "What are you thinking about, Kostia? Nu! you may go now to Fanny," she said to the child. " No If you want, I will speak to Stiva. He will get him He can say we are expecting company. Howto leave. ever, it is not our house."

"

"I

'

" I will do it myself." No, no " You will quarrel." " Xot at all, I shall find it amusing," said he, with a happier light shining in his eyes. *'Nu! Dolly, forgive her; she won't do it again," he said, pointing to the little criminal, who had not gone to Fanny, but was now standing beside her mother with downcast eyes. The mother looked at her. The child, seeing its mother softening, threw itself sobbing into her arms, and Dolly laid her thin hand tenderly on its head. " Is there anything in common between us and that " fellow? thought Levin, and he turned away to find Vasenka.
!

In the hall he ordered the carriage to be made ready. "The springs were broken yesterday," the servant answered. " Then bring the tarantds. Only be quick about it. Where
is

the guest?" went to his room." Vasenka had pulled his things out of a valise, and was trying on his gaiters in preparation for a ride as Levin came

"He

Either there was something strange in Levin's expresVeslovsky himself was conscious that ce petit brin de cour which he was making was rather out of place in this family but at all events, he felt as uncomfortable in Levin's presence as it is possible for an elegant young man to feel. " Do you ride in gaiters?" asked Levin.
in.

sion, or

584
" Yes
;

ANNA KARENINA.
it's

leg on a chair,

very muddy," replied Vasenka, putting up one and struggling with the bottom button, and

smiling with genuine good humor. He was really a very good-hearted young fellow, and Levin was sorry for him and conscience-stricken for his own part when he saw Vdsenka's timidity in the presence of the khozydin [host]. On the table lay a fragment of a stick which they had broken that morning in some of their gymnastic exercises. Levin took this fragment in his hand and whirled it round, not knowing how to begin,
I wanted" He stopped for a moment but suddenly remembering the scene with Kitty, he went on, looking him "I have had the horses put in for squarely in the eye.
;

"

you."

"You are going to the railway station," said Levin, with a frown, and breaking off the end of the stick. " Are you going away? Has anything happened?" " I happen to be expecting company," Levin went on, breaking off pieces of his stick more and more nervously. " Or, no, I am not expecting any one, but I will ask you to go away. Explain my lack of politeness as you please." Vasenka drew himself up with dignity,
" "
I I will

" What do you mean?" began Vasenka, " Where are we going?"

in

surprise.

beg you to explain to me not explain, and you

"

will

be wise not to question

me," Levin said slowly, trying to remain calm, and to check the tremulous motions of his face, while he went on snapping off bits from the stick he held in his hand. Vasenka watched his movements and watched the tightening muscles. He had tried the man's strength that morning at the gymnastic He found Levin's bearing as convincing as his exercises.
words. He shrugged his shoulder, smiled a scornful smile, " bowed, and said, May I see Oblonsky?" " I will send him to you," Levin answered. He did not " What else could he do?" he mind the
shrug.
is

thought.

It is perfectly no sense in such conduct! absurd cried Stepan Arkadyevitch when he rejoined Levin in the garden, after learning from Veslovsky that he was to be driven from the house. "To be stung by such a fly! mais c'est ridicule, mats c'est du dernier ridicule of this young "

"There
"
!

man

.LYAT.4

KARBNINA.

585

The spot where the fly stung Levin was still so sensitive, however, that Levin cut short the explanations which his
brother-in-law tried to give. Don't take the trouble to defend the young man; I am He will soon console himsorry both for you and for him. but my wife and I found his presence unpleasant." self But it was insulting to him. Et pais c'est ridicule."
' ; '

" But
'

it

mais

I did not expect this of you. On pent gtrejaloux, point c'est dernier ridicule" [One may be jealous, but to that degree is ridiculous] Levin turned away. He walked up and down the path,
tt

am not Nu!

to

was insulting to me and extremely disagreeable. blame towards him, and I can't endure him."

ce

awaiting his guest's departure. Soon he heard the rumbling of the tarantds, and through the trees he saw Vasenka riding up the road, sitting on the straw (for the tarantds had no seat), the ribbons of his cap streaming behind his head as the cart jolted along. "What now?" thought Levin as he saw a servant run from the house and stop the cart. It was only to find a place for the machinist, who had been forgotten, and who now took his seat, with a low bow, beside Vasenka.

Stepan Arkadyevitch and the princess were indignant at He himself felt its absurdity keenly and Levin's conduct. yet, as he considered all that Kitty and he had suffered, he said to himself that he would do the same thing again whenIn the evening there ever there should be a similar need. came over him again a kind of gayety such as children show
;

when

their punishment is at an end, or housekeepers after an irksome state party. Everybody felt in better spirits, and Dolly, who had inherited from her father the gift of humor,

made Vdrenka laugh till she cried, by telling her three and four times, and each time with new amusing details, how she had just put on, in honor of their guest, a pair of ravishing little new boots, and was going into the drawing-room when, at that very minute, the rattle of an old carriage drew her to the window. Who was in this old tumble-down waggon? Vasenka himself !. his Scotch cap, his fluttering ribbons, his romantic airs, and his gaiters, seated on the straw "If only a carriage had been given him But no Then I hear a shout Hold on They have taken pity on him not in the least; I look and see a fat German, and off they go and my boots were wasted."
!
!

'

586

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

XVI.

DARYA ALEKSANDROVNA fulfilled her intentions, and went It made her sister very angry, aud displeased to see Anna.
Levin was indisposed to anything like a reconciliation with Vronsky, but she wanted to prove to her that her affection had undergone no change. The little journey that she had planned presented some difficulties. In order not to put her brother-in-law to inconvenience, she When Levin heard of sent to hire horses in the village. this, he went to her with his complaint, " should you suppose I do not wish you to visit the
her husband.

Vronskys? And then if I did not, you would annoy me more by using other horses than mine. You did not tell me I have horses and if you don't that you were really going. want to offend me, you must use mine." Dolly finally submitted, and on the appointed day, having arranged for a change of horses in th*e middle of the journey, Levin sent her off with four horses, under the protection of his bookkeeper, whom, for greater security, he had seated beside the coachman in the dress of a footman. The carriage was by no means a handsome one, but it was well adapted
;

Why

to a long journey. Now that horses were necessary both for the princess and other members of the famity, it was rather a burden on Levin ; but by the laws of hospitality he could not let Darya Aleksandrovna hire horses outside of his house and, besides,
;

he knew that the twent}" rubles which it would cost would be a very serious matter for her for Darya Aleksandrovna's pecuniary affairs were in a very wretched situation, and the Levins
;

deeply for her. just breaking as Darya Aleksandrovna set off. Lulled by the regular tramp of the horses, she fell asleep, and she did not wake until the place was 'reached where the horses wqre to be changed. Here she took a cup of tea with the rich peasant, at whose house Levin had stopped on his way to visit Sviazhsky and after she had rested, and had listened to the talk of the old man and the young woman, she continued her journey. During a life devoted to maternal cares, Dolly had had little time for reflection. Accordingly this carriage journey, alone, afforded her an unusual opportunity for reflecting on her past life, and for considering its different aspects.
felt

Day was

ANNA
mother and her
sister

KARfiNINA.

587
left in

First she thought of her children,

now

charge of her

on whom she "If only Masha doesn't do some stupid chiefly relied. thing, and if Grisha doesn't get kicked by the horse, and if
and
it

was the

latter

Lili

doesn't bring on a

fit

of indigestion," she said to herself.

How should she best continue the questions. children's education? The girls could easily be managed, but the boys? She had been able that summer to devote herself to Grisha, because, by good luck, she had had at that time no trouble with her health. As her pregnancy came on and she thought how unjust it was to count the pangs of childbirth as the mark of woman's curse. " That is such a trifle compared with the misery of pregnancy," and she recalled her last experience of that sort, and the loss of the child. Thinking about this brought to mind her talk with the young wife, the daughter of the old peasant at whose house she had taken the cup of tea. When asked how many children she had, this peasant woman had answered that she had one daughter, but God took her in 'Lent. " " And you are very sad about her? " Oh no father will have of grandchildren, and she plenty You can't work or do would have been only one care more anything; it hinders everything." Dolly had been shocked at such words from the mouth of a woman whose face was not wanting in kindness. "This is what it comes to," she thought, as she recalled her fifteen years of married life. youth has been spent in a heartache because I felt clumsy and looked hideous for if our pretty Kitty grows ugly at such a time, " and she shuddered as she thought what a fright I must be the long nights of wakefulness, of what she had suffered, the wretchedness when nursing her child, the nervousness Then there were the and irritability which followed. sicknesses of the children, their quarrelsome tempers, the expense of their education, the perplexities of Latin, and The mother's heart was still cruelly worst of all, death. bleeding over the loss of her last-born, who had been carried off by croup. She remembered the grief felt by her alone
graver
! !

More important matters came in the train of these passing anxieties. She must make changes in her rooms when she returned to Moscow, she must refit the drawing-room her Then came eldest daughter would need a shuba for winter.
;

"My

588

ANNA

when she stood and watched

the little white brow fringed with curls, and the surprised, half-open mouth, and saw the She was the only one who pink, silver-edged coffin close. wept, and the general indifference had made her grief the
greater.

for? What will be the result of but a family poor and badly brought What should I have done this summer if the Levins up had not asked me to visit them ? But however/ kind and considerate they may be, they cannot ask us again, for they will have children of their own to fill their house. Papa is almost ruined already for our sake, and cannot help me any more and how shall I succeed in making men of my sons? I must look them up protectors, must humble myself for them, for I cannot count upon Stiva. The best I can hope is that they may be saved from turning out badly, and to The bring about so much, what suffering I must endure words of the young peasant contained a good deal of truth in their frank cynicism." "Are we nearing the end of our journey, Mikhail?" she

"And
!

what was
?

all this

this life of care

What

asked the bookkeeper, by way of checking these painful

thoughts.

" Seven versts to reach the village." carriage was crossing a little bridge, where the babui, with sheaves resting on their shoulders, had paused to see her pass. Every face seemed gay, contented, full of life and health. "Everybody is alive and enjoying the world," said Dolly to herself, as the old carriage moved off at a trot up a little " I alone seem like a hill prisoner set at liberty for a moment. My sister, Natali, Varenka, these women, Anna, they all know what life is. I do not know. And why do people blame Anna? If I had not loved my husband, I very likely might have done what she has done. She wanted to live and has not God put the demand for that into our hearts ? Have not I too regretted that I took her advice and did not separate from Stiva? Who knows? I might have begun life over again And is might have loved and been loved what I am now doing more creditable to me ? I endure my I had some that is all. husband because I need him beauty once." And she attempted to draw from its case a small travelling mirror, but the fear of being seen by the two men on the box restrained her. Without looking at herself,

The

ANNA KARENINA.

589

however, she could remember her former power to please. She thought of the attentions of Sergei Ivanovitch, who had once loved her, and the devotion shown by good Turovtsuiu, who for love of her had helped to nurse the she even recalled an children through the scarlatina extremely young man about whom Stiva had once teased her, and the most passionate, the most extravagant romances presented themselves before her imagination. "Anna is right; she is happy, and she makes another happy. She must be beautiful, brilliant, full of interests on all sides, just as she used to be." A smile played over Dolly's lips as she traced in her thoughts a romance like that of Anna's, but one in which she herself was to be the heroine. She pictured the time when she would tell her husband all, and she broke into a laugh at thinking how stupefied Stiva would be. With such thoughts she came to the cross-roads
;

that led to Vozdvizhensky.

XVII.

THE
a
field

driver reined in his four horses and looked across to of rye, where some muzhiks were sitting beside their

The coachman shouted to them, "Come here, you lazybones." The peasant who came at his call, an old round-shouldered man with hair bound down by a narrow leather strap, aptelyega.

proached the carriage. "The great house [barsky dvor] ? The count's?" he re" Take the first road to the left, and peated. you'll get into But who do you want? The the avenue that leads to it. " count himself? " Are they at home, golnbtchik?" said Dolly, not knowing very well how to ask for Anna. "They must be, .for company is coming every day," said " And the old man, anxious to prolong the conversation. from?" where did you come you, too " We have come a " So, long way," said the coachman.
then,

we

are getting near the

!

end?"

He

" Stop, " Here

It

The coachman again. stop " and four riders and a they come. There they are two-horse tilbury were seen turning into the road.
!

had hardly started again, when two voices cried out, " he! reined in his horses

was Vrousky

in

jockey costume, Anna, Veslovsky, and

590
;

ANNA KARtiNINA.

a mounted groom the Princess Varvara and Sviazbsky followed in a carriage. They had all come out to see the operation of a new-fashioned steam reaper. AY hen the carriage stopped, the riders were walking their horses. Anna, her pretty head covered with a tall hat, from under which escaped ringlets of dark hair, appeared quite at her ease on a little English cob. Dolly was at first somewhat scandalized to see her on horseback, because she connected with horseback riding ideas of coquetry, which did not well accord with Anna's ambiguous situation but she was so struck with her friend's entire simplicity, in spite of her elegance, Vaseuka Veslovsky, in that her first thoughts disappeared. his Scotch cap, with its flowing ribbons, rode next to Anna on a fiery, high-stepping cavalry horse. As Dolly saw him, she could not repress a smile. Vronsky followed them on a dark bay of pure blood, apparently spoiling for a gallop. young Vronsky was sawing on the reins to keep him in. man in jockey costume closed the procession. glow came over Anna's face as she recognized the little person curled vip in a corner of the old carriage, and uttering a cry of joy, she put her cob to a gallop, leaped lightly olf the horse without any one's aid when she saw that Doll}- had left her carriage, and, gathering up her skirts, ran to meet
;

her.

thought so, and did not dare to think so! What you can't imagine my joy." she said, taking the traveller in her arms, kissing her, and looking at her with an
pleasure
!

"I

" Your visit raising his gray hat. gives us great pleasure," said he, in a tone that conveyed a peculiar satisfaction. Vasenka, without leaving his horse, took off his cap, and waved it gayly round his head, in honor of the guest.

"You can't think what good you do me Aleksei," she said, turning to the count, who also had dis" mounted, "what a piece of good fortune
affectionate smile.
!
!

Vronsky came up,

" This is the Princess Varvara," began Anna, in reply to a questioning look of Dolly as the tilbury came up. "
"
!

Ah replied Darya Aleksandrovna, and her face showed involuntarily some traces of annoyance. The Princess Varvara was her husband's aunt, and she knew her of old, and did not esteem her. She knew that her fondness for luxury had brought her into a humiliating dependence upon rich relatives and the fact that she was
;

ANNA KARtfNINA.

591

living at Vronsky's, who was a stranger to her, insulted her through her husband's family. Anna noticed Dolly's disapproval, was confused, and, dropping the traiu of her riding habit, she .stumbled.

There was a cool exchange of greetings between Darya Aleksandrovna and the princess Sviazhsky asked after his friend Levin and his young wife; then, casting a glance at
;

the old carriage, he invited the ladies to get into the tilbury. " I will take this vehicle to go home in, and the princess will take good care of you. She is an excellent driver." " remain as " Oh, no," Anna interrupted you are. I will
;

go home with Dolly." Never had Darya Aleksandrovna seen carriage and horses but what struck her still more was the so brilliant as these sort of transfiguration which had come over Anna. Any
;

woman

less

affectionately observant than

herself

perhaps

would not have noticed anything extraordinary about her. As she saw her, Anna was all aglow with that elusive beauty which comes to a woman through the assurance of love

Her smiles which, as it were, flew over her face, returned. her brilliant eyes, her graceful and quick motions, her voice, her whole person, from the dimples of her cheeks and the curve of her lip, with its full, rich sounds, and even the quiet, friendly manner in which she replied to Veslovsk}when he asked permission to mount her horse, was instinct with a seductive charm. It seemed as if she herself knew
and was pleased. There was an instant of constraint between the two ladies when they found themselves alone in the carriage. Anna and Dolby, felt ill at ease under the questioning eye of Dolly
it,
;

understanding Sviazhsky's hint, was in some confusion at her unseemly vehicle, which, indeed, was a dirty old carThe men on the box shared her feeling, but Filipp, riage. the coachman, grew angry, and was unwilling to submit to any such superficial superiority. He put on an ironical smile as he scrutinized the roan black trotter harnessed to the tilbury. " That brute may do very well for a promenazhe, but he can't show forty versts at a heat," he decided, internally,
tclyfya, and gayly and curiously were watching the meeting of the friends, and making their observations. " They seem tolerably glad hain't seen each other for some time," remarked the old man.
;

by way of consolation." The muzhiks had left their

592

ANNA KAB&NINA.

" Glian-ka, look! Is that a woman in trousers?" asked another, pointing at Veslovsky sitting on the side-saddle. " Nye, muzhik! see how easy he rides." " Say, then, my children, we shan't get another nap, shall

we?"

" No more sleep now," said the starik, squinting and glancing at the sun Look past noon work."
' ' ;

his eyes to

Now

XVIII.

ANNA seeing Dolly tired, worn, and covered with dust, was on the point of saying that she looked thin, but the admiration of her own beauty which she read in her friend's eyes checked her, " " You are " You are studying me? she said. wondering how I can be so happy in my position Na i tcho-zh ! It is shameful to confess it my happiness is unpardonable What has happened is like a piece of enchantment. I have come out of wretchedness as we come out of a nightmare and And how especially happy I am now what a waking it is " that we are together and she looked at Dolly with a timid
! ! !

smile.

glad I am Dai'ya Alexandrovna answered, more " I am coldly than she wished. glad for you but why have " you not written me ? "Because I did not dare to. You knew my position." " Not dare? to me! If and Dolly you knew how I" was about to tell her about the reflections she had had on the journey, when the thought struck her that the present was no time for that. will have our talk by and by," she " What is that added. group of buildings, or little village rather?" she asked, wishing to change the conversation, and pointing to some green and red roofs which appeared through
!

"

How

"

"We

the acacias and lilac trees.

No, no how do you feel about my position? What do " Anna went on, without answering you think of it? tell me
! !

"

her question. " I think" began Darya Aleksandrovna but at this instant Vasenka Veslovsky, in his short jacket, spurring the cob into a galop with his right leg and creaking terribly on " He the leather side-saddle, went dashing by them. goes, Anna Arkadyevna," he shouted. Anna did not even look at
;

him, but again

it

seemed

to

Darya Aleksandrovna that

it

was

ANNA

KAIitfNIXA.

593

impossible to begin on this long conversation in the carriage, and so she said less than she thought. "I do not think. I love yon and always have loved 3-011. And when we love people so, we love them for what they are, not for what we wish they were." Anna turned her eyes away, half closing them in order better to take in the meaning of the words. This was a new habit which Dolly had never seen in her before. Apparently she interpreted her friend's answer as she wanted, and she looked at Dolly. "If you have any sins, they will all be blotted out by this visit and by your kind words," she said, and turning toward her, Dolly saw that her eyes were dimmed with tears. She silently took her hand. " What are those " said Dolly, after a moment buildings ? What a lot of them of silence. " Those are the roofs of our our barns and buildings, " It was all stables," replied Anna. neglected, but Aleksi has made it all new again. Here our park begins. He loves the country, and to my great surprise he has developed a Ah, his is a rich nature passion for farming [khozyd'istvo] He not only does not AVhatever he undertakes he excels in. I do not get bored, but he is passionately interested in it. know how, but he is making a capital farmer [khozydtn] so but only in farm ways. For economical, almost stingy things of other sorts he will spend ten thousand rubles and never give it a thought." She said this with that sweet, pen! .

sive smile of joy which is peculiar to women when they speak " Do of the men that they love, and their half -secret follies. you see that large building? That is a hospital, his dada [hobby] just now. Do you know what made him build it? I told him he was stingy when a quarrel broke out between him and the peasants about a piece of waste land which they

were reclaiming. The hospital was undertaken to prove my charge unjust; c'est une pc-titesse [a weak thing], perhaps, Now in a moment you'll see but I love him the'better for it. the house. It was built by his grandfather, and the outside hasn't been changed at all." " How beautiful " cried Dolly with involuntary surprise at the sight of a stately house ornamented with a colonnade, and surrounded by trees a century old. Isn't it? And the view from the second story is
!

k '

magnificent."

They came

into the dvor (court)

paved with small stones

594

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

and ornamented with flower-beds, which two workmen were moment surrounding with roughly trimmed stone. They stopped under a fjorte-cochere. u They have already arrived," said Anna, as she saw the " Isn't she a led creature? saddle-horses
at this
;
;

away. pretty being that cob she's my favorite I love to give her sugar. Where is the count?" she asked of the two servants in livery who " added she, came out to receive them. " Ah, here he is perceiving Vronsky with Veslovsky coming to meet them. 'Where shall we put the princess?" asked Vronsky in
!

French, and without waiting for an answer, turned to Dolly, and having kissed her hand, he said, " In the balcony cham-

ber?"
In the corner chamber. We no, that is too far off. be nearer one another. Nu ! come, come," said she, giving her favorite horse some sugar that the lackey had
'

Oh

shall

brought. kt Et vous oubliez votre devoir" [and you are forgetting your duty], she added, turning to Veslovsky, who was already in the porch.
tout pie in les poches [I have my pockets full], he replied, smiling and thrusting his fingers into his vest pocket. ' Mais vous venez trop tard" [but you came too late], she replied, wiping her hand, which the horse had mouthed in
'

Pardon, fen ai

"

taking. the sugar. Anna turned to Dolly, " " You'll stay with us a long time," said she. Only one That is impossible." day? " That is what I and the children," answered promised, the latter, ashamed at the wretched appearance of her poor little traveling-bag and at the dust with which she felt herself covered. " No, Dolly, dushenka. However, we'll talk of that by and b}-. Come up to your room." The room was not the chamber of honor which Vronsky offered her, but one where she could be nearer Anna but this room was furnished with a luxury such as she was not accustomed to, and which recalled the most sumptuous hotels that she had seen abroad. " JVu, dAshenka! how glad I am to see you here, my dear friend," said Anna again, seating herself in her riding " Tell me about habit (amazoitka) before her sister-in-law.
;

ANNA KAK&NINA.

595

your family. I saw Stiva just an instant, but he could not How is my liubimitsa tell me anything about the children. " IShe must be a great girl [darling] Tania ? " answered Dolly, astonished at finding Yes, very large," herself talking so eooly about her children. "We are all
!

living charmingly with the Levins." " Vot ! If I had known," said Anna,

look

down on me, ...

should have begged you

" that you wouldn't all to come

here. Stiva is an old and good friend of Aleksei's," said Anna, blushing. " Da! but we are so well" began Dolly in confusion. "Z>a/ I am so happy, I talk nonsense only, d&sheiika, I am so glad to see you," said Anna, kissing her again. 'But promise me to be frank, and tell me what you think about me I want to know all. But I am so glad that you see me just as I am. My only idea, you see, is to live without I don't want to hurt anybody I want hurting anybody. simply to live and not give pain to any one but myself. Am I not right about it? However, we'll talk of all this at our
; ;

leisure.

Now

I'm going to change

my

dress

I will send

you a waiting-maid."

XIX.
DOLLY, when left alone, examined her chamber with the eyes of a genuine Jchozydika. All that she saw as she went through the house, and all that she saw in the room, impressed her by its richness and elegance, and this new European luxury, which she had read about in English novels, she had never seen before in Russia, and especially not in the country. All was new, from the French tapestries to the carpet, which covered the whole room, the bed with its hair mattress, the marble toilet-table, the bronzes on all was new and elegant the mantel, the rugs, the curtains,
to the last degree.

The smart waiting-maid who came to offer her services was dressed with much more style than Dolly, who felt confused at taking out before her, her poor toilet articles from her bag, especially a mended nightdress, which she had happened to put in by mistake from among her oldest ones. When she was at home these devices had their advantage, for they represented economy in a small way but in presence of this brilliant attendant, they made her ashamed.
;

596

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

Fortunately, the girl was called away by her mistress, and, to Dolly's great satisfaction, her old acquaintance, Annushka, took her place.

Annushka, overjoyed at seeing Darya Aleksandrovna again, prattled on to her heart's content about her dear baruina, and the love and tenderness which the count showed Anna Arkadyevna. Dolly tried to stop her, but she persisted in
grew up with Anna Arkad}'evna, and love her more than the whole world. It's not my place to judge her, and " she seems to love " Please have these washed," said Darya Aleksandrovna. "I will obey. We have two women especially for the The laundry, but the washing is done all by machinery. count looks out for everything. He is such a husband " Dolly was glad when Anna came in and put an end to the
babbling Annushka's confidences. Anna was dressed in a very simple cambric dress.
Dolly
noticed particularly this simple dress. She knew what this simplicity meant, and how much money it represented. " An old acquaintance," said Anna to Annushka. Anna now was no longer confused. She was perfectly calm and self-possessed. Dolly saw that now she was entirely free from the excitement that took possession of her when she first came, and had assumed that superficial tone of indifference which, as it were, closed the door to the expression of real thought and feelings.

speaking. " I

"

Nu!

but

how

is

" Ani?

ver}' well.

her to you.

We

your daughter?" asked Dolly. Should you like to see her? I'll show have had great trouble with her Italian
;

still, the little thing is nurse, a good woman, but so stupid so much attached to her, we have to keep her." " But how have you done about?" began Dolly, wishing to ask about the child's name ; but she stopped, as she saw Anna's countenance fall, and changed the ending of the

question.

"Have you weaned her?"

understood. " That is not what you were going to say." You were thinking of the child's name, weren't you? It is the great grief of Aleksei that she hasn't any name ; that is, she is " We will talk Kare"nina," and she half-closed her eyes. again about all that; come, and I'll show her to you. Elle est trds gentitte; she is already beginning to walk."

Anna

ANNA
The nursery, a
fitted

KARtiNINA.

597

high, spacious, and well-lighted room, was up with the same stunptuousness as the rest of the house. There were the baby-coaches which came from England, and the inventions for teaching children to walk, the bath-tubs, swings all were new, beautiful, solid, of English make, and evidently very costly. The child was seated in an arm-chair by the table, with an apron on, was eating her broth and spilling it all over her dress. A Russian maidservant was helping her, and at the same time was herself Neither the French maid nor the nurse was present, eating. but one could hear from a neighboring room the French jargon by which they made themselves understand each other. The English maid appeared as soon as she heard Anna's voice, and made plentiful excuses, although no one had blamed her. She was a large woman with blonde curls, which shook when she talked, and had an unpleasant face, which " disliked. Whenever Anna she
;

answered, Yes, spoke, lady." As for the child, her black hair and healthy color, and her amusing way of creeping, won Darya Aleksandrovna's heart, with her dress tucked up behind, and her beautiful eyes watching those who were looking at her, as if she understood that she was being admired. Then, when she was put down on the carpet, she crept energetically towards them on her hands and knees, like some pretty animal. But the whole atmosphere of the nursery, and especially the English maid, struck Darya Aleksandrovna very unpleasantly. She could not understand how Anna, with her knowledge of people, could be willing to put up with such an unsympathetic, vulgar maid. Was it because they could not find a respectable
Dolly

my

person who would consent to live in an irregular family ? Dolly, after a few words, observed that Anna, the nurse, the maid, and the child were not much wonted to each other, and that the mother was almost a stranger in this part of the house. She could not find any of the child's playthings, and strangest of all, she didn't know how many teeth the child had! " It is always a grief to me that I am so useless here, "said Anna, as they went out, holding up the train of her dress so that it should not catch on any of the toys by the door. " It was not so with my oldest. " "I thought, on the contrary," began Dolly timidly. u Oh, no You know that I have seen Serozha again,"
!

598

ANNA
'

KAEtfXIXA.

said she, looking fixedly before her, as if she sought for You can't believe but I urn like something faraway. a person dying of starvation, who finds a banquet before her, and does not know how to begin. You are this banquet for me. With whom could I speak openly if not with you? I shall ask for nothing more when we can have a quiet talk Mais je ne vous ferai grace de rien [I shall not together.
I must tell you all." spare you anything]. Da ! I want to give you a sketch, now, of the people you will meet here," she began. "First, the Princess Vtirvara. You know her, and I know 3'our opinion and Stiva's. Stiva says her whole aim of life consists in proving her pre-eminence over Aunt Katerina Pavlovna. That is true of her but she has some good in her, I assure you, and I am under many She was of great help to me at Petersobligations to her. burg, when un chaperon was indispensable. You don't know
' ; ;

difficult my position was, there in Petersburg Here I jVw, da! but about this very comfortable and happy. afterwards. To return to our guests. Then there's Sviazhsky he is the marshal of the district, and a very clever man, You see, with his and he needed Alekse'i for something. fortune, now, as we live in the country, Alekse'i can gain a wide influence. Then, Tushkie' vitch you have met him he was at Betsy's now they sent him off, and he came to visit ns. As Aleks6i says, he is one of those very agreeable men, if one takes him just as he wishes to appear, et puis il est comme il faut, as the Princess Varvara says. And then Veslovsky you know him. very good fellow. How about that absurd story he told of Levin ? Veslovsky told Aleksei, and we don't believe it, as il est tres gentil et naif" [he's very nice and very unaffected], she added, smiling. "I have to entertain all these people, because men need amusement, and Aleksei needs society and we have to have it lively and gay, else Alekse'i finds time to want something new. We also have with us the surveyor. He is a German, a very good man understands his business Aleksei has Then there's the doctor, a young great esteem for him. man, who is not exactly a Nihilist, but, you know, he eats with his knife. une petite cour" [a Then the architect, little court ] .
!

how

am

ANNA

KARJSNINA.

599

XX.
" Nn! much to
here we have Doll}*, Princess, whom you wished so see," said Antia to the Priucess Varvara, who was seated on the great stone terrace, in the shade, with her " She says that she does embroidery frame in front of her. not want anything before dinner, but try to make her take some breakfast, while I go and find the gentlemen."

The Princess Varvara gave Dolly a gracious and condescending reception, and immediate!}' began to explain that she had come to live with Anna because she loved her more than her sister, Katerina Pavlovna, and because, now when all were abandoning Anna, she wanted to be of assistance to her at this
trying period of transition. '" When her husband has consented to a divorce, I shall go back to my solitude but however painful it may be, I shall stay here for the present, and not imitate the example of And how kind you are how good of you to make others. this visit They live exactly like the very best married Let God judge them it is not for us. It was just people. so with Biriuzovsky and Madame Avenyeva, and then
;

Yasiliyef and Madame Mamonova, and Liza Neptunova. see they don't say anything about them, and in the end they will be received. And then c'est un inttrieur sijoli, si comme il fant. Tout-a-fait & I'anglaise. On se reunit le matin au breakfast etpuis on se separe. [They have a perfect establishment, and the inside of their house is so charming, The family meets at so stylish. It is altogether English. breakfast and then separates.] Every one does just as he pleases. They dine at seven. Stiva was wise to send you ; he would better keep on good terms with them. You know the count has great influence through his mother and his brother. And then he is most generous. Have they told a sera admirable! [It's going you about the hospital? to be excellent !] Everything comes from Paris." This conversation was interrupted by Anna, who returned to the terrace, followed by the gentlemen, whom she had found in the billiard-room. It was a superb day there was every facility for diversion, and several hours would pass before dinner-time.

You

" une I'll take partie de laicn tennis. Veslovsky proposed one side with you again, Anna Arkadyevna," he said with
his gay, contagious smile.

600

ANNA KARtfNINA.
;

No, it is too warm suppose we go into the park, and take Darya Aleksandrovua out in the boat to show her the landscape," said Vronsky. Veslovsky and Tushkievitch went to get the boat read}*, and the two ladies, with the count and Sviazhsky, took the
paths to the park. Dolly was somewhat confused and embarrassed by this absolutely novel environment in which she found herself. Abstractly, theoretically, she not only justified, but she was Like the disposed even to approve of Anna's conduct. majority of irreproachably virtuous women, wearying often of the monotony of a virtuous life, Dolly from a distance excused illicit love, and even envied it a little. Moreover, she loved Anna with all her heart. But in reality, when she found herself among these strangers, with their fashionable ways, she was thoroughly ill The Princess Varvara forgiving everything, because at ease. she could thereby share in her niece's luxury, was odious. She might be disposed to excuse Anna's conduct, but the sight of the man for whom she had taken this step was unpleasant to her. Vronsk}* was not congenial to her at any time she thought him proud, and could see no reason except his was rather wealth to justify his haughtiness. Still, he imposing as master of the house, and she felt humiliated before him, just as she had felt when the maid took the patched gown from her valise. She hardly ventured to make him a commonplace compliment on the beauty of his place, and as she walked beside him she was at a loss for a subject of conversation. However, for want of anything better, she ventured a few words in admiration of his house. "Yes, it is a very handsome building, and in good old
;

"

style," replied the count. "I liked the dvor [court] in front of the steps; was it " always so ? " " Oh, no If you had only seen it in the spring And little by little, at first coldly, but wanning as he went on, he pointed out to Dolly the many improvements he had made.
!

His listener's praises gave him evident pleasure. " If you are not tired, we might go as far as the hospital,"
said he, looking at Dolly to

make

sure that his proposition

would not bore her. "Shall we, Anna?"

ANNA KARtfNINA.

601
;

" " Yes. she said, turning to Sviazhsky Shall we not? " mats il ne faut pas laisser le jmuvre Veslovsky et Tuslie-

moffondre III dans le bateau ! [but not leave these gentlemen to wait in vain for us in the boat] we must let Da! This is a monument to his glory," said them know. she to Dolly, with the same smile which she bore when she
vitch se
;

spoke of the hospital. " said Sviazhsky and then, not to seem capital deed he added, like a flatterer, " I am surprised, Count, that you, who are doing so much
first

"

for

the peasants' schools."

k '

sanitary

matters,
les

are

so

indifferent

to

C'est

devenu tellement

commun

common], replied Vronsky. This way, amuse myself.

side-path.

must know I do ladies," and he led them

"You

ecoles" [schools are so this to into a

Upon leaving the garden, Dolly saw a great red brick building before her, of complicated architecture, whose roof At the side rose another building. glittered in the sun. " How rapidly the work is going on," remarked Sviazhsky. " The last time I was here the roof was not in position." " It will be done by autumn, for the inside is finished now," said Anna. " AVhat else are you building ? " house for the doctor, and a pharmacy," replied Vronsky and seeing the architect, in a short overcoat, approaching, he excused himself to the ladies, and went to meet him. Going round the mortar pit, into which the workmen were throwing lime, he joined the architect and began to talk angrily with him. " The pediment is going to be too low," he replied to Anna, who asked him what the trouble was. '" I said that the foundation ought to be raised," said Anna.
' k

it would have been better, Anna Arka" cZa, it was a mistake." dyevna," said the architect " Da! I am very much interested in him," said Anna, in reply to Sviazhsky, who asked her about her acquaintance " The new with the architect. buildings must correspond with the hospital. But this was thought of afterwards, and lieuun without any plan." After his talk with the architect, he offered to show Dolly the inside of the building. Though the outside and the lower part of the buildiug was almost finished, on the upper floors
;

" Da! Of course,

602

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

They went up by a broad, scarcely anything was clone. cast-iron staircase to the second story, and entered the first The walls were stuccoed, and lighted by great dormitory. huge panes of glass only the floors were yet to be finished. Vronsky explained the arrangement of the rooms, the new apparatus for heat and ventilation and the visitors admired the marble bath-rooms and the beds with extraordinary springs, the litters, and the reclining chairs.
; ;

Sviazhsky. and especially Dolly, were surprised at all they saw, and asked many questions, not disguising their admiration.

"Da!
kind
in

I think this hospital will be the only one of the Russia," remarked Sviazhsky, quite capable of admir-

ing the count's improvements. Vronsky was pleased Doll}' was interested in everything. with the admiration he received, and being full of hearty animation, the impression which he made upon her was decidedly favorable. " Da! he is certainly good, and worthy to be loved," she thought, and she understood Anna, how it was that Anna came to love him.

XXI.
" No the princess must be tired, and the horses will not interest her," said Vronsky to Anna, who had proposed to show Dolly the stable, where there was a new stallion that Sviazhsky wished to see. " You go there, and I will escort the princess back to the house. And if you please," added he to Dolly, " we will talk
;

on the way." Very willingly, for I'm not a connoisseur in horses," she answered, seeing by Vronsky's face that he had something
a
little

"

special to say to her.

Accordingly, when Anna had gone, he said, looking at I am not mistaken, am I, in Dolly with his smiling eyes, " and he took believing you to be a sincere friend of Anna's ? off his hat to wipe his forehead. Dolly could not imagine what he was going to ask of her. The thought came into her head " He is going to ask me to come and visit them with my children, or to get society for Anna when she comes to Moscow. Or is he going to speak or of of Vasenka Veslovsky and his attentions to Anna
'
:

ANNA KAEfiNINA.
"
;

603

She was greatly Kitty or to confess himself to blame ? disturbed in her mind. " You have such an influence over Anna. She loves you " so," said the count, after a moment's pause give me your help." Dolly looked into Vronsky's serious, strong face, without answering. " Of all Anna's friends, you are the only one who has I do not count the Princess Varvara I come to see her know very well it is not because }'ou approve of our position it is because you love Anna, and knowing the cruelty of her " I right? position, want to help her. " Yes," said Aleksaudrovna, shutting up her sunDarya " but" shade, " No one could feel more deeply than I do the cruel difficulties of our life," said Vronsky, stopping and making Dolly
;

Am

" And stop. you will easily admit it if you do me the honor I am the cause of her to believe that I am not heartless. trouble, and therefore I feel it." " " but aren't you exaggerating difficulties ? said Certainly
;

" In Dolly, sincerely affected by what he said. society, her position is hard, I admit." "In society it is hell!" said he, savagely frowning; "you can't conceive the moral tortures Anna endured at " Petersburg on those days and I beg you to believe " Da! but here? And neither she nor feel the need you of a society life." "Society! why should I need it?" exclaimed Vronsky
;

scornfully.

"You
will."

dispense with

it

easily,

and perhaps you always

"I see in Anna that she is happy, perfectly happy, and she has had time to tell me that she is." And while she spoke, the thought struck Dolly that Anna might not have been quite frank. " Yes, yes, I know that she has revived after all her suffershe is happy now. But I?" said She is happy ings. " I am afraid of what the future holds for us, Vronsky. " excuse me do you want to go? " No, it is immaterial. N*l let us sit down here." Darya Aleksandrovna sat down on a garden bench in a nook of the walk. He was standing in front of her. " I see that she seems happy but will it last? Whether
;
;

604

ANNA

KARtfNIXA.

we

did right or wrong is a hard question ; but the die is " and we cast," he said, changing from Russian to French, we are joined by the ties of love. are joined for lite have one child, and we may have others. But the law and all the conditions of our state are such that there are a thousand complications, which Anna, now that she is resting after her afflictions and sufferings, does not see and will not but I cannot help seeing. It is natural see. daughter, according to the law, is not my daughter, but Karenin's, and I do not like this falsehood," said he, with an energetic gesture of negation, and looking at Darya Aleksandrovna with
;

We

My

a gloomy, questioning face. She did not reply, but simply looked at him. He continued, "To-morrow a son may be born my son and by law he would be a Karenin, and could inherit neither my name nor my property. You understand the cruelty, the horror, of I try to explain this to Anna. It irrithis state of things? tates her she will not understand me, and I cannot tell her all. Now look at the result. I have here an object for my cela activity which interests me, and which I am proud of n'est pas un pis aller [it is by no means a last resort] far from it but to work strongly, one must work for others besides one's self, and I can have no heirs. Conceive the feelings of a man who knows that his children and those of the wife he worships, do not belong to him that their father hates them, and would never recognize them. Isn't it horrible?"
;

silent and deeply moved. Yes, of course," said Darya Aleksandrovna But what can Anna do?" stand this.

He was
"

" I under-

" Da! That brings me to the purpose of this talk," said "Anna can get a dithe count, trying to control himself. Her husband consented to that vorce. It depends on her. when your husband asked him about it, and I know that he would not refuse ; at all events, if Anna wrote to him. He said up and down that he would consent, if Anna would " this condition is one of apply for it. Of course," he added, those Pharasaic cruelties, of which only heartless people are He knows what torture all remembrance of him capable. h:is for her, and so he exacts this letter from her. I understand that it is painful to her. She ought to be above these her happiness is involved, as well excessive sensibilities But the reasons are so imperative, that as her children's.
;

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

605

she must passer pardessus tontes ces finesses de sentiment. va du bonheur et de I'existence d'Anna, et de ces enfants. I don't speak about myself, though it is painful, very painful, And this is the reason 1 am speaking to you, Printo me. cess, as to one who can save us. Help me to persuade Anna of the need of getting a divorce."

"I will," said Dolly, remembering her talk with Kare'nin. " But why does she not think of it herself?" thought she. She recalled Anna's half-shut eyes this new habit seemed to indicate some inner thoughts which, perhaps, she wished to efface entirely, if that were possito put far from her,
;

ble.

''Yes, I will speak to her, certainly; both for your sake for hers," repeated Dolly, in response to Vronsky's And they went towards the house. grateful look.

and

XXII.
other," said

and we have hardly seen one anAnna, coming in and she tried to read in Dolly's eyes what had passed between her and Vronsky. " I count on this evening and now we must go and change
Diis*NERris nearly ready,
; ;

"

our dresses, after our visit to the hospital." Dolly went to her room, and felt ridiculous. She had no change to make, since she had worn her best dress but in order to make some change in her toilette, she fastened a knot of ribbon at her throat, put a bit of lace in her hah', and brushed herself. " It is all I could do," she said, laughingly, to Anna, who came to look after her, dressed in a third costume. " Da! we are very formal here," said Anna, in apology for her elegant attire. "Aleks6i is so glad that you came. I believe he has fallen in love with you." Going down to the parlor, they found the Princess Varvara and the gentlemen already waiting. Only the architect was without a dress coat, and they passed into the diningroom. Vronsky begged Sviazhsky to hand in Anna Arkadyevna he himself went with Dolly Veslovsky anticipated Tnskivitch in offering his arm to the Princess Varvara, and Tuskievitoh went with the doctor. The dinner, and the table-service, and all this new kind of luxury which she saw. interested Dolly. She was mistress of a house, and knew that nothing goes right, eveu in a
;

606

ANNA KARtfNINA.
;

modest establishment, without a head and from the way in which the count looked around him, and made signals to the butler, and offered her the choice between botvinya and soup, she saw that the superintendence came from him. Anna had no more to do with it than Veslovsky had she was a mere guest like the rest. Only as far as conversation went was Anna khozy&ika, and thus conversation was b}' no means easy among guests belonging to such different spheres of life. But she had a word for every one, including the superintendent and the architect, and she went through with her task with her usual tact and simplicity, and even with pleasure, as Darya Aleksandrovna noticed. The conversation turned first on the way in which Tuskivitch had been left alone in the boat, and that led TuskieBut vitch to speak of the recent }'acht-race at Petersburg. Anna, taking advantage of a lull, quickly turned to the architect, in order to bring him out. " Nikolai' Ivanuitch was surprised," said she, referring to Sviazhsky, "to see how the new building had grown since he was here last. But I myself see it every day, and every day
;

surprised myself to see how fast it goes." is good to work with his Excellency," said the archi" You don't do such work under tect. government patronWhen they would write reams of paper, as I told the age. count, we do it in three words."
I

am

"It

" How do they work?" asked Dolly"Just like scissors. A plank and lots of little knives. Like this !" Anna took a knife and fork into her beautiful white hands and tried to show her. She apparently saw that she did not make herself very clear, but knowing that she spoke pleasant!} and that her hands were beautiful, she
7

American ways," suggested Sviazhsky. "Da! buildings there are raised rationally." The conversation then went off on the abuse of power in the United States but Anna immediately started him on a third theme, in order to bring out the superintendent. "Have you ever seen the steam reaping machines?" she were just going to asked of Darya Aloksandrovna. I never saw one before." see it when we met you.
;

"

"We

continued her explanations. " " Better said Veslovsky, jestingly, not say a pen-knife his eyes from her. Anna smiled, but she did not reply. taking
!

ANNA KARBNINA.
"

607

I not right, Karl, that they are like scissors?" she said, appealing to the director. " " Es ist ein ' 0/i, ja ganz [Oh, yes] replied the German.
,

Am

a very simple thing], and he began to explain the construction of the machine. The German drew out of his pocket a pencil and a notebook, and tried to refute some of Sviazhsky's objections. " Zu complidrt, macht zu viel klopots" [Too complicated, makes too much bother], he said in conclusion. "' W/inscht man Dochols, so hat man auch klopots" [If one wants money, he must have bother], said Vdsenka Veslovsky, " making sport of the German. ''J' adore Vallemand [I adore German], he said with a peculiar smile, turning to Anna. " Cessez!" '[Hush], said she, with affected sternness. " expected to find you on the field," said she to the "Were you there?" doctor, who was somewhat infirm. And so the conversation went on in a general way on various topics, all taking part. Once Darya Aleksandrovna was touched to the quick at hearing Sviazhsky criticise Levin's opinions about the harmfulness of machinery in Russian agriculture. " I have not the pleasure of knowing this gentleman, Levin, but probably he has never seen the machines he criticises. But if he has seen machines, they must have been Russian ones and not the foreign make. What can be his point of view?" " Turkish point of view," said Anna, smiling at
einfaclies

Ding"

[it

is

We

Veslovsky. "I cannot defend opinions which I do not know," said " but Levin is a Dolly, reddening thoroughly intelligent man, and I know that he could explain his ideas to you if he were here." " Oh, I am very fond of him, and we are excellent
;

petit

" mats friends," said Sviazhsky, smiling; pardon, il est tin peu toque [but he is a little cracked]. He considers the zemstvo and the justices of the peace eneverything will have nothing to do with them." tirely useless " There's our Russian indifference " exclaimed Vronsky, " Rather filling his goblet with ice-water from a carafe. than give ourselves the trouble of understanding new duties, we find it simpler to ignore them." " I don't know any one who is more strict in the fulfilment of his duties," said Dolly, irritated by Vronsky's superior tone.
!

608
"

ANNA KAEENINA.

I, on the contrary," said Vronsky, evidently somewhat " am piqued, very sensible, as you see, of the honor which has been done me, thanks to Nikolai' Ivauovitch, in my appointment as honorary justice of the peace. The duty of judging the affairs of a muzhik seems to me as important as anything that I could do. It is my only way of repaying

society for the privileges I enjoy as landed proprietor." Yrousky's assurance that he was in the right seemed very strange to Darya Aleksandrovna. She knew that

Levin, whose' opinions were diametrically opposite, was equally firm on his side but, as she loved the latter, she thought he must be right. " Well, we can depend upon you at the election," said "Perhaps we ought to leave by'the 8th. Will Sviazhsky. you do me the honor to go with me, Count?" "For my part," said Anna, "I pretty much agree with your beau frere, though for different reasons. I am afraid that now-a-days we are getting to have too many of these public duties, just as in old times there were so many tchinovniks that there was a tchinovnik for everything so now every one is becoming a public functionary. Aleksei has been here six months and is already a member of five or six
; ;

commissions counsehnan, juryman que cela va [at this rate]

different

trustee don't

know what

\_popetchitel'], judge, else.

it.

town
train

Du

all his

time will be spent on

And I

these things are multiplied so, that it will be only You have ever so many offices, Nikolai Ivanuitch, have you not? at least twent}*, haven't you?" she asked, turning towards Sviazhsky. Anna spoke jestingly, but in her tone there was a shade of
afraid
if

am

a matter of form.

Darya Aleksandrovna, who was watching Anna and Vronsky attentive!} immediately noticed it. She saw also that the Count's face assumed a resolute and vexed expression, and that the Princess Varvara made haste to talk about some Petersburg acquaintances, so as to change the subject and remembering what Vronsky had told her in the garden
irritation,
7
, ;

about his pleasure in activity, she felt certain that this conversation had something to do with a secret quarrel between

Vronsky and Anna.

The dinner, the wines, the service, were luxurious, but everything seemed to Darya Aleksandrovna formal and impersonal, like the state dinners that she had seen, and it made a disagreeable impression upon her.

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

609

After dinner they went out upon the terrace. A game of lawn tennis was arranged. Dolly at first attempted to play, but soon gave it up, and went to sit with the Princess Varvara, who was watching the others. Vronsky and Sviazhsky played in earnest, but Veslovsky was a poor player. He got His jests and too excited, but he greatly amused the others. Like the other men he took oli "his coat shouts n?ver ceased. and played in his shirt-sleeves, and his tall, well-shaped figure and his ruddy, warm face, and his violent motions made But Darya Aleksandrovna did not quite a vivid picture. enjoy the hour while they were playing. She thought the behavior of Vasenka Veslovsky and Anna exceedingly childish. But seeing that the others were enjoying themselves she looked on and made believe that she was ga}'. All that day it seemed to her as if she were acting in a comedy with better actors than herself.

passionate desire to see her children seized her, to take

up again that domestic yoke which this morning had seemed She made up her mind to go home the next day, oppressive. although she had come intending to stay for two days. When she went to her room after tea, and after a moonlight row in the boat, she felt thoroughly relieved. She went alone to her room, took off her dress, and began to put up her hair for the night. It was even unpleasant to think that Anna would soon be in to see her. She would have preferred to be alone with her thoughts.

XXIII.
JUST as she was feeling ready to go to bed, the door opened, and Anna came in, with a white dressing-gown on. All day, ever}- time that Anna had been on the point of " speaking intimately, she had put it off, saying, Bye and bye
;

are alone, we will talk. I must tell you every-, But now that they were alone, Anna did not know thing." how to begin. She sat by the window looking at Dolly, and it seemed to her as if she had already told all that was in her heart to tell.

when we

and looking
is

about Kitty?" asked Anna, sighing deeply, " Tell me the truth, Dolly " she offended with me ?
guiltily at Dolly.
;

"

Nu!

What

"Angry? No," answered Dolly, smiling. " Doesn't she hate doesn't she despise me?"

610
" Oh, no "
;

ANNA KARtiNINA.

but -you know this is not pardonable." Yes, yes," said Anna, turning towards the open window. " But 1 was not to blame And who is to blame? and what is there blameworthy about it? Could it have been otherwise? Nu! How do you think? Could you have helped
!

" being Stiva's wife ?

" That's too a better man."

" Ach
!

know what to answer but you must tell me " Is she Da, da! But finish telling me about Kitty. happy? They say her husband is an excellent man."
I don't
;

" "

little

to say, that he's excellent; I don't

know
say

How
me

glad I

that he's an excellent Dolly smiled.

am man ? "
!

am

very glad.

Little to

" But
"

tell

about yourself," said Dolly.

call

"

with

She did not know what to

Kirillovitch.
tell

Vronsky

have talked whether

Count or Aleks^i

"With
But
of
I

Alekse'i, yes; I

want you to
life."

me

know that you talked with him. honestly what you think of me

" "

my

How
;

No you

can I tell you? I don't know what to say." cannot tell at all. But you see my life. Don't

forget that you see us with people, and we are not alone in the spring, we lived alone, and we shall live alone again. I ask for nothing better than living alone with But imagining that I ma}- live alone without him, him. but I see that this ma}- be repeated absolutely alone, that he may spend half of his time away from home then " she said, imagine what the loneliness would be for me and getting up, she sat down by Dolly. " Oh, of course," she said quickly, interrupting Dolly, who was about to I don't speak, "Of course, I cannot keep him by force, keep him. To-day there's a race his horses race ; he goes. But you think of me imagine my situation. Very glad Da! what can I say about it?" she smiled. "But what did he talk with you about?" 4t He spoke about a matter which I myself wanted to talk over with you and it is easy for me to be an advocate of about this whether it is not possible or necessary to it, to improve, make your position legal. You know how I look at but anyhow, if possible, a marriage must take

but we came

place."

" You mean divorce?

Do you know,

the only

woman who

ANNA
came

KARtfNINA.

611

to see me in Petersburg was Betsy Tverskai'a. Perhaps you know her. Au fond c'est lafemme la phis deprav&e qui existe [At heart she is the wickedest woman in the world] she and this Tuskie"vitch but she deceived her husband she told me that she did not wish to know me, because my Don't think that I compare I know position was illegal But I could not help 3'ou, dushenka moya [my dear soul].
; ;
!

remembering
'

it.

Nu ! What

did he say

"

maybe you

you and for himself say that it is egoism, but what an honorable and noble egoism! He wishes to make his daughter legitimate, and to be your husband and have rights over you." " What wife, what slave, could be more of a slave than I, in my position?" she interrupted angrily. " The main reason that he wished it was that you might not suffer."
lie said that he suffered both for
will
;

Nu?" impossible. his children legitimate, to give them a name." " What children ?" said Anna, not looking at Dolly, but half -closing her eyes. " Ani, and those that may come to you."
"This
!

is

"Ntt

to

make

" Oh, he can be easy I shall not have any more." " " How can you answer so? " " Because 1 will not have and in spite of her an}' more
; ;

emotion, Anna smiled at the expression of astonishment, of naive curiosity and horror depicted on Dolly's face. "After " my" illness the doctor told me It is impossible," exclaimed Dolty, looking at Anna with wide eyes of amazement. What she had just heard put all her thoughts to confusion, and the deductions which she drew enlightened her upon several points which had hitherto been mysterious. Had she not dreamed something of the sort on her journey ? But now this simple answer to a complicated question
frightened her. " N'est ce pas immoral?" she asked, after a moment's
silence.

Wh}' ? Do not forget that I must choose between being tolerated or being the companion of my husband for so I consider him. If that is a doubtful fact to you, it is not so to me. I am his wife only as long as he loves me, and I must keep his love." Dolly was absorbed in the crowd of reflections which these confidences had awakened in her.
'
' ;

612

ANNA

KARfiNINA.
;

has she

" I have not tried to " Da!" she thought, keep Stiva but who took him from me kept him either? She was
but that did nut prevent Stiva from will the count be held by the means employs? When he likes, will he not find a yet
pretty,

young and
which Anna

leaving her too.

And

more fascinating woman, just as my abominable, wretched, and guilty husband has done?" She sighed deeply. " You say it is immoral," resumed Anna, feeling that " How can I want children? It of her.
Dolly disapproved is not the suffering,
I am not afraid of that. But think what unfortunate beings without a name children will be, destined to blush at their father, their mother, their birth." " Da! that is the reason you should get a divorce." Anna did not hear she wanted to finish her argument.

my

"

Why

the birth

was reason given me if I cannot use of more unhappy beings?"

it

to prevent

She looked at Dolly, but not waiting for answer, she went on. " I should always feel my guilt towards these unhappy If they do not exist, they will not know misery children. but if they exist and suffer, then I am to blame." These were the same arguments that Darya Aleksandrovna had used to herself, but now she listened and did not underShe said to herself, stand the n. " How can one be culpable with regard to non-existent
;

" Da! but don't you forget that you are not in the same position as I, and that I am not in the same position as you," said Anna. "For you the question is, Do you desire not to have more children? for me, Do I desire them? This is the You must know that I cannot desire principal difference. them in my position." Darya Aleksandrovna was silent. She suddenly became
aware that such an abyss separated her from Anna that between them certain questions existed on which they could never agree, and which had best not be discussed.

existences?" And suddenly the thought came, "Could it have been possibly any better if her darling Grisha had never existed?" and it struck so unpleasantly, so strangely, that she shook her head to chase away the cloud of maddening thoughts that came into her mind. " No, I do not know I believe it wrong," she said, with an expression of disgust.
;

ANNA KARtfNINA.
XXIV.

613

"ONE more
sible."

reason for legalizing your position,

if

pos-

"Yes,

if possible,"

answered Anna,

in

an entirely different

tone, calm

and sweet.

"Isn't a divorce entirely possible? They tell me your husband has consented." " Dolly, do not speak of that." " Nu! as you please," she answered, struck by the sad "Aren't you looking too much on look on Anna's face.
the dark side ?

"

am very happy and contented. You Not saw, Je fais des passions [I even get up flirtations] with
"I?
at all; I

Veslovsky" " Da! to

very much."

tell

the truth, Veslovsky's

manner

displeases

me

"Ach! there's nothing! It tickles Alekse"i. But he is a mere boy and entirely in my hands. You understand, I do as I please with him just as you do with Grisha.
;

Dolly

[she suddenly changed the conversation] you say You can't understand. This that I look on the dark side. " I try not to look at all is too terrible " You are to do what is necessary." wrong you ought
! ; ! ;

don't think about that. / not think about that " she exclaimed, and the color flew over her face. She got

"What

is

necessary?

You say

must marry Aleksi,

!

and that

up, straightened herself, and began walking slowly up and down, stopping now and then. "Not think about that! There is not a day or an hour when I do not think of it, because the thought and blame myself for thinking of it " When I think of of it makes me mad," she repeated. it, I can only quiet myself with morphine. But very good let us speak calmly. They tell me divorce, but in the first place he would not consent ; HE is under the Countess Lidia's
;
!

influence."

Darya Aleksandrovna " "

sat

down by

sympathetic look she followed down. She shook her head,

Anna

the table, and with a as she walked up and

must try," said she. Suppose I should try. What does it mean?" she asked, "It evidently having thought it over a thousand times.

We

614 means that guilt to him

I,

ANNA KAR&X1XA.
who hate him, and who have confessed my
I believe in his

magnanimity

that I humiliate

Nu! suppose I make the effort; supmyself to write him pose I do it. I shall receive either an insulting answer or his consent. Good, I get his consent." Anna at this time
in the furthest end of the room and stopped there to "I get his consent; but my arrange a window-curtain. s-son? He will not give him to me No, he will grow up despising me, living with his father, whom I have left. Just think, I love these two almost equally, both more than myself these two, Serozha and Aleksi." She advanced to the middle of the room and leaned toward In her white peigDolly, pressing her hands to her breast. noir she seemed wonderfully tall and large. She shook her head, and looking out of her moist, shining eyes upon the little, homely, lean Dolly, sitting their in her darned nightgown and nightcap, all a-tremble with emotion, " These two only I love, and I cannot bring them together. If this were not so, it would be all the same all, all the same. It will end in some way but I can not, I will not talk about this. You could never imagine what I suffer " She sat down beside Dolly and took her hand. " What do you think? What do you think of me? You don't despise me. I do not deserve that I am miserably " and turnunhappy. If there is any more unhappy than I she began to weep. ing away, After Anna had left her, Dolly said her prayers and went to bed. She pitied Anna with all her soul while she was talking with her but now she could not bring herself to think of her. Memories of home and children arose in her So dear and imagination with new and wonderful joy. precious seemed this little world to her that she decided that nothing would tempt her to stay longer away from them, and that she would leave the next day. Anna meantime, returning to her dressing-room, took a glass and poured into it several drops of a mixture containing chiefly morphine, and, when she had grown calm, she went quietly to her bed-room. Vronsky looked at her attentively, trying to find some indication in her face of her talk with Dolly but he saw only that engaging loveliness, to the charm of which he always submitted. He wanted to ask her what they had been talking about, but he waited for her to speak.

was

ANNA KARE NIXA.

"
I

615

am

" Da! I've kuown her for a long time. She's an excellent woman, mats excessi'cement terre d, terre [though exceedingly commonplace]. But still I am well pleased at her visit." He gave Anna another questioning look, and took her hand but she smiled without seeming to understand.
;

glad you like Dolly," she said, simply.

hosts,

The next morning, in spite of repeated urging from her Darya Aleksandrovna prepared to go away. Levin's

coachman, in his old kuftan and waggoner's cap, put the unmatched horses into the old carriage with its shabby harness, and looking stern and resolute, drove up the sanded drive-

way

to the jxnie cochere.

Darya Aleksandrovna took a cold farewell of the Princess Varvara and the gentlemen. The day that they had passed together made thorn all see clearly that they had no interests Anna only was in coannon, and that they were better apart. sad. She knew that no one would waken again in her the feelings which Dolly had aroused in her soul, and which repSoon all vestige resented all the better side of her nature. of such feelings would be stifled by the life that she was
leading.

Dolly breathed freely when she found herself in the open

fields

and just as she was feeling curious to learn how the servants were impressed, Filipp, the coachman, suddenly
;

turned around and said, " Rich they're rich, but they only feed out three enough measures of oats. That'll do for the roosters. What are three measures? Only a bite. Novv-a-days oats only cost That ain't our way." forty-five kopeks. "A stingy barin," added the bookkeeper. " Nu! but the horses pleased you, didn't they?" asked
Dolly.

"The
don't
I

horses
it."

know how you

was sick of

one word; and the food's good. But I felt about it, Darya Aleksandrovna And he turned his honest lace towards
;

her.

" Da! and so was

"

I.

Do

you think we

shall reach

home

We must get home." and as she thought her Dolly found her children well She gave an animated journey over, she thought better of it. description of the luxury and good taste of the Vronskys'
;

to-night?

"

616

ANNA KARENINA.
;

establishment, and of their cordiality herself to say a word against them.

and she did not allow and

I

" You must know Anna and Vronsky,

know him

to appreciate how kind and affectionate better than I did, they are," said she with perfect sincerity, forgetting the vague feeling of discomfort that she had felt when she was there.

XXV.
VRONSKY and Anna passed the rest of the summer and part of the autumn in the country, and took no steps towards getIt was agreed between them that they should ting a divorce. not make any visits but they both felt that the longer they lived alone in the solitude of autumn, and without guests, the more unendurable became their life and that they must have some change. Nothing which constitutes happiness was They were rich, young, well apparently wanting to them.
; ;

they had one child, and they had pleasant occupations. Anna continued to take the greatest care of her person and her dress. She read much, both in the way of novels and of serious literature, and sent abroad for valuable books which No subject that could she saw reviewed in the magazines. She astonished interest Vronsky was indifferent to her. him by her knowledge of agriculture and architecture, drawn from books and technical journals, and he grew accustomed to consulting her about everything, even on questions of sport or the breeding of horses. She took a very serious interest in the building of the hospital and put in practice there some original ideas which she knew how to carry out. The object of her life was to please Vronsk}', and take the place of all that he -had given up for her and he knew how to appreciate her devotion, and was touched by it, but at the same time he felt oppressed by the chains of tenderness which she forged around him. As time went on he found himself embarrassed by these chains which bound him, and he began more and more to feel anxious to cast them off, lest they should deprive him of his independence. If it had not been for his ever-increasing desire for freedom, if it had not been for the scenes that he met with every time that he had to go to the city, to the races, Vronsky would have been perfectly contented with his
;

life.

The

rdle

of rich lauded proprietor which he was trying

ANXA
was decidedly to his was from such men

KAKtiNINA.

617

taste, not only because he saw that it that the true Russian aristocracy was constituted, but because he found that he had a marked talHis work, which absorbed him ent for managing his estates.

more and more, was prospering admirably. Notwithstanding enormous expenses for the building of the hospital, machinery, and improved cattle, and many other things, he felt sure that he was not wasting but increasing his property. He entered into all details and was firm as rock in defending his
his

Notwithstanding his German superintendent's cunning and dexterity, he did not allow himself to be led by him into absurd extravagances, though he was willing to mt;ke all useful changes, particularly when they were of a kind to make an impression on outsiders but he never went beyond the limits which he had marked out for himself. The Department of Kashin, where the estates of Vronsky, Svia/hsky, Oblonsky, Koznuichef, and a small part of Levin's were situated, was to hold its provincial elections
interests.
;

(dvorianskie vuiborui) in October. These elections attracted general attention on account of the many notable personages who took part in them. People came from Moscow, Petersburg, and even from abroad.

Vronsky, too, had promised Sviazhsky to be present. On the evening before this event Vronsky and Anna almost nad a quarrel about his proposed trip. It was getting autumnal in the country, a melancholy, gloomy time, and therefore Vronsky, already ready for a contest, announced in a cold, stern tone, that he intended to be away for a few.days. But to his surprise Anna received the news with entire calmness. She smiled as he looked at her. He knew her power of retiring into herself, and he knew that it was manifested when she was planning some rash step that she did not wish him to know. He was afraid of this now, but he was desirous of avoiding a scene that he almost forced himself in believing that her

manner was

sincere.

" I hope you will not be lonely." " I hope so. I expect to receive a box of books from

Moscow
" She

no, I shall not be lonely." adopting a new tone, and so much the better," " but it's all the same thought he thing." And so, without asking farther explanation, he went off to This was the first time since their relations the elections. had begun that he had left her without a complete explana;

is

618
tion.
it

ANNA

KARtfNINA.
;

In one way this troubled him in another, he felt that was better. " There is beginning to be something not altogether clear and above board, but she will get used to it," he thought. " At all events, I can let her have everything except uuy independence as a man."

XXVI.
IN September Levin returned to Moscow, for his wife's confinement, and had already passed a month there, doing nothing, when Sergei Ivanovitch, who was taking an active part, invited him to go to the government of Kashin to the elections. Moreover, he had some business to attend to in the government of Kashin, in relation to the guardianship of the estate of his sister, who lived abroad. Levin was still in a state of uncertainty but Kitty saw that he was tired of the city, and urged him to go and put an end to his indecision, by having a deputy nobleman's uniform made for him at an expense of eight}' rubles. And these eight3* rubles spent on his uniform formed the principal reason that induced him to go.
;

He had

been waiting six days, every day trying to bring

his sister's affairs into a satisfactory state ; but the business relating to guardianship had not advanced a step, because it

depended on the marshal, whose re-election was impending.

The time passed in long conversations with who were very desirous to make themselves

excellent people,
useful, but could

do nothing, as the marshal remained invisible. These fruitless comings and goings were like the futile efforts one makes in a dream but marriage had taught Levin patience, and he
;

be exasperated. He also patiently tried to understand the electoral manoeuvres, which were so exciting to the honest and estimable men around him, and he did his bsst to become learned in a matter which he had hitherto
tried not

to

treated very lightly. Sergei Ivanovitch took pains to explain to him the meaning and importance of the new elections, in which he was particularly interested. Snetkof the present marshal (predvoditel) was a man of the old stamp, attached to the ways of the past, who had squandered a considerable fortune in the most honest way in the world, and whose antiquated ideas did not suit present
,
,

ANNA KAR&NINA.

619

As marshal, he handled large sums of money, and needs. had control over the gravest matters, such as guardianships, and this especially concerned Levin, the direction of public instruction, and last and not least, the zemstvo. It was considered necessary to put in his place a new and active man, imbued with the most enlightened modern ideas, and to manage the business so as to extract from all the
rights given to the noblesse (dvorianstvo) , not as the noblesse, but simply as a constituent part of the zemstvo, those advantages of self-government which were possible.

The rich Department of Kashin could furnish an example to the other governments for all Russia, if it knew how to use the strength concentrated there, and the new elections
thus would be highly important. It was proposed to elect as predvoditel, instead of Snetkof either Sviazhsky, or, still bet,

Nevyedovsky, a man of eminent understanding, formerly a professor, who was an intimate friend of Sergei Ivanovitch."
ter,

The provincial assembly (sobrdnie) was opened by a speech from the governor, who urged the nobilit}- to elect the officials, not from partisan reasons, but for merit and for the public weal, and he hoped that the nobility of the Department of Kashin would do their duty, and prove their devotion to the monarch, as they had always done. Having finished his speech, the governor left the hall, and deputynoblemen, tumultuously and eagerly, and even enthusiastically, followed him, and surrounded him while he was putting on his shuba, and talking in a friendly way with the government Levin, anxious to see everybody and miss nothpredvoditel. ing, was in the midst of the throng, and he heard the " Please tell governor say Mary a Ivanovna that my wife is very sorry, but she had to go to the asylum." Then all the nobles gayly took their shubas, and went in a bod}' to the
:

cathedral (sob6r). In the cathedral Levin, together with the rest, raised his head and repeated, after the protopop, the words by which they swore to fulfil their duties. The church service always impressed Levin, and when he heard this crowd of men, old and young, solemnly repeating the formal words, "I kiss the cross," he felt himself stirred. On the second and third day the assembly was occupied with the moneys meant for the educational establishments for the nobility and for women. On the fourth day the verification of the government moneys came up, and here,

620

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

for the first time, the new party came into direct collision with the old. The Commission, whose duty it was to verify these

accounts, announced to the assembly that the money was all accounted for. The government predvoditel arose, and with tears in his eyes thanked the nobility for their trust. The nobles loudly congratulated him, and shook hands with him. But at this time one noble (dcoridnin) belonging to Sergei Ivanovitch's party declared that he had heard that the Commission for the verification of the accounts had not performed its work properly. One of the members of the Commission unguardedly admitted this. Then a very small and very

young looking but very sarcastic gentleman began to say that it would probably be agreeable for the governmentpredvoditel to give an account of his expenditures, and that the superfluous delicacy of that member of the Commission deThen the members prived him of this pleasant recreation. of the Commission resigned, and Sergei Ivanovitch began logically to prove that it was necessary either to accept the verification or to refuse it. A chatterer from the opposite
party replied to Sergei Ivanovitch. Then Sviazhsky spoke, and was followed by the sarcastic gentleman. The proceedLevin was surings were tedious, and no end was reached. prised that they discussed this so long, and all the more, because when he asked .Sergei Ivanovitch whether Snetkof were suspected of peculation, he replied: "Not at all; he's a verj- worthy man. But we must put an end to this patriarchal way of managing business." On the fifth day occurred the election of the district marshal. The session was a stormy one in many particulars. In the district (uyezd) of Sel6znevskoe, Sviazhsky was unanimously elected, and he gave a grand dinner the same evening.

XXVII.

THE principal election, that of marshal of the Department, did not take place until the sixth day. The great hall and the little hall were crowded with nobles in their uniforms. Many came for this only. Acquaintances who had not met for years were there, some from the Krimea, some from PetersThe debates were carried on under burg, some from abroad. the Emperor's portrait. It could be seen very quickly that the deputy-noblemen, who were gathered in the two halls and in the corriders, were divided into two groups, the old

ANNA KARENINA.

621

The old school wore for the most part school and the new. either old court uniforms buttoned up, with swords, and ancient hats, or else their marine, cavalry, or infantry uniforms The uniforms of the old nobles were of very ancient date. made in the ancient style, with epaulettes on the shoulders, and with short waists and tight arm-holes, as if their possessors had grown a good deal ; but the new deputies wore uniforms with broad shoulders, long waists, and white waistcoats, and among them were several court uniforms. Levin had followed his brother into the small hall, where

men were smoking and

He listened, and tried to lunching. follow the conversation of those who were talking. Sergei Ivanovitch was the centre, around whom a number of men were grouped. Levin, as he heard what was said, could not
understand why two district marshals, opposed to Snetkof, were willing to put him up as candidate. Step:in Arkadyevitch, who had been taking a snack, came and joined this group, wiping his mouth with a perfumed and embroidered cambric handkerchief. He wore his chamberlain's uniform.

We hold the situation," said he, twirling both his sidetl whiskers, Sergei Ivanovitch;" and after he heard Sviazhsky's plan, he agreed with him. " One district is enough, but let Sviazhsky pretend to be " in opposition and all except Levin understood the meaning of his words. " Well, how is Kostia? " he ' So said, turning to Levin. you came, it seems, in style." In order to enlighten himself, he took the arm of Stepan Arkadyevitch, going a few steps from the rest, and expressed to him his astonishment at seeing the hostile districts asking the old marshal to stand as candidate. "0 sancta simplicitus!" implied Oblonsky ; "don't you see that, since our measures are taken, Snetkof must stand for, if he should not, the old party would choose a candidate,
;

"

and overthrow our plans. If Sviazhsky's district makes no opposition, then Snetkof will be put up, and we shall take advantage of it to propose our candidate." Levin understood, but not entirely and he was about to ask some more questions, when suddenly a great tumult and shouting was heard in the large hall. Levin heard the words 'Law authority judgment who for what," spoken on every side ; and with the rest he hurried into the large
;

622
hall,

ANNA KARNINA.

anxious not to lose anything that was going on, and surveyed the throng of nobles. He worked his way up to the speaker's desk, where the government predvoditel, Sviazhsky, and other party leaders were angrily discussing.

XXVIII.
LEVIN stood at quite a distance. It was hard for him to hear, as on one side was one noble, breathing sterterously, and on the other, another, with creaking boots. He could only distinguish the old marshal's gentle voice, then the sharp voice of the sarcastic gentleman, and then the voice of Sviazhsky. He could only distinguish that they were disputing about the meaning of _a clause of the law, and the words
nakhodivshagosa pod slyedstviem." The crowd parted to let Sergei Ivanovitch get to the table. Sergei Ivanovitch, after waiting till the sarcastic gentleman was done speaking, said that it seemed to him that it would be a better way to consult the law itself, and he asked the The law said that " a secretary to read the text of the law. ballot must be taken in case of divergence of opinion." Sergei Ivanovitch began to explain this but a tall, fat pomyeshchik (proprietor), with a dyed moustache, and dressed in a tight uniform, with a high collar propping up his chin, interrupted him, and approached the table, crying, "The ballot! the ballot! down with discussions the bal; !

"

lot

"

Immediately many voices arose and the tall man with the ring, getting more and more angry, screamed louder and louder. It was impossible to distinguish what he said. He said exactly what Sergei Ivanovitch proposed, but evidently he was opposed to him and all his party. The clamor grew tumultuous. The marshal was obliged to beg for silence. Shouts went up from all sides "The ballot the ballot That man knows what he is talking about There'll be blood" shed and faces as well as voices beGive us the ballot came angry and threatening. Levin understood, with his brother's aid, that the trouble was about validating the electoral rights of one of the deputies, accused of being under His brother put it for him in the form of a syllosentence. gism it was necessary for the public good that the government predvoditel be defeated to defeat the predvoditel, a in order to get a majority of majority of votes was needed
;
: ! ! ! ! !

ANNA KAR&NINA.
votes
;

623

it was necessary to give Flerof his vote and to decide the legality of Flerof s voice it was necessary to proceed as the law laid down. " One voice may decide the whole matter, and it is necessary to be logical and serious, if you want to serve in a public

upon

capacity," said Sergei Ivanovitch, in conclusion. But Levin forgot this, and it pained him to see this unpleasant irritation taking possession of men whom he esteemed and, instead of waiting till the end of the election, he went into the smaller hall, where there was no one but the servants who served at the buffet. Seeing the busy servants,
;

and their contented, lively faces, Levin felt a strange feeling of relief; he had come into a purer atmosphere. He began to walk back and forth, watching the servants. It pleased him greatly when one of the servants, an old man with gray sidewhiskers, expressed his unbounded scorn for the younger ones, who stood in awe of him, and began to teach them the best way of folding napkins. Levin was just about to engage the old servant in conversation, when the Secretary of the Assembly, a little old man who made a specialty of knowing all the nobles of the province by their full names, came to call him. "Excuse me, Konstantin Dmitrich," said he; "your brdtets [little brother] is asking for you. Your vote is
wanted." Levin went into the hall, took a little white ball, and, following close behind Sergei Ivanovitch, he went to the table where Sviazhsky was standing, with an important and ironical air, running his beard through his hand and occasionSergei Ivanovitch put his ball into the ally smelling it. but Levin did not ballot-box, and made room for Levin know what the voting was for, was disconcerted, and asked
;

his brother

I put it?" low tone, and as there was talking near him, he hoped that his question would not be overheard but the speakers stopped, and his unfortunate question was heard. Sergei Ivanovitch frowned, and replied sternly, This is a matter entirely of conviction." A number of the bystanders smiled. Much embarrassed, Levin quickly cast his vote, and as he happened to hold it in his right hand, he threw it into the right-hand receptacle. When it was too late, he discovered that he had voted wrong,
; '

"Where shall He spoke in a

624
and
still

ANNA KAR&NIXA.

more confused, he retired to the back of the hall. was very close, but the new party won the da)*. The old party, however, did not acknowledge its defeat. Levin heard something about voting for Suetkof and then he saw a throng of nobles surrounding the predvoditel, who was sayApproaching, Levin heard him making a ing something. farewell speech to his constituents, whom he had served for twenty years. It was an effecting farewell, and suddenly he These stopped, choked by tears, and hurried from the hall. tears arose either from the injustice that had been done him, or from his love for the nobles, or possibly from the unpleasant position in which he was placed, finding himself surbut his grief was contagious rounded by enemies the nobles were touched, and Levin felt sorry for him. At the door the government predvoditel met Levin. "Excuse me, I beg your pardon," he said, as to a
Tiie election
, ; ;

stranger
smile.

then recognizing him, he smiled a melancholy

of his face and the whole

The expression

man

in his

uniform, with his crosses and white pantaloons, as he hastened This expresout, reminded Levin of some hunted animal. sion went to Levin's heart, for only the day before he had been to see him about the guardianship affair, and he recalled It was a great, lordly the dignified bearing of the old man. house, with ancestral furniture, old servants, who had evidently been formerly serfs, and the khozyd'ika, a tall, benevolent lady in her lace cap and Turkish shawl, who was caressing her The youngest son, a boy in the lovely grand-daughter. sixth class of the gymnasium, had come in to wish his father good-morning and to kiss his hand affectionately. All this came back to Levin, and he pitied him, and tried to say something to comfort him. " Perhaps you will be our predvoditel again." " I am " I doubt it," said Snetkof with his scared look. There are younger and better men than tired, getting old. I. Must let them take my place." And he disappeared by a side door.

XXIX.
THE long, narrow hall where the buffet was, began to fill with people, and the excitement increased, for the decisive moment was approaching. The party-chiefs, who knew how to get a hold on the mathe others sought jority of the voters, were the most active
;

ANNA KA RyixA.

625

diversion, and prepared for the contest by eating, smoking, and pacing the hall in conversation with their acquaintances. Levin did not smoke, and was not hungry and he preferred to avoid his friends, that is, Sergei Ivauovitch, Stepau Arkadyevitch, Sviazhsky, and others, because he had just caught sight of Vronsky in the uniform of Emperor's equerry. So he took refuge near a window, and sat down, watching the various groups, and listening to what was said around him. He was mortified because all, as he saw, were alive and
;

but he alone, with the exception of a very gentleman in a naval uniform, who sat near him, was wanting in intei'est and occupation. In the midst of the crowd he distinguished, in the old-style uniform of major-general, the country gentleman with a gray moustache whom he had met before at Sviazhsky's. Their eyes met, and the}' greeted one another cordially. " This is " Yes very agreeable," said the old gentleman. taking action
;

old, toothless

indeed I remember very well having met you last year at the house of Nikolai' I van itch."
!

goes your estate [khozyd'istvo] f" going to destruction," replied the old gentleman quietly, and with a satisfied air, as if this were the result he had always expected. " And you, how does it happen that you are taking part in our coup d'&tat? All Russia seems We have even chamberlains, and to have assembled here.

"

" Da!

Nu! How
all

perhaps ministers," said he, pointing to Oblonsky, whose tall and imposing figure made quite a sensation. '' " Upon my word," replied Levin, I don't understand why these noblemen's elections are considered so important." The old gentleman looked at him in amazement. " Da! What is there to understand? what importance can they have ? It's a decaying institution which prolongs itself by the force of inertia. Look at all these uniforms you see justices of the peace, clerks, but no noblemen." " Why, then, do you attend the assemblies?" " From from a sort of moral habit, to keep up relations Besides, I came on a question of personal obligation. interest. My son-in-law needs a push I must try to help him to get a place. But why do such people as that come?" and he pointed out the orator whose sharp voice had struck Levin during the debates preceding the vote.
j
; ;

" "

of dvorianstvo Certainly new, but not dvorianstvo.

It is a

new generation

"

[noblesse]. They are land-

626

ANNA KARNINA.

But they are trying holders, but we are the pomyeshchiks. to get the power as though they were nobles." " Then you think it un institution which is falling into
" There are ancient institutions which deserve to be We may not be worth much, respected and treated gently. but, nevertheless, we have lasted a thousand years. Suppose

decay?"

you lay out a new garden, are you going to cut down the century-old tree which has grown up on your land? No; you will lay out your walks and your flower-beds in such a way as to preserve intact the old oak. That institution will not b"e suppressed in one year. Nu! but how goes your
Jchoyd'istvo'/"

" Da! not very brilliant; only five per cent." " But isn't that you don't reckon your own trouble worth something?" " I'll tell you this much I work a great deal harder than I did when there was surface, and yet I get only five per cent., and thank God for that. But my labor is all gratuitous." " " Why do we go on, then, if it is all loss? From habit, I suppose," replied the pom"Yes, why?
; :
:

'" I will tell yshchiki leaning his elbow on the window-sill. more my only son is going to be a scholar, you something and not a farmer. I go on in spite of it all Here I have just planted an orchard this year." " " this is Yes, yes," said Levin very true. For my part, I haven't deluded myself as to any profits of my labor, for some time past. But one feels a sort of obligation to tke
! ;

earth."

Davot! I will tell you still another thing. neigh" a merchant, came to see me. bor," said the old gentleman, went over the farm, and then the garden. Nu! Stepan VasilyeVitch, your place is in order,' said he, but your garden has too much shade.' But he found it in order, mind 'My advice would be, cut down that linden. They you. Here's a thousand lindens. Each only exhaust the ground. one will make two excellent basts, and basts sell well. If I were you, I would cut some of 'em down.'" "He certainly would," said Levin, smiling, for he knew what these common-sense people were. " And with the money he would buy cattle, or perhaps a bit of ground, which he would lease to the peasants. And so he makes a fortune. But you and I thank God if we keep our land, and are able to leave it to our children."
il

We

'

ANNA
"

KAEtiNINA.
"

627

You

" Yes,"
wonderful

are married, I think? replied Levin, with proud satisfaction.

!

"Da !

it is

We

live

without making any

profit, obliged, like

ancient vestals, to watch some hoi}' tire." The old gentleman smiled under his white moustache. " Some people, like our friend Sviazhsky and Couut but so pretend to make something by agriculture Vronsky,
;

far they have only succeeded in eating into their capital." " Why shouldn't we do like the merchants, cut down our gardens for linden bast?" asked Levin, struck by the idea. vot! because we guard the sacred fire, as you say. And our work It is not the business of the dvorianstvo. lies not here in these elections, but at home in our corner. It is a caste instinct that tells us what is necessary or not The muzhiks have theirs ; a good muzhik will necessary. No matter how persist in hiring as much land as he can. bad it is, he will work it just the same, even without profit." are all alike," said Levin. "Very, very glad to "

"Da

4 '

We

he added, seeing Sviazhsky approaching. have met you " Here we have met for the first time since we were together at your house," said the pomyeshchik to Sviazhsky. " Da! and we have been having a talk." " And doubtless have been slandering the new order of
!

things?" said Sviazhsky, smiling. " One must relieve one's mind."

XXX.
SVIAZHSKY took Levin's arm, and together they approached a group of their friends. It was now impossible to avoid Vronsky. He was standing between Stepan Arkadyevitch and Sergei Ivauovitch, and was looking straight at Levin as he came along. " " said he, offering his hand to Levin. " Delighted met at the Princess Shcherbatskai'a's, didn't we ? "
!

We

"Yes,

Levin, growing purple

to his brother.

remember our meeting perfectly," .^answered and he immediately turned to speak

;

Vronsky, smiling slightly, began to talk with Sviazhsky, apparently having no desire to continue his talk with Levin. But Levin, while he was speaking with his brother, looked at Vronsky. trying to think of something to say to him to make up for his rudeness.

628

ANNA KAR&N7NA.
are you getting

to Sviazhsky and Vronsky. " Snetkof seems to be hesitating," replied Sviazhsky. " What will he do, consent or not?" "That is where the trouble lies neither one thing or

" How

on? " he asked, turning

another," said Vronsky. " But* whom will they ballot

for, if he gives up?" asked Levin, looking at Vronsky. "Whoever they please," answered Sviazhsky. " You, perhaps." " Certainly not," replied Sviazhsky, scowling and throwing a disturbed look at the sarcastic gentleman who was standing near Koznuishef. " Who, then ? Nevyedovsky ?" continued Levin, feeling that he was treading on dangerous ground. But his second guess was worse than the first Nevyedovsky and Sviazhsky were the two candidates.
;

"By no means," replied the sarcastic gentleman. It was Nevyedovsky himself. Sviazhsky hastened to introduce him
to Levin. silence followed, during which Vronsky, since it was necessary to look at something, looked at Levin, at his legs, and seeing the gloomy at his uniform, and then at his face look in his 63*68, said, for the sake of saying something, " How is it that you who live in the country are not a justice of the peace? Your uniform is not that of a justice, I see." " Because I think that justices of the peace are an absurd institution," answered Levin gloomily, but all the time hoping for an opportunity to atone for his former rudeness. "I do not think so; on the contrary," said Vronsky,

surprised. " Child's " justices of the play," said Levin, interrupting I never once have known In eight years peace are no good one to make a proper decision. There's a justice of the peace not far from me. I had a debt amounting to two rubles when I got through with him, it had cost fifteen " and went on to tell how a muzhik stole some flour from a miller, and when the^niller charged him with it, the muzhik made a calumnious complaint. All this was not to the point, and
; ! ; ;

awkwardly put, and Levin himself, while speaking, felt it. " "Oh, this is such an original! said Stepan Arkadyevitch, with his amygdaline smile. "Come on; it seems they are
balloting."

ANNA
"
his brother's

KARtfNINA.
"

629

said Levin angrily. humbuggery " Here you say that this is all humbuggery but when you touch it, see what a botch you make of it." Levin was silent, and they entered the large hall. The old predvoditel had decided to be a candidate although he felt in the atmosphere that there was some trick in preparation, and though he knew that at least one district would
!

Ivanovitch, noticing don't understand how it is It is possible to be so absolutely devoid of political tact. The government predvoditel just what we Russians lack. our opponent you are ami cochon [on intimate terms] with not that I make a friend of him. But Count Vronsky I have just refused his invitation to dinner; but he him is ours, and why on earth make him an enemy? Then you asked Nevyedovsky if he was going to be a candidate. It isn't the way to do." "Ach! I don't understand anything about it; it is all "

I don't understand," said Sergei

awkward

sally,

be opposed to him. At the first ballot the rotmistr gvurdi, Mikhail Stepanovitch Snetkof, had a decided majority, and when he came in, the nobles pressed around him, congratulating him.

" jjftt/ is it over?" asked Levin of Sergei Ivanovitch. " On the contrary, it is just begun," replied Sviazhsky,

taking the words out of his brother's mouth, and smiling. " The opposition candidate may have more votes." Levin had forgotten all about this, and only now realized that this was only finessing, and it plunged him into a sort of melancholy. Thinking himself useless and unnoticed, he slipped out into the smaller hall, where, as before, he found consolation in watching the servants. The old servant asked if he would have something, and Levin consented. After he had eaten a cutlet with beans, and had talked with the servants about their former masters, Levin, not caring to go back to the crowd which was so unpleasant to him, walked about the galleries. They were full of well-dressed ladies, who were leaning over the balustrades endeavoring not to lose a word that was said in the hall below, and around them was standing and sitting a throng of lawyers,

As professors of the gymnasiums, inspectors, and officers. Levin stood near one group, he heard a lady saying to a " How lawyer, glad I am that I heard Koznuishef," and she went on to praise his eloquence. Levin looked and

630
listened and
tried
it

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

to understand what it all meant, and was impossible, he felt dull anil as he saw the excitement and anger on all faces, he felt still more sad. He made tip his mind to leave, and went down-stairs. As he went down, trying to find the number of his shuba, the

when he found

secretary again discovered him. " Excuse me, Konstantin Dmitriy^vitch, they are balAnd the candidate who was now receiving votes loting." was this very Nevyedovsky whose refusal had seemed to him so explicit. Levin started to go into the hall. The door was locked, and as the secretary opened it for him, he ran plump into two very red-faced pomyeshchiks. " I cannot endure it," said one of the red-faced pomyeshchiks.

ment predcoditel.

Immediately behind the pomyeshchik was the old governHis face was terrible in its expression of fright and weakness. " " I told he shouted to you not to let any one go out!
the guard.

"I
"

let

some one

in,

your Excellency" [vashe prevos-

khoditelstco].

Gospodi!" [Oh, Lord], and sighing painfully, the old

along in his white pantaloons, with

predvoditel, slinking

bowed head, went through the hall to the great table. The vote was counted, and Nevyedovsky, as had been planned, was government predvoditel. Many were happy
;

gay many were enthusiastic many were dissatisfied and unhappy. The old predvoditel was in despair and could not disguise it. When Nevyedovsky went out of the hall, the throng surrounded him and expressed their enthusiasm towards him as they had done towards the governor when he opened the election, and as they had done towards Snetkof when he was elected.

many were

satisfied,

XXXI.
ON this day,
many
of the the newly elected government predvoditel, and

new party which triumphed with him, dined with

and
to the elections because it was tiresome was necessary for him to assert his in-

Vronsky.

The count came

in the country,

it

dependence before Anna, and also because he wished to

ANNA KARENINA.

631

render a service to Sviazhsky^ in return for similar favors shown him, and last and principally, because he intended strictly to fulfil the duties which he imposed upon himself as But he had never anticipated the intense large proprietor. interest which he would take in the elections nor the success He was one of the with which he would play his part. youngest men among the nobles, but he succeeded from the first in winning general good-fellowship, and he was not mistaken in supposing that he already inspired confidence. This sudden influence was due to his wealth and distinction, to the a house which an old fine house which he occupied in town,
friend of his, Shirkof, the director of the Kashin bank, had and partly to an excellent cook whom he given up to him, brought with him. and to his friendship with the governor
;

but above

simple and friendly manners, which won hearts for him in spite of the reputation he had acquired of He himself felt that with the exception of this being proud. gentleman who had married Kitty Shcherbatskaia, and silly who h propos de bottes [without reason] had been disposed foolishly to quarrel with him and say all manner of foolish tilings to everybody whom he met, was disposed to pay him
all to his

to attribute to him Ncvyedovsky's success. He a certain pride in saying to himself that in three years, if he were married, nothing should prevent him from presenting himself at the elections and he involuntarily remembered the day, when, after having won a prize by means of his jockey, he decided to run a race himself. Now he was celebrating the triumph of his jockey. Yronsky sat at the head of the table, but he placed the young

homage, and
felt

governor at his right. Vronsky saw that all looked upon him as the klwzyd'in of the government who had triumphantly opened the elections, who had gained by his speech great consideration and even worship but for Vronsky, he was nothing more than Maslof Katka, a comrade of the corps of pages, who now was confused in his presence, and whom he tried mettre d, son aise (to put at his ease.) At his left he placed Xevvedovsky, a young man with a disdainful and impenetrable face, for whom he showed much regard.
;

indeed, as Sviazhsky accepted his own failure gayly he said, lifting his glass to Nevyedovsky, he could not call it a failure, since he had the delight of seeing his party triumph. During dinner he repeated in a most comical way the old predvoditeT s affecting speech, and advised the new incumbent
;

632
to find

ANNA KARENIXA.

some other way of verifying the accounts. Other episodes of the election were related, and a humorous noble told how lackeys in short clothes were excluded from the balls given b}' the late predvoditel and advised the new predvoditel to give a ball with lackeys in short clothes. Stepau Arkadyevitch was also gay, because the day had passed so well and
because everybody was satisfied, and after dinner, when despatches were being sent off in all directions, announcing tlie result of the elections, he sent one to Darya Aleksandrovna, "to please them all," as he confided to his neighbors. But when Dolly received the telegram she sighed and lamented the ruble it had cost and she understood that her husband had dined well, for it was one of Stiva's weaknesses to faire jouer le teleyraphe (make the telegraph play)
;

of " excellency" (vashe prevoskhoditelstvo) a title with which. in spite of his indifferent air, he was as pleased as a newly married woman is to hear herself called " Madame." The health of "our amiable host" was also drunk, as well as the governor's and the director of the bank. Vronsky was contented. He never expected to find in the provinces distin,

after a heart}' dinner. They gave toasts with excellent wine which had nothing Russian about it they greeted the new marshal with the title
;

guished society.

Towards the end of dinner the gayety redoubled, and the governor asked Vronsky to attend a concert, organized by his wife for the benefit of the brotherhood. This was before the war with Serbia. "There will be a ball afterwards, and you shall see our In fact, she is remarkable." beauty. " Not in my line" answered Vronsky in English, smiling but he promised to go. Just as they were lighting their cigars, on leaving the table, Vronsky's valet approached him, bringing a note on a tray. " From Vozdvizhenskoe, by a special messenger," said the man, with a significaivt expression. The note was from Anna, and Vronsky knew, before he broke the seal, what was in it. He had promised, as the elections were to last five days, to return on Wednesday, but it was now Saturday, and he knew that the letter would be full of reproaches because he had not fulfilled his promise. The one he sent off the day before to explain his delay had The tenor of the note was what evidently not been received.
;

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

633

he expected but its form was a great surprise, and extremely Ani was very sick, and the doctor unpleasant to him. feared inflammation. " I shall go wild, here all alone. The Princess Varvara I expected you day is only a hindrance instead of a help. before yesterday evening, and send a messenger to know what has become of you. I wanted to come myself, but hesSend itated, knowing that it would be disagreeable to you. some answer, that I may know what to do." The child was ill, and she had wished to come herself. sick daughter, and this hostile tone The contrast between this exacting love and the jolly company struck Vronsky with great force but he felt obliged to go, and he left by the first train that night.

XXXII.
BKFORE Vronsky 's departure for the elections Anna had made up her mind to endure the separation very stoically
;

but the cold, imperious look with which he informed her that he was going away wounded her, and her good resolutions were shaken by it. It was in this humiliating wa}" that she interpreted the look in her solitude. " He has the Not right to go when and where he pleases. He has all the rights, but I only to go, but to abandon me. But as he knows this, he ought not to have done have none this He looked at me with a hard, yet what has he done? stern look. Of course, that is vague, impalpable. Still, he did not formerly look at me so, and it teaches me much," she " that' look thought proves that he is growing cold towards
!

me." She tried to keep herself from thinking what she should do if he abandoned her. She filled the days with occupations To be sure, there was one at night she took morphine. not to keep him with her for this she wished remedy left. but to bind him to her, to be in nothing else but his love such a relation to him that he would not abandon her. This remedy was divorce and marriage and she began to desire it, ami resolved that when he or Stiva spoke about it again, she would no longer resist him on this point, as she had alWMVS done before. With such thoughts she spent the five days of his absence. To kill time, she walked and talked with the Princess Var;
;

634

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

vara, visited the hospital, and, more than all, she read, read one book after another. But on the sixth day, when the coachman returned without bringing Vrousky, she felt that she had not strength enough left to think about him and what he had done to her. At the same time her little girl Anna went to her, but it did not divert her mind, fell sick. the more as the little one was not sick enough to cause any Do the best she could, she did not love this child, anxiety. and she could not pretend feelings which she did not have. On the evening of the sixth day, while she was entirely alone, terror lest Vronsky had deserted her became so keen, that she almost made up her mind to start for the city herself, but after a long deliberation, she wrote the note and When the next morning sent it by a special messenger. brought her word from Vronsky explaining his delay, she With horror she anticipated the regretted her rash move. repetition of that severe look which he would give her on his return especially when he learned that his daughter had Anna now acknowledged to not been dangerously sick. herself that he would miss his liberty, perhaps, and find his But yet she was glad that he was coming he chain heavy. would be there with her so that she should see him, so that she should know his every motion. She was sitting in the parlor, by the lamp, reading a new book of Taine's, listening to the sound of wind outside, and Several watching every moment for the count's arrival. times she thought that she heard the rumble of wheels, but she was deceived. At last she distinctly heard not only the wheels, but the coachman's voice, and the carriage rolling under the porte coclidre. The Princess Varvara, who was but playing a game of patience, heard it too. Anna rose instead of going down, as she had twice done already, she She was ashamed at her deceitfulness, and still stopped. more confused by the doubt as to how he would receive her. She could think of nothing All her irritation had vanished. She remembered that her but Vronsky's displeasure. daughter for two days now had been perfectly well. She was annoyed that the child should recover just as she sent off the letter. And then she thought that he was there, himself that She heard his voice, and she should see his eyes, his hands. forgetting everything, joy filled her heart, and she ran to
; ; ;

meet him.

ANNA KAEENINA.

635

is Ani?" he asked anxiously, from the bottom of He was seated, and a the stuirs, as she ran swiftly down. lackey was pulling off his furred boots. " Much better." "And you?" he asked, shaking himself. She seized his two hands, and drew him towards her,

"How

looking into his eyes. tl Nu! I am very glad," he said, coldly surveying her, her head-dress, her whole toilet, which, as he knew, had been put on expressly for him. These attentions pleased him, but he was too much and that stony, severe expression, accustomed to them which Anna so much dreaded, remained on his face. 11 Nu! I am very glad; and how are you?" he asked, kissing her hand, after he had wiped his beard, which the cold had moistened.
;

It is all the same to me," thought Anna, if only he is here and when he is here he cannot help loving me he does not dare not to love me." The evening passed merrily in the presence of the Princess Varvara, who complained to him that when he was away Anna took morphine. " What can I do? I cannot sleep, my thoughts are disalmost never." tracting when he is here, I never take it, Vronsky told about the elections, and Anna, by her ques;
; ;

"

"

tions, cleverly led him to talk about what especially pleased his own success. Then she told him all the interesting him,

" Yes," answered he, your letter was strange. Ani was and yet you wanted to come yourself." sick, Both were true." " Da! and I do not doubt it." " Yes, you do doubt. I see that you are angry." Not for one minute but what vexes me is that you will " not admit that there are duties
'

things that had happened since he went away, and took care to speak of nothing unpleasant. When the evening had passed, and they were alone, Anna, seeing that she had him at her feet again, wished to efface the unpleasant effect of her letter she said, " Confess that you were displeased about my letter, and did not believe me." As soon as she spoke she saw that though he was affectionately disposed towards her, he did not forgive this.
;

'

'

636

ANNA KARtfNINA.

" " What duties ? Going to concerts ? " We won't talk about it."

life

mean that imperious duties may meet us. Now, for instance, I shall have to go to Moscow on business Ach! Anna, why are you so irritable? Don't you know that I cannot live without you?" "If this is the way," said Anna, changing her tone sud" denly, you are tired of this kind of life. Da! you come home one day and go away the next " "Anna, this is cruel; I am ready to give up my whole "
I only

"

"Why

not talk of it?"

She continued without listening to him, " If 3'ou are going to Moscow, I shall go with you I shall not stay here alone. We must either live together or
;

separate."

I ask nothing more than to live with you, " necessary " The divorce? I will write. I see that I cannot continue But I am going with you to Moscow." to live in this way. " You really threaten me but all I ask in the world is not As the to be separated from you," said Vronsky, smiling. count spoke these affectionate words, the look in his eyes was not only icy but wrathful, like that of a man persecuted and She saw his look and accurately read its exasperated.

" But you know

it is

but for that

said this look. misfortune The expression was only momentary, but she never forgot it. Anna wrote to her husband to demand the divorce, and towards the end of November, after separating from the Princess Varvara, who had to go to Petersburg, she went to Moscow with Vronsky. Expecting every day to get Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch's reply and immediately afterwards to secure the divorce, they set up their establishment as though they were married.
is so,

meaning. " If this

then

it is

"

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

637

PART
I.

VII.

THE Levins had been in Moscow for two months, and the time fixed by competent authorities for Kitty's deliverance was already passed. Kitty's mother and Dolly, and more than all, Levin himself, could not think without terror of the approaching event, and began to be troubled and anxious but Kitty alone kept wonderfully calm and happy. She recognized in her heart the birth of a new feeling of love for the child which she expected, and she entertained this feeling with The child already existed for her he even manifested joy. but this his independence at times by causing her suffering strange, unknown pain brought only a smile to Kitty's lips. All whom she loved were with her, and all were so good to her, took such care of her, and tried so to make every thing pleasant for her, that, if she had not known and felt that the end must soon come, this would have been the happiest and best part of her life. Only one thing clouded her perfect happiness, and this was that her husband was not the same as he had been when she loved him in the country. In the country she had loved his calm, gentle, and hosIn the city she found him unreasonably pitable waj-s. Then, in the country he was suspicious, uneasy, restless. usefully occupied, and seemed to know that he was in his Here in the city he was constantly on the go, as if he place. were afraid of forgetting something but he had nothing And she felt a pity for him. But she knew really to do. that to his friends he was not an object of commiseration and when in society she looked at him as one studies those who are beloved, endeavoring to look upon him as a stranger, and see what effect he produced on others she saw with anxiety that it was rather his jealousy which stood in danger of being observed, and that he was not only not to be pitied,
; ;
; ;

638

ANNA KAE$NINA.

but was to be envied for his dignified, rather old-fashioned shy politeness to ladies, his strong physique, and his very

But she read his inner nature. She saw expressive face. But sometimes her soul was stirred that he was not himself. because he could not adapt himself to city life. Sometimes she even confessed that it was really difficult for him to conduct his life so as to please her. But after all, what could he find to do here? He was not fond of cards. He did not go to the clubs. She now knew what it meant to frequent the company of high livers, like but she could not Oblonsky. It meant to drink and to think without horror of the lives of these men. Should he go into society? She knew that to enjoy that it would be necessary to court the company of young ladies. Then, should he sit at home with her, with her mother, and her sister? But however pleasant these conversations might be to her, she knew that they must be wearisome to him. What. then, remained for him to do? Was he to go on with his book? He intended to do this, and began to make researches in the public library but, as he confessed to Kitty, the more he had nothing to do, the less time he had, and that his in;

terest in his

One
more
were

work was flagging. result of their life in Moscow was, that there were no quarrels between them, either because city conditions
:

different, or because both were beginning to be more guarded and prudent the fact remained, that, since they left the country, the scenes of jealousy which they feared might again arise, were not repeated. In these circumstances one very important affair for them both took place Kitty had a meeting with Vronsky. Kitty's godmother, the Princess Marya Borisovna, was always very fond of her, and wanted to see her. Kitty, though she was not going into society now, went with her father to see the old princess and there she met Vronsky. At sight of the features once so familiar, she felt her heart beat fast, and her face redden but this was all, for her emotion lasted only a few seconds. The old prince hastened to begin an animated discussion with Vronsky; and the conversation was not over before Kitty was ready to look at Vronsky, or to talk with him if need be, just as she was talking with the princess, and, what was more, without a smile or an intonation which would have been disagreeable to her husband, whose invisible presence she felt near her at the moment.
: ; ;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

639

called the assembly at Kashin " our parliament," to show then she addressed herself to that she understood the jest the old princess, and did not turn her head until Vronsky Then she looked at him, but evidently rose to take leave. it was only because it is impolite not to look at a man when
;

She exchanged some words with Vronsky, smiled when he

he bows.

She was grateful to her father because he said nothing this meeting with Vronsk}but Kitty understood from his especial tenderness after their visit, that he was satisfied with her. She felt satisfied with herself. She was pleased to find that she was sufficiently mistress of her feelabout
;

ings to see
It

Vronsky again with perfect indifference. was hard for Kitty to tell Levin that she had met Vronstill

sky, but

harder to

tell all

"

the details of the meeting.

It

was such a

her husband, not have been so self-possessed. I'm blushing now ever and but if you could have ever so much more than I did then looked through the keyhole."

7 pit} that you weren't there," she said to "not in the room, for before you I should

Levin listened gloomily, and was more flushed but her sincere eyes told him that she was satisfied with her behavior, and he asked her some questions, just as she wished him to do. When he had heard the whole story, even to the detail that she could not help blushing for the first second, and afterwards was perfectly at her ease, Levin grew extraordinarily gay, and declared that he was very glad of it, and that in future he should not behave so foolishly as he had done at the elections, but that when he met Vronsky again he should be as friendly as possible. "It is so painful to look upon him as an enemy, whom it is hard to meet."
first
;

At

than she

II.

"PLEASE don't forget to call at the Bohls'," said Kitty, as her husband came to her room, about eleven o'clock in the morning, before going out. " I know that you are going to the club, because papa wrote you."

" I'm going to Katavasof's." " " Why are you going so early? " He promised to introduce me to Metrof, a famous scholar from Petersburg. 1 want to talk over my book with him."

640

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

after

" Da! wasn't it his article you were praising? Nu! and that?" "Possibly to the tribunal, about that" affair of my sister's." " Aren't you going to the concert?" " Dal why should I go all alone?

" Do

go.

They're going to give those new pieces

it

will

I would certainly go." interest you. " Nu! at all events, I shall come home before dinner," said he, looking at his watch. "Put on your best coat, so as to go to the Countess

Bohl's."

" Da! is " Ach!

this really
it

necessary?"

certainly.

what does
five

cost

The count came here himself. Nu! you? You go, you sit down, you talk

minutes about the weather, then you get up and go." " Nu! you don't realize that I am so out of practice, that I feel abashed. How is it? strange man comes, sits down, stays a little while without any business, is in the

way, feels awkward, and goes."

Kitty laughed. "Da! didn't you use to

make

calls

when you were

;

young?"

" Yes, but

so out of the

was always bashful," said he " and now I am way of it, that I would rather not have any din' '
'

ner for two days than make this call. I am so bashful. It seems to me as if they would take offence, and say, Why do you come without business ? "No, they don't take offence. I will answer for you," said Kitty, looking brightly into his face. She took his " " hand. Nu, proshcha'i! please go He kissed his wife's hand, and was about to go, when she stopped him.
!

" " Kostia, do you know I have only fifty rubles left? u Nu! I will and get some from the bank," said go
:

he,

with his well-known expression of vexation. " Don't think I run into unnecessary expense still, the money runs away. We must retrench somehow or other." Not at all," said Levin, with a little cough, and looking

askance upon her. She knew this cough. It was a sign of strong vexation, not with her, but with himself. He was actually discontented, not because much money was spent, but because it reminded him of what he wanted to forget.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

641

" I have ordered Sokolof to sell the corn, and to get the shall have money enough." rent of the mill in advance. " " No but I fear, that, as a general thing " Nu! " Not at all, not at all," he proshcha'i, repeated.

We

dushenka" [good-bj little soul]. " Sometimes I wish I hadn't listened to mamma. How happy we were in the country" I tire you all, waiting for me and the money we spend "Not at all, not at all! Not one single time since we
7
,
!

were married till now have I thought that things would have been better than they are." " u said she, looking into his face. Truly? He said that, thinking only to comfort her. But when he saw her gentle, honest eyes turned to him with an inquiring look, he repeated what he had said with his whole heart and he remembered what was coming to them so soon. " he " How do asked, taking both you feel this morning? her hands in his. " I sometimes think that I don't think and don't know
;

any thing." And she added with a smile, "

tali

terday with mamma and Lvova's husband,

scold Stiva.
It is
;

going to Katavasof's." " I am with papa to take a little walk on the boulegoing vard. We are going to see Dolly. I shall expect you back before dinner. Ach, da! Do you know, Dolly's position is She is in debt on every getting to be entirely unendurable? We talked about it yesside, and hasn't any mone\' at all.
If that
is

"

I feel perfectly well."

so, then I

am

Arsny,

this was her sister Naand they decided that you should
It is

truly " impossible papa to speak about it but if you and he " Nu! what can we do? " asked Levin. " You had better go to Arsen3*'s, and talk with him he will tell you what we decided about it." " Nu! I will follow Arsny's advice. Then, I will go right to his house. By the way, if he is "at the concert, then I will go with Natali. Nu proshcha'i !
: ,

unendurable.

for

the staircase, old Kuzma, steward, stopped his master.

On

who

acted in

the

city as

her

" Krasavtchika [Beauty] has just been shod, and it lamed " this was Levin's left pole-horse, that he had brought " what shall I do? " said he. from the country When Levin established himself in Moscow, he brought
:
:

642
his horses

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

from the country. He wanted to set up a suitable but he was obliged stable which should not cost too heaviby to confess that hired horses would have been less expensive, for in order to save his own beasts, he constantly took
;

izvoshcfi iks.

" Take her to the horse-doctor perhaps she is bruised." no longer troubled Levin, as it did at first, to have a pair of strong horses pnt into his heavy carriage, and pay five rubles for the use of them for a few hours. Now it seemed to him the natural thing to do. " Get a pair of the izvoshchik, and put them to our car:

It

riage," he said.

" " I will obey [sfas/m'w-s] Levin went down-stairs and as soon as he got into the carriage, he no longer thought of the question of expense, but went over in his mind what he should say to the Petersburg scholar about his book.
. ;

was only during the early days of Levin's stay in Mosthat the heav}T bills worried him. He was quite used to When he took the first hundred-ruble note for the purit. chase of liveries for the servants, he remembered that a hundred rubles represented the wages of two workmen for and he asked a year, or of three hundred day-laborers The profound astonhimself if liveries were indispensable. ishment of the princess and Kitty at this question silenced him. At the second bill of twenty-eight rubles, for provisions bought for a family dinner, he hesitated less, though he still mentally computed the number of measures of oats After that, bills flew about him represented by the money. like little birds. Levin no longer asked whether the pleasure
It

cow

his money was proportionate to his pains in getting he forgot his principles, in the duty of selling his corn at the highest price possible, and no longer even thought of telling himself that the course he was pursuing would soon run him into debt. to have money Only one thing seemed to him necessary, enough in the bank to serve for the daily needs of the household. But now his deposit at the bank was exhausted, and he did not know at all when he could replenish it. The request which Kitty had just made troubled him but he could He drove away, thinking of Kataarrange that by and by. vasof and his approaching acquaintance with Metrof

bought by
it
:

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

643

III.

LEVIN found his old university friend, Professor Katavasof He had not seen him since the day of his very congenial. wedding. He admired his judgment, and thought that the clearness of Katavasof's conceptions brought out his own want of fulness Katavasof thought that the incoherence of KataLevin's ideas came from want of mental discipline. vasof's clearness pleased Levin, and Levin's richness of undisciplined thought pleased Katavasof, and they both liked
,
:

meet and discuss. Levin read him some passages of his book, and he was struck by their originality. On the evening before, he happened to meet Levin, and told him that the celebrated scholar, Professor Metrof, whose work had pleased Levin, was in Moscow, and was greatly interested in what he had He was to be at Katavasof s told him of his friend's work. house the next day at eleven o'clock, and would be delighted
to

to

make Levin's acquaintance.

Katavasof received Levin

in his sitting-room. "Delighted I heard the bell, and wondered if it to see you, bdtiushka. could be time. And Katavasof in a few wqrds described his famous visitor, and then, taking him into his library, presented him to a short, solid, very pleasant-looking man. This was Metrof. The conversation for a short time turned on politics, and on the views hel'l by the high authori-

Nu!"

ties in

Petersburg in regard to the recent elections. Metrof, regard to this, quoted some significant words spoken by the Emperor and one of the ministers which he had heard from a reliable source. Katavasof declared that the Emperor's words were diametrically opposite and as his authority was equally reliable, Levin was free to take his choice between the two. " Da! here is the gentleman who is writing a book on the natural condition of the laborer in relation to the soil," said u I am not a Katavasof. specialist, but it pleases me as a naturalist that he does not consider the human race outside of zoological laws, but recognizes man's dependence on Ins environment, and seeks to find in this dependence the laws
in
;

of his development." "That's very interesting," said Metrof. "I began simply to write a book on rural

economy"

[sel-

644

ANNA EARtNINA.

skoe JchnzydMvo~\, said Levin, blushing; "but in studying the principal instrument, the laborer, 1 arrived at a decidedly unexpected conclusion, in spite of myself." And Levin expatiated on his ideas, trying the ground carefully as he did so, for he knew that Metro!' had written an article against the current views on political economy and how far he could hope for sympathy in his new views, he did not know, and could not tell from the scholar's .calm,
;

intellectual face. 44 How, in your opinion, does the Russian laborer differ

from that of other peoples ?" asked Metrof. "Is it from the point of view which you call zoological? or from that of " the material conditions in which he finds himself? This way of putting the question proved to Levin how widely their opinions diverged nevertheless, he continued to set forth his theory, which was based upon the idea that the Russian people could not have the same relation to the and to prove this posisoil as the other European nations tion, he hastened to add, that, in his opinion, the Russian people feel instinctively predestined to populate the immense uncultivated tracts stretching towards the East. 44 It is easy to form premature conclusions, and be mistaken about the general destiny of a people," said Metrof, " and as to the situation of the laborer, interrupting Levin it will always depend on his relation to land and capital." And without giving Levin time to reply, he explained how Levin his own views differed from those usually received. neither understood, nor did he try to understand, in what lie saw that Metrof, consisted the peculiarity of his views. like all the rest, notwithstanding his article, in which he refuted the teachings of the economists, looked upon the condition of the Russian people from stand-points of capital, wages, and rent, though he was obliged to confess that for the eastern and by far the greater part of Russia, there was no such thing as rent that for nine-tenths of Russia's eighty millions, wages consisted in a bare subsistence, and that capital did not yet exist except as it was represented by tools that were primitive. Metrof differed from the other representatives of the school only in a new theory as to
: ;

wages, which he demonstrated at length. Levin listened with some disgust, and tried to reply. He wanted to interrupt Metrof, in order to express his own opinions. But finally recognizing how. utterly the }- differed, he
1

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

645

let Mctrof talk, and only listened. Though he was not at all interested in what he said, he felt extremely pleased as he He was flattered to the last degree that listened to him. such a learned man would condescend to give him the benefit of his thoughts, and showed him so much deference. He did not know that the eminent professor, having worn out his own circle on this subject, was not sorry to have a new auditor and, moreover, that he liked to talk on the subjects which occupied him, because he found that an oral demonstration helped to elucidate certain points for his own benefit. " shall be late," remarked Katavasof at last, consult" Da! there is a special session to-day at ing his watch. ' the 'Society of Friends [Obshchestvo Liubitetye], semi-centennial celebration of Svintitch," he added, in reply to Levin's question. " I promised to speak on his work in zoology.
;

We

with us it will be interesting." " and then afterwards, if you Yes, come," said Metrof I should greatly like to hear your like, come home with me.
:

Come
"

work."

"It
to

is only a sketch, not worth much go with you to the session."

but I should like

begun.

reached the universit}', the session had already Six persons were sitting around a table covered with a cloth and one of them, nearly doubled up over a manuscript, was reading. Katavasof and Metrof took their Levin sat down in an unoccupied chair places at the table. near a student, and asked him in a low voice what they were reading. The student, looking angrily at Levin, rethe}'
;

When

"The biography." Levin listened to the biograplry mechanically, and learned various interesting particulars of the life of the celebrated savant. When the reader came to an end, the chairman congratulated him, and then read a poem which had been Then Katavasof read in sent him in honor of the occasion. a loud, brilliant voice a sketch of the work of Svintitch. When Katavasof had finished, Levin, seeing that the hour was late, excused himself to Metrof for not being able to go home with him, and stole away. He had had time, during the session, to reflect on the uselessness of his acquaintance with the Petersburg economist. If they were both to work to advantage, it could only be by pursuing their studies, each in his own line.
plied,

646

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

IV.

LVOF, Natali's husband, to whose house Levin went, had

just established himself at education of his two sons.

Moscow

to superintend there the

received his education abroad, and had passed his life in the principal capitals of Europe, to which his diplomatic duties called him. In spite of a considerable difference in age, and very different opinions, these two men had seen much of each other

He had

and had become great friends. Levin found his brother-in-law at home, and went in without ceremony. Lvof, in a house-coat with a belt, and in
this fall,

chamois-skin slippers, was reading with a pince-nez [eyeglasses] of blue glass on, as he sat in front of a stand, and held a half-burned cigar in his shapely hand. His handsome,
delicate, and still youthful face, to which his shining, silvery hair gave an expression of aristocratic dignity, lighted up with a smile as he saw Levin. " Good I was just going to send to find out about you all. How is Kitty?" said he; and, rising, he pushed for!

ward a rocking-chair. "Sit down here: }-ou'll find this Have you read the circular of the Journal de St. She is very well?" he Petersbourg? I find it excellent. inquired, with a slight French accent. Levin informed him of what he had heard as to the reports in circulation at Petersburg and after having gone over the questions that were up in politics, he told of his conversation with Metrof and the session at the university. " Vot ! I envy you your intimacy in that society of professors and savants," said Lvof, who had listened to him with " the keenest interest. True, I could not meet them very well. My public duties, and my occupation with the children, would prevent it and then, I do not feel ashamed to
better.
;
;

education is too faulty." "I can't think that," said Levin with a smile, touched by the genuineness of this humility.

say that

my own

who was

"

Acli,

kdkzhe!

now

feel

how

little I

know.

Now

that

obliged to refresh my memI learn over again. Just as in your ory. estate, you have to have workmen and overseers, so here it and But I am learning," needs some one to watch them. he pointed to Buslaef's grammar on the reading-stand,

am

educating

my my

sous, I lessons

am

ANNA
" and

KARtiNINA.

G47

it is so hard. Nu! tell me one thing. Here he says but you are laughing at me." " On the contraiy, you can't imagine how much I learn, when I look at you. about the way to teach children." " Nu! You could not learn much from me." "I only know that I never saw children so well brought up as yours, and I should not want better children than yours." Lvof evidently wanted to hide his satisfaction, but his face lit up with a smile. " Only let them be better than I. That is all that I want. But you don't know the bother," he began, " with malchiks, who, like mine, have been allowed to run wild abroad." " You are regulating all that. They are such ready children. The main thing is their moral training. And this

in looking at you." speak of the moral training. You can't imagine how hard it is. Just as soon as you have conquered one crop of weeds, others spring up, and there is always a If you don't have a support in religion between fight. ourselves no father on earth, relying on his own strength and without this help, could ever succeed in training them." This conversation, which was extremely interesting to Levin, was interrupted by the pretty Natali Aleksandrovna, dressed for going out. "I didn't know you were here," said she to Levin, evidently not regretting, but even rejoicing, that she had interrupted this conversation, which was too long for her pleasure.
is

what I learn " You

*'Nnt how is Kitty? I am going to dine with you to-day. Vot tcht6! Ars^ny," she said, turning to her husband, " you take the carriage." And between husband and wife began a discussion of the As the husband question how the}' should spend the day. had to attend to his official business, and the wife was going to the concert and to a public session of the Committee of the South-East, it was needful to reason, and think it all over. Levin, as a member of the family, was obliged to take It was decided that he should go with part in these plans. Natali to the concert and to the public meeting, and then send the carriage to the office for Arse"ny, and that then they should go all together to Kitty's.
l
. .

'This man is spoiling me," said Lvof to his wife "he assiuvs me that our children are lovely, when I know that they are full of faults."
:

648

ANNA KAR&NINA.
goes to extremes.
right in saying that
:

wife.

"Arsny "
If to

And papa
went

you expect perfection, you

they kept us

I always said so," said his will never be satisfied.

is

when we were
;

children, they

one extreme

in the entresol, while the

parents lived in the beletage [the first floor] but now. on the contrary, the parents live in the lumber-room, and the children in the beletage. Parents now are of no account every thing must be for the children."
:

"Supposing this is more agreeable?" suggested Levin with his winning smile as he offered her his arm. " Any one not knowing you would think that you were not a mother, " but a mdtchika [step-mother]. " No, it is not good to go to extremes," said Natali gently,
laying his knife in its proper place on the table. " Nu! vot! Come here, ye perfect children," said Lvof to the handsome lads who came in, and, after bowing to Levin, went to their father, evidently wishing to ask some favor of him. Levin wanted to speak with them, and to hear what they said to their father, but Natali was talking with him and just then Lvof's colleague, Makhotin, in his court-uniform, came into the room, and began a lively conversation about Herzegovina, the premature death of Madame Apraksiua, and other
;

things.

Levin forgot
it

all

about Kitty's message.

He remembered

" Ach! Kitty commissioned me to speak with you about Oblonsky," said he, as Lvof went with them to the head of
the staircase.

just as they were starting.

"Yes, yes! merman wants us, les beatix-freres [brothers" But how can I? "Then, I'll undertake it," said Levin, smiling; and he ran to rejoin his sister-in-law, who was waiting for him at the foot of the staircase, wrapped in her white furs.
in-law], to attack him.

V.

THAT day two very interesting works were performed at the musical matinee, which was held at the Assembly Hall one was a fantasie, " King Lear on the Heath " and a quartet dedicated to the memory of Bach. Both works were new and of a new school, and Levin wished to form an opinion
: ;

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

about them. Having escorted his sister-in-law to her seat, he went and leaned against a column, in order to be away from any personal influence, and to listen conscientiously and attentively. He tried not to have his attention distracted by the waving hands of the leader of the orchestra,
toilets of the ladies, or by the sight of all these idle faces, present at the concert for any thing but the music.

by the

He
who

especially avoided the amateurs and the connoisseurs, are so ready to talk, and stood with his eyes fixed on

vacancy, profoundly absorbed. But the more he listened to the "King Lear" fantasie, the more he felt the impossibility of forming a clear and exact idea of it. The musical thought, at the moment of its development, was constantly interrupted by the introduction of new themes, or vanished, leaving onh* the impression of a
laborious attempt at instrumentation. But these same new themes, beautiful as some of them were, gave an unpleasant impression, because they were not expected or prepared for.

Gayety and sadness, despair, tenderness, triumph, followed one another like the incoherent thoughts of a madman, to be themselves followed by others as wild. When the piece suddenly ended, Levin was surprised at the fatigue which his mental intensity had caused him. He
felt like a deaf man who sees dancing and as he listened to the applause of the audience, he wished to compare his impressions with those of persons of musical ability. People were rising on eveiy side to meet and talk with one another in the interval between the two pieces and he
;

joined Pestsof, connoisseurs.

'

who was

talking to one of the chief musical

" How It's wonderful," said Pestsof, in his deep bass. are you, Konstantin Dmitritch? The passage that is the richest in color, the most statuesque, if I may say so, is that where Cordelia appears, where woman, das eicig Weibliche, comes into conflict with fate. Don't you think so? " Cordelia?" asked Levin, with hesitation, for he had wholly forgotten that King Lear had any thing to do with it. Cordelia appears here," said Pestsof, pointing to the satin programme. Levin had not noticed the text of Shakspeare, translated into Russian, printed on the back of the " You can't follow it without that." programme. Levin and Pestsof spent the interval in discussing the

"Why
'

650

ANNA

KARtiNINA.
:

merits and defects of the Wagnerian tendency Levin maintained that Wagner and his followers were wrong in trenching upon the domain of the other arts ; Pestsof argued that art is one, and that it can reach its loftiest manifestations only by combining all its forms. Levin could not listen to the second piece. Pestsof, who was standing near him, kept talking to him most of the time,
criticising
it

for

and comparing
painting.

On

he exchanged remarks on politics and music he saw Count Bohl, and the call which he should have made upon him came to mind. " Nu! go quickly," said Xatali, to whom he confided his remorse. "Perhaps the countess is not receiving. If so,
with
:

whom

excessive, mawkish, affected simplicity, to the simplicity of the Pre-Raphaelites in his way out, he met numerous acquaintances,
its
it

among

others

you

will

come and

join

me

at the meeting.

You

will

have

plenty of time."

VI.

"PERHAPS they are not receiving?" asked Levin, as he entered the vestibule of Count Bohl's house. 'Oh, yes! Will you walk in?" answered the Swiss, resolutely taking the visitor's shuba. " What a nuisance! " thought Levin, drawing off one of his gloves with a sigh, and turning his hat in his hands. " Nu! why did I come? Nu! what am I going to say to
k

them?"
Passing through the first parlor, he met the Countess Bohl at the door, who, with a perplexed and severe face, was. givWhen she saw Levin, she smiled, ing orders to a servant.

and invited him to walk into a boudoir, where voices were heard. In this room were sitting her two daughters and a Muscovite colonel whom Levin knew. Levin bowed and spoke to them, sat down near a sofa, and put nis hat between his knees. " How is your wife? Have you been to the concert? We were not able to go. Mamma had to attend the requiem," said one of the young ladies. " Da! I heard about it what a sudden death " said Levin. The countess came in, sat down on the sofa, and asked also about his wife and the concert.
!

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

651

Levin replied, and asked some questions about the sudden death of Madame Apraksina. Besides, she was always in delicate health."
'

\Vere you at the opera yesterday?

'

"

was." Yes, Lucca was very good." 'Yes, very good," he said; and he began, as though it were entirely immaterial what they thought about him, to repeat what he had heard a hundred times about the singWhen he bad got through, the er's extraordinary talent. colonel, who had hitherto held his peace, began also to speak about the opera and about an illumination. Then, laughing, he got up, and took his departure. Levin also got up, but a look of surprise on the countess's face told him that it was not yet time for him to go. Two minutes more at least were necessary. He sat down. But as he thought what a foolish figure he was cutting, he was more and more incapable of finding a subject of converI
'

" " Are you going to the meeting of the committee? asked " the countess. They say it will be very interesting." " 1 have promised to go there to fetch my beUe-soeur,"
replied Levin. Silence again
:

sation.

the

mother exchanged a look with her

;

daughter.

"Nit!

it

must be time to go," thought Levin

and he

rose.

The

ladies shook hands with him, and charged him with mille chases ["' a thousand messages "J for his wife. The Swiss, as he put on his shuba for him, asked his address,

and wrote

it

gravely in a large, handsomely bound

;

book.

" Of course, it's all the same to me but how useless and " ridiculous it all is thought Levin,* as he went to the place where the public meeting was held. He found many people there, and a number of acquaintances ; among them, Sviazhsky, who had just come to town,
!

and Stepan Arkadyevitch.

ters, he joined his sister-in-law,

After talking about various matand took her home. Finding Kitty well and happy, he went off to the club, where he was to meet his father-in-law.

652

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

VII.

LEVIN had not set foot in the club since the time when, having finished his studies at the university, he passed a winter at Moscow, and went into society. He remembered the club in a general sort of way, but had entirely forgotten the impressions which, in former days, it had made upon him. But as soon as he entered the great semicircular court, sent away his izvoshchik, and mounted the staircase, and saw the liveried Swiss noiselessly open the door for him as soon as he saw the goloshes and shubas of the members,
;

felt that it was less work to take them off down-stairs, and leave them with the Swiss, than to lug them up-stairs as soon as the well-known sights and sounds of the club met
;

who

he felt, as formerly, a kind of satisfaction, joined him, with the consciousness of being in good company. "It's a long time since we have had the pleasure of seeing you here," said the second Swiss, who received him at the top of the staircase. "The prince wrote to you yesterday. Prince Stepan Arkadyevitch has not come yet." The Swiss knew not only Levin, but all his connections and family, and took pleasure in reminding him of his relationships.

As Levin came into the dining-hall, he found the tables almost wholly occupied. Among the guests he recognized friendly faces, the old prince, and young Shcherbatsky, Sviazhsky, Sergei Ivanovitch, Nevyedovsky, Vronsky and all, old and young, seemed to have left their cares, with their furs, in the hat-room, and to think of nothing but of
;

" You come late," sajd the old prince, extending his hand " How is to his son-in-law over his shoulder, and smiling. " added a corner of his napkin into the he, putting Kitty?
button-hole of his vest.

enjoying the pleasures of

life.

" She

is

well,

and

is

"Ah! the old story. Nu! there's no room for us here. Da! hurry up, and take that table there. They're all full
here," said the prince, taking with care a plate of ukhd
[fish-soup].

dining with her two sisters."

Here, Levin," cried a jovial voice from the other cud of It was Turovtsuin. He was sitting with a young Levin, with officer, and near him were two chairs tipped up.
the room.

"

ANNA KAR&N1NA.
joy,
;

653

went to join him. He always liked the good-hearted, and now, especially, the sight of him prodigal Turovtsuiu
for

was delightful. " These places were

you and Oblonsky.

;

He

will

be

here directly," said Turovtsuin and then he introduced him to the young officer with bright, laughing eyes, Gagin,

from Petersburg. " Oblonsky is always late."

here he is." have only just come, haven't you? " asked Oblon" Your health. Will sky of Levin, hurrying up to him. you take vodka? Nu! come on." Levin got up, and went with him to a long table, upon which a most select zakuska was set out. Stepan Arkadyevitch, however, not finding any of the twoscore kinds of drink to his mind, thought good to ask for a special concoction, which a servant in lively hastened to get for him. Immediately after the uklid, champagne was served. Levin was hungry, and ate and drank with great satisfaction and with still greater satisfaction he took part in the gay and lively conversation of his neighbors. Gagin, who had already taken four glasses of champagne, told a new Petersburg anec!

"Ah

"You

and, though it was rather broad, it was so funny that Levin laughed uproariously. Stepan Arkadyevitch ordered more champagne, and then, taking his glass, drank to the health of a bald, ruddy, mustachioed gentleman at the other end of the table. " Who is that? " asked Levin. "You met him at my house once, don't you remember?

dote

Good

fellow."

Levin followed Oblonsky's example, and took his glass. Stepan Arkadyevitch's anecdote was also very diverting. Then Levin told his story, which likewise raised a laugh. Then the conversation turned on horses and races and they told how Vronsky's trotter, Atlas, had just won a prize. "And here he is!" said Stepan Arkadyevitch, towards the end of the dinner, turning round in his chair to extend
;

Vronsky, who was walking with a tall colonel of Vrousky leaned towards Oblonsky, whispered some words in his ear with an air of good-humor, and extended his hand with a friendly smile to Levin. " I looked for "Very glad to meet you," said he. you after the election. But they told me you had everywhere gone."
his

hand

to

the Guards.

654

ANNA

"Da! I ran away the same day. We have just bee speaking of your trotter. It was a very fast race." " " Da! haven't you race-horses too? "I? No. My father had horses, and I know about
them " " Where did asked Oblonsky. you dine? " At the second behind the columns." table, " He has been loaded down with
.

' '

congratulations.

It's

a second Imperial prize. I wish I could very pretty, only have the same luck at play as he does with horses. Nu I how they waste golden time I am going to the Infernalnaia," said the tall colonel. " That's Yashvin," said Vronsky to Turovtsuin, as he sat down in a vacant place near them. Under the influence of the wine and the social atmosphere of the club, Levin talked cordially with him about the better breeds of cattle, and was happy to feel no more hatred against his former rival. He even made an allusion to the meeting which had taken place at the house of the Princess Marya Borisovna. "Ach! the Princess Marya Borisovna? What a woman !" exclaimed Stepan Arkadyevitch and he told an anecdote of the old lady, which made everybody laugh, and especially
!

Vronsky.

"Well, gentlemen,
lonsky.

if

we have done,
VIII.

let's

go," said Ob-

As Levin, in company with Gagin, quitted the dining-hall, he felt that his walk was singularly straight, and that his hands moved easily. In the large room he met his fatherin-law.

"Nu! What do you think of our Temple of Indolence?" asked the old prince, taking his son-in-law by the arm.
" Come, take a turn." " I ask better.
nothing

This

is

interesting."
it

"Yes,

like that," said he, designatyours. ing a man with stooping shoulders, and falling lip, whose feeble feet, in soft boots, were bearing him across the hall, "you would think that they were born sJdhqjiks."

you; When you see old men

to

but

my

interest in

is

different

from

"How

ahliupiksf"
are,

"Here you

and don't know what that means

That

ANNA
is

KARtiNINA.
roll.

655
Well, when

our club term.

You kuow how eggs

any one goes with a gait like that, he becomes a shliupik. And so our brother yonder goes slithering through the club, he becomes a sMiiipik. Do, vot ! you laugh but our brother Do you know Prince Tchetchensky? " he asked; and Levin saw by his face that he was going to tell some ridiculous
;

yarn.

No, I don't know him." "Nu,kakzhe, nu! Prince Tchetchensky is famous. Nu! That's all right. He's always playing billiards. Three years ago he wasn't among the'.sMiupiks, but was a great gallant. He himself called other people sMiupiks. Only he came one time But our Swiss you know Vasili, our tall one? he made a ban mot. Prince Tchetchensky asks him, Nu, Vasili! anybody here yet? any shliupiks come ?' And Vasili "
'

"

You are the third.' Z)a, brother how is that? The two men walked on, chatting, and greeting their friends, and passed through all the rooms, the main room, where
answers,
k
!

the divan-room, where others there were men playing cards were having games of chess, and Sergei Ivauovitch was talking with some one the billiard-room, where a gay group of players, among them Gagin, had gathered around several
;

champagne. They cast a glance at the Infernalwhere, at the gambling-table, Yashvin, surrounded by men betting, was already established. With hushed voices, they entered the reading-room. young man with a stern face was turning over the leaves of the papers under the lamp, while near by was a bald-headed general absorbed in reading. They passed quietly into a room which the prince called the Hall of the Wits, and there they found three gentlemen talking politics. " Prince, we're all ready, if you please," said one of his partners, who had been looking for him in all quarters. And the prince went. Levin sat down, and listened to the three gentlemen for a while then recalling all the conversations of the same kind he had heard since morning, he felt excessively bored. He got up, and went off to find Turovtsuin and Oblonsky, who were sure to be gay. Turovtsuin was with the champagne-drinkers on the high divan in the billiard-room, and Stepan Arkadyevitch and Vronsky were talking in a corner near the door. " Not that she finds it tedious," Levin heard in passing;
bottles of
wa'i'a,

656

ANNA KAR&NINA.
it's

"but
tion."

the uncertainty, the indefiniteness of

the

situa-

He was about to pass on discreetly, but Stepan Arkady evitch called him. " Levin," said he: and Levin saw that there were tears in his eves, as was alwa}^ the case, either after he had been
and just now it was drinking, or when he was touched " and he took him " Levin, don't both. by the arm, go; and detained him. " He is my sincere, possibly my best, friend," said he, addressing Vronsky. "You, too, are more like a kinsman and a friend to me. I want to bring you toYou ought to be friends, begether, and see you friends. cause you are both good men." " There's nothing left for us but to give the kiss of friendship," said Vronsky gayly, offering his hand to Levin, who
;

pressed

it

" I am very, very glad," said Levin. " " Waiter, a bottle of cried Oblonsky. champagne " I am also said in
!

cordially.

very glad,"

Vronsky.

But,

spite of

mutual satisfaction, the}- did not know what to say. " " Do remarked Obyou know, he doesn't know Anna? "and I want to introduce him to her. Come on, lonsky Levin." " " Is it " She will be said Vronsky. possible? very much
their
;

I should beg you to come at once, but I am displeased. turbed about Yashvin, and I want to stay here till he is through." " " Is he going to lose? " All he has. I am the only one who has any influence over him," said Vronsky and, after a moment, he quitted them. Levin and Oblonsky played a game of billiards, and then
;

where they found Vronsky still he was not yet ready, Stepan Arkadyevitch took Levin's arm, saying, " Nu! let us go to see Anna right away. Ha? She is at home. I promised her to bring you a long time ago. What " are you going to do this evening? " Da! Come on, if you wish." nothing particular. "Agreed. Have my carriage brought," said Oblonsky, addressing a lackey. Levin went to the desk, paid the forty rubles which he
to the

went

Ivfornalna'in*

watching Yashvin.

As

had

lost at cards,

gave his

fee

to

standing by the door, and went

down

the old lackey who to the entrance.

was

ANNA KAR&NINA.
IX.

657

" " PRINCE ORLONSKY'S cried the Swiss in a voice carriage The carriage came up, and the two friends got of thunder. in. Only as long as the carriage was still in the court-yard
!

did Levin continue to experience the feeling of clubbish comfort, of satisfaction, and of indubitable decorum, which had surrounded him. But as soon as the carriage rolled out on the street, the jolting over the uneven pavement, the cries of the angry izvoshchiks whom they met, and the sight of the red sign of a low public house, brought him back to reality. He asked himself if he were doing right in going to see Anna. What would Kitty say? Stepan Arkadyevitch, as if he had divined what was passing in the mind of his companion, cut short his meditations. " How glad lam to introduce you to her! You know Dolly has been wishing it for a long time. Lvof goes to her house too. Though she is my sister, I am bold enough to Her say that she is a remarkable woman. You will see it.
position
is

" "

Why do We are
;

willing

very sad, especially just now." " you say especiall}' now ? for a divorce, and her husband is negotiating but there are difficulties on account of the son and
'
'

which ought to have been settled long ago, is dragging on now these three months. As soon as the divorce is granted, she will marry Vronsky, and her position will become as regular as yours or mine." " " Where does the difficulty lie? " Achl it is a and tiresome story, every thing is so long But this is the point: she has been waiting undecided. three months for that divorce here in Moscow, where everybody knows her and him and she doesn't see a single woman but Dolly, because she doesn't wish to impose herself on any one. What do }'ou think? That fool of a Princess Yarvara sent word to her that she left her for propriety's sake. Any other woman than Anna would have gone to ruin but you shall see how she lives, how dignified and
this matter,
;
;

calm she is."

" To the left, opposite the church," cried Oblonsky to the " coachman, leaning out of the window. Fa, how hot it " is! he added, throwing open his shuba in spite of twelve
decrees of cold.

ANNA KARNINA.
" Da! she has a daughter, hasn't she, to take up her time " and attention? " You seem to imagine every woman to be a mere couveuse" [setting-hen], said Stepan Arkadyevitch. "Why, yes, of course, she gives her time and attention to her daughHer interests ter; but she doesn't make any fuss about it. are intellectual. She writes. I see you smile ironically, but you are wrong. She has written a book for young people. She hasn't spoken of it to any one, except to me and I showed the manuscript to Vorkuyef the publisher, you know he writes himself, it seems. He is up in such matters, and
:
, ;

a remarkable thing. Don't think, for a sets up for a blue-stocking. Anna is, above all things, a woman with a heart, as you will see. She has in her house a little English girl and a whole family,

he says that

it

is

moment, that she

it. It is not for philanthropy's sake, but because she loves to do it. They that is, Vrousky had had an English trainer, a master in his calling, but a drunkard. He did nothing but drink delirium tremens and abandoned his family. Anna saw them, helped them, got drawn in more and more, and now has the whole family on her hands. I don't mean merely by giving them money. She herself teaches the boys Russian, so as to fit them for the gymnasium and she has taken the little girl home with her. Da, vot! you shall see her." At this moment, the carriage entered a court-yard. Stepan Arkadyevitch rang at the door before which they had stopped, and, without inquiring whether the mistress of the house was at home, went into the vestibule. Levin followed him, more and more uneasy as to the propriety of the step he was taking. He saw, as he looked at himself in the glass, that he was very red in the face but he knew that he was not tipsy. He went On the second floor a servant up-stairs after Oblonsky. received them with a bow and Stepan Arkadyevitch asked " Who is with Anna him, as though he were a connection, and received the answer, " Mr. Vorkuyef." Arkadyevua?" " " Where are they? "In the library." They passed through a small, wainscoted dining-room, and came to the library, dimly lighted by a single lamp with a huge shade. reflector-lamp on the wall threw its rays on a full;
;

and is looking after them." " " For philanthropy's sake? " Here are trying to make fun out of you

ANNA
length portrait of a

KARtiNINA.

659

woman, which instantly attracted Levin's It was the portrait of Anna, painted by Mikluuattention. While Stepan Arkad} evitch went on, and the lof in Italy. man's voice which had been heard, ceased speaking, Levin stood looking at the portrait which shone down from its He forgot frame, and he could not tear himself away.
T

where he was and, not hearing what was said, he kept his It was not a painting, eyes fixed on the wonderful portrait. but a living, beautiful woman, with her dark, curling hair, bare shoulders and hands, and a pensive half-smile on her
;

lovely lips, and gazing at him triumphantly and yet tenderly from her entrancing eyes. Only because it was not alive did it seem more beautiful than life itself. " I am veiy glad" \_ya otclien rada], said a voice suddenly behind him, evidently addressed to him, the voice of the same woman whom he admired in the picture. It was Anna, who had been concealed by a lattice-work of And climbing-plants, and who rose to receive her visitor. in the dusk of the chamber, Levin recognized the original of Not in the same the portrait, in a simple dark-blue dress. position, or with the same expression, but with the same lofty beauty which had been so artistically expressed in the She was less brilliant in the reality, but the living painting. woman had a new attraction which the portrait lacked.

X.

SHE advanced towards him, and did not conceal the pleasWith the ease and simpliure which his visit caused her. city of a woman of the best society, she extended to him a small, energetic hand, introduced him to Vorkuyef, and mentioned by name the girl who was seated with her work near the table. " " I am and in these simple words veiy, very glad spoken by her, Levin found an extraordinary significance. " I have known you and liked you for ever so long, thanks to Stiva and your wife. I knew her a very short time, but she gave me the impression of a flower, a lovely flower. And " to think she will soon be a mother She talked without haste, looking from Levin to her brother, and putting her visitor at his ease, as if they had known one another from childhood.
;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Oblonsky asked if smoking was allowed. " That is why we have taken refuge in AlekseTs study," and looking at Levin, as though to ask, " Does he said she
;

smoke?" she
" "

held over a tortoise-shell cigar-case to him,

after taking a cigarette

" An extraordinary likeness, isn't it?" added Vorkuyef. Levin looked from the portrait to the original. Anna's Levin face lighted up with a glow that was wholly its own. looked at her attentively. He blushed, and, to conceal his uneasiness, asked Madame Kareniua when she had seen
Dolly.

said Stiva. are you to-day? Pretty well a little nervous, as usual." "Isn't it extraordinarily good?" said Stepan Arkadyevitch, noticing Levin's admiration of the portrait. " I never saw any thing so perfect."
;

How

from "

it.

Dolly? She was here yesterday, highly indignant at It seems he was Grisha's Latin teacher at the gymnasium. unfair to him. Ivan Petrovitch and I were talking just now Do you know them? " of Vashchenkof's pictures. " and I like " Yes: I have seen them," answered Levin, them very much;" and the conversation turned upon the new schools of painting, and the illustrations to the Bible which a French painter had just made. Anna talked intelligently, without pretence, ready to be in the background in order to make the others shine and Levin, instead of tormenting himself, as he had done that morning, found it Speaking easy and agreeable either to talk or to listen. of the exaggerated realism which Vorkuyef objected to in French painting, Levin remarked that realism was a re-action, for conventionality in art had never been pushed so far as in France. " Not to lie has come to be in itself poetic," said he and he felt pleased to see an approving smile from Anna. " What you say about French art is equally characteristic That is, of literature," replied she, " Zola and Daudet. perhaps, always the way. You begin by studying types that but when you some conventional ideal are imaginary, have worked out your combinaisons, the types seem dull and cold, and you fall back on nature."
;
;

"

true," said Vorkuyef. " said Anna to her at the club? brother, leaning towards him, so as to speak in a low tone.
is

" That

" Have you been

ANNA KARNINA.
"Da, da!
there
is

661

woman," thought Levin, absorbed

in contemplating that sensitive face, which, as she talked with Stiva, expressed in turn curiosity, anger, and pride. But Anna's emotion was fleeting. She half closed her eyes,

as

if

to collect her thoughts, and, turning

towards the Eng-

lish girl, said in

" Please order the lea in the drawing-room." The child rose, and went out. "Nit! has she passed the examination?" asked Stepan
"
She
is

English,

Arkadyevitch.
Perfectly. acter."

a very capable

girl,

and a lovely char-

" You
ter."

will

end by loving her better than your own daugh-

"That's
another."

just like a

man.

as more or less.

I love

my

In love, there is no such thing child in one way, and this girl in

" that if she " I tell Anna Arkady evna," said Vorkuyef, would spend a hundredth part of the activity she devotes to this little English girl for the benefit of Russian children, what a service her energy would render. She would accom-

The Count Alekyou want, I can't do she glanced with an air of timid inquiry at Levin as she pronounced this name, and he responded by tk a look that was encouraging, and full of admiration used to encourage me, when we were in the country, to visit the I went a few times. schools. They were very pleasant, but I couldn't get interested in this occupation. You talk of energy but the foundation of energy is love, and love does not come at will. But why 1 love this little English girl, I really don't know." She looked at Levin again and her smile and her look all told him that she spoke only with the aim of gaining his approval, though sure in advance that they understood one another. "I agree with you thoroughly," cried he. "You can't put your heart into schools and such things, and I think that from the same reason philanthropic institutions generally give such small results." She was silent a moment, then she smiled. "Yes, yes," she replied, " I never could. To love a whole asylum of wretched little boys,Je n'aipas le coeur assez large [I haven't a
!

plish prodigies." " Da, vot ! What

si

Kirilluitch

"

662

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

heart large enough] cda ne m'a jamctis reussi [I never was successful in that]. It is only women who do it to win for themselves position sociale. Even now, when I have so much need of occupation," added she with a sad, confiding expression, addressing Levin, though she was speaking to her brother. Then suddenly frowning, and Levin saw that she frowned because she had begun to speak of herself, she changed the subject. " You have the reputation of being only an indifferent citizen," said she, smiling, to Levin; "but I have always

defended you." " " How have you defended me? "That has depended on the attacks. But suppose we have some tea," said she, rising, and taking a moroccobound book that was lying on the table. "Give it to me, Anna Arkadyevna," said Vorkuyef, pointing to the book. " No it's too
:

trivial

"I

have told him about

a thing." it," whispered Stepan Arkadye-

vitch, indicating Levin.

" You were wrong.

kets and carvings

used to sell." used to make perfect miracles of patience." Levin was struck by a new feature in this remarkable, Besides wit, grace, beauty, she had fascinating woman. She would not conceal the thorns of her situasincerity. As she said that, she sighed, and her face suddenly tion. assumed a stern expression, as though it were changed to stone. With this expression on her face., she was even more beautiful than before. Levin cast a final glance at the marvellous portrait, while Anna took her brother's arm, and a She let the feeling of tenderness and pity came over him. two gentlemen pass into the parlor, while she remained behind to speak to Stiva. "What is she talking with him about? the divorce? " Vronsky ? what he was doing at the club ? about me ? thought Levin and he was so stirred that he heard nothing that Vorkuyef was saying to him about the merits of the story for children which Anna Arkadyevna had written. During tea, a pleasant conversation full of ideas was carried on. There seemed to be no lack of subjects at any moment but it was felt that there was time to say all that
; ;

writings are like those little basprisoners, which Liza Myertsalova She turned to Levin: "Those unfortunates

My

made by

ANNA
other talk for Levin.
;

KARtiNINA.
let

663
the

any one wanted to say, and each was willing to and all that was said bad a special

interest

Anna, admired her intelligence, the cultivaand her naturalness and while he was listening and talking, he was thinking about her and her inmost life, and trying to read her thoughts. He who formerly had judged her so severely, now thought only how to excuse her and the idea that she was not happy, and that Vronsky did not understand her, weighed heavily on him. It was more than eleven o'clock when Stepan Arkadyevitch rose to go. Vorkuyef had already left some time
listened to
tion of her mind, her tact,
; ;

He

before.

Levin rose, too, but with regret.

[Farewell], said

He

felt

as

if

he

had only just come. " Proshchat " hand

look.
in hers,

Anna
"

to him, holding his

and looking into

his eyes with a fascinating

glad que la glace est rompue [the ice is broken]. She let go his hand, and her eyes twinkled. " Tell your wife that I love her as I have always done and if she cannot forgive me my situation, tell her how I hope she may never pardon me for to pardon, it is necessary to understand " what I have suffered and God preserve her from that "Z)a/ I will surely tell her," answered Levin, and the
I
:

"

am

color

came

into his face.

a wonderful, lovely, and pitiable woman!" thought Levin, as he went out with Stepan Arkadyevitch
into the cold night air.
tell you?" demanded Oblonsky, as he was overcome. " Wasn't I right? " " " an Yes," answered Levin thoughtfully, extraordinary woman Not only intellectual, but she has a wonderfully warm heart. What a terrible pity it is about her " " Now, thank God, all will soon be arranged, I hope. Nu! after this, don't form hasty judgments," said Ste" Proshchai pan Arkadyevitch, opening his carriage-door. we go different ways." [Farewell] Levin went home, never ceasing to think about Anna,
tl

Nu! what

did I

saw

that Levin

recalling the smallest incidents of the evening, bringing back all the charm of her face, and understanding her situation

664
better

ANNA
and

KARtiNINA.
same
time, feeling the deepest

better, and, at the

commiseration for her.

Kuzma, as he opened the door, told Levin that Katerina Aleksandrovna was well, and that her sisters had but just left her. He handed him at the same time two letters, which Levin ran through at once. One was from his prikashchik, Sokolof. Sokolof wrote that he had not found a purchaser who would give more than five and a half rubles for the wheat. The other letter was from his sister, who reproached him because her affairs were not yet regulated. " Nu! we'll sell for five rubles and a half if they won't give more," thought he, settling with extraordinary prompt" As ness the first question which had been troubling him. to my sister, she is right, of course. But time goes so quickly, that I didn't get the chance to go to court to-day, though I
meant to."
Resolving to go to-morrow, he went to his wife's chamber. his wa}T he cast a quick glance back at his day. There had been nothing except conversations, conversations in which he had listened, and in which he had taken part. No one of the subjects touched on would have occupied him when in the country, but here they were very interesting. And all the conversations in which he had engaged were good only in two places they were not absolutely good,

On

one was
gibly

wrong

Levin

his jest at the club, the other was something intanin his feeling of pity for Anna. found his wife sad and absent-minded. The dinner
;

of the three sisters had been merry but afterwards they had waited and waited for him, and the evening had seemed long to them and now Kitty was alone. li Nu! what hast thou been doing?" she asked him, noticing, as she did so, an unusual light in his e3~es, but taking good care to conceal her suspicions, so as not to prevent him from speaking. She smiled, and asked him to tell her how he had spent the evening. " Nu! I met Vronsky at the club, and I am very glad of it. Every thing went off smoothly, and hereafter there will be no more trouble between us; though I don't intend to seek his society." As he said these words, he blushed; " seek his for, in order not to society," he had gone to Anna's house when he left the club. " Here we say the peasantry drink but I don't know which drink more, the
:
;

ANNA
tival days,

KARfiNlNA.

665

Ah anger, merely said, " You are not going to be vexed because I went? Stiva and Dolly wanted me to, as begged me so persistently well." " " Oh, no but in her eyes he saw a look which said she
!

peasantry, or men in society. The peasantry drink on fes" but was not interested in the question how much the Kitty She saw her husband's face change, and peasantry drink. she wanted to know the reason. " Nn! where else hast thou been ? " " Stiva bothered me to go with him to Anna Arkadyevna's," answered he, blushing more and more, with now no longer a doubt as to the impropriety of his visit. Kitty's eyes opened wide and flashed lightning at the mention of Anna but she restrained herself, and, concealing her
;

"

"

boded little good. " She is a very charming woman, who is to be pitied," continued Levin and he described the life which Anna led, and gave her message of remembrance to Kitty.
;

to be pitied," said Kitty when " did you get a letter from ? He told her, and, misled by her apparent calmness, went to undress. When he came back, Kitty had not stirred. She sat in the same place, looked at him as he approached, and burst into tears. What's the matter?" he asked, with some anno} ance for he understood the cause of her tears. " You are in love with that horrid woman. She has be-

"Da!

of course she

is

he had finished.

"

Whom

'

witched you. I saw will be the end of it?

too

it

in

your eyes.

Yes, yes

What
drank
! !

You were
;

at the club;

3-011

much

this shall not

to-morrow
It

where No you gambled and then 3-011 went go on. We must leave. I am going home "
;

was long before Levin could pacify his wife and he succeeded only by promising her to avoid Anna, whose pernicious influence, together with an excess of champagne, he had to confess, had clouded his brain. What he acknowledged with more sincerity was the ill effect produced on him by this idle life in Moscow, passed in eating, drinking, and gossiping. The3 talked till three o'clock in the morning. Onl3 when it was three o'clock were they sufficiently reconciled to go to sleep.
7
T

666

ANNA KAR&NINA.
XII.

AFTER having said good-by to her visitors, without sitting down, Anna began to walk up and down the full length of her apartments. She did not conceal from herself that for some time her relations with young men had been characterized by decided coquetry and she acknowledged, that, in the case of Levin, she had involuntarily done her best to arouse But though it was evident that he a feeling of love in him. was greatly taken with her, and though as a woman she discovered a subtle likeness, in spite of certain outward differences, between him and Vronsky, which doubtless caused Kitty to feel the fascinations of both, 3'et, as she walked up and down her room, she soon ceased to think of him. One thought, and one only, possessed her " Why, since I have so evidently an attraction for others, for this married man, who is in love with his wife, why is lie so cold to me? Yet not exactly cold he loves me, I know but lately something has come between us. Why
; : :
;

has he spent the whole evening away? He told Stiva that he could not leave Yashvin, but had to watch him while he Is Yashvin a baby? It must be true: he never played. tells lies. But there's something else back of it. He is always glad to invent some excuse for attending to other I know this. I don't object to it. but what need duties. has he to assert it so? He wants to show that his love for
not interfere with his independence But the proof I must have his love. He must undernot necessary. derstand the wretchedness of the life I lead. Why am I living? I am not living, only dragging out life, in hope of a turn in affairs, which never, never comes. And Stiva says that he can't go to Aleksel Aleksandrovitch, and I can't I cannot do any thing. write again. Still no answer. I can't begin any thing, or make any changes, but only control this English family, myself, wait, and invent amusements my reading, my writing but it is all only to deceive myself, like this morphine. He ought to be sony for me," she said and tears of pity at her own lot filled her eyes. well-known bell rang and instantly Anna wiped her eyes, put on an air of great calmness, and sat down near the lamp with a book. She felt that she must show her dissatisfaction because he did not return, but not to let her grief be
!

me must
is

ANNA
seen.

KARtiNINA.

667

Vronsky must not be allowed to pity her. She did She blamed him because he wanted to not want a contest. quarrel, but she herself involuntarily took the attitude of an opponent. Vronsky came in with a bright, contented air, approached her, and gayly asked her, T w/ you weren't lonesome, were you? It's a terrible

"A
"

passion, gambling."

Ah, no I have given up being lonely. Stiva and Levin have been here to see me." " Da! I knew that Nul how do they intended to come. " he asked, as he sat down near her. you like Levin? How about much. They have only just gone. "Very " ?
!

Yashviu

" He had won seventeen thousand

rubles.

I led
;

away, but he escaped from me, and went back again

him and

now
"

he's losing."

Then, why did you abandon him?" said Anna, suddenly The expression of Vrousky's face raising her eyes to his. was cold and unpleasant. " You told Stiva that you were going to stay, to keep him from playing. Now you abandon him " " In the first place, I did not commission Stiva to say that and, in the second place, I am not accustomed to tell lies and chiefly, I staid because I wanted to," he answered an"Anna, why do you do so?" added he, after a grily. moment's silence, holding out his hand to her, in the hope that she would place hers in it. She was glad of this appeal to her love, but some strange
!

" Of course you staid because you wanted to you always do as you please. But why tell me so? What is the good? " answered she, growing more and more heated. Vronsky drew back his hand, and his face became more
:

spirit of evil

kept her back.

set than before.

this is a matter of obstinacy," she cried, see" For ing the expression of his face. you the question is to see whether you will win the victory over me. But the " and again the sense of her pitiable lot question for me came over her, and she almost sobbed. " If you knew what it meant for me when I feel, as I do now, that you hate me, If you knew what it meant for me If you yes, hate me knew how near I am to ruin every moment how I fear how I fear for myself," and she turned away to hide her
!

" For you

sobs.

668

ANNA K ARE MX A.

" But what's all this for ? " said Vronsky, alarmed at this despair, and leaning towards Anna to take her hand, and
kiss
'

it.

"

society of

women? "

Do

seek outside diversion?

Don't

avoid the

As

if

make you happy. I ready for any thing to spare you one pang," said he, moved to see her so unhappy. " I " It's myself don't nothing, nothing," she replied.

" Na!

said she. that were all Tell me what I must do to

!

"

am

know.

It's

the loneliness:

it's

my

nerves.

Nu!

Don't

about it an}- more. Tell me what happened at the You haven't told me any thing about it," said she, races. attempting to conceal the pride she felt at having made this
let's talk

imperious

man bow

before her.

some supper, and as he was eating described to her the incidents of the races but from the sound of his voice, and from his glance that grew colder and colder, Anna understood that she was to pay for the victory that she had just gained, and that he would not pardon the words, " I am near a terrible ruin, and I fear for myself." It was a dangerous weapon, which she must not use again. She felt that there was looming up between them a spirit of conVronsky asked
for
;

flict,

which she, no more than Vronsky, had power to control.

XIII.

SOME months before, Levin would have believed it impossible for him to go to sleep quietly after a day like that he had just passed. But we get accustomed to every thing, So he slept especially when we see others doing the same. in peace, with no anxiety at his increased expenses, his squandered time, his excesses at the club, his absurd intimacy with a man who had once been in love with Kitty, and, more absurd still, his call upon a woman who, as it had to be confessed, was not respectable, and, last and worse, the mortification which he caused his wife. At five o'clock the noise of a door opening awakened him suddenly. Kitty was not there, and behind the curtain which divided the chamber he saw a light and he heard her
steps.

"

" What's the matter? Kitty, what is it? Nothing," answered she, appearing with a candle

in

her

AXNA KAR&N1NA.
hand, and smiling at him significantly.
well."

G69
I

"

don't feel quite

What!
claimed he

in

Must we send?" exIs this the beginning? alarm, looking for his clothes, to dress as

quickly as possible. "No, no, it's nothing; ! did not feel quite well; it's all and she smiled, and pressed both his right now," said she hands. Going back to bed, she put out the light, and lay down Levin was so tired, that, in spite of the alarm which again. he felt at seeing his wife appear with a light in her hand, he It was only afterwards that he fell asleep again at once. realized the calmness of her spirit, and appreciated all that was passing in her dear, gentle heart as she lay thus motionless near him, awaiting the most solemn moment of a wo;

man's

life.

Kostia, nothing; Lizavyeta Petrovna had better be called." The candle was again lighted. She was sitting on the bed, holding the knitting that she had begun the da}' before. " I'm not in the least afraid," Dear, don't be alarmed. said she, seeing her husband's terrified face and she pressed his hand to her heart and lips. Levin leaped from bed, hurried on his dressing-gown, and It was without taking his eyes off his wife for a moment. necessary for him to go. but he could not tear himself away. Her dear face, her look, her charming expression he loved As he stood before so well, appeared to him in a new light. her, how cruel and abominable seemed the mortification that he had caused her that evening. Never had that sincere and transparent soul been so unveiled to him, as he looked into her face, kindled with a joyous courage. But suddenly her eyes Kitty looked at him, and smiled. closed, she lifted her head, took his hand, drew her husband to her, and clung to him, sighing painfully. She suffered, and he felt pity for her. At first, as he saw this silent A look, suffering, it seemed to him that he had caused it. full of tenderness from Kitty, told him that she loved him all the more for her suffering. " " If not he thought. She sufI, who, then, is to blame?
;

o'clock, Kitty, hesitating between the fear of waking him and the wish to speak to him, at last touched his shoulder, and gently shook him. " don't be afraid; it's but I think

About seven

670

ANNA KARNINA.

fered, and she seemed to take pride in her pain, and to reHe saw that she had a loftiness of soul which joice in it. he could not understand. It was above his powers.

Now go quick, and get LizaI have sent for mamma. Kostia it's nothing it is all over." vyeto Petrovua She let go of his hand.
Nu, vot ! please go. Pasha is coming: I want nothing." And, to his great astonishment, Levin saw her take up her work again. As he went out of one door, Pasha, the maid, came in at the other, and he heard her give directions for Having dressed, and ordered his cararranging the room. nage, since it was too early for izvoshchiks, he found her walking up and down, and talking to two maids. " I'm for the doctor Pe!

"

"

going right away. Lizavyeta trovna has been sent for, but 1 will call there. There's " nothing more, is there? Oh. yes, Dolly She looked at him without hearing, and motioned him with " Yes, her hand. And as he passed yes, go," said she. through the parlor, he heard a groan which made his heart stand still. " It is she," he said to himself and putting his hands to his head, he rushed out. " " Lord have he exmercy on us pardon us save us claimed and these words were not spoken merely by his
;
! ! ! ;

lips.

Now he, the unbeliever, scepticism or doubt, called upon

and his love.

knowing no longer

either

Him who

held in

II is

power

his soul

In order not to lose time, mid to find occupation for his strength and his attention, he started off on foot, ordering Kuzma to follow him. At the corner of the street he noticed a night izcoslichik coming In the little along as fast as its lean horse could trot. sledge sat Lizavyeta Petrovna, in a velvet cloak, with her

The horse was not ready.

head wrapped up in a, plat ok. "Thank God!" [Shiva Bohu~\, he murmured, as he saw with joy her pale and serious face. He ran up to the cab, and stopped it. " " Only two hours? not more? asked Lizavyeta Petrovna. " You may speak to Piotr Dmitritch, but don't hurry him. Da ! please get some opium at the apothecary's." "Do you think all will go on well?" asked he. "God " he added, as he saw his horse starting from the help us! door he got into the sledge alongside of Kuzma, and hurried
:

off to the doctor's.

ANNA

KAIitiNlNA.

671

XIV.

THE doctor was not yet up and a servant, who was busy cleaning the lamps, announced that his master had gone to bed late, and had given orders not to be waked, but would be up before long. Levin was at first perplexed, but finally decided to go to the apothecary's, and to send Kuzma for another doctor, so that, if, on his return, Piotr Dmitritch was still asleep, there might be no failure in having some doctor there. At the apothecary's the thin clerk refused him the opium at first, with the same indifference as the doctor's Levin servant had shown in refusing to wake his master. tried not to get angry, and named the physician and the midwife, and the person for whom it was wanted, and at last he persuaded him. The clerk asked if he should send it and then taking the vial and a tunnel, he poured the laudanum from a larger vessel. But as he was ticketing, wrapping, and tying it with exasperating care, Levin seized it from his hands, and rushed out of the door. The doctor was still asleep and, this time, the servant was shaking the rugs. Levin, still resolved to keep cool, pulled from his pocket-book a ten-ruble note, and, putting it into the hand of the inflexible servant, assured him that Piotr Dmitritch would not scold him, as he had promised to come at any hour of the day or night. How important a personage had this Piotr Dmitritch, ordinarily so insignificant, become in the eyes of Levin. The servant, who was overcome by these arguments, ushered Levin into the reception-room. He listened at the door, and heard the doctor coughing, and answering that he was going to get up. Three minutes passed the three minutes seemed more than as many hours Levin was beside "Piotr himself, and knocked at the door of the chamber. Piotr Dmitritch, exDmitritch, in the name of Heaven " cuse me it's more than two hours now " I'm coming I'm coming!" answered the doctor; and by the sound of his voice, Levin knew that he was smiling. Two minutes more went by, while the doctor was putting on his boots, and another two minutes while he was
;

brushing his hair and putting on his coat. '* These people have no hearts," thought Levin. can brush his hair while we are dying."

" He

672

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

" Piotr Dmitritch," he began to say again ; but at this instant the doctor appeared all in readiness. " said the doctor, entering the reception"Good-morning and offering to shake hands. " Don't feel anxroom serenely, Nu-s?" [meaning, " How is it? "]. ious. Levin began at once a long and circumstantial account, filled with a crowd of useless details, and interrupted himself He fancied at every moment to urge the doctor to set out. the latter was joking when he proposed that they should first
!

have some coffee. " but " I understand you," added the physician, smiling you may be sure there's no hurry, and we husbands cut a The husband of one of my pasorry figure in such cases.
;

tients

" But do do you think she'll you think, Piotr Dmitritch, get on well ? " I have every reason to believe"so." " Won't said Levin, looking with you come right along? angry eyes at the servant who was bringing the coffee. " In a few minutes." " For Heaven's sake " " Nu! let me take coffee, and I'll come at once."
' '
!

always goes

off to the stable."

my

The doctor proceeded

silent.

to take his breakfast.

Both were

"

It

gram

last

seems the Turks are beating. Did 3-011 read the tele" asked the doctor, calmly chewing on a evening?
;

" " On your honor? Levin got home, he found the princess at the door. She had tears in her eyes, and her hands "trembled. When she saw Levin, she threw her arms round him, and kissed him and they went to Kitty's room together. Ever since Levin, on waking, had understood the situation, he had made up his mind to sustain his wife's courage, to keep back his own feelings, and have entire control of himself. When he went in after his visit to the doctor's, and found Kitty still suffering, again he cried more and more frequently, " Lord, forgive us, and be merciful! " and he was afraid that he could not endure it, so terrible was it to him thus an hour went by.

bulka [roll]. " No but I'm going," said Levin. " quarter of an hour? " Make it a half."

" Will you come

in

When

ANNA
And
third,

KAlif:.\I.\A.

GT3

his

after this another hour passed, and a second, and a and more than five went by, with no change and Little by little the terror grew with Kitty's suffering.
; ;
;

ordinary conditions of life disappeared time ceased to exist the minutes seemed to him hours, or the hours minutes. When Lizavyeta Pctrovna asked for a light, he was surIf prised to find that it was five o'clock in the evening. they had told him that it was ten o'clock in the morning, Where the time had he would not have been surprised. gone, what he had done, where he had been, he could not have told. Sometimes he was with Kitty, and saw her, now troubled and piteous, then calm and almost smiling, Then he was with the princess, trying to re-assure him. Her gray curls were in who was flushed with anxiety. disorder, and she was biting her lips to keep from cryHe had also seen Dolly, the doctor smoking great ing. cigarettes, and Lizavyeta Petrovua with a serious but reassuring look, and the old prince pacing the dining-room with a sad face. But how they came and went, and where The princess had been they had been, he could not tell. with the doctor in Kitty's room, then in the library, where a well-set table had appeared, as by a miracle then she Then Levin disappeared, and Dolly was in her place. knew that they sent him on an errand he moved divans and tables cautiousl}', thinking it was for her sake and he learned with indignation that they were preparing his own bed for the night. They sent him to the library to ask the doctor replied, and then began to the doctor something speak of the unpardonable disorders of the durna [council]. Then they sent him to the princess, to get a holy image made of silver, with a golden chasuble, from her bed-chamber and, with the aid of an old chamber-maid of the princess's, he unhooked it from the cabinet, and, in doing so, broke a little lamp, and heard the old woman console him for this
:

How had all accident, and encourage him about his wife. his happened? He could not understand why the princess took his hand in a compassionate way, and why Dolly, with forced reasoning, tried to make him eat why the doctor himself offered him some pills, looking at him gravely. He felt himself to be in the same moral state as a year That was grief, this was ago, at the death-bed of Nikolai. But that grief and this happiness raised him happiness. above the usual level of existence, to heights where he
I

674

ANNA KAE&NINA.

caught sight of yet higher summits; and his soul cried to God with the same simplicity, the same confidence, as in his All this time, he seemed to be leading two sepachildhood. one was at the foot of Kitty's bed the rate existences other with the doctor smoking his big cigarette, and with Dolly and the princess talking of indifferent things. Whenever a groan from Kitty's room reached his ear, he felt the same sensation of guiltiness which seized him when and as he would hasten first she woke him that morning toward her room, he would remember that he was not to And as he blame, and would long for protection and help. looked upon her, he would see that there was no help to be given her; and again the pity would seize him, and he
:

would pray, "Lord, forgive and help us!"

XV.
THE
was
candles had burned down to their sockets, and Levin listening to the doctor's discourse on the charlatanism

of magnetizers, when an unearthly cry stopped him. He sat petrified, not daring to stir, looking at the doctor with alarm. The doctor bent his head, as if to hear better, and smiled with an air of approbation. Levin had reached the and he said, inpoint where nothing could surprise him wardly, "Evidently, that must be so; but why that cry?" He went back to the sick-room on tiptoe. Evidently, there was some change. What, he did not know, and did not care to know. But he saw it by the grave expression of Lizavyeta
;

Petrovna's pale face. Her eyes were closely fixed on Kitty. The poor creature turned her head towards him. and sought with her moist hand to take his and press it on her forehead. " Don't I am not afraid," said she quickly. go, don't go " Mamma, take You away my earrings they bother me. aren't afraid. Lizavyeta Petrovna, quick, quick!" She spoke rapidly, and tried to smile ; but suddenly her face grew convulsed, and she pushed him away. "This is ter!

rible

shall die,

shall

die

"

Then came

the

same

unearthly cry.

Levin seized his head room.

in his

hands, and rushed from the

" That
him.

is

nothing

all

is

going well," whispered Dolly to

ANNA
He

KARtiNINA.

675

But say what they might, he knew now that all was lost. leaned against the lintel, and asked himself if it could be Kitty uttering such shrieks. The child was as nothing to him now it seemed to him that he hated it. "Doctor, what does that mean? My God!" he said, seizing the doctor's arm as he went in. "It is the end," replied the doctor; and his face was so serious, as he said this, that Levin thought he meant that Kitty was dead. Not knowing what would become of him, he went back to the bedroom, expecting to die with his wife. Suddenly the
:

He could not believe it, but he could not ceased. doubt and he heard a gentle rustling and a hasty breathing, and his wife's voice, as she whispered, with an ineffable " expression of happiness, "It is over He raised his head: she looked at him, as she lay there,
cries
: !

beautiful with a supernatural beauty, and tried to smile at him, one hand resting on the counterpane. Coming suddenly out of that mysterious and terrible world where he had been living for twenty-two hours, Levin felt himself transported into a reality of luminous hapThe cords long tense piness, and he could not bear it. snapped. He burst into tears and the sobs of joy which he could not foresee, shook his whole body so violently that he He knelt beside Kitty, and pressed his could not speak. lips ou her hand, and her gentle fingers answered his caress. Meantime, at the foot of the bed, in the skilful hands of Lizavyeta Petrovna, like the small, uncertain flame of a lamp, flickered the life of a human being, which just before had not been, and which with every right and every responsibility
;

would

a boy Don't be worried," Levin heard Lizavyeta's voice sa}-iug, while with a trembling hand she slapped the little one's back. And amid the silence was heard a voice, absolutely different from any that had ever spoken in the room. It was the bold, decided, imperious, almost impertinent, voice of the new human being, which had come whence no one
lives,

" He

live,

and hand
he lives

its life
!

down.
it is
!

da!

knew.
Just before. Levin would unhesitatingly have believed, if he had been told that Kitty was dead, that he himself with her was dead, and that their children were angels, and that And now that he had they were all in the presence of God.

076

S-NNA

KARXINA.

come back

to reality, it took a prodigious effort to admit that his wife was alive, that she was doing well, and that he had a son. Kitty was saved, her suffering was passed, and

he was inexpressibly happy. That he could understand Whence ? Why ? What was it ? He could but the child It seemed to him not wont himself to the thought of it.
; !

somehow too much, too overwhelming fore he became accustomed to it.

and

it

was long be-

XVI.
old prince, Sergei Ivanovitch, and Stepan Arkadyemet at Levin's the next morning, about ten o'clock, to news of Kitty. It seemed to Levin that he was separated from yesterday by a hundred years. He heard the others talk, and tried to descend to their level from the heights which he had scaled, that he might not offeud them. While talking about indifferent things, he was thinking of his wife, of the state of her health, and of his son, to the idea of whose existence he was trying to accustom himself. A wife's part in life had been new and incomprehensible to him, even after his marbut now the place she occupied was so lofty, that he riage
vitch learn
;

THE

could not begin to realize it. He heard the men talking about the club but he was thinking, " What is she doing now? Is she asleep? How is she? What is in her mind? " And in the Is the son Dmitri crying? midst of the conversation, in the midst of a sentence, he stopped, and left the
;

room. " Find out

if I

"

Very good

right

can see her," said the old prince. away," replied Levin, as he started

for her room.

She was not asleep, but was softly talking with her mother, making plans about the christening. She lay comfortably arranged in bed, with her hands resting on the counterpane, and a peasant's tcheptchik [rnobHer face lighted up cap], with blue ribbons, on her head. more and more brightly as he approached her. It had the superhuman calm which one sees in death, but instead of a An emotion, like farewell, she welcomed him to a new life. that which he had felt again and again during her agony, seized his heart. She took his hand, and asked him if he had slept.

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

GT7

He could not answer, but turned his head away, distrusting his self-control. " I have had a nap, Kostia," she said; "and I feel so She looked at him, and suddenly the expression well now."
She heard her baby cry. " Give him to me, Lizavyeta Petrovua, and let me show him to his father," she said. " Nu, vat! Let papa look," said the nurse, taking up and showing a strange, red, uncertain something. %i Wait, we must dress it first," said Lizavyeta Petrovua, as she
of her face changed.
child, at the foot of the bed. Levin, as he looked at the poor little bit of humanity, tried in vain to discover some paternal sentiments within his soul. The only feeling was one of repulsion but when they took off its things, and he saw its little, delicate arms and legs, still saffron-colored, and when he saw the nurse handling its
;

swathed the

waving arms, and putting them into linen garments, such pity seized him, and such terror, lest she should hurt it, that he made a gesture to stop her. Lizavyeta Petrovna laughed. "Never fear, never fear," she said. When the child was dressed, and metamorphosed into a regular doll, Lizavyeta Petrovna tossed him up and down, as though proud of her work, and held him off so that Levin might see his son in all his glory. "Give Kitty, not taking her eyes from him, was alarmed. him to me, give him to me," she cried and she lifted herself
little,
;

" You must know that such motions are Be necessary. But we must let pupasha patient I will give him to 3*011. see what a fine young man we are." And Lizavyeta Petrovna handed to Levin with one hand the other supported the limp occiput this weak, red creature, whose head fell limply on its swaddling-clothes. All that was to be seen of it was a nose, a pair of unsteady eyes, and smacking lips. "A splendid baby," said Lizavyeta Petrovna. Levin drew a deep breath of mortification. This splendid baby [ prekrasnut reby6nok~\ inspired him only with a feeling of pity and disgust. It was not at all the feeling that he He turned away while the nurse placed it in expected. Kitty's arms. Suddenty Kitty laughed the baby had taken
: :

up.

the breast.

678

ANNA
that's
;

KARtiNINA.

"Nu!
Petrovna
k '

enough, that's enough," said Lizavjeta but Kitty would not let go of her son, who had

gone to sleep close to her. Look at him now," said she, turning the child towards The little face suddenly took on an older expreshis father. sion, and the child sneezed. Levin felt ready to cry with tenderness he kissed his wife, and left the room. How different were the feelings which this little being awakened in him from what he had expected There was neither pride nor joy in the feeling, but rather a new and His fear at first was so acute lest this poor, painful fear.
: !

defenceless creature might suffer, that it drowned the strange feeling of thoughtless joy, and even pride, that rose in his heart when the infant sneezed.

XVII.

THE
stage.

affairs

of Stepan Arkadyevitch had reached a

critical

He had spent the money brought by the sale of two-thirds of the timber, and the merchant would not advance any thing more as Dolly, for the first time in her life asserting her rights to her personal property, had refused her signature to the contract when it \vas proposed to give a receipt for the sale of the last third of the wood. All the salary was used up for household expenses, and for the payment of unavoidable debts. There was absolutely no money to be had.
;

It

was disagreeable and awkward, and Stepan Arkadyeit

ought not to be continued. The reason of he got too small a The place which he held had been very good five salary. Petrof the director years before, but it was so no longer. of a bank, got twelve thousand rubles Sventitsky, a member of the Council, got seventeen thousand Mitin, the head of a bank, got fifty thousand. "Apparently I have been asleep, and they have forgotten me," said Stepan Arkadyevitch to himself; and he began to be obsequious, and to look around and at the end of the winter he discovered a very good place, and matured his attack upon it, beginning at Moscow through his uncles, his
vitch felt that
it,

in his opinion, lay in the fact that

aunts,

and

his friends,

and then, when success seemed

as-

ANNA KAR&NINA.

679

It was one of sured, he himself went down to Petersburg. those places which nowadays are found varying in importance, worth anywhere from one to fifty thousand rubles a year. This place was in the Commission of the Consolidated Agency for the Credit-Balance of the Southern Railroad and This place, like many others, the Banking Establishments. required at once such varied talents and such extraordinary inactivity, that it is hard to find them united in one person deed, it was hopeless to find anybody with all these qualities, and therefore it is better to put in an honest man. Stepan Arkadyevitch, according to Muscovite society, was an honest man in every sense of the term for in Moscow the word meaning honesty has two forms, depending on its accent.
: ;

They speak of an honest agent, an honest writer, an honest and it means not only that journal, an honest institution men or institutions are not dishonest, but that they know how
;

to adapt themselves to circumstances. Stepau Arkadyevitch belonged in Moscow to that class of people who used that convenient word and, as he passed for honest, he therefore felt that he had a better right than any one else to that place.
;

year

This place was worth from seven to ten thousand rubles a and Oblonsky could accept this position, and not resign
;

his present duties. Every thing depended upon two ministers, a lady, and two Jews and, although they were ready to grant what he wished, he had to go to Petersburg to solicit
;

After faithfully promising Anna that he would see Kare'nin about the divorce, he extorted fifty rubles from Dolly, and set out for Petersburg. Kare'uin received him in his library bnt he was obliged to listen for some moments to the exposition of a project for reforming the status of Russian finance before he could put in a word about his personal affairs and about Anna.
their aid.
;

"Da/ That is very true," said he, when Aleksei Aleksandrovitch took off the pince-nez [eye-glasses], without which he could not read now, and looked inquiringly at his brother" that is in-law very true in detail but, accurately speak" is not ing, liberty the leading principle of the age? "Yes, but the new principle which I advocate embraces that of liberty," replied Alekse'i Aleksandrovitch, accenting the word " embraces," putting on his pince-nez to read over the passage where he had said that very thing and turning over the pages of his elegantly written manuscript, he read the conclusive paragraph
; ; ;
:

680

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

" ' For if I sustain the protectionist system, it is not for the advantage of the few, but for the good of all classes, and it is that which they will not underboth low and high stand," added he, looking over his pince-nez at Oblonsk}', " absorbed as they are in their personal interests, and so easily satisfied with hollow phrases." Stepan Arkadyevitch knew that when Karenin began to speak of what was said and done by those who were opposed and he did not try to to his views, he was nearing the end escape "the principle of liberty," but waited until Aleksei Aleksandrovitch came to a pause, and turned over the leaves of his manuscript with a thoughtful air. " Ach! By the way," said Oblonsky, after a moment's silence, "I shall beg of you, in case you should meet Pornorsky, to say a word to him for me. I want to be appointed member of the Commission of the Combined Agencies of the Credit-Balance of the Railroads of the South." Stepau Arkadyevitch could mention with great rapidity the name of
' ; ;

the position to which he aspired.

He knew

it

by heart.

Aleksei Aleksandrovitch asked what the functions of this new commission were to be, and then he reflected. It seemed to him that the existence of this commission was directly opposed to his projects of reform. But as the operations of this commission were very complicated, and his own projects of reform occupied a very vast field, he felt that he could not settle this question at a glance. "Of course I could speak to him, but why are you so very anxious for this place?" "The salary is good, and my nine thousand rubles, "

means
vitch,

"Nine thousand rubles!" repeated Aleksei Aleksandroand he frowned. The high emolument of this position

reminded him that Stepan Arkadyevitch's supposititious function was directly opposed to the principal feature of his project, that which bore upon economy. " I believe, and I show in my pamphlet, that in our day these enormous salaries are signs of the defectiveness of our economic assiette [position] of our administration." "Da! What do you want ?" said Stepan Arkadyevitch. " Nu! Let us see. A bank-director gets ten thousand ruhe is worth it or an engineer gets twenty thousand. bles, These are not sinecures." " In my opinion, salaries ought to be regarded as payments
;

ANNA K AE

NINA.

681

for merchandise, and consequently ought to be subject to the same law of supply atid demand. If salaries are not subif, for example, I see two engineers of ject to this law, equal capacity, having pursued the same studies, one receiving forty thousand rubles, while the other contents himself with two thousand or if I see a hussar, who has no special knowledge, become director of a bank with a phenomenal I conclude that there is an economic vice which has salary, a disastrous influence on the civil service." " You will acknowledge, however, that it is essential to fill these posts with honest men," interrupted Stepan Arkady evitch, emphasizing the adjective.
;

But the Muscovite signification of the adjective had no " force for Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. Honesty is only negative merit," he replied. " But you will do me a great favor to to Pomorsky."
;

speak a

little

word

" Da ! certainly but it seems to me that Bolgarinof would be more influential." " Bolgarinof is well disposed," Oblonsky hastened to say and he blushed as he thought uneasily of the visit which he had made that very morning to this Jew. To think that he, Prince Oblonsky, a descendant of Rurik, after waiting two hours in the ante-room, had been received with obsequious
;

politeness

by this Bolgarinof, who had ill-concealed his triumph at having a prince among his other solicitors. He had almost been exposed to a refusal, but he had made how he had to cheiv the cud a terrible pun on the word Jew, and though he had forgotten for a time of expectation * the unpleasantness of the situation, it suddenly came back to him, and filled him with shame.
;

XVIII.
" Now, I have yet one more thing to talk over with you and you know what it is about, Anna," said Stepan Arkad;

yevitch, shutting out disagreeable memories. When Oblonsky spoke Anna's name, Kare"nin's face suddenly changed, and took on an expression of corpse-like rigidity in place of its former vivacity.
1

" Builo dyelo do-Zhida

ya dozhida-\e."

682

ANNA KAE&NINA.

"What more do you want of me?" said he, turning about on his arm-chair, and shutting his pince-nez. some sort of a decision, Aleksei Aleksandecision I address you, not as" he was going to say drovitch. a deceived husband," but stopped, and substituted with " not as a statesman, but little appropriateness, simply as a and a good man, and a Christian. You ought to have man, pity on her." " In what way could I properly ?" asked Kareniu quietly. " I Yes, have pity upon her. If you saw her as I do, have seen her all winter, you would pity her. Her position

"A

'

is

cruel."

thought," said Kardnin suddenly, in a piercing, almost whining voice, " that Anna Arkadyevna had obtained all that she wished." " Ach! Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, for God's sake, don't

"I

What is past is past and you know recriminations. what she is now waiting for and hoping for is the divorce." " But I understood, that in case I kept my son, Anna Arkadyevna refused the divorce and so my silence was I equivalent to a reply, and I thought the question settled. consider it settled," said he, with more and more warmth. " For God's sake, don't get angry," said Stepan Arkactyemake
; ;

"This is not vitch, touching his brother-in-law's knee. If you will allow me to recapitulate, the affair settled.

When you separated, you were as magnanimous as was possible to be. You granted her every thing her She appreciated freedom, even a divorce if she wanted one. it. No, you don't think it but she appreciated it absolutely, to such a degree, that, at first, feeling her guilt towards She refused every you, she could not reason about it at all. But the reality and time have shown her that her thing. position is painful and intolerable." " Anna Arkadyevna's life cannot interest me," said Kastands thus
:

r^nin, raising his eyebrows. " Permit me to disbelieve that," replied Stepan Arkadye" Her vitch gently. position is painful to her, and without

any escape whatsoever. She deserves it, knowledges that, and does not complain. down that she should never dare to ask But I, and all of her relatives, all who implore you to have pity on her. Why T " hose advantage is it?

you say. She acShe says up and any thing of you. love her, beg and
should she suffer?

ANNA
:

KAEtiNINA.

683

" Excuse me you seem to accuse me of being the cause of her sufferings." " Da! not at all, not at all, understand me," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, touching Kar&nin'a arm, as if he believed that personal contact would have a mollifying effect on his
brother-in-law.

"

merely say

this.

Her position

is

painful

and you can relieve it, and it will not cost you any thing. Then, too, you have promised. Let me arrange the matter you shall have no trouble about it." My consent has been already given and I had supposed that Anna Arkadyevua would in her turn have the generosity Karenin's trembling lips could hardly to understand"
:
;

utter the words.

"She leaves all to your generosity. She asks, she imto be relieved from this unendurplores for only one thing able position in which she has placed herself. She asks for her son. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, you are a good man. The question of Just enter for a moment into her feelings. If you had the divorce is for her a matter of life or death.
not given your promise, she would have been resigned, and lived in the country. But you did give your promise and she wrote you, and came to Moscow. And there in Moscow, where every familiar face was a knife in her heart, she has been living for six months, every day expecting an answer. Her situation is that of a condemned criminal, who- for mou*ths has had the rope around his neck, and does not know whether he is to expect pardon or execution. and, besides, I will take care to arrange all Pity her; vos scrupules." "lam not speaking of that," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, with some disgust; "but I have perhaps promised more than I have the right to promise."
;

" " Then, you refuse to do what you have promised? " I never refused to do all that I could but I must have
;

time to consider." k " Xo, Aleksei Aleksandrovitch," said Oblonsky, leaping to his feet, " I do not wish to believe this. She is as unhappy as it is possible for a woman to be and you cannot " refuse such " Vous professez d'etre nn libre pense.ur [you profess to be a freethinker] but I, as a believer, cannot defy the law of Christianity in a matter so important." "But in Christian communities, and here in Russia, di;
;

684
vorce

ANNA KAR&NINA.

is permitted," said Stepan Arkadyevitch. "Divorce permitted by our Church." " Allowed, but not in this acceptation." " Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, I don't know you," said Ob" You are not the same lonsky, after a moment's silence. man you were. Did you not forgive all? and weren't we grateful to 3-011, and moved by genuine Christian feeling?

is

to cut short this interview

Weren't you ready to sacrifice every thing? You yourself said, If any man will take away thy coat, let him have thy And now " cloak also.' " I beg of you," said Kare'nin, rising suddenly, and "I to cut short, trembling from head to foot, beg of you "
' !

Ach, mi! Pardon me, pardon me, if I have offended " said Stepan Arkadyevitch, in confusion, holding out you but I had to fulfil the mission I was charged his hand
!

"

' '

with."
Kare'nin put his hand in that of Stepan Arkadyevitch,
said, after a moment's reflection, " I must have time to think about
it, and seek for answer day after to-morrow."

and

light.

You

shall

have

my

final

XIX.
STEPAN ARKADYEVITCII was going out when Kornei' came and announced, Serg6i Alekseye'vitch." " Who is Sergei Alekseye'vitch?" Oblonsky began to ask,
'

in,

for a

moment

"
ing
self.

Ach, Serozha
it

not remembering. " " and here was he exclaimed I, thinkwas some director of a department," he said to him!

" Anna begged me

to see him."

he recalled the sad, timid way in which Anna had said to him, " You will see him, and can find out what he is And. doing, and where he is, and who is taking care of him. if possible! ?" Would it be possible Stiva, He knew what she meant by the words, "if possible."
. .
.

And

She began to say, if it were possible to get the divorce, could she also have the child. But now Stepan Arkadyevitch knew that this was out of the question. He was none the less glad to see the boy again, though Kare'nin hastened to warn him not to talk to him of his mother. " He was very ill after that interview with his mother,

ANNA
for his

KARtiNINA.

685

which we were not prepared for, and for a while we feared life. Now that he is better, and much strengthened by sea-bathing, I have followed the doctor's advice, and
:

own

sent him to school. Activity, being with companions of his his health is good, age, have a happy influence on him and he is studying well."
:

"Why, he is no longer Serozha he is full-grown Sergei Alekseyevitch," said Stepan Arkadyevilch with a smile, as a handsome, tall, robust boy, dressed in a kurtotchka [jacket] and long pantaloons, came in. He bowed to his uncle as to a stranger. Then, as he remembered him, he reddened, turned away angrily, and held out his school-notes to his
father.

" Nu!
play."
I like it,"

that

is

excellent," said Karenin

"you can go and

tall and slender, and lost his childish look : remarked Stepan Arkadyevitch, with a smile. " " Da! you remember me? The boy quickly glanced at his father. " I remember you, raou oncfe," answered the boy, casting

He

has grown

down his eyes. The uncle called the malchik to him, and took his hand. " Xn! how are you?" he asked, wanting to talk, but not
to say. blushing, and not answering, withdrew his hand, and as soon as he could flew away like a bird. year had passed since Serozha had seen his mother. During this time, his remembrance of her had been growing gradually fainter and the life he led, surrounded, as he was, by boys of his own age, contributed to this. He even tried to get rid of these remembrances, as being unworthy of a man and, as no one spoke to him of his mother, he concluded that his parents had quarrelled, and that he must accustom himself to the idea of remaining with his father. The sight of his uncle, who looked like his mother, was

knowing what

The boy,

unpleasant to him, because it awakened memories which caused him shame and it was still more unpleasant, because, from certain words which he had caught as he entered
;

the door, and b}T the peculiar expression of his father's and his uncle's face, he knew that they were talking about his mother. And in order not to blame his father, and especially not to think of the past, he wanted to get out of his uncle's way.

686

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

Stepan Arkadyevitch, shortly after, as he went out, found the boy playing on the stairs, and asked him how he was Serozha, out of his getting along in his classes at school. father's presence, talked freely. " I have a railroad now," he said, in answer to one of his " Just see These two are sitting on the seat; questions. they are passengers and there is one man trying to stand on the seat and they are all going, and the doors open in front. Nu! and here it's very hard for the conductor." " " Is that the one asked
!

standing?

Stepau Arkadyevitch,

He has to be bold and skilful, because the train comes to a stop very sudden, and he might get thrown over." " Da! this is no joke," said Stepan Arkadyevitch sadly,
as he looked at the boy's bright eyes, which were like his mother's, and which had already lost their childish look of innocence. And although he had promised Aleksei Aleksandrovitch not to speak of Anna, he could not resist. " " Do he asked suddenly. you remember your mother?

amused. " Yes.

" No," answered the child quickly, turning red; and his uncle could not make him talk any more. When the Russian tutor found Serozha on the stairs, half an hour after, he could not make out whether he was crying or was sulky. " " Did " I he asked. you hurt yourself when you fell? said this was a dangerous game, and I shall have to tell your father." "If I had, no one should find it out," answered the
boy.

" " Nu! what's the matter, then? " Let me alone What is it to him whether I remember " or not? and the boy seemed to defy not only his tutor, but
!

the whole world.

STEPAN ARKADTEVITCH, as usual, did not devote his time He came, he said, to exclusively to business at Petersburg. refresh himself after musty Moscow. For Moscow, in spite of its cafes-chantants, and its omnibuses, was still only a sort of marsh, in which one became morally bogged. The result of too long a compulsory stay in that stagnant pool

was enfeebling

to

body and mind.

Oblonsky himself became

ANNA KARNINA.
bittor,

687

quarrelled with his wife, was pre-occupied with his health, the education of his children, and the petty details of He even went so far as to worry about his the household. debts. As soon as he set foot in Petersburg, and entered that circle where life was really life, and not vegetating, as
in

Moscow, immediately all such thoughts disappeared like He had just been talking wax in the fire. His wife
;

with Prince Tchetchensky. Prince Tchetchensky had a wife and family, grown-up children and he had another establishment, outside the law, and in this also there were children. But though the first family was well enough in its way, Prince Tchetchensky felt happier with his second family and he told Stepan Arkadyevitch that he had introduced his oldest legitimate son into his other family, to train him and develop him. What would have been said about that in Moscow? Children? In Petersburg, fathers didn't trouble themselves with their children, after the fashion of Lvof. Children went to day-school or boarding-school, and they were not taken out of their proper places by having a prominent position given them in the family. The government The service, too, was not that tiresome, hopeless service? tread-mill that it was in Moscow. Here there was interest in the service. man could make friends, get patronage, and suddenly find himself high in his career, like Brianzef, whom Stepan Arkadyevitch met that evening, and who was
;

now

first

dignitary.

Stepan Arkadyevitch had met also one of his friends, Bartnynansky, who now spent fifteen thousand rubles, and whose influence was rapidly increasing. Stepan Arkadyevitch was talking with him, and said, You seem to have some connection with Mordviusky. You might say a little word to him in my behalf. It is a place which I should like to have, member of the commission
' '

I won't forget, only what pleasure can you have in attending to this railroad business with the Jews? That's always a wretched business."
I

"

Nu!

need money
in

But don't you

Yes, but

live,

must have something then?"

to live

on."

debt." asked Bartnyansky sympathetically. Yes twenty thousand rubles." Bartnyansky broke out into a gay laugh.

Much?"
:

688

ANNA
7
;

KAEtiNINA.

"Happy mortal! I have a million and a half of debts, and not a ruble and, as } ou see, I live all the same." And Stepan Arkadyevitch saw that this was not mere words, but was actually true and he found many others in Zhevakhof had three hundred thousand the same condition. rubles of debts, and not a kopek. Petrovsky had spent five millions, and yet had only twenty thousand salary. Petersburg had a delightful physical influence on Stepan It made him feel younger. lie felt as if Arkadyevitch. He experienced there the ten years had been given to him. same feeling as his uncle, Prince Peter, did abroad. " We don't know how to live here," said this young man of sixty to him the evening before. " For example I spent I enjoy the summer at Baden, and I feel like a new man. my dinner, the women interest me I'm well and vigorous. When I come back to Russia, I have to see my wife, have even to go into the country I fall flat. I don't get out of my dressing-gown. Good-by to the young beauties I am To make me over, I go to Paris." old, think of my health. The relations between Stepan Arkadyevitch and Betsy Tverskaia had been strange for a long time. He always jested with her, and he always said very improper things by way of jest, knowing that they pleased her more than any tiling else. The day after his interview with Kar6nin, Stepau Arkadyevitch went to see her but to-day, though, under the influence of Petersburg air, he conducted himself with more than his usual levity he felt that she was not only disand he was glad to pleased, but was even opposed to him have the Princess Miagkai'a interrupt a call which was begin;

ning to bore him. " said the stout princess, when she "Ah, here you are! saw him. "JVW And how is your poor sister? Do not look at me so. Since women who are a thousand times worse than she throw stones at her, I think she did quite right. I can't forgive Vrousky for not letting me know that she was in Petersburg. I should have gone to see her, and gone with her everywhere. Give her my love. Nu ! tell me about her." " Da ! Her position is a very painful one," Stepan Arkadyevitch began but the princess, who was following out her idea, interrupted him: "She did what everybody but myself does and hides. But she was not willing to lie, and she did right and she has at least bettered herself in having forsaken that imbecile, I beg your pardon, your brother'

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

689

I was in-law. Everybody said he was a genius. genius and people have come the only one who said he was a goose to be of my opinion, now that he has taken up with the Countess Lidia and Landau. I should like not to agree with but this time I can't help it." it's stupid everybody, " Perhaps you can explain an enigma. Yesterday, talking of the divorce, my brother-in-law said to me that he could
!
; ;

and this mornnot give me an answer without reflection ing I received an invitation from Lidia Ivanovna for this
;

evening."

"Nu!

"

That's just it!"

cried the princess,

delighted.

" Why, who is " What le fameux Jules you don't know Jules Landau, Landau, le clairvoyant? That's what comes of living in the Landau, you must know, was commfs [agent] provinces. of a mercantile house at Paris. He went one day to see a doctor, fell asleep in the waiting-room, and, while he was most astonishing advice. asleep, gave advice to all the sick, Then the wife of Yuri Melyedinsky you know he was sick called him to see her husband. He treated her husband. In my opinion, he didn't do him any good, for Melyedinsky is just as sick as he was before but his wife and he believe in Landau. The}* took him into their house, and they brought him to Russia. Naturally, people here have thrown them!

They

will consult

Landau." Landau? "

selves at him.
;

He

Bezzubof and she fell so adopted him." " " How adopted him?
!

treats everybody. He cured the Countess in love with him, that she has

He isn't Landau any more, but But Lidia and I like her very much, in must needs be smitten with him spite of her crankiness and nothing that she and Aleksel Aleksandrovitch take up
"Yes,
I

mean adopted.

Count Bezzubof.

is

decided without consulting him.

Your

sister's

fate

is,

therefore, in the

hands of Landau alias Count Bezzubof."

XXI.
AFTER an excellent dinner with Bartnyansky, followed by several glasses of brandy, Stepan Arkadyevitch went to the Countess Lidia Ivanovna's, a little later than the hour designated.

690

ANNA KAR&NINA.

" Who is with the countess? the Frenchman?" he askod of the Swiss, as he noticed beside Aleksei Aleksandrovitch's well-known overcoat, a curious mantle with clasps. "Aleksei Aleksandrovitch Karenm and the Count Bezzubof," answered the servant stolidly. ''Princess Miagkai'a was right," thought Oblonsky, as he went up-stairs. " Strange it would be a good thing to culShe has great influence. If she would tivate the countess. say a little word in my behalf to Pomorsky, it would be just It was still very light in the dvor [court], but the thing." the blinds were drawn in the Countess Lidia Ivanovna's little parlor, and the lamps were lighted. At a round table, on which was a lamp, the countess and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch were sitting, engaged in a confidential talk. lean, pale man. with thin legs and a feminine figure, with long hair falling over his coat-collar, and handsome, glowing eyes, was examining the portraits at the other end of the room. Stepan Arkadyevitch, after having greeted the khozya'ika and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, involuntarily turned round to look once more at this singular personage. " Monsieur Landau," said the countess gently, and with a precaution which struck Oblonsky. The introduction was
!

made.

Landau

at once approached, placed his moist

hand

in

Ob-

lonsky's, and immediately went back to look at the portraits. Lidia Ivanovna and Aleksei Aleksandrovitch exchanged significant glances. " I am very glad to see

you to-day," said the countess to " You noticed," added Oblonsky, motioning him to a chair. she, in a low voice, "that I introduced him to you by the name of Landau but his name is really Count Bezzubof as you probably know. Only he is not fond of the title." " Da! I heard that he had cured the Countess Bezzubof."
;

"Yes she came to see me to-day," said the countess, ad" and it was sad to see dressing Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, her. This separation is terrible for her. It is such a blow to her." " " Then he is positively going? he is going to Paris; he has heard a voice," said "Yes; Lidia Ivanovna, looking at Oblonsky. " AcJiI voice? really now?" repeated he, feeling that it was necessary to use great prudence among these people where such strange things occurred.
:

ANNA
"

KARtiNINA.

691

I have known you for a long time," said the countess to " Les amis de nos amis Oblonsky after a moment's silence. sont nos amis. [Our friends' friends are our friends.] But to be truly friends, we must know what is passing in the soul of those we love and I fear you are not thus en rapport with Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. You understand what I mean?" said she, raising her beautiful, dreamy e3 es to Stepan Arkady evitch. " I understand in part that the position of Aleksei Alek" sandrovitch answered Oblonsky, not understanding in the least, and preferring to confine himself to generalities. "Oh! I am not talking of external changes," said the countess solemnly, and at the same time looking tenderly at Aleksi Aleksandrovitch, who had risen to join Landau it is his heart which has he needs a new heart changed, and I very much fear that you do not realize sufficiently the great transformation which has taken place in him." " That is, in a general way, I can perceive the change in him. We have always been friends, and now " said Oblonsky, answering the deep gaze of the countess with a tender one, as he thought with which of the two ministers she could do him the most effective service. " This transformation cannot work harm to one's love for his neighbor on the contrary, it elevates it, it purifies But I'm afraid you don't understand me. it. Will you " not have some tea? " " Not countess of his misfortune
;

altogether,

course,

"Yes, one's misfortunes become the source of his happiness, when the heart is renewedy is filled with Him," said
she, raising her eyes lovingly to Stepan Arkadyevitch. " I believe I shall have to get her to speak, to them both," " Oh thought Oblonsky. assuredly, countess but I think
!

that these changes are so personal [intimui~\ that no one likes to speak of them, even to his most intimate friends." " On the contrary, we ought to speak, and to help one

another."
conviction;
tuously.

"Yes, without doubt; but and, moreover"

there are such differences of

and Oblonsky smiled unc-

" There cannot be differences in regard to sacred truth." " It seems to me that he's going to sleep," said Aleksi Aleksandrovitch, approaching the countess, and speaking in
a low voice.

C92

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Stepan Arkadyeviteh turned near the window, with his arm head bowed. He raised it, and like manner as he saw the looks

round. Landau was seated leaning on a chair, and his smiled in a naive and childturned towards him. " Don't pay any attention to him," said the countess, " I have pushing "a chair towards Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. she began, but was interrupted by a lackey bringnoticed She read it through with extraordinary ing her a letter. rapidity, wrote a reply, and resumed the thread of her dis"1 have noticed that Muscovites, the men especourse.
are very indifferent to religion." no, countess! I think that Muscovites have the reputation of being very pious," replied Stepan Arkadyevitch. "But you yourself," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, with " seem to his weary smile, belong to the category of the indifferents." " " Is it cried Lidia Ivanovna. possible to be indifferent? " I am not indifferent, but rather in the attitude of expectation," answered Oblonsky, with his most agreeable smile. " I do not think that the time for me to settle such questions
cially,

"Oh,

has come yet." Kareniu and the countess looked at one another. " We can never know whether the time for us has come or not we ought not even to think whether we are prepared or " Grace does not," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch sternly. not always light upon the most deserving, but comes to those who are unprepared witness Saul." "It seems that it isn't to be now," murmured the countess, following with her eyes the movements of the Frenchman. Landau got up and joined them. "May I listen?" asked he. " Oh, we did not wish to disturb you," said the yes " Sit down with us." countess tenderly. "The essential thing is not to close one's eyes to the light," continued Aleksei Aleksandrovitch. " Ach! if you knew what a blessing we experience when we feel His constant presence in our souls," said the Countess Lidia Ivanovna, with an ecstatic smile. But a man may feel himself incapable of rising to such a height," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, convinced that the heights of religion were not his forte, but fearing to offend a person, who, by one word to Pomorsky, might get him the place that he wanted.
:
;
!

' '

ANNA EARNINA.
"You mean
Ivanovna.

G93

that sin may prevent him?" asked Liclia " But that is a mistaken view. For him who Sin is already redeemed. believes, there is no more sin. Pardon," she added, as the lackey brought her another note. then she continued, She road it, and answered verbally "For the believer, there is no sin." " said " Yes but faith without works is dead,' Stepan
:

'

Arkadyevitch, recalling this phrase of his catechism. " That is the famous passage in the Epistle of St. James which has done so much harm," said Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, looking at the countess, as
if

cussions on the subject. " to the faith!

"

How many souls

to recall frequent disthat has blinded

"It is our monks who claim to be saved by works, by theif fastings, their abstinences," said the countess, with an air of fastidious scorn. "Our way is far better and easier," she
added, looking at Oblonsky with that scorching smile with which, at court, she was wont to wither young maids of honor, disconcerted at the newness of their position. "Christ, in dying for us, saves us by faith," resumed
Kare"niu.

" Vous comprenez I'angluis?" [Do you understand Engasked Lidia Ivanovna; and, receiving an affirmative answer, she rose, and took a small book from a side-table. " I'm Safe and Happy ; or, Under the going to read you, " said she, with a look of interrogation at Kare"nin. Wing,' "It is very short," added she, resuming her seat. "You will see the supernatural joy that tills the soul of the believer. Man who believes cannot be unhappy, because he is no longer alone. Da! here you see" She was about " From to go on reading when again the lackey appeared. Borozdin? Say to-morrow, at two o'clock. Yes," she said, with a sigh, marking the place in the book with her " Are finger, and looking up with her pensive, loving eyes. acquainted with Mary Sauina? You have heard of her yon She was in despair. great affliction ? She lost her only sou. Nu ! how is it now ? She found this friend. She thanks God for the death of her child. Such is the happiness faith
lish?]
'

can give " Ah, yes

!

' '

this is

very"

murmured Stepan Arkadye-

vitch, glad to be able to keep silent during this reading, and " I shall do better not to not risk compromising his affairs.

ask any thing to-day," thought he.

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

" This will be dull for you," said the countess to Landau. " You don't understand English but this is short." "Oh! I shall understand," said he with a smile and he
; ;

shut his eyes. Aleksei Aleksandrovitch and the countess looked at one another, and the reading began.

XXII.
STEFAN ARKADYEVITCH felt greatly embarrassed by this strange conversation. After the monotony of life at Moscow, that of Petersburg afforded contrasts so marked that they disturbed him. He liked variety, but he preferred it more in the line of his accustomed ways, and felt himself at a loss in such As 'he listened to the a completely strange environment. nctive or reading, and saw the brilliant eyes of Landau fixed on him, he felt a knavish, he could not tell which The strangest thoughts peculiar heaviness in his head. whirled through his brain. " Mary Sanina is happy in having " " lost her son "It would be good if I could only smoke " The monks are all "To be saved, one must believe " wrong, but the countess is all right. What makes my head ache so? Is it the brandy, or the strangeness of all this? I have done nothing out of the way as yet but I sha'n't venture to ask any thing to-day. They say she makes you say That your prayers. She wouldn't make me say mine. would be too nonsensical. What stuff that is she is readLandau Bezzubof, ing " But she reads well. why Bezzubof ? Suddenly Stepan Arkadyevitch felt that his lower He jaw was irresistibly beginning to accomplish a yawn. smoothed his whiskers to conceal the yawn, and shook himself; but the next moment he felt sure that he was asleep, and even beginning to snore. The voice of the countess
!

waked him, saying, " He's asleep." Stepan Arkadyevitch waked with a start, feeling a consciousness of guilt. But instantly he was relieved to find that the words, " He's asleep," had reference, not to himThe Frenchman was as sound asleep self, but to Landau. as Stepan Arkadyevitch had been. But Stepau Arkady evitch's nap would have offended them, he did not think
of this at the time, so strange did every thing seem, but Landau's rejoiced them exceedingly, and especially the Countess Lidia Ivanovna.

ANNA
"
;

KARtiNINA.

695

3/oji ami" [my dear], said she cautiously, so as not to disturb him and, picking up the folds of her silk dress, in the enthusiasm of the moment, calling Karenin, not Aleks6i

Aleksandrovitch, but, "J/cw ami, donnez lui la main! vous " Sh-h " voyez?" [Give him your hand! do you see?] said she to a servant, who entered the parlor for the fourth time with a message. The Frenchman slept, or pretended to sleep, his head on the back of his arm-chair, his hand resting on his knee, but making feeble gestures, as if he were trying to catch someAleksei Aleksaudroviteh got up, cautiously stepped thing. over to the chair, and put his hand into the Frenchman's hand. Stepau Arkadyevitch also got up, and opening his eyt's wide, and tayiug to decide whether he were asleep or not, looked from one to the other, and felt his ideas growing more and more confused.
!

"'
'iii'i

Que

la

person ne qui
snrte.

est arrivee In

[The person who came in last let him go away] murthe one who is questioning mured the Frenchman, without opening his eyes. reoenez vers dix "Fows m'excuserez, mais vons voyez " heures, encore mieux, de-main [You will excuse me, but you understand come back at ten o'clock, or, still better, toiidc. qu'elle

Qu'elle sorte

"

derniere, celle qui de-

morrow] " Qu'elle " C'est

.

sorte," repeated the Frenchman impatiently. " moi, n'est ce pus ? [It's I, isn't it?] asked Oband at an affirmative sign, forgetting lonsky breathlessly what he was going to ask Lidia Ivanovna, forgetting his sister's trouble, he hastened out on tiptoe, and rushed off down the street as if he were fleeing from a pest-house. To recover his mental equilibrium he chatted and joked for a long time with an izi'o*}n-!iik. had the man drive him to the French theatre, and finished the evening at a restaurant, over some champagne. In spite of all his efforts, the memory of the evening haunted him. He came back to his uncle Piotr Oblonsky's, where he was staj'ing, and found a note from Betsy, telling him to come and finish the conversation that had been interrupted in the morning at which he made a face. The sound of a step on the stair interrupted his meditations, and he came out of his room to see who it was. It was his rejuvenated uncle, who was so tipsy that he could not get up the stairs alone. Stepan Arkadyevitch went with him to his room, and heard him tell
;

ANNA

KAKfiNINA.

the events of the evening till he fell asleep. Stepan Arkadyevitch himself was in such a weak state of mind, that, contrary to his custom, he did not fall asleep quickly. What he had heard and seen during the day troubled him. But the evening at the countess's passed all the rest in strangeness. The next day he received from Alekse"i Aleksandrovitch a flat refusal in the matter of the divorce, and knew that this decision was the work of the Frenchman, and of the words which he had uttered during his slumber, real or feigned.

XXIII.

NOTHING complicates the difficulties of life so much as a lack of harmony between married people. When their relations are so indefinite, nothing can be accomplished by either husband or wife. Many families stay for years in some place that is unpleasant and inconvenient, simply on account of differences, simply because there is no full agreement or harmony. The life of Vronsky and Anna at Moscow was insupportable. The trees on the boulevards put forth their leaves, the sun grew warmer and warmer as summer came on, and the Instead of going to leaves began to be coated with dust. Vozdvizhenskoe, as they intended, they remained at Moscow, hateful to them both, simply because there was lack of harmony between them. And yet no real ground of misunderstanding existed between them, beyond that subtile irritation which led Anna to continual attempts at explanation, and Vronsky to oppose to her an icy reserve. From day to day Anna considered love the strain of the situation increased. to be the sole end of her lover's life, and could not understand him from any other point of view. But this need of loving, which she knew to be inherent in the count's nature, must be centred on her alone, or else, in her blind jealousy, she Somesuspected him of infidelity, and with every woman. times she suspected him of low amours, which he might enter into as an unmarried man about town sometimes she distrusted ladies in society, and especially the young lady whom he would be likely to marry in case he broke with her. This fear had been awakened in her mind b3T a careless remark of the count, who, in a moment of confidence one day, blamed
:

ANNA
him
to

KARtfNINA.

697

his mother's lack of tact in

having ventured to propose to marry the young Princess Sorokina. This jealousy led Anna to la}' up a great variety of accu-

And yet, after all, in spite of the against him. But she conpainfulness of her position, she adored him. sidered him responsible for their prolonged stay at Moscow, for the uncertainty in which she lived, for Alekse'i AleksanIf he drovitch's unreasonableness, and for her loneliness.
sations

loved her, he would

understand her, and pity her. He wanted society, and so would not go to the country, as she would like. And, more than all, he was responsible for

depriving her forever of her son. Vrousk}-, for his part, dissatisfied with the false position which Anna obstinately maintained, charged her with aggraIf there vating still more their difficulties in all wa}-s. came some rare moment of tenderness, Anna was not at all appeased, seeing in it, on the count's part, only the exasperating assertion of a right. It was getting dark. Vronsky was at a gentlemen's dinner and Anna, while waiting for him, had taken refuge in his library, where the noise of the street was less oppressive than in the rest of the house. She walked up and down, going over in memory their last altercation, and astonished to find that so trivial a cause could have led to In speaking of Hannah, Anna's so disgraceful a scene.
;

English protegee, Vronsky had ridiculed girls' schools, and declared that the natural sciences would be of absolutely no use to this child. Anna immediately, applied the criticism to her own occupations, and, in order to pique Vronsky in turn,
said,

"I certainly did not count on your sympathy in the matter, but I should have thought that the man who loved me might show simple delicacy." The count grew red with anger, and said something disand when she did not know what to reply, agreeable he, evidently intending to exasperate Anna still further,
;

said.

"

I confess

child.

It annoj-s

don't understand your devotion to that me. I can see in it nothing but an affec-

tation."

The remark was severe and unjust. It assailed Anna's laborious efforts to find something to do which should help her sustain her difficult situation.

698

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

" It is very unfortunate that your opinions should be always low and material ones," she had retorted, leaving the room. The discussion was not resumed. But they both felt that All this day he had not been at home it was not forgotten.
;

and she was so lonely and wretched, as she thought of their quarrels, that she resolved to forget every thing, and to take the blame on herself, so as to bring about a reconciliation at
any
cost.

to blame; I am irritable; I am absurdly jealous. he has forgiven me, we will leave for the country and there I shall be calmer," she thought. Affected She suddenly remembered the word [nenaturalno] which had roused all her wrath. "I know what he meant. He meant by affected that I AVhat does did not love my daughter, but loved a stranger. he know of the love a child can inspire? Has he the least idea what I sacrificed for him in giving up Serozha? But this desire to wound me No, he loves another woman this cannot go on." But stopping on the verge of this fatal chasm, she tried to get out of the circle of thoughts that crowded upon her. She said, "Yes, he is true; he is the soul of honor; he I love him in a day or two we shall be at peace. loves me. Da! now, What is necessary? Calmness, gentleness. when he comes, I will tell him that I was to blame and we will go off." And, in order not to think any more, she gave orders to bring down her trunks, to begin preparations

"lam
' '

When

' '

for departure. At ten o'clock

Vronsky came

in.

XXIV.
to the count with a conciliatory manner. "As such things usually are," answered he, noticing at once by her face that she was in one of her best moods. " What do I see? This is first-rate," added he, pointing to the trunks. " Yes, we must go. I went out to walk to-day, and it was so good that I longed to get back to the country. There's " nothing to keep you here, is there?

" " WAS asked Anna, going up your dinner a success?

ANNA
"
I

KAEfiNINA.
Have
in

699

want nothing

better.

the tea brought while I

change

my

coat.

I'll

come back

a moment."

the plan for departure was given in a tone of exasperating superiority, as if he had been speaking Anna's to a spoiled child, whose whims he was excusing. should she humble pugnacity was instantly aroused. herself before such arrogance ? She restrained herself, however ; and when he came in she told him calmly the incidents of the day, and her plans for departure. " " It came over me like an inspiration," said she, why wait here for the divorce? Will it not be all the same when we are in the country? I cannot wait longer. I want to I don't want to hear any stop hoping about the divorce. I think it won't have any more effect thing more about it.

The approval of

Why

on

my " " Oh, yes

life.
!

Don't you agree with me? "

said he, looking with disquietude at

Anna's

excited face.

me what you did: who were there?" said moment's silence. " The dinner was very good," answered the count and he named over to her those who were there. " And we had a
"Come,
tell

she, after a

But in Moscow we are boat-race, and it was all very jolly. always absurd. Some woman, the swimming-teacher of the Queen of Sweden, gave us an exhibition of her art.

"What!

Did she swim for you?"

demanded Anna,

frowning. " Yes, in an ugly red costume de natation. "

She was old and hideous. What day do we go? " What an inane fantasia! Was there any thing extraor" dinary about her method of swimming? " Not at all. I tell it was simply absurd. So you you have decided on going?" Anna tossed her head as if to get rid of a haunting
thought.

When shall we go? The sooner the better. I sha'n't be ready by to-morrow, but the day after." "Yes no wait! Da}' after to-morrow is Sunday. I shall have to go to maman." Vronsky was disturbed as he mentioned his mother's name, he saw Anna's eyes fixed with a look of suspicion on him, and this disturbance increased her distrust. She forgot the Queen of Sweden's swimmingteacher in her alarm about the Princess Sorokina, who lived in the suburbs of Moscow with the old countess.
:

"

700

ANNA KAR&NINA.

" " Can't you go there to-morrow? " Da! That's There is some business that I impossible. a power of attorney and the money will must attend to,
;

not be ready to-morrow."

"

If that is so,

"Dal Why "

"Why

Sunday or not?"

we won't go not?" " never

!

at all."

cried

Vronsky

in astonishment.

" There's

no sense in that." " Not for you, because you never take me into account at You can't understand what I suffer here. The only all. Hannah. You say that it is thing that interests me here

You said last evening that I did not love my hypocrisy. daughter, but that I pretended to love this English girl, that I should like to know what can be this was unnatural. " natural in the life I lead? she came to herself, and was frightened because Instantly she had broken her vow. But, though she knew that she was dashing to destruction, she could not resist the temptation of proving to him that he was in the wrong. " I never said that I said that this sudden show of tenderness for her didn't please me." " Why do you, wiio boast of being straightforward, tell me a lie? " " I never boast, and I never tell lies," said he, repressing the anger which was rising within him; "and I am very " sorry if you do not respect "Respect! That was invented to cover up the lack of love. If you don't love me any more, it would be better and more honorable to say so." " No this is becoming intolerable," cried the count, sud: !

denly leaping from his chair, and turning upon Anna. "Why " he continued, holding back the .do you try my patience so? bitter words that were ready to escape him. "It has its limits.." "What do you mean by that?" she demanded, looking with terror at the unconcealed expression of hate on his

whole face, and especially in his fierce, cruel eyes. " I mean " he began. Then he stopped. " I have a right to demand what you claim from me." " What can I claim? I can only claim that you do not abandon me, as you intend to do," she said, comprehending " all that he left unsaid. Every thing else is secondary. I must be loved but love is gone. All is over."
;

ANNA KAB&N1NA.
! !

701

She turned towards the door. " " said Vronsky, still frowning, but holding Stop stop " What is the trouble between us? I her by the arm. say
that
it is

necessary to postpone our starting for three days,

and you answer by calling me a liar and a scoundrel." " Yes and I say that a man who blames me because he has sacrificed every thing for me," said she, alluding to a former quarrel, "is worse than a scoundrel: he is a man
;

without heart."
settles it my patience is at an end," cried Vronsky, quickly dropping her hand. " He hates me that is certain," she thought, as she went from the room in silence with tottering steps. " He loves some one else that is more certain still, she said to herself as she reached her room. " I must be loved, but love is gone. All is over." She repeated the words that she had said,
: :
'

" That

'

"

must put an end to it." " But how? " she asked herself, sinking into a chair before

her mirror.

The most contradictory thoughts crowded upon her. Where should she go ? To her aunt, who had brought her up? To Dolly? or simply go abroad alone by herself? Would the rupture be final? What was he doing in his
(

How would Aleksel Aleksandrovitch look upon it? and what would her former acquaintances in Petersburg say ? A vague idea came into her mind, and awakened some interShe recalled a phrase est, but she could not express it. " which she had used to her husband after her illness, Why " and didn't I die? immediately the words awoke the feeling " which they had then expressed. Death, yes, that is the My terrible shame, and the dishonor only way of escape. which I have brought on Aleks6i Aleksandrovitch, Serozha, all will be wiped away by my death. He will repent for me then he will be sorry, will love me, he will weep for me." A smile of pity for herself came over her face as she mechanically took off the rings from her fingers, and imagined how he would feel after she was dead. Approaching steps his steps caught her ears. She affected to be busily engaged in taking off her rings, and did not turn her head.
study?
;

"

He came Anna, we
Well?

to
will

her,

and, taking her hand, said

if

tenderly,
I

go day after to-morrow

you wish.

am

ready for any thing. " "

said he, waiting.

702

ANNA KARNINA.

"You yourself know" said she; and then, unable to " Leave control herself longer, she burst into tears. me, "I am going leave me," she murmured through her sobs.
:

She did not speak. " " What do you say? he asked.

I will do more. What am I? A lost away to-morrow woman, a millstone about your neck. I don't want to torment you. I will set you free. You do not love me you

love another."

Vronsky begged her to be calm. He swore there was not the slightest ground for her jealousy, and that he loved her, and always would love her that he loved her more than ever. " "Anna, why torture ourselves so? he asked, as he kissed His face expressed the deepest tenderness and her hand. it seemed to her that her ears caught the sound of tears in his voice, and that she felt their moisture on her hand. Passing suddenly from jealousy to the most passionate tenderness, she covered his head, his neck, his hands, with kisses.
;
;

XXV.
FEELING that their reconciliation was complete, Anna the next morning eagerly made her preparations for departure. The day of departure was not definitely fixed but, feeling sure that they should go in a day or two, Anna was busy in her room taking some things from an open trunk, when Vronsky entered, dressed to go out, notwithstanding the
;

early hour.

"I am going now to ma man. Perhaps she can get me the money through Yegerof, and then I shall be read} to go to7

morrow," he
:

said.

thought, do as I wished."

His allusion to this visit disturbed Anna's good-humor. " and " No I shall not be immediately she ready myself " Therefore it ivas it so as to to
;

possible

arrange

No do just as you intended to. And now go to the dining-room, and I will join you as soon as I have taken out these cumbersome things," she added, piling some more trumpery into Annushka's arms. When she entered the dining-room, Vronsky was eating a beefsteak. " You can't realize how odious these apartments have liecome to me," she said as she sat down by him. " Nothing is
:

"

ANNA

KARfiSlNA.

703

more detestable than these chambres garnies. There is no The clock, the curtains, the individuality in them, no soul. koshmar [nightmare] Vozdvizheuskoe seems to me paper like the promised land. It is decided that we go to-morrow, But suddenly her face is it?" she added in a joyous tone. lengthened. Vronsky's valet came in, and asked him to sign a receipt for a despatch from Petersburg. Still, there was
!

nothing remarkable in Vronsky's receiving a telegram. " To-morrow, without fail I am all ready." " From whom is the despatch ? she asked, not hearing him. "From Stiva," answered the count quietly. " Why don't you show it to me? What secret can there " be between Stiva and me? called the valet back, and ordered him to bring Vronsky
:

' '

show it, because Stiva has a passion for telegraphing. Why need he send me a despatch to tell me that nothing was decided?" " About the divorce? " " Yes. He maintains that he cannot get a definite answer. Da, vot! See for yourself." Anna took the despatch with a trembling hand. It read as Vronsky had told her. At the end it said, "Little hope
;

in the telegram. " I did not care to

do every thing possible and impossible." "I told you yesterday that it was absolutely immaterial to me when I received the divorce, or whether I get it at all so it is perfectly useless to hide any thing from me. Suppose he hides from me in the same way his correspondence
but
I shall
:

with

this morning with one of his "It seems that he has been gamfriends," said Vrousky. bling again, and has won about sixty thousand rubles." Xo," said she, vexed because he by this change in subject so evidently tried to insinuate that she was vexed. " Why do you think that this news interests me so much I told you that I did not that you must hide it from me? want to think about it, and I should wish that you had as little interest in it as I." " It interests me because I like clearness." " Clearness But in love, not in mere outside show," she said, getting more and more angr}-, not at his words, but at the tone of cool calmness in which he spoke. do you want a divorce?"
!

women," thought she. Yashvin wanted to come

"Why

704
" Bozlie mo'i!

ANNA KARNINA.
Always
'

"
love,'

"You know very well why it grimace. and the children's." " There will not be any more children."
: !

thought Vronsky, with a is for your sake

" So much the worse I am sorry." " You feel the need of it, because of the children but don't you have some thought of me?" said she, forgetting " for that he had just said your sake and the children's." The question of the possibility of having children had been long vexatious and trying to her. She took his desire to have children as a proof of indifference towards her
;

beauty.
I said for 'your sake, more than all for your for I am convinced that your irritability comes largely from the uncertainty of your position," he answered, scowl-

"Ach!
;

sake

ing with annoyance. " That is not the cause and I do not understand how my irritability, as you call it, can be caused by the fact that I have come absolutely into your power," she said, seeing with terror, in Vronsky's eyes, a cold and cruel judge con;

demning
to

" How is her. my position indefinite? It seems the contrary." " I am sorry that you are not willing to understand," he " Its replied, obstinatel}" determined to express his thought. comes from this, that you think that I am uncertainty free." " Oh as far as that goes, you can be perfectly easy," she said, turning from him, and beginning to drink her coffee. She took the cup, raising her little finger, and put it to her and as she drank she looked at him, and by the exlips pression of his face saw clearly that her motions and the sounds that she made in swallowing wrought on Vronsky's nerves.

me

"It is absolutely indifferent to me what your mother thinks, and how she intends to marry you off," said she, putting down the cup with trembling hand. " will not talk of her." " Yes we will too and I assure you that a heartless woman, whether young or old, your mother or anybody does not interest me and I don't want to know else,

We

her."

"

Anna,

I beg

you not to speak disrespectfully of

my

mother."

ANNA
"

KAEfiNINA.

705

A woman

who has no conception

in,

of what the honor of

her son consists

has no heart."

" I repeat my request that you will not speak of my mother disrespectfully," reiterated the count, raising his voice, and looking severely at Anna. She did not reply, but looked attentively at his face and his hands, and recalled with all its details the scene of the " Just such caresses. before, and his
evening

passionate caresses he has lavished, and will still continue to lavish, on other women," she thought. " You don't love mother. Those are simply words, " sheyour words, words said, looking at him with angry eyes. " " If that is the case, it is necessary "It is necessary to decide and I have decided," said she, preparing to leave the room, when the door opened, and Yashvin entered.
!

She stopped immediately, and bade him good-morning. Why, when her soul was full of bitterness when she felt that she was at the turning-point of her life, which might take a terrible direction, why, at th'is moment, she had to dissimulate before a stranger, who sooner or later would
;

all, she could not tell but, calming the inner tumult of her feelings, she sat down again, and began to talk with the guest. "JVM / how are your affairs? Have they paid you your " debt? she asked. " Da! not I shall probably get a part of it Wednesyet. day," said Yashvin awkwardly; for he perceived that he
;

know

had come in at an unfortunate moment. "When do you leave?" " Da}' after to-morrow, I think," said Vronsky. " You have taken long to make up your minds." "But now it is all decided," said Anna, looking straight into Vronsky's eyes with a look that told him how impossible it was to think of reconciliation. " " Do conyou never pity your unfortunate adversaries? tinued Anna, speaking to the gambler. " That's a question I have never asked myself, Anna Arkadyevna. My whole fortune is here," said he, pointing " Now I am a rich man, but I to his pocket. may come out

Whoever plays with of the club this evening a beggar. would gladly leave me without a shirt, and I him. Nul engage in war, and that makes the fun."

me

We

706

ANNA
if

KAEtiNINA.

Yashvin laughed. " But I am not married, and I don't expect to marry." " " And haven't you ever been in love? " O Lord of times. remember one may sit plenty Only down to cards, but he must be able to get up when the time comes for a rendezvous; and I get interested in love, but in such a way that I need not be late to play my hand in the
!

"JVw/ but say?"

3'ou

were married, what would your wife

evening." A horse-jockey in the mean while came to see about buying a horse, and Anna left the dining-room. Before he left the house, Vrousky went to her room to look She pretended not to see him for something on the table. but then, being ashamed of this dissimulation, she looked him straight in the face, and asked him. coolly in French,
;

'

What do you want? " "The original certificate

of the horse I've just sold," an:

swered Vronsky in a tone which distinctly meant these words " I have not time to begin explanations which will lead to

"I'm not to blame," thought he " tant pis pour elle much the worse for her] if she wants to punish herself."
:

nothing."

[so

However, as he left the room he thought she said something to him, and his heart was suddenly touched with com" " AVhat is he asked. it, Anna? passion for her. " I said she answered coldly and calmly. nothing," "Nothing! tant pis," he said again to himself. On his way out, as he passed a mirror, he caught sight in it of her pale face and trembling lips. He was tempted to go back and say some comforting words to her, but he was already too far on his way. He passed the entire day outside the house and when he came home the maid informed him that Anna Arkadyevna had the headache, and begged not to be disturbed.
;

XXVI.
before had a day gone by without bringing a reconThis was not a mere quarrel it was apparently a permanent coldness. How was it possible for him to look at her as he had done when he came into her room after his document ? how could he look at her, and see that her heart
ciliation.
:

NEVER

ANNA
was
full of despair,
?

KARtiXINA.

707

and then go out with a calm, indifferent not only grown cold to her, but he hated her, because he loved some other woman. This was clear. All the cruel words which had ever fallen from the count's and she thought of what he lips came back to Anna's mind might say to her, and she grew more and more indignant. " I will not " You keep 3'ou," she imagined him saying. can go when you please. As you don't care to be divorced from your husband, you probably intend to go back to him. If you want money, I will give it to you. How many rubles
face

He had

do you want?"
All these insulting words which the cruel man might say were said merely in her imagination, but she could not forgive him any more than if he had really said them. " But did he not swear to me only yesterda}' that he loved me? Isn't he a sincere and honest man? " she said to her" Haven't I been hi self a moment afterwards. despair sev" times before, all for nothing? eral She passed the entire day, except two hours during which she made a visit to her proteges, the Wilsons, in alternate doubt and hope. She had been waiting all day and late in the evening she went to her room, telling Auuushka to say that she had the headache. " If he comes in spite of that, it will show that he loves
;

and I shall make up my mind do." When he returned, she heard his^carriage-wheels on the pavement, his ring and his steps, and his colloquy with Anuushka then his steps passed by he went into his library, and Anna knew that her lot was cast. Death presented itself before her clearly and vividly as the only way to punish Vronsky, to gain the victory over him, and to revive
still
:

me

if

not.

it

is

over,

what there

is

for

me

to

liis

love for her.

whether every thing was a matter of indifference they went to the country or not, whether she procured the the essential thing was divorce or not it was unnecessary to punish him. When she poured out her usual dose of opium, and it came over her that if she swallowed all that was in the vial she would die,*it seemed so easy and simple that she felt a real joy in imagining how he would mourn, repent, and love her when it was too late. As she lay on her bed with open eyes, and watched the flickering candle-light on the moulded cor:

Now

708

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

nice of the ceiling mingle with the shadow of the screen which divided the room, she vividly pictured to herself how he would think when she was no more, when she was only a memory. could I speak to her such cruel words?" he would " How could I leave her without one say to himself. loving word ? and now she is gone she has left us forever She is there" Suddenly the shadow of the screen seemed to waver and cover the whole ceiling the other shadows from

"How

all

sides joined in with absolute obscurit}'.

it,

trembling, and

all

became one

"Death!" thought she; and such a great terror seized her whole being, that for a long time she did not know where she was her trembling hands could not find the matches, in order to light another candle in place of the one that had burned down and gone out. When it dawned on her that she was still alive, tears of joy poured down her cheeks. "No, no! any thing only to live! I love him, and he " loves me: these dreadful days will go by and to escape her terror she fled to Vrousky's library.
; !

He was in his library peacefully sleeping. She went close to him, and, holding the candle above his face, looked at him a long time. Now, as he slept, she felt such love for him, that she wept for tenderness but she knew, that, if she woke him, he would look at her coldly, and that she would not be able to resist accusing him, and justifying herself. She went back to her room, and swallowed a second dose of opium, which threw her into a heavy sleep, without taking from her the consciousness of her misery. Towards morning she had the frightful nightmare which she had experienced several times before. She saw a little old man, with unkempt beard, stirring something in a gourd, and muttering unintelligible French words and, as always when she had this nightmare, she felt that the little old man shook it over her head without noticing her and therein lay the horror of the dream. She awoke in a cold
; ; ;

perspiration.

When she got up, the events of the day before seemed enveloped in mist.
"There was a
fore.
I said I

me.

That
;

is

It had happened several times bequarrel. had a headache, and he didn't cOme to see all. To-morrow we will go away. I must

see him, and get ready for our departure," she said to herself and knowing that he was in his library, she started

ANNA

KABfiNINA.

709

But in crossing the parlor, her attention was to go to him. arrested by the sound of a carriage stopping, and she looked It was a conp6. out of the window. young girl in a light hat was stepping from the carriage, and giving orders to the footman, who was at the door-bell. After a colloquy in the vestibule, some one came up-stairs, and Anna heard Vronsky's steps in the drawing-room. Then he ran Anna looked out again, and saw him swiftly down-stairs. go out to the door-steps bare-headed, and approach the carThe young girl in the lilac-colored hat handed him a riage. package. Vronsky smiled as he spoke to her. The coup&

drove away, and Vronsky came quickly up-stairs. This little scene suddenly cleared away the mist which
tore her heart

weighed upon Anna's soul, and the feelings of yesterday more cruelly than ever. She now could not understand how she could have so far debased herself as to She went into the count's stay one day more under his roof. library, to acquaint him with the resolution that she had
taken.

" The Princess Sorokina and her daughter have brought the money and papers from maman. I could not get them yesterday. How is your headache? better?" he said quietly, not seeming to notice the gloomy and tragic expression of Anna's face. She did not reply but, standing in the middle of the room, He glanced at her, his brows she looked fixedly at him. Without contracted, and he continued to read his letter. He speaking, Anna turned slowly about, and left the room might yet detain her but he let her pass the threshold, and the only sound heard was the rustling of the sheet of paper. " By the way," he exclaimed, just as she was"disappear" it is ing, really decided that we go to-moirow? "You, but not I," answered she.

me

"Anna, this kind of life is impossible." "You, not I," she repeated again. "
"
It's

for this," said she; and she went out. Vronsky was frightened at the despairing tone with which she spoke those last words, and his first impulse was to follow her but he reflected, seated himself, and, irritated by this inappropriate threat, he muttered between his teeth, " I have tried every means there's nothing left but indiffer; :

"You

no longer tolerable you will be sorry

!

710
ence

ANNA
"
;

KAHtiNINA.

and he

finally

put on his coat to go to his mother's,

to have her sign a deed. Anna heard the sound of his steps in his library He stopped in the drawing-room. dining-room.
:

and the But he

he only gave some directions about did not come to her the horse that he had just sold. She heard the carriage drive up, and the door open. Some one hurried up-stairs. She ran to the window, and saw Vronsky take from his valet's hands a pair of forgotten gloves, then touch the coachman's back,

and say some words to him and then, without glancing at the window, he sat down, as -usual, in the carriage, crossing one leg over the other. And he turned the corner, and
;

disappeared from Anna's sight.

XXVII.

"He is gone. It's all over," said she to herself, as she stood at the window and the same cold horror which she felt in the night at the dying candle and the nightmare seized her now. " No, this cannot be," she cried. She was afraid to stay alone. She rang the bell violently, and, without waiting, went to meet the servant. " Find out where the count has gone." The man replied that he had gone to the stables. "He left word that the carriage would return immediately if you wished to go out." Very well. I am going to write a note, which you will
;

"

send by Mikhail to the stables.

Hay,e him hurry."

She sat down, and wrote,

"I am
to

blame.

Come
I

back.

We

Heaven's sake, come!

am

must explain

things.

For

frightened."

She sealed the note, and gave it to the servant; and, in her fear of being alone, she went to see her little girl. " He is not the same as he was. Where are his blue eyes, and his pretty, timid smile? " was her first thought when she
beautiful, black-eyed child, instead of Serozha, whom, confusion of her thoughts, she had expected to see. The little one was seated at the table, noisily tapping on it with a glass stopper. She looked at her mother with her two dark, wine-colored eyes. Answering the English nurse that she was well, and expected to go to the country the next
in the

saw the

ANNA

KARtiXINA.

711

day, she stopped over in front of the little one, and put The motion of the child's the stopper back into the carafe. brows and her heart}' laugh recalled Vronsky so vividly, that Anna, choking down her sobs, rose suddenly, and hurried from the room. " Is it possible that all is over? No, it cannot be," thought "He will return. But how can he explain that smile she. of his, and his animation, after what he said? I shall believe whatever he says otherwise there is only one remedy that I see, and that I do not want." She looked at her watch. Twelve minutes went by. "He has received my note, and must come back in ten minutes. And if he shouldn't come back? That's impossible. He must not find me with red eyes I'll go and bathe
: :

Who is that? she asked herself, as she caught sight of a glowing face and strangely brilliant eyes gazing at her from the mirror. " Yes, it is I." And she suddenly seemed to feel his kisses and she shivered, and shrugged her shoulders. Then she put her hand to her lips, and kissed it. "It " and must be that I am going crazy she fled to her room, where Anuushka was arranging her dresses. " Annushka," she said, as she stood before the maid, not
; ;

da! Have I brushed my hair yet?" She could not remember. She put her hands to her head. "Yes, I brushed my hair, but I really don't remember when it was." She actually did not believe that her hands told her truly, and she went to the pier-glass to see. Her hair was properly arranged, but she could not remember any thing about it. "

my

face.

Z>a,

knowing what to say. " " Will you go to Darya Aleksandrovua's ? said the maid,
for the sake of suggesting something.

He ought to be teen minutes to go, fifteen to come back. here." She looked at her watch. " Oh how could he leave me in such a condition? How can he live, and not be at " She went to the window, and looked out peace with me? on the street perhaps she had made a mistake in calculating, and she began over again to count the minutes since he left. Just as she was about going to consult the great clock, It was the count's a carriage stopped before the door. carriage but no one came up-stairs, and she heard voices in the vestibule. It was the messenger who came back in the She hurried dowu to him. carriage.
! :

" To Darya Aleksandrovna's?

Yes, I will go there.

Fif-

712

ANNA

KARtiNlNA.

"The count had just gone to the railroad station," said Mikhail, as he handed her back the note. "Go with this note to the Countess Vronskaia's in the country, you understand? and bring an answer back to me
"
immediately
!

" " Yes I " But what was I she thought. going to do? was going to see Dolly, to be sure but I shall be crazy. Ah! I might telegraph!" and she wrote the following despatch: "I absolutely must speak to you. Come back
;
;

immediately."

Having sent the telegram, she went and dressed and then, with her hat on, she again looked at Annushka, whose little, gentle gray eyes were full of sympathy. "
;

murmured she, Annushka, my dear, what am I to do? dropping into an arm-chair, with a sob. " You musu't excite Go yourself so, Anna Arkadyevna. These things will that will divert you. out for a walk
:

"

happen." "Yes, I am going out," said Anna, collecting her thoughts, and rising. " If a despatch comes while I am gone, send it Or to Darya Aleksandrovna's. no, I will come back." "I must keep from thinking. I must do something, and go out, and, above all, get out of this house," thought she, She listening, with alarm, to the wild beating of her heart.

" To the Princess Oblouquickly got into the carriage. skaia's," she said to Piotr, the driver.

XXVIII.

THE weather was clear. fine, thick rain had fallen all the morning. But now it was bright. The roofs and flagstones and harnesses and the metal-work of the carriages It was three o'clock, the glittered in the May sunshine. busiest time in the streets. Sitting in the corner of the comfortable carriage, which was rapidly drawn by a pair of grays, Anna, under the influence of the easy motion of the springs, and the fresh, pure air, reviewed the events of the past few days, and her situation
seemed
entirely different

from what

it

had been

at

home.

The

idea of death did not frighten her so much, and did not seem to her so inevitable. Now she blamed herself for the humiliation to which she had stooped. "I begged him to

ANNA EARNINA.

713

I accused myself? I bent before him. Why forgive me. did I? Can't I live without him?" And, leaving this question unanswered, she began to read the sign-boards 1 " Office and warehouse. Surgeon-Dentist. mechanically. I will tell Dolly all about it. She does not love VronYes, but It will be hard, shameful to confess every thing sky. I will. She loves me. I'll follow her advice. I will not Kaallow myself to be treated like a child. PhiUppof latchi [little cakes] they say they send them as far as The water at Moscow is so good ah the Petersburg. " And she wells of Muitishchensky remembered how long, when she was seventeen, she had gone with her long ago, aunt to the monastery of Troitsa 2 [Trinity] "They travelled with horses in those days. Was it really How many things which seemed then I, with the red hands? beautiful and unattainable, are worthless to me now What I was then, is passed forever beyond recall And ages Would I have believed then that could not bring me back. I could have fallen into such debasement? How proud and self-satisfied he will be when he reads my note But I will How disagreeable this paint smells Why are they tell him always painting and building! Fashionable Dressmaker." [inodui i uborui~\ she read. man bowed to her: it was Annushka's husband. "Our Ours? Wh}- ours? Ah, if one parasites, as Vronsky says. could tear out the past by the roots But that's impossible one can only avoid thinking about it. And I do that." And yet here she recalled her past with Aleksi Aleksandro" vitch, and how she drove him out of her memory. Dolly will think that I am leaving the second husbaud, and that I am therefore really bad. Do I want to be good? I cannot." And she felt the tears coming. And seeing two happy 7 young girls going by, she fell to wondering why the} were " at each other. about love. They don't smiling Probabby know how sad and wretched it is. The boulevards and the children There are three little boys, playing horse. Serozha my little Serozha. 1 shall lose all. I shall never have him again. Da! if he does not come back, all is indeed lost. Perhaps he missed the tan, and has alread}* reached
; ; !
! .

i sklad. Zubnoi' Vratch. TroUifka'ia Zorrra, near Moscow, founded by St. Sergius in the fourteenth time of the Grand Prince Simeon; the richest and most famous incentury stitution of its kind in Russia. At one time it had 700 monks and 110,000 souls, or

Kontor

The

in the

male

serfs.

714
home.

ANNA
Do

KARtiNINA.
"

I wish to humiliate myself still more? she said, " No, I'm going to reproaching herself for her weakness. 1 ' I shall sa} to her, I am unhappy, I am suffering Dolly's.
;

I deserve it: but I

!

am

" and he thinks of her with love, and is sorry thought Anna and he thinks of me with hate, that he did not marry her and is sorry that he ever met me." When Anna arrived, the two sisters were talking over the subject of Kitty's diet. Dolly went alone to the parlor to receive her. " You haven't gone away yet? I was just going to your I have a letter from Stiva to-day." house. had a" despatch," answered Anna, turning to see if
; ;

horses, this carriage " While will never see them again thinking over what she should say to Dolly, and deliberately torturing her heart, she reached the house, and went up the steps. " " Is there company? she asked, in the ante-room. " Katerina Aleksandrovna Levina," answered the servant. '"Kitty, the same Kitty that Vronsky once loved,"
!

so unhappy, help me! Oh, these how I hate to use them they are his.
!

'

"We

" He writes that he does not understand what Aleks^i Aleksandrovitch requires, but that he will not come away till he has a definite answer." " I Can I read the thought that you had company.
letter?"

Kitty were coming.

"Yes,
nursery.

Kitty," said Dolly, disturbed:

"she

is

in the

Aleksei AleksandroCertainly I'll go and look for it. vitch does not refuse on the contrary, Stiva is quite hopeful," said Dolly, stopping at the door. " I neither hope nor want any thing. Does Kitty think it beneath her dignity to meet me?" thought Anna, when she was left alone. "Perhaps she is right; but she who once loved Vronsky has no right to thrust it in my face, even if she is right. I know that a virtuous woman cannot receive
: :

" "

You know she has been very ill." " heard so. Can I read the letter ?

me

in my present position. I have given up every thing for him, and this is my reward Ah, how I hate him Why did I come here? I am more wretched here than at home." She heard the voices of the two sisters in an adjoining room. " And what am I to say to Dolly? Delight Kitty with the Submit to her condescension? spectacle of my misery ?
! !

ANNA KAENINA.
Da!
Even Dolly wouldn't understand.

715
any

I will not say

All I should want to see Kitty for would be thing to her. that I scorn it all." to show her that I am indifferent, Dolly came in with the letter Anna looked it through, and
:

returned

it.

"

knew

all

that," said she

" but

it

doesn't interest

me

at all."

" Da! Why not? I have good hope," said Dolly, lookShe had never seen her in such a ing critically at Anna. " " When do strange state of irritation. you go away? her without Anna half closed her eyes, and looked before answering. "Is Kitty afraid of me?" she asked, after a moment, glancing towards the door with heightened color. " But she is nursing the baby, and Ach, what nonsense cannot come just yet. On the contrary, she is delighted, and is coming directly," answered Dolly awkwardly, as she " There she is now." disliked telling a fib. When Kitty heard of Anna's call, she had not wished to appear but Dolly reasoned with her, and she finally controlled her repugnance, and went to the parlor. She blushed as she approached Anna, and held out her hand. " I am very glad," said she, in a low voice. Kitty was constrained between her dislike of this wicked woman and her desire to be polite to her but as soon as she saw Anna's beautiful, sympathetic face, all her prejudice vanished. " I should have thought it quite natural if you had refused " You to see me- I am used to every thing," said Anna.
!

have been very ill yes, you have changed." Kitty thought that Anna looked at her with
:

dislike,

and

she attributed her unfriendliness to the unpleasant position in which she stood in regard to herself. Her heart was filled with compassion. They talked of Kitty's illness, of her child, and of Stiva but Anna was evidently absent-minded. " I came to bid you good-by," she said to Dolly, as she
;

" " A\r hen do you go? Without answering her, Anna turned with a smile to Kitty. " Da! I am very glad to have seen you again, I've heard so much about you from everybody, and especially from your husband. He came to see me, and I liked him very

rose.

716

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

much," she added, with a wicked emphasis.

"Where

is

he?"

"He
ing.

has gone to the country," answered Kitty, blush:

!

" " Give my love to him now, don't forget " I will do it, certainly," said Kitty simply, with a com-

passionate look.
proshclitii [good-by], Dolly," said Anna, kissing and shaking hands with Kitty, she hastened away. "She is as fascinating as ever," remarked Kitty to her sister, when Doll}' came in after going to the door with But there is something Anna. " And how beautiful she is

"So
;

her

terribly painful." very painful about her, " She doesn't seem to be in her usual state I to-day. thought she came near bursting into tears in the ante-

room."

XXIX.
took her seat in the carriage, and went home more Her interview with Kitty awakened the ever. consciousness of her own moral depravity, and the pain of this she felt in addition to her former sufferings. " asked Piotr. " Where shall I drive you? Home? " Yes, home," she replied, scarcely knowing what she

ANNA

unhappy than

said.

"

They looked upon me

"

as

some strange, incomprehensible

saying so eagerly to the thought she, seeing two passers-by talking together. " Is it possible to say what one really feels ? I wanted to confess to Dolly, and I am glad that I kept still. How she would have rejoiced at my uuhappiuess She would have tried to hide it, but at heart she would have been glad she would have thought it just that I should pay for that happiness which she begrudged me. And Kitty would have been still more pleased. How I read her through and through She knows her husband liked me uncommonly well, and she is and, what's more, she despises me. jealous, and hates me In her eyes, I am an immoral woman. If I had been what she thinks, how easily I could have turned her husband's head if I had wanted to There I confess I thought of it. goes a man who is delighted with his own looks," she said
creature.

What

can that

man be

other?

ANNA KAR&NINA.

717

to herself, as a tall, florid man went b}', and, mistaking her for an acquaintance, lifted his shiny hat from his shiny bald

head. well as
self
:

"He

anybody

He knows me quite as thought he knew me in the world knows me. I don't know my!

I only know my appetites, as the French say. They covet some of that bad ice-cream," she said to herself, as she watched two little street-children standing in front of a vender, who had just set down from his head his tub of icecream, and was wiping his face with a corner of his coat. " We all want our sweet delicacies if not sugar-plums, then bad ice-cream, just like Kitty, who, not catching Vrousky, took Levin. She envies me, she hates me and we hate Tintkin coiffeur each other. So goes the world. Je me fais coiffer [' I will have my hair dressed '] par Tiutkin.
;

tell him this nonsense when he comes," thought and smiled, and then instantly remembered that there was no one now to whom she could tell amusing things. There is nothing amusing, nothing gay: it is all disgustThe vesper-bell is ringing, and that storekeeper is ing. crossing himself so quickly that one would think he was
I

will

she,
l -

afraid of losing the chance. " Why these churches, these bells, these lies? Just to hide the fact that we all hate each other, like those izvoshchiks Yashvin was who are swearing at each other so angrily. ' He is after my shirt, and I am after right when he said,
'

his.'
sfc engrossed by these thoughts that she forgot her grief for a while, and was surprised when the carriage stopped in front of her house. The sight of the Swiss, coming to meet her, reminded her that she had sent a letter and a telegram. " " Is there an answer yet? " I will go and see," said the Swiss ; and he came back in Anna a moment with a telegram in a thin square envelope.

She was

read,

" I cannot be back before ten o'clock.

VBONSKT."

" " And has the messenger come back? " Not yet," replied the Swiss. "Ah if that is so, then I know what I must do ;" and feeling a vague sense of anger and a desire for vengeance arising
!

in her soul, she ran up-stairs.

718

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

" Before "I myself will go and find him," thought she. away forever, I will show him what he has done. I never go " And when she caught hated any one as I hate this man sight of Vrousky's hat hanging in the ante-room, she shivered She did not reflect that the despatch was in with aversion. answer to her telegram, and that he could not have yet reShe imagined him now chatting gayly with ceived her note. his mother and the Princess Sorokina without a thought of " her suffering. Yes, I must go as quickly as possible," she She felt not knowing at all whither she should go. said, that she must fly from these thoughts which weighed her down
I
!

The servants, the walls, the furniture, in this terrible house. every thing about it, filled her with disgust and pain, and crushed her with a terrible weight. "Yes, I must go to the railroad station, and if not there, then somewhere, to punish him." Anna looked at the timetable in the newspaper. The evening train went at two minutes " Yes, I shall have plenty of time." She ordered past eight. the two other horses to be harnessed, and she had transferred from her trunk to her travelling-bag things enough to last for several days. She knew that she should never come back She revolved a thousand plans in her head, and deteragain. mined that when she had done what she had in mind to do, either at the countess's country-seat, or at the station, she would go to the first city on the Nizhni Novgorod Railroad that she might happen to think of. Dinner was on the table. She took a bit of bread and cheese the smell of tlft victuals was repugnant to her. She ordered the carriage again, and went out. The house cast a shadow clear across the street but
: ;

the sky

Annushka, who brought her things, and Piotr, who carried them to the carriage, and the coachman, who was evidently angry, all were disagreeable to her, and vexed her with their words and motions. " I do not need you, Piotr."" " Who will ticket?
clear,
it

was

and

was warm

in the sun.

if you wish: it makes no difference to me," she said pettishly. Piotr nimbly mounted the box, and, folding his arms, ordered the coachman to drive to the Nizhni

"Nu!

Go

get your

station.

ANNA KARfiNIFA
XXX.
"

719

Now I am

myself again,

Anna
"

now my mind

is

clear," said

to herself, as soon as the carriage started, and, rolling a little, flew swiftly along the uneven pavement.

last?

that good thing that I was thinking about not that. Tintkin, the coiffeur? Oh, no Oh, yes what Yashvin said about the struggle for existence, and No we go at haphatred, the only thing that unites men.
! !

Da ! what was

hazard."

She saw in a carriage drawn by four horses a party of merrymakers, who had evidently come to the city for a pleas" What are you seeking under the disguise of pleasure?" she thought. "You won't escape from yourselves;" and then, as her eye fell on a drunken workman, led by a Count policeman, she added, "That man's way is quicker. Vronsky and I did not reach this pleasure, though we expected much."
ure-trip.

And for the first time Anna turned upon her relations with the count this bright light which was suddenly revealing her life to her. " What did he seek in me? satisfaction for his vanity, rather than for his love And she remembered Vronsky's words, and the expression of his face, which reminded her of a submissive dog, when they first met and loved. Every thing seemed a confirmation of this thought. ' 'Da ! he cared for the triumph of success above every thing. Of course, he loved me, but chiefly from vanity. Now that he is not proud of me any more, it is over. He is ashamed of me. He has taken from me all that he could take, and now I am of no use to him. I weigh upon him, and he does not want to be in dishonorable relationship with me. He said, yesterday, he wanted the divorce, so as to burn but how? The his ships. Perhaps he loves me still, zest is gone," she said, in English, as she looked at a ruddy-faced man riding by on a hired horse. " Da! there is nothing about me any longer to his taste. If I leave him, he will rejoice in the bottom of his heart." she saw things now This was not mere hypothesis clearly, as by a sort of clairvoyance.

' '

720
"

ANNA
My
:

love has been growing more and more selfish and his has been growing fainter and fainter. That He is all in all to me. I is why we cannot go on together. struggle to draw him closer and closer to me, and he wants to fly from me. Up to the time of our union, we flew to meet each other but now we move apart. He accuses me and lam; and yet 1 am not, of being absurdly jealous, I am not jealous, but my love is no longer satiseither. she opened her mouth to speak, and, in the But" fied. excitement caused by the stress of her thoughts, she changed her place in the carriage. " If I could, I would try to be a simple friend to him, and not a passionate mistress, whom his coldness frenzies but I am not mistaken. Don't I I cannot transform myself. know that he would not deceive me, that he is no longer in love with Kitty, that he has no intention of marrying the I know it well, but it is none the Princess Sorokina? But what is that to me? If he is tired easier for me. of my love, if, when he does not feel for me just what I I would, a thousand times, rather have him feel for him, hell And this is the case. He has long hate me. This is When love ceases, disgust begins. I ceased to love me. don't know these streets at all. What hosts of houses and no end of them! and they all in them, people, people, hate each other "Nu! what could happen to me now that would give me

passionate

Suppose that Ah'kse"i Aleksandrovitch happiness again? should consent to the divorce, and would give me back SeAnd as she rozha, and that I should marry Vronsky?" thought of Aleksei Aleksandrovitch, Anna could see him before her, with his dull, lifeless, faded eyes, his white, blueveined hands, and his cracking joints and the idea of their relation to one another, which had hitherto been tinged with tenderness, made her shudder. " Nu! Suppose I were married, would not Kitty still look at me as she looked at me to-day ? Would not Serozha ask
;

and wonder why I had two husbands? But between me and Vronsky what new feeling could I imagine ? Is it possible that our relations might be, if not pleasanter, at least no " worse than they are now? No, and no she replied, without the least hesitation. "Impossible! We are growing apart; and I am disagreeable to him, and he displeases me. and I cannot change him every means has been tried.
!

ANNA
Da!
pity.

KARtiNINA.

721

I \vas contented with him whom I loved." And she remembered with disgust what she called that love. And the clearness in which she now saw her own life, as well as the lives of others, delighted her. "Thus am I, and Piotr and the

there's a beggar with a child. She thinks she inspires Were we not thrown into the world to hate each other, and to torment ourselves and everybody else? Here come Serozha?" It reminded her the schoolboys out to play! " I used to think that I loved him, and I \vas of her sou. touched by his gentleness. I also lived without him, gave him up for my love, and was not sorry for the change, since

coachman, Feodor, and that merchant, and all people from here to the Volga, wherever these remarks are applicable and everywhere and always," she thought as the carriage stopped in front of the low-roofed station of the Nizhni Novgorod Railroad, and the porter came out to meet her. " " Shall I book asked Piotr. you for Obiralovki? She had entirely forgotten why she had come, and only by a great effort could she understand what he meant. " Yes," she and taking her said, handing him her purse little red bag, she got out of the carriage. As she entered with the throng, she reviewed all the details of her situation and the plans between which she was And again hope and despair alternately filled her halting. As she sat on the stellitortured, cruelly palpitating heart. form divan, she looked with aversion on the people going and and thought now of coming, they were all her enemies, how, when she reached the station, she would write to him, and what she would write, and then how at this very moment he not thinking of her suffering was complaining to his mother of his position, and how she would go to his room, and what she would say to him. The thought that she might and how hard it was to yet live happily crossed her brain And above all, how love and hate him at the same time her heart was beating, as if to burst its bounds
; ;
!

XXXI.

A BELL sounded, and some impudent }*oung men of a flashy and vulgar appearance passed before her. Then Piotr, in^ his livery and top-boots, with his dull, good-natured face, crossed the waiting-room, and came up to escort her to the

722
cars.

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

The noisy men about the door stopped talking while she passed out upon the platform then one of them made some remark to his neighbor, which was apparently an insult. Anna mounted the high steps, and sat down alone in the compartment on the dirty sofa which once had been white, and Piotr raised his laid her bag beside her on the springy seat. gold-laced hat, with an inane smile, for a farewell, and deThe saucy conductor shut the door. woman, parted. deformed, and ridiculously dressed up, followed by a little girl laughing affectedly, passed below the car-window. Anna looked at her with disgust. The little girl was speaking loud in a mixture of Russian and French.
;

A dirty, hunchbacked muzhik passed close to the window, and examined the car-wheels he wore a cap, from beneath which could be seen tufts of dishevelled hair. "There is something familiar about that hump-backed muzhik," thought Anna and suddenly she remembered her nightmare, and drew back frightened towards the car-door, which the conductor was just opening to admit a lady and gentleman. " Do you want to get out?" Anna did not answer, and under her veil no one could see the terror which paralyzed her. She sat down again. The couple took seats opposite her, and cast stealthy but curious The husband and wife were obnoxious glances at her dress. to her. The husband asked her if she objected to smoking, evidently not for the sake of smoking, but as an excuse for
:
;

"That child is grotesque and already self-conscious," Anna and she seated herself at the opposite window of the empty apartment, to avoid seeing the people.
thought
;

entering into conversation with her. Having obtained her permission, he remarked to his wife in French that he felt even more inclined to talk than to smoke. They exchanged stupid remarks, with the hope of attracting Anna's attention, and drawing her into the conversation. Anna clearly saw how
It was they bored each other, how they hated each other. The secimpossible not to hate such painful monstrosities. ond gong sounded, and was followed by the rumble of bagAnna saw so clearly that gage, noise, shouts, laughter. there was nothing to rejoice at, that this laughter roused her At last the indignation, and she longed to stop her ears. third signal was given, the train started, the locomotive " It would be whistled, and the gentleman crossed himself. to ask him what he meant by that," thought interesting

ANNA KAR&NINA.

723

Auua, looking at him angrily. Then she looked by the woman's head out of the car-window at the people standing and walking on the platform. The car in which Anna sat moved past the stone walls of the station, the switches, the The motion became more rapid the rays of the other cars.
:

setting snn slanted into the car-window, played through the slats of the blinds.

and a

light breeze
air,

Forgetting her neighbors,

Anna

breathed in the fresh

and took up again the course of her thoughts. "Da! What was I thinking about? I cannot imagine any situation in which my life could be any thing but one We are all dedicated to unhappiness we all long misery. know it, and only seek for ways to deceive ourselves. But when you see the truth, what is to be done? " %t Reason was given to man, that he might avoid what he dislikes." remarked the woman, in French, apparently de:

lighted with her sentence. The words fitted in with

Anna's thought. " To avoid what he dislikes," she repeated and a glance at the handsome-faced man, and his thin better half, showed her that the woman looked upon herself as a misunderstood creature, and that her stout husband did not contradict this Anna, as opinion, but took advantage of it to deceive her. it were, read their history, and looked into the most secret depths of their hearts but it was not interesting, and she went on with her reflections. " Yes, it is very unpleasant to me, and reason was given to avoid it therefore, it must be done. Why not extinguish But the light when it shines on things disgusting to see? how? Why does the conductor keep hurrying through the
; ; :

car? car?
tion."

Why Why

It is all

Why are there people in this they speak? What are they laughing at? false, all a lie, all deception, all vanity and vexadoes he shout?
<lo

When the train reached the station, Anna followed the other passengers, and tried to avoid too rude a contact with She hesitated on the platform, trying the bustling crowd. to recollect why she had come, and to ask herself what she meant to do. All that seemed to her possible before to do, now seemed to her difficult to execute, especially amid this
;

Now the porters came to her, and disagreeable crowd. now some young men, clattering offered her their services up and down the platform, and talking loud, observed her

724
curiously
it
;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

and she knew not where to take refuge. Finally, occurred to her to stop an official, and ask him if a coachman had not been there with a letter for Count Vronsky. "The Count Vronsky? Just now some one was here. He was inquiring for the Princess Sorokina and her daughter. What kind of a looking man is this coachman? " Just then Anna espied the coachman Mikhail, rosy and gay in his elegant blue livery and watch-chain, coming towards her, and carrying a note, immense!}* proud that he had fulfilled his commission. Anna broke the seal, and her heart stood still as she read
the carelessly written lines
:

"I am very

sorry that your note did not find

me

in

Moscow.

shall return at ten o'clock."

" Yes, that is what I expected," she said to herself, with a sardonic smile. " Very good, you can go home," she said to Mikhail. She spoke the words slowly and gently, because her heart beat so that she could scarcely breathe or speak. " No, I will not let you make me suffer so," thought she, addressing with a threat, not Vronsky so much as the thought that was torturing her and she moved along the platform. Two chamber-maids waiting there turned to look at her, and made audible remarks about her toilet. "Just in st}ie," they said, referring to her lace. The young men would not leave her in peace. They stared at her, and passed her again and again, making their jokes so that she should hear. The station-master came to her, and asked if she was going to take the train. lad selling kratt did not take his eyes from
;

" she said to where shall I fly? herself. When she reached the end of the platform, she stopped. Some women and children were there, talking with a man in spectacles, who had probably come to the station to meet them. They, too, stopped, and turned to see -Anna pass by. She hastened her steps. A truck full of trunks rumbled by, making the floor shake so that she felt as if she were on a

her.

" Bozhe mot

moving

train.

Suddenly she remembered the man who was run over on the day when she met Vronsky for the first time, and she knew then what was in store for her. With light and swift steps she descended the stairway which led from the pump

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

725

at the end of the platform down to the rails, and stood very near the train, which was slowly passing by. She looked under the cars, at the chains and the brake, and the high iron wheels, and she tried to estimate with her eye the

distance between the fore and back wheels, and the moment when the middle would be in front of her. "There," she said, looking at the shadow of the car thrown upon the black coal-dust which covered the sleepers, " there, in the centre, he will be punished, and I shall be delivered from it all, and from myself." Her little red travelling-bag caused her to lose the moment when she could throw herself under the wheels of the first She awaited the car she could not detach it from her arm. second. feeling like that she had experienced once, just before taking a dive in the river, came over her, and she made the sign of the cross. This familiar gesture called back to her soul, memories of youth and childhood. Life, with its elusive joys, glowed for an instant before her, but she did not take her eyes from the car and when the middle, between the two wheels, appeared, she threw away her red bag, drawing her head between her shoulders, and,' with outstretched hands, threw herself on her knees under the car.
:

"Where am I? What am I thought she, trying to draw back; but a great, inflexible mass struck her head, and threw her upon " " her back. she murmured, feeling Lord, forgive me all! the struggle to be in vain. A little muzhik was working on the railroad, mumbling in his beard. And the candle by which she read, as in a book, the fulfilment of her life's work, of its deceptions, its grief, and its torment, flared up with greater brightness than she had ever known, revealing to her
She had time
to feel afraid.

doing?

Why?"

that before was in darkness, then and went out forever.

all

flickered,

grew

faint,

726

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

PART
I.

VIII.

Two months had passed by, and though half the summer was gone, Sergei Ivanovitch had not yet made up his miud An important event for him had just octo leave Moscow. the publication of his book, entitled, An Essay on curred, the Principles and the Forms of Government in Europe and in Russia, upon which he had been working for six years. The introduction, as well as some fragments from the book, had already appeared in the reviews, and certain parts had been read' by the author to the people of his circle but although his work could not be said to possess the charm of
;

novelty, Serge" i Ivanovitch nevertheless expected

it

to

make

a sensation.

Weeks passed by, however, without the least ripple being apparent in the literary world. Some of his scientific friends spoke to Koznuishef about his book, from politeness but society was too much pre-occupied with quite different matters, to give the least attention to a publication of this kind. As for the newspapers, months went by, and there was The Northern Beetle." absolute silence, except a squib in At length, after three months, a critical article appeared in a journal of importance. Sergei Ivanovitch knew who the author was. He had met him at the house of a friend. He was very young, very clever as a writer, but perfectly uneducated. Notwithstanding Serge"! Ivanovitch's disdain of the author, he began to read the article with extraordinary interest. But it proved to be abominable. Evidently, the critic understood the book just exactly as it should not have been understood. The article was merely a selection of extracts, cleverly put together, to demonstrate that the entire book, in spite of its high pretensions, was nothing but
;

'

a tissue of

pompous phrases, and

these not always

intelli-

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

727

gible, as the critic's frequent interrogation-points testified. In a word, he tried to show that the author of the work was

a perfect ignoramus and it was done in such a witty way that Sergei Ivanovitch himself could not deny the wit of it ; but, after all, it was abominable. Sergei Ivanovitch, in spite of the unusual conscientiousness with which he examined into the justice of these remarks, did not for a moment think of answering the ridiculous errors and blunders ; but he involuntarily remembered how, when he met the young author of the article, he had showed up his ignorance in conversation. He, therefore, understood the animus of the criticism. Sergei Ivanovitch' s disappointment of seeing the labor of
;

which he had put his whole soul, pass thus and his feelings were still more unnoticed, was verv keen tried, because, now that his book was off his hands, he had nothing especial to occupy the larger part of his time. He w;is bright, well educated, in perfect health, and very active and lie did not know how to employ his industry. Conversations with callers, visits to the club, and the meetings of but still, his leisure committees, took some of his time weighed heavily upon him. To his joy just at this time, which was so trying to him,
six years, in
;

and after his interest in American subjects, foreign famines, expositions, spiritualism, was exhausted, the Slavic question and Sergei Ivanovitch, began to engross public attention who had been one of its earliest advocates, gave himself up to it with enthusiasm. Among Sergei Ivanovitch's friends nothing else was thought about or talked about except the Serbian war. All the things that lazy people are accustomed to do was done for the help of these brother Slavs. Balls, concerts, dinners, the names of matches, ladies' finery, beer, bar-rooms, every thing was significantly sympathetic for the Slavs. With much that was said and written on this subject, Sergei He saw that the Slav question Ivanovitch could not agree. was one of those fashionable movements that always carry He saw that many people with petty people to extremes. He recognized that personal ends in view took part in it. the newspapers made many useless and exaggerated statements, in order to attract attention to themselves, and belittle their rivals. He saw that in this common impulse of
;

society, upstarts put themselves

forward, and outdid each

T28

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

comother in showing absurd and abominable things, manders-iu-chief without an army, ministers without a ministry, -journalists without a journal, party-leaders without

He saw much that was childish and absurd but partisans. he also saw and admired the enthusiasm which united all The masclasses, and which it was impossible not to share.
;

sacre of the Serbians, who professed the same faith, and spoke almost the same language, aroused sympathy for their sufferings, and indignation against their persecutors and the heroism of the Serbs and Montenegrins, who were fighting for a great cause, caused a universal desire to help their brethren, not only in word, but in deed. But there was another phenomenon which delighted Sergi Ivanovitch especially. This was the manifestation of Society actually spoke out its desires. public opinion. "The national soul was moved," as Serge" i Ivanovitch exand the more he studied this movement as a pressed it whole, the more vast it seemed to him, and destined to mark an epoch in the history of Russia. He devoted himself to the service of this great cause, and All his time now was so occupied forgot all about his book. that he could scarcely reply to the letters and demands made upon him. He worked all the spring and a part of the summer, and it was only in the month of July that he could tear himself away from his new employments to go to his brother in the
;
;

country.
for a fortnight's vacation, and rejoiced to find, depths of the country, in the very holy of holies of the peasantry, the same awakening of the national spirit in which he himself and all the inhabitants of the capital and the large cities of the empire firmly believed. Katavasof seized the opportunity to fulfil a promise he had made to visit Levin, and the two friends left town the

He went

even

in the

same day.
II

& III.

WHEN Serge"! Ivanovitch and Katavasof reached the Kursk Railroad station, they found a large throng of enthusiastic people, who were accompanying a number of volunteers and their friends. Ladies carrying bouquets attended the heroes of the hour, to say good-by and the crowd followed them.
;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

729

One of the ladies armed with bouquets was in the station, and addressed Sergei Ivauovitch. " " Did she asked, speakyou also come to see the sight?
ing iu French.

No:
little

rest at

am going myself, princess; that is, to have a " my brother's. But are }'ou still on eecort duty ?

he added, with a smile of amusement.

" I have to. But tell me, is it true that we have sent off Malvinsky told me so." eight hundred already? " We've sent off more than a thousand, if we count those
not immediately from Moscow."

"

Nu, vot!

I said so

"

the subscriptions? " lion?

k -

Do

" And cried the lady, delighted. they not amount to nearly a mil-

More than that, princess." " Have you read the news? They have beaten the Turks
again." Yes.
'

read about it."

And

they began to talk about

volunteered. kk Do you know Count Vronsky, the famous, is going on " said the princess, with a triumphant and signithis train?
their acquaintances
ficant smile.

who had

" I knew that he was going I heard it, but I did not know when." "I just saw him. He is here. His mother is the only one with him. All things considered, I do not think he could do any thing better." "Oh, yes! Of course." During this conversation, the crowd had rushed into the restaurant of the station, where a man, with a glass in his hand, was making an address to the volunteers tk For the service of our faith and humanity and our breth" Matushka Moskva ren," he said, raising his voice, [Mother Moscow] gives you her blessing in this noble cause. May " it prosper he concluded, with tears in his eyes. The crowd responded with cheers and a fresh throng poured into the waiting-room, nearly overwhelming the princess. "Ah, princess! What do you say to this?" cried Stepan Arkady evitch, who, with a radiant smile of joy, was " Didn't he speak working his way through the crowd. Bravo! And here's Serge"! Ivauuitch. You gloriously? ought to speak just a few words, you know, of encouragement, you do it so well," added Oblonsky, touching Koznui:
:
!

730

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.
flattering defer-

shef 8 ann, with an expression of suave,

ence.

" Oh, no

I'm going
to

off,

right

away."

"Where?"
I wrote her, but you'll see her Please tell her that you met me, before she gets my letter. and every thing is all right : she will understand. Tell her, too, that I got my place as member of the Commission of JVw, da! she knows what that is, you know, les petites mi" s&res cle la vie humaine [the little miseries of human life], said he, turning to the princess, as though in apology. " Miagkaia, not Liza, but Bibiche, sends a"thousand guns and twelve hospital nurses. Did I tell you? " Yes I heard about it," answered Koznuishef coldly. "But what a pity you are going away," replied Stepan " give a farewell dinner to-morrow to Arkadyevitch. Dimer Bartuyansky of Petersburg, and two volunteers, our Veslovsky. Both are going. Veslovsky is just married. " He's a flue lad. Isn't it so, princess? The princess did not reply, but looked at Koznuishef. The fact that the princess and Sergei Ivanovitch evidently wanted He. to get rid of him did not in the least disconcert him. and as he saw a lady going by with a went on chatting subscription-box, he beckoned to her, and handed her a fiveruble note. " I can't bear to see these subscription-boxes pass by me, now that I am flush," he said. \\liatsplendiduews there is! Hurrah for the Monte-

" To the country, " Then see

you'll

my

brother's."

my

wife.

We

" " What's that you say?" he cried, when the princess told him that Vronsky was going by the first train. A shade of sadness passed over his merry face but he soon forgot the tears he had shed over his sister's grave, and saw in Vronsky only a hero and an old friend. He hastened away to
negrins
!

find him.

"One must do him justice, in spite of his faults," said " He the princess, when Stepan Arkadyevitch was gone. has the true Russian, the Slavic, nature. But I am afraid it will give the count no pleasure to see him. Whatever people may say, I pity that unhappy man. Try to talk a little with him on the journey," said the princess. " I never liked him, but Certainly, if I have a chance.

ANNA
what he
expense?
is

EARtfNINA.

731

You know, "

doing now makes up for much wrong-doing. he's taking out a squadron of cavalry at his own

The bell rang, and the crowd pressed towards the doors. "There he is," said the princess, pointing out Vronsky, who was dressed in a long coat and a broad-brimmed black
His mother was leaning on his arm. Oblousky folhat. lowed them, talking vivacious^. Vronsky was frowning, and looked straight ahead, as though loath to hear what Stepan Arkady evitch said. Apparently atOblonsky's suggestion, he turned to the side where Sergei Ivanovitch and the princess were standing, and His face, which had grown old and raised his hat silently. worn, was like stone. He instantly disappeared in the train. On the platform, men were singing the national hymn. 1 A young volunteer, Then hurrahs and vivas resounded. with a tall figure, stooping shoulders, and an invalid air, ostentatiously responded to the public, waving above his head a felt hat and a bouquet while behind him, two officers, and an elderly man in an old cap, bowed a more modest farewell. After Koznuishef had taken leave of the princess, he and Katavasof who had just joined him, entered a car which was crowded with people and the train started. At the next station, the national hymn, sung by a choir of young men, saluted the volunteers, and the}" responded in the same wa}' but these orations and the type of the volunteers were too
; , ; ;

to Sergei Ivanovitch to awaken the least curiosity Katavasof, on the other hand, whose studious habits kept him away from such scenes, was much interested, and questioned his companion about the volunteers. Sergei Ivanovitch advised him to look into their car, and talk with some of them. At the next station, Katavasof followed this advice. As soon as the train stopped, he went

well

known

in him.

into the second-class car, and made the acquaintance of the volunteers. Some of them were seated in a corner of the car, talking noisily, aware that they were attracting the attention of the other passengers and of Katavasof. The tall, roundshouldered young man was talking louder than the others.

He was
posite

evidently very drunk, and

officer in

him sat an old

was telling a story. OpAustrian uniform. He was

listening

with a smile

prompting him.

A
1

to the narrator, and occasionally third volunteer, in an artillery uniform,

Tsara Khrani."

"ohe

732

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

fourth was asleep. Kawas sitting on a box near them. tavasof entered into conversation with the youth, and learned that he had been a rich merchant in Moscow, who, when scarcely twenty-two years old, had succeeded in squandering a considerable fortune. Katavasof did not like him, because He evidently felt, he was effeminate, conceited, and sickl} especially now that he was drunk, that he was doing a heroic deed and he boasted in the most disagreeable manner. The next officer also impressed Katavasof unpleasantly he had tried all trades he had worked on a railroad, and had been director of an estate, and had built a factory and he talked of every thing without any necessity of doing so, and often used words that showed his ignorance. The third, the artillery-man, on the contrary, pleased KataHe was vasof very much by his modesty and gentleness. evidently disgusted by the affected knowledge of the retired officer and the young merchant's boasted heroism, and he would say nothing about himself. When Katavasof asked him what induced him to go to Serbia, he answered modestly,
r
. ;

"I'm
bians.

We must help the Serbad." " Da! They have very few artillery-men." " Mr service in the I may be artillery was very short.
going, like every one else.
It is too
' '

assigned to the infantry or the cavalry." " Why in the infantry when they need artillery-men more than all ? asked Katavasof. "I did not serve very long in the artillery, but left the And he began to explain why service when I was a boy." he had not passed his examination. The general impression which these officers produced was not very favorable. An elderh" man in a military overcoat had been listening to Katavasof 's talk with them, and seemed He and the professor exchanged scarcely more edified. views. The old man was a soldier who had fought in two

campaigns, and he knew what it meant to go to war and in the actions and words of these gentlemen, the bravery with which they applied themselves to the flask, he read their inBut in the excitement, it would have feriority as soldiers. been imprudent to express himself frankly. When Katavasof asked the old soldier how the volunteers impressed him, a smile came into his eyes, and he limited his reply to the remark, "What would you have? Somebody must go." And,
:

ANNA KAR&NINA.

733

without confiding to each other their mutual opinions on this subject, they talked over the most recent war news, including the famous battle where the Turks, according to the reports, were beaten at every point. When Katavasof returned to his car, he told Sergei Ivanovitch, with some twinges of conscience, that he enjoyed talking with the volunteers, and he declared that they were excellent lads. In the great station where the}' next stopped,
the chorus, the cheers, the bouquets, and the beggars again appeared, and again the ladies with bouquets took the volunteers into the restaurant but there was much less enthusiasm than there had been at Moscow.
;

IV.

WHILE the train stopped, Sergei Ivanovitch did not go to the restaurant, but walked up and down the platform. The first time that he passed Vronsky's compartment, he saw that the blinds were down. When he passed the second time, he saw the old countess at the window, and she called him. " You see, I am going as far as Kursk with him." " I heard so," answered Koznuishcf, stopping at the win" " What a noble action on his dow, and looking in. part! he added, seeing that Vronsky was not in the car. " Da! What could he do after his misfortune? " " " What a horrible thing it was "Ach! What have I not been through Da! Come in. Ach! What have I not been through!" she repeated, as Serge" i Ivanovitch came in and sat down on the sofa beside her. " You could not imagine it. For six weeks he never said a word to any one, and he only ate because I dared not leave him alone a single instant begged him. we feared he would try to kill himself. lived on the first You know he floor, but we had to look out just the same. came near it once before, for her sake. Yes," said the old countess, her face clouding at this remembrance, "that woman died as was tit for such a woman to die. Her death was low
!
!

We

We

and wretched." "It is not for us

to judge her, countess," replied Serge"i

Ivanovitch, with a sigh. suffered."

" But

can imagine what you have

734

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

Don't speak of it! My son was with me at my A note was brought him. He answered We did not know at all that she was at the That evening I had just gone to my room, and my station. Mary told me that a lady had thrown herself under the train. I knew it must I understood instantly what had happened be she. My first words were, Let no one tell the count.' But they had just told him. His coachman was at the station when it happened, and saw it all. I ran to my son's room. He was like a madman it was terrible to see him. Without speaking one word, he left the house and what he found, but they brought him back like one dead. I I do not know 'Prostration compete,' the should never have known him. Ach! What doctor said. Then he became almost insane. "It can be said?" cried the countess, waving her hands. was a terrible time. No let people say what they will, she was a bad woman. Nu! What a fearful passion she was in It was to prove something or other in an extraordinary She has spoiled life for two splenway, and she proved it and ruined herself." her husband and my son, did men, " What did the husband do? " "He has taken the little girl. At first Alosha consented now he repents having given up his daughto every thing but could he take charge of her? Karc'nin ter to a stranger went to the funeral, but we succeeded in preventing a meetFor him, that is, her husing between him and Alosha. but my poor son gave up this death is a deliverance band, me, his position, every thing for her, sacrificed every thing. his career, and she was not contented with that, but wanted No whatever you may say, her death to ruin him besides. is the death of a bad woman, a woman without religion.

"Aeh!

country-place. immediately.

'

May God forgive me done my son, I cannot *" How is he now ? "
!

but when

I think of the harm she has help cursing her memory."

" This is our salvation, this Serbian war. I am old, don't understand much about it but God sent it. Of course, as his mother, it is painful and besides, they say ce n'est pas tr&s bien vu & Petersburg" [it is not much approved of] but what can be done about it? This one thing saved him. Yashvin, his friend, gambled away all he had, and enlisted. He came to Alosha, and persuaded him to go to Serbia with him. Now this is occupying him. Do talk with him, T beg of you, he is so sad. Da! and besides his other troubles,
; ;
;

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

735

he has a toothache. But he will be glad to see you. Please He is walking up and down on the other side talk with him. of the track." Sergei Ivanovitch said that he would be very glad to talk with the count, and went over to the side where Vronsky was.

V.
Ix the shadow of a heap of baggage piled on the platform, in his long overcoat and slouch hat, with his hands in his pockets, was walking, like a wild beast in a cage, up and down a narrow space where he could not take more than a score of steps. It seemed to Sergei Ivanovitch, as he drew near, that he saw him, but pretended not to recognize him. But to Sergei Ivanovitch, this was all the same. He stood above any petty susceptibility.

Vronsky,

At tin* moment, Vronsky. in his eyes, was fulfilling a grand mission, and he ought to be sustained and encouraged. He approached the count. Vronsky stopped, looked at him, recognized him, and. taking a few steps to meet him, cordially held out his hand. Perhaps you would prefer not to see me," said Sergei " but can I be of any service to you? Ivanovitch one could be less unpleasant for me to meet than
'

l '

"No

you," answered Vronsky.

Pardon me. There is nothing pleasant for me in life." " I understand, and I want to offer you my services," said Koznuishef, struck by the deep suffering in the count's face. Might not a letter to Ristitch or Milan be of some use to
'
'
!

you?" " Oh, no " answered Vronsky, making an effort to understand. 4i If it is all the same to you, we will walk a little.
one need
.A letter? No, thank you. Does so close in the cars In letters of introduction to get one's self killed? this case, one to the Turks, perhaps," added he, with a His eyes kept the same smile at the corners of his mouth. expression of bitter sadness. Da! It would make it easier for you to come into relations with men prepared for action. Still, as you please but I was very glad to learn of your decision. The very fact that a man of your standing has joined the volunteers, will raise them above all cavil in the public estimation."
It
is
!

'

736

ANNA
My

KAR1&NINA.

sole merit," replied Vronsky, " is, that life is of no As to phj'sical energy, I know it will not be wanting for any purpose and I am glad enough to give my life, which is not only useless to me, but disgusting, to be

"

value to me.

useful to

somebody

"

and he made an impatient motion of

his face, caused by his unceasing toothache. will be born over again, is my prediction," said " The delivSergei Ivanovitch. His feelings were touched.

"You

erance of one's oppressed brethren is an aim for which one May God grant you full success, might as well live as die. and fill your soul with peace!" he added, and held out his hand.

Vronsky pressed " As a

his

hand

field-piece, I

may be

cordially. of use.

But as a man,

am
the

only a ruin,"
phrases.

murmured the count, with intervals between The steady pain in his tooth made it an
;

He stopped and his eyes fixed him to speak. themselves mechanically on the engine-wheel, which advanced, revolving slowly and regularly on the rails. And suddenly another, not pain, but a sensation of intense inward torture, caused him to forget for a moment the pain of his
effort for

At the sight of the engine and the rails, through the influence of his talk with an acquaintance whom he had not seen since his grief, a sudden memory awakened in him. Instantly she appeared to him, or, at least, all that remained of her, when he rushed like a maniac into the freight-house, where they had carried her. There, on a table, shamelessl}- exposed to the sight of all, lay her blood-stained body, which had so lately been full of life.
tooth.

Her head was uninjured, with its heavy braids, and its light curls about the temples it was thrown back and in the
;

lovely face, with half-closed eyes, and her rosy lips parted, hovered still that strange and wild expression, as though her mouth were ready once again to pronounce their terrible " that he threat, and warn him, as during their last quarrel,

would repent."

And
met

he tried to remember how she looked when he first her, also at a railroad station, with that mysterious,

and gayety, But he saw only her enjoying and bestowing happiness. face, haughtily expressing her threat of unnecessaty but imHe tried to remember the happiest placable vengeance. moments that he had spent with her, but those joys of the
poetic, chai'ming beauty, overflowing with life

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

737

Sobs shook his whole past remained forever poisoned. frame. After walking up and down by the baggage once or twice, the count controlled himself, and spoke calmly with Sergei I vanovitch. "Did you hear the latest telegrams? Yes: they have fought three times, and probably there will be another battle to-morrow." And after a few words about King Milan's
proclamation, and the consequences which the two men separated at the ringing of the
it

might have,

bell.

VI.

As Serge" i Ivanovitch had not known just when it would be possible for him to leave Moscow, he did not telegraph his Levin was not at home when he brother to send for him. and Katavasof, black as negroes with smoke and dust, reached Pokrovsky about noon, in a tarantds which they hired at the station. Kitty was sitting on the balcony with her father and sister when she saw her brother-in-law approaching, and she ran
to

meet him.

conscience ought to prick you for not letting us said she. shaking hands with Serge"! Ivanovitch. got along splendidly, and we did not have to bother I am so dusty, that I don't dare to touch you. you. And here is our friend, Feodor Vasilitch, who has come at last." " But I am not a When I have washed, I shall negro. look like a human being," said Katavasof, laughing; and his white teeth gleamed out from his dusty face. Kostia will be veiy glad. He is out ou the farm, but he

"Your

know,"

We

'

be back before long." Always at his farming, while the rest of us can think of nothing but the war with Serbia. Nu ! how does 1113- friend regard this subject? he is sure not to think as other people
will

"

do." " Yes, he does,

Kitty, a
:

but perhaps not like everybody," said "I confused, looking at Sergei Ivanovitch. will send some one to find him. We have papa with us just now he has come back from abroad.". And the young wife, enjoying her power of quick motion,
little

738

ANNA

from which she had been so long debarred, hastened to make her guests comfortable, to let her husband and Dolly know of their arrival, and to tell her father, who was sitting on
the balcony. " It's Sergei Ivanovitch and Professor Katavasof." "

loves him dearly," said Kitty, laughing at the expression of consternation on her father's face. "Go entertain them, diishenka," she said to her sister. "They saw Stiva at the station: he was well. And I am going to the baby for a little while. I actually have not nursed him since morning: he will be crying if I don't go," and she hurried to the nursery. She felt that the baby was needing her, and she was not mistaken. He was crying at the top of his voice. She heard his voice, and quickened But the more she hurried, the louder he cried. her steps. It was a fine, healthy scream, a scream of hunger and impa:

" Och ! in this heat It will be terrible " Not at all, papa he is very nice, and Kostia
! !

tience.

"I am late, nurse, late," said Kitty, sitting down, and "Da! give him to me, getting ready to suckle the child. Nu! take give him to me, quick. Ach, nurse how stupid off his cap afterwards," said she, quite as impatient as her
!
!

baby.
it

The baby screamed as though it were famished. "Da / can't be helped, mdtushka," said Agafya Mikha'ilovna. who " You must do could not keep out of the nursery. things in order. she chuckled to the infant, not heedAgu, agu,"
ing Kitty's impatience. The nurse gave the child to his mother. Agafya Mikhmlovna followed the child, her face all aglow with tenderness.

" He knows me God is my witness, he He knows me knew me, mdtushka Katerina Aleksandrovna." she cried. But Kitty did not hear what she said. Her impatience
!
!

was as great as the baby's. It hindered the very thing that The bab}-, in his haste to suckle, could they both desired. not manage to take hold, and was vexed. At last, after one
final shriek of despair,

the arrangements were perfected

and

mother and

child, simultaneously breathing a sigh of content,

little

became calm. " The poor

Kitty.

thing is all in a perspiration," whispered you really thfnk he knew you?" she added, looking down into the child's eyes, which seemed to her to

"Do

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

739

peep out roguishly from under his cap as his little cheeks sucked in and out, while his little hand, with rosy palm, "-It cannot be. flourished around his head. For, if he knew you, he would surely know me," continued Kitty, with a smile, when Agafya Mikhailovna persisted in her belief that he knew her. She smiled, because, though she said that he could not recognize her, yet she knew in her heart that he not only recognized Agafya Mikhailovna, but that he knew and understood all things, and knew and understood what no one else understood, and things which she. his mother, was now beginning to understand, only through his teaching. For Agafya Mikhailovna, for the nurse, for his grandfather, even for his fatlu-r. Mitya was just a little human being, who needi-d nothing but physical care; for his mother, he was a being endowed with moral faculties, and she could read the whole
history of his spiritual relationship. You will see if he doesn't when he the old woman.
'

wakes up,"
see;

insisted

XH!
is

he

very well, very well, we going to sleep."

will

now go away;

VII.

AGAFY.V MIKFIAILOVNA went away on tiptoe the nurse chased away the flies which had been hidden under the muslin curtain of the cradle, and closed the blinds then she sat down, and began to wave a little withered branch over the mother and child. It's hot, hot! pray God, he may send a little shower,"
: ;

she said.

''Da! da! sh-sh-sh," was the mother's reply, as she rocked gently to and fro, and pressed Mitya to her br.-ast. His eyelids now opened, and now closed and he languidly moved his chubby arm. This little arm disturbed Kitty she felt a strong inclination to kiss it, but she feared to do so lest it should wake him. At last the arm began to droop, and the eyes closed more and more. Only rarely now he would raise his long lashes, and gaze at his mother with his The nurse began to nod, and dropped off dark, dewy eyes. into a nap. Overhead she could hear the old prince's voice, and Katavasof's sonorous laugh. " Evidently, they don't need me to help in the conversa;

740

ANNA
;

KAKtiNINA.

" but it is too bad that Kostia is not tion," thought Kitty: Sometimes it dishe must have gone to his bees. there but turbs me to have him spend so much time over them it diverts him, and he is certhen, on the whole, I am glad At Moscow, tainly more cheerful than he was in the spring. What a strange man he he was so blue, and such a martyr
;

is!"
Kitty

knew what caused her husband's

;

disquiet.

It

was

and although, if she had been asked if she believed that in the world to come, he would fail of salvation owing to his want of faith, she would have been
his doubting spirit

compelled to say yes, yet his scepticism did not make her

unhappy

believed that there was no salvation all else in the world her husband's soul, smiled as she thought of his scepticism,

and she, for the unbelieving,

;

who

and loved more than

and called him a strange man. " Why does he spend all his time reading those philosophiHe himself says cal books, which do not help him at all? that he longs for faith. Why doesn't he believe? Probably he thinks too much and he thinks too much because he is He is always alone. He can't speak out all his lonely.
;

thoughts to us. I think he will be glad that these guests have come, especially Katavasof. He likes to discuss with

him."

And immediately Kitty's thoughts were diverted by the question where it would be best for Katavasof to sleep. Ought he and Sergei Ivanovitch to have a room together, or apart? And here a sudden thought made her start almost enough to disturb Mitya. "The washerwoman hasn't brought back the linen. I " hope Agafya Mikhailovna hasn't given out all we had! and the color rushed to Kitty's forehead. " Da! I must find out myself," thought she; and she began again thinking about her husband. "Yes, Kostia is a sceptic," again she thought, with a smile. " Nu! he is a sceptic but I love him better so than if he were like Madame Stahl, or like me when I was at Sodeu. He will never be hypocritical." An instance of her husband's goodness came back vividly to her memory. Several weeks before, Stepan Arkadyevitch had written a letter of repentance to his wife. He begged her to save his honor by selling her property to pay his
;

debts.

ANNA
;

KAEtiNINA.

741

Dolly was in despair. She felt that she hated her husband, despised him and at first she made up her mind to but afterwards refuse his request, and apply for a divorce relenting, she decided to sell a part of her estate. Kitty, with a smile, recalled her husband's confusion when he consulted with her in regard to helping Dolly, and how, at last, he came to the conclusion that the only way to accomplish it without wounding her was to make over to Dolly their part
:

of this estate.

can he be without faith, when he has such a warm and is afraid to grieve even a child? He never thinks of himself, always of others. Sergei Ivanovitch finds it perfectly natural to consider him his business manager so does his sister. Dolly and her children have no one else but him to lean upon. He is always sacrificing his time to the peasants, Avho come to consult him every day." kt Yes you cannot do better than to try to be like your father," she murmured, touching her lips to her son's cheek, before laying him into the nurse's arms.
heart,
:
:

"

How

VIII.

EVER since that moment when, as he sat beside his dying brother, Levin had examined the problem of life and death in the light of the new convictions, as he called them, which from the age of twenty to thirty-four years had taken the place of his childhood's beliefs, he was terrified not only because it seemed to him that he had at death, but at life not the slightest knowledge of its origin, its purpose, its reaOur organism and its destruction, the inson, its nature. destructibility of matter, the laws of the conservation and development of forces, were words which were substituted for the terms of his early faith. These words, and the scientific theories connected with them, were doubtless interesting from an intellectual point of view, but they stood for nothing in the face of real life. And Levin, like a man who in cold weather had exchanged his warm shuba for a muslin garment, felt, not with his reason, but with his whole being, that he was absolutely naked, and inevitably destined to perish miserably. From that time, without in the least changing his outward
;

742
life,

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

and though he did not like to confess it even to himself, Levin never ceased to feel a terror of his ignorance. More than all, he felt with shame that what he called his convictions, not only came from his ignorance, but were idle for helping him to a clearer knowledge of what he needed. Marriage, with its joys and its new duties, completely but they came back to him with blotted out these thoughts increasing persistence after his wife's confinement, when he lived in Moscow without any serious occupation. The question presented itself to him in this way " If I do not accept the explanations offered me by Christianity on the problem of my existence, where shall I find others?" And he scrutinized the whole arsenal of his scientific convictions, and found no answer whatsoever to his questions.
; :

He was in the position of a man who seeks to find food in a toy-store or a gun-shop. Involuntarily and unconsciously he sought now in every book, in every conversation, and in every person whom he met, some sympathy with the subject which absorbed him. More than by any thing else, he was surprised and puzzled by the fact that the men of his class, who for the most part had, like himself, substituted science for religion, seemed to experience not the least moral suffering, but to live entirely satisfied and content. Were they not sincere? Or did science give to them a clearer answer to these troublesome questions? And he took to studying these men, and the books which might contain the solutions which he so desired. He discovered, however, that he had made a gross error in taking up with the idea of his university friends, that religion had outlived its day, and no longer existed. The best peothe old prince, Lvof, ple whom he knew were believers, of whom he was so fond, Sergei Ivanovitch, and all women, had faith and his wife believed just as he had believed when he was a child, and nine-tenths of the Russian people all people whose lives inspired the were greatest respect
;

believers.

Another strange thing was, that, as he read many books, he became convinced that the materialists whose opinions he shared, did not attach to these opinions any individual or
personal importance. They were far from explaining these questions, without an answer to which life seemed to him impossible : they threw these aside, to take up others which were to him utterly uninteresting, such, for example, as the

ANNA KAS&NINA.

743

development of the organism, the mechanical explanation of the soul, and others. Moreover, at the time of his wife's illness, he had a most he, the unbeliever, had prayed, extraordinary experience and prayed with sincere faith. But as soon as the danger was over, he felt that he could not give that temporary dis:

position any abiding-place in his life. He could not avow that the truth appeared to him then, but that he was mistaken now, because, as he began calmly to

analyze his feelings, they eluded him.

;

He

could not avow

that he had been deceived then, because he had experienced a temporary spiritual condition and if lie pretended that he had succumbed to a moment of weakness, he would sully a sarivd moment. He was in a sad state of internal conflict, and he strove with all the strength of his nature to free

himself from

it.

IX.

THESE thoughts tormented him with varying intensity, but he could not free himself from them. He read and meditated, but the end desired seemed to grow more and more remote. During the latter part of his stay in Moscow, and after he reached the country, he became convinced of the uselessness and he of seeking in materialism an answer to his doubts read over the philosophers whose explanations of life were Plato and Spinoza, and Kant and opposed to materialism.
;

Sdu-lling,

These

satisfied his reason while

and Hegel and Schopenhauer. he was reading, or was

;

contrasting their doctrines with those of others, especialby with those of a materialistic tendency but just as soon as he attempted, independently, to apply these guides to some doubtful point, he fell back into the same perplexities as be-

foiv. The terms " mind," " will," " freedom," " essence," had a certain meaning to his intellect as long as he followed the clew established by the deductions of these philosophers, and allowed himself to be caught in the snare of their subtile

but. when practical life asserted its point of view, this artistic structure fell, like a house built of cards and it became evident that the edifice was built only of beautiful words, having no more connection than logic with the serious side of life.
distinctions
:

744

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Once, as he was reading Schopenhauer, he substituted the term "love" for that which this philosopher calls "will," and this new philosophy gave him a few days of calm. But
he quickly saw its fallaciousness. Sergei Ivanovitch advised him to read Khomyakof's theological writings and though he was repelled by the excessive affectation of the author's style, and his strong polemic tendency, he was struck by the development of the following thought: "Man when alone cannot attain the knowledge of God. The true light is kept for a communion of souls who are filled with the same love The thought struck Levin: How that is, for the Church." much easier he should find it to accept the Church, endowed with holiness and infallibility, since it had God for its head, to accept its teachings as to Creation, the Fall, and Redempthan to fathom for himtion, and through it to reach God, self the impenetrable mystery of Divinity, and to explain, in But as he read, after turn, Creation, the Fall, and the rest Khomyakof, a history of the Church by a Catholic writer,
;

and the history of the Church b}' an Orthodox writer, and perceived that the Orthodox Greek Church and the RomanCatholic Church, both of them in their very essence infallible, were antagonistic, he saw that he had been deluded by Khomyakof's church-teachings and this edifice also fell
;

and passed hours of misery. " I cannot live without knowing what I am, and why I exist. Since I cannot reach this knowledge, life is impossi"In the infinitude of time, in ble," said Levin to himself. the infinitude of matter, in the infinitude of space, an organic cell is formed, exists for a moment, and bursts. That cell I." is This was a gloomy sophism but it was the sole, the supreme result of the labor of the human mind for centuries. It was the final creed upon which were founded the latest researches of the scientific spirit it was the dominant conviction and Levin, without knowing exactly why, simply because this theory seemed to him the clearest, was involun;

into dust, like the constructions of philosophy. During this whole spring he was not himself,

tarily held by it. But this conclusion

in

it

the cruel jest of

it

seemed more than a sophism. He saw some evil spirit, cruel, inimical, to
:

which

To

get

was impossible to submit. away from it was a duty

deliverance from

it

was

ANNA
in

KARfiNINA.

745

the

power of every one, and the means of deliverance

death.

svas

Levin, the happy father of a family, a man in perfect was sometimes so tempted to commit suicide, that he hid ropes from sight, lest he should hang himself, and feared But to go out with his gun, lest he should shoot himself. Levin did not hang himself, or shoot himself, but lived and struggled on.

And

health,

X.
\VHEN Levin puzzled over what he was, and why he was born, he found no answer, and fell into despair; but when he set himself resolutely to work, he ceased to disquiet himself over his ignorance, and the problem of existence. Therefore, he plunged more and more resolutely into the
life

June he returned to the country ordinary work at Pokrovsky. The superintendence of the estates of his brother and sister, his relations with his neighbors and* his muzhiks, his family cares, his new enterprise in bee-culture, which he had taken up this year, These interests occupied him, not occupied all his time. because he carried them on with a view to their universal but he contented himapplication, as he had done before self with fulfilling his new duties simply because it seemed to him that he was irresistibly impelled to do what he did, and could not do otherwise. Formerly, when he began to do any thing that was good and useful for all, for humanity, for Russia, he saw that the thought of it gave him, in advance, a pleasing sense of joy but the action in itself never realized his hopes. But now, since his marriage, he went straight to the matter in hand and. though he had no pleasure at the thought of his activity, he felt a conviction that his work was useful, and the results gained were far more satisfactory than before. Now, quite against his will, he cut deeper and deeper into the soil, like a plough that cannot choose its path, or turn from its furrow.
:

Towards

of every day. the end of

his

resumed

To live as his fathers and grandfathers had lived, to carry out their work so as to hand it on in turn to his children, seemed to him a plain duty. It was as necessary as the duty of eating when hungry and he knew, that, to reach
;

746

ANNA KAENINA.

this end, he must leave his patrimonial estate in such a condition, that his son, receiving it in turn, might be as grateful to him as he was to his ancestors for what they had He felt that he had no right to leave the cleared and tilled. of his estates to the muzhiks, but that he himmanagement

self

must keep every thing under

his

own

eye,

maintain his

cattle, fertilize his fields, set out trees. It was as impossible not to look out for the interests of

Serg6i Ivanovitch and his sister, and all the peasants who to consult him, as it was to abandon the child who had been given into his hands. He must give his sister-in-law and her children his protection and sympathy, and his wife had a claim upon his time. And all these duties filled to overflowing his life, the meaning of which he could not understand when he reflected on it. Not only did Levin see clearly what it was his duty to do, but he saw how he must fulfil it, and what had paramount

came

importance. Thus he did not hesitate to hire laborers as cheaply as possible, but he knew he was bound to pay them neither above nor below the market-price, lie advanced money to Piotr, to save him from the claws of a money-lender, who charged him ten per cent a month but he made no allowHe punished severely thefts of ance for arrears of rent. wood, but he would have scrupled to impound a peasant's
;

caught in the very act of pasturing on his fields. He stopped the wages of a laborer, compelled, by the death of his father, to quit work in mid-harvest, just as though he had no pity for him but he gave board and lodging to old servants who were superannuated. Levin felt that it was right, on returning home, to go first to his wife, who was not well, though some muzhiks had been waiting for three hours to see him but he would not have been willing to go to his bee-hives before receiving them. Whether he did well or ill, he did not know and he not only did not tiy to prove it, but he even avoided all thoughts and discussions on the subject. When he reasoned, he doubted, and could not see what it was right to do, or not to do. When he ceased to consider, but simply lived, he never failed to find in his soul an uncompromising judge, which told him what was the best course to take, and which was the worst and when he failed to follow this inner voice, he
cattle
;

always

felt it.

ANNA

KAEtiNINA.

747

Thus he lived, not knowing, and not seeing the possibility of knowing, what he was, or why he lived in the world, and tortured by his ignorance to the point of fearing suicide :ui(l yet, at the same time, he resolutely pursued the path of life which had been marked out for him.
;

XI.

THE day on which Sergei Ivanovitch reached Pokrovsky had been full of torment for Levin. It was at that hurried, busy season of the year when all the peasantry are engaged in putting forth an extraordinary effort, and showing an endurance, which are quite unknown in the ordinary conditions of their lives, and which would be prized very highly if it were not repeated every year, and
did not produce such very simple results. Digging, sowing, these are labors mowing, reaping, harvesting, threshing, which seem simple and commonplace but to accomplish them in the short time accorded by nature, every one, old and young, must set to work. For three or four weeks they black bread, must be content with the simplest fare, garlic, and kvas ; must sleep only a few hours, and must And every year this happens not pause night or day. throughout all Russia. Having lived the larger part of his life in the country, and in the closest relations with the peasantry, Levin always at harvest-time felt that this universal activity among the peo;

ple embraced his own life. He went to the field in the early morning,

came back

to

breakfast with his wife and sister-in-law, and then returned to the farm, where he was trying a new threshing-machine. This whole day, Levin, as he talked with the pr/A:a67ic/a'A; and the muzhiks in the field, as he talked at the house with his wife and Dolly and the children and his father-in-law, thought of only one thing and constantly the same ques"What am I? and where am I? and tions pursued him, why am I here ? Standing near the newly thatched barn, he watched the
;

' '

dust, thrown off by the threshing-machine, flying in the air, and the chaff settling down on the sunny grass, while the swallows took refuge under the roof, and the laborers hurried

748
about
in the

ANNA
came
into his
:

KARfiNINA.
;

sombre interior of the barn and this strange head " " " Why am I standWhy is all this done ? thought he. ing here superintending these people? and they, why are
idea

they doing their best in my presence ? Why is my old friend Matrona raking there ? I cured her when a beam fell on her at the fire," he said to himself, as he looked at a hideous old buba, who was walking with bare, sunburned feet across the " She hard, uneven soil, and was plying the rake vigorously. But if not to-day or to-morrow, then in ten well then. got years she must be borne to her grave, and there will be nothing left of her, nor of that pretty girl in red, who is husking corn with such graceful, swift motions. They will bury her. And that dappled horse will soon die," he thought, as he looked at the muzzled horse breathing painfully, and "They will struggling up the ever-descending treadmill. And Feodor, the machine-tender, with his carry him off.

But beard, they will carry him off too. the sheaves, and gives his commands, and shouts to the babiti, and, with quick motions, stirs up the old horse on the treadmill. And it will be the same with me. Why?" And, in the midst of his meditations, he mechanically took out his watch to see how many hours they had been threshing. It was his duty to do this, so that he could pay the men fairly for their day's work. "So far, only three ricks," he said to himself; and he went to the machine-tender, and, trying to make his voice heard above the racket, told him to work faster. Feodor, his face covered with dust and sweat, shouted
full, curling, silky

now he gathers up

back some unintelligible reply but Levin felt disgusted. He mounted the drum, took Feodor's place, and began to do the feeding. He worked thus till it was the muzhiks' dinner-hour and then, in company with Feodor, he left the grange, and talked
;

with him, leaning against a beautifully stacked pile of yellow

wheat saved for planting. Feodor was from a distant village, the very one where Levin had formerly let the association have some land. Now
it

was rented

to the dvornik.

Levin talked with Feodor about this land, and asked him if it were not possible that Platon, a rich and trustworthy muzhik of his village, would take it for the next year. " Price too won't catch Platon, Konstautin Dmihigh
;

ANNA

KARtfNINA.

749

tritch," replied the muzhik, wiping the sweat from his neck with a corn-husk. " Da! how does Kirillof pay it?" " does " Mitiukh " so Feodor called the dvorniJc just He has no pity on the peasants. But uncle as he pleases. so he called the starik Platon, "does he Fokauuitch," try to skin a man? Where any one owes him, he gives trust. He does not try to get it from 'em. He's that kind of a

man!" " Da! Why

does he give trust?

"

"Men
'

differ.

One

Fokanuitch,

he's an

lives for his belly, like Mitiukh ; but honest man, he lives for his soul.

He remembers God." What do you call living for the soul, and remembering God?" exclaimed Levin eagerly. " Why, that's plain enough. It's to live according to Take God according to truth. Here's different people.
you,

Konstantin

Dmitritch,

for

example

you couldn't

wrong poor people." "Yes, yes; proshchcCi" deeply moved and, taking
;

[good-by],

stammered Levin,

house.

" Fokanuitch
;

his cane, he turned towards the lived for his soul, according to God

according to truth." The muzhik's words found an echo in and confused but weighty thoughts arose within him from some hidden source, and filled his soul with their
his heart
brilliant light.

XII.
filled with his for he could not entirely get rid of them, but also under the swaj" of a spiritual impulse, such as he had never known before. The peasant's words had had in his soul the effect of an electric spark, suddenly condensing the cloud of dim, incoherent thoughts, which had not ceased to fill his mind, even while he was talking of the letting of his field. He felt that some new impulse, inexplicable as yet, filled his heart with joy. "Not to live for one's self, but for God What God? Could he have said what he did without meaning it? He said that we must live, not for ourselves, that is, for what interests and pleases us, but for God, whom no one knows or can

LEVIN strode along the highway, not only

thoughts,

\ '

750
define.
Still,

ANNA
call
it

KARtiNINA.

nonsense, didn't I once understand

what Feodor meant? Didn't I also feel convinced of its truth? Did I find it either false or absurd? Nay: I used to understand, and find in it the same meaning that he finds, and understood it more completely and clearly than any Feodor says Kirillof, the dvornik, lives thing else in life. I know what he means by that. We all, for his belly. But Feodor rational beings, all of us live in the same way. says, too, that it is wrong to live for the belly, but that we should live for truth, for God and I know what that means as well. I, and millions of men, muzhiks and sages, in the past and in the present, we are in accord on one The point and that is, that we should live for the good.' only knowledge that I and all men possess that is clear, inIt is not by reason that we dubitable, absolute, is here. have reached it. Reason excludes it, for it has neither cause 'The good,' if it had a cause, would cease to nor effect. a reward it would cease be the good if it had an effect I know this to be the good. we all know it and yet I have been waiting for a miracle to convince me of it. Here the one and only possible existence, surit is, the miracle, rounding me on every side, and yet I have not noticed it.
;

'

there be greater miracle than this? I really found the solution of my doubts? Shall I cease to suffer?" And Levin followed the dusty road, insensible to weariness and heat, and feeling that his long travail was at an end. The sensation was so delightful, that He choked with emohe could not believe that it was true. tion his strength failed him and he left the high road, and went into the woods, and sat down under the shadow of an aspen on the uniuown grass. He uncovered his moist forehead, and stretched himself out on the succulent wood-grass,

Can

" Have

head on his hand. must reflect and consider," he thought, looking attentively at the motionless grass, and watching the movements of an earth-beetle crawling up the stalk of couch-grass, and stopped by a leaf "Everything has its beginning," he said to himself, removing the leaf from the beetle's wav, and bending down another stalk of couch-grass to help the beetle on. "What makes me so happy? What discovery
his

and leaned

"Yes,

have

made?"
used to say that there was going on
this grass, in the
in

"I
the

my

body, iu
the'

body of

body of

this

beetle,

ANNA KAB&NINA.

751

beetle did not want to go to the other stalk, but spread its incessant change of matter, in conwings, and flew away, formity to certain physical, chemical, and physiological laws and in all of us, together with the aspens and the clouds, and the nebulae, there was evolution. Evolution from what? Endless evolution and conflict. But was into what?
;

conflict with

the Infinite possible?

And

was surprised

to find nothing along this line, in spite of which could reveal to me the meaning of
tives,

my best efforts, my life, my mo-

But the consciousness that there is a longings. nevertheless, so strong and clear, that it forms and I marvelled and the very foundation of my existence ' To live for God, for the rejoiced when the muzhik said,

my

meaning

is,

soul.' I have simply opened my I have discovered nothing I have simply come to the eyes to what I knew already. recognition of that Power which formerly gave me life, and which gives me life again to-day. I am freed from error I recognize my master." He went over in memory the course of his thought for the last two years, from the day when the idea of death struck him, on seeing his beloved brother hopelessly sick. Then he had clearly resolved, that since man had no other prospect than suffering, death, and eternal oblivion, he must either commit suicide, or find the explanation of the problem of existence, and in such manner as to see in it something more than the cruel irony of a malevolent spirit. But he had succeeded in explaining nothing. He had not killed himself he had married, and had experienced new joys, which made him happy when he did not ponder on the meaning of life. What did this mean ? It meant that he was thinking Without knowing it, he had been badly, and living well. sustained by those spiritual verities which he had sucked in with his mother's milk, which his intellect had misconstrued. Now it was clear to him that he could live only through the blessed influence of the faith in which he had been
: :
:

"

taught.

" What should I have been, how should I have lived, if I if I had not known that had not absorbed these beliefs, I must live for God, and not for the satisfaction of my desires? I should have been a thief, a liar, a murderer. Nothing of what seems the chief joy of my life would have had any existence for me."

752

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

he began to try to imagine what he might have been, he had not really known the aim of his existence. " I was in search of a solution which thought could not Life itself, with the reach, for the problem was too lofty. innate knowledge of good and evil, alone could give me an It was answer. And this knowledge I did not acquire. given to me, like all the rest given, I could not know where Did I get it from reason? But would reason to get it. ever have proved to me that I ought to love my neighbor, instead of choking him? I was taught it in my childhood but I believed it gladly, because it was already existent in my soul. Reason discovered the struggle for existence, that law which demands the overthrow of eveiy obstacle in That is the result of reason but the way of our desires. reason has nothing to do with loving our neighbor. " Da! it is pride," he said to himself, as he rolled over on his stomach, and began to tie the stalks of grass into a knot, trying not to break them. " And not only the pride of the intellect, but folly of But worse than that wickedness of intellect, intellect! abominable wickedness of intellect," he repeated.
if
; ; ;

And

XIII.

LEVIN remembered a recent scene between Dolly and her The children had been left alone, and had amused themselves by boiling the raspberry shrub, and making a
children.

fountain of milk with their mouths.

them

in the act, tried to

presence, how much destroying that the labor was performed for their benefit that if they broke the cups, they couldn't take their tea and if they wasted their milk, they wouldn't have any more, and would be hungry. Levin was struck by the indifference and scepticism with which the children heard their mother's words. They were only sorry to have their interesting sport interrupted, and they did not believe a word of what she said. The}' did not believe, because they did not know the value of what they were playing with, and did not understand that they were destroying their own means of subsistence. " * That is well but there is nothing enough,' they thought
; ;
;

Their mother, catching impress on them, in their uncle's work was involved in what they were

'

ANNA KAR&NINA.
We

753

interesting or worth while in it, because it is always the same, and always will be. And it is monotonous. don't have

to think about

but we do need to get up something new and exciting and here we were making candy iu a cup over the candle, and squirting the milk into each It is new, aud not half as stupid It is fun. other's mouth. as to drink milk out of a cup.'
it, it is all

ready
;

" Isn't that the way we do, isn't that the way 1 do, in trying to penetrate the secrets of nature and the problem of human Don't all the theories of philosophy do the life by reason?
same
live?

thing,

edge that the}

see clearly, in all the different theories of every philosopher, that the true meaning of human life is as indubitably known as it is known to Veodorthe muzhik ; and don't
all

We

and lead by strange paths to the simple knowlall possess, and without which they could not
7

even though it be by an uncertain kn ! leave the children to get their own living, make their own utensils, do the milking. Would 2fu ka! give they play tricks? they would die of hunger. us over to our own ideas and passions, with no knowledge of our Creator, without the consciousness of moral good and evil, and what would be the result? We reason because we are spiritually satiated. We are children. Here arn I, a Christian, brought up in the faith, surrounded by the blessthey
to this,
intellectual path
?

come back

Nu

ings of Christianity, living upon these spiritual blessings without being conscious of them and like children I have been reasoning, or at least trying to reason, out the meaning of life. " But in the hour of suffering, just as when children are cold and hungry, I turn to Him, and, like these same children whom their mother reprimands for their childish faults, I feel that my childish efforts to get out of the mad circle of reason ing have done me no good. " Yes, reason has taught me nothing. What I know has been given, revealed to me through the heart, and especially of through faith in the teachings " the Church. The Church, the Church? repeated Levin, turning over again, and, as he rested his head on his hand, looking at a "Can I herd of cattle down by the river at a distance. really believe all that the Church teaches?" said he to test himself, and to bring up every thing that might destroy his present feeling of security. He expressly called to mind the
; '

church teachings which more than to him, and disgusted him.

all

had seemed strange

754

ANNA
sin?

KARfiNINA.
T

" Creation? Yes, but how did

existence? the Devil?

How

myself explain existence?

did I explain evil? re-

demption?"

And now it seemed to him that no one of these church faith in dogmas seem inimical to the great objects of life, God, in goodness. On the contrary, all tended to produce
that greatest of miracles, that which consists in enabling the whole world, with its millions of human beings, young and old, the muzhik and Lvof, and Kitty and peasants and tsars, married and single, to comprehend the same great truths, so as to live that life of the soul which alone is worth living, and which is our only aim. Lying on his back, he looked up into the high, cloudless " that that is " Do I not know," thought he, infinity sky. of space, and not a vault of blue stretching above me? But, however I strain my sight, I can see only a vaulted dome and, in spite of my knowledge of infinite space, I have more satisfaction in looking at it as a blue, vaulted dome, than
;

'

I try to look beyond." Levin stopped thinking. He listened to the mysterious voices which seemed to wake joyfully in him. "Is it really faith?" he thought, fearing to believe in his happiness. " " he cried; and he swallowed My God, I thank thee down the sobs that arose, and brushed away with both hands
!

when

the tears that

filled his

eyes.

XIV.
LEVIN looked awa}-, and saw the herd, and his one-horse and his driver, who approached the herd of cattle, and began to talk to the herdsman. Then he heard the sound of wheels and the neighing of the horse but he was so occupied with his thoughts, that he did not think why it was that his coachman was coming for him. He only realized it when the coachman, while still some distance off, cried, "The barufna sent for you. Your brother and another barin have come." Levin got in at once, and took the reins, as though awakened from sleep. It was long before he could collect his He looked at the well-fed horse, and at the spot thoughts. on his neck where the harness rubbed and he looked at Ivan, the coachman, sitting beside him and he thought of
telyfya
; ; ;

ANNA

KAKfiNINA.

755

be different." And holding in the horse, who was eager to break into a run, he tried to think of something to say to Ivan, who was sitting motionless near him, not knowing what to do with his idle hands. " Better keep to the left, to clear that tree," said Ivan at this moment, touching the reins which his master held.

his brother, and that his wife had perhaps been disturbed by his long absence and he began to wonder who the unknown guest was who had come with his brother, and these friends appeared to him different from what they had been before. It seemed to him that his relations with all men had become more friendly. "Now there will be no more coldness such as used to be between my no more disputes. There will be no more brother and me, I shall be cordial to my guest, whoever quarrels with Kitty. all will he may be, and kind to the servants, and to Ivan,

how he had been expecting

"Have the goodness to'leave me alone, and not give me lessons," answered Levin, exasperated, as he always was, at As he spoke, he saw that his interference with his affairs. new moral condition had not changed his character. Just before they arrived, he saw Grisha and Tauia running towards him. " Uncle Kostia Mamma and grandpapa and Sergei Ivan" uitch, and some one else, are coming to meet you
!
!

"Da! Who

is

it?"

jumping

man, who does so with his arms," said Tania, and imitating Katavasof. "Da! Old, or young?" asked Levin, smiling, and reminded of some one by Tania's performance. " Ach! I hope he isn't a bore," thought he. At a turn of the road he met Katavasof, in a straw hat, walking in front of the others, and throwing his arms about, as Tania had said. Katavasof was very fond of talking philosophy, his conceptions of which were drawn from the exact natural sciences and Levin had often had discussions with him at Moscow. Sometimes Katavasof made it evident that he counted himself victorious. Levin remembered one of these discussions, and he made up his mind not to express his views so carelessly in future. Leaping from the telytya, and joining Katavasof and his brother, he asked where his wife was. " She has gone to the Kolok woods with Mitya," answered " She found it too hot m the house." Dolly.
horrid
into the telytya,
;

"A

756

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

Levin always disapproved of taking the child to the woods, and he felt extremely vexed to hear about it. " She carries that son of hers from pillar to post," said " I told her she'd better the old prince. try the ice-house." " She wanted to go to the beehives. She thought you were there," added Dolly. " That is where we were going." "Nu! What have you been doing that's good?" said Sergei Ivanovitch, dropping behind the others, and walking
with his brother.

Nothing particular as usual, busy with the farmYou'll stay with us a while, now? We've ing [khozyfcistvo'] been expecting you a long time." "Only a fortnight. I have a great deal to do at Mos;

" Da!

cow."

At these words the two brothers looked at one another, and Levin dropped his eyes. He intended to be on especially friendly terms with his brother, and not let any thing disturb the simple and cordial relations that he wished to mainHe did not kno.w what to say. tain with Sergei Ivanovitch. He wanted to avoid the Serbian Avar and the Slavic question, which had caused unpleasant discussions while at Moscow. Finally, he asked him how his book was getting on. "Nu! Was your book reviewed ?" Koznuishef smiled. u No one thinks I, least of all," he any thing about it, " You said. see, Darya Aleksandrovna, we're going to have a shower," he added, pointing to the white clouds which were piling up above the aspen-tops. It was evident by these words, that the relationship between the brothers, which Levin wanted to overcome, was just the same as of old, if
not unfriendly, at least cool. " How Levin approached Katavasof. good it was of you " said to come to us he. " I have wanted to come for a long time. Now we shall have time to talk. Have you read Spencer? " " Not I don't get any thing out of him." thoroughly. " How so? he is You surprise me " interesting. " I have definitely made up my mind that the answers to certain questions that interest me are not to be found in him " or his followers. Now But he was suddenly struck by the pleasant and serene expression of Katavasof's face, and he felt sorry that he had expressed himself so strenuously when he had resolved not to be dragged into discussion. He added, " However, we
! !

ANNA
will

KARtiNINA.

757

If wo are going to the by and by. go down through the path." way through a narrow path by a field that had not been mown, and established his guests, who were afraid of the bees, under the shade of some young aspens, on benches that were placed there for the purpose of receiving some beehives. He himself went after bread, honey, and cucumbers, to the izba that stood not far from the hives. He took from the wall, where it hung, a mask of iron wire, put it on, and, with his hands in his pockets, went into the enclosure kept for the bees, where the hives, ranged in order, had each its own history for him. There, amongst the buzzing insects, he was glad to find himself alone for a moment, He felt practical life to reflect, and collect his thoughts. He asserting its rights, and making havoc of his ideals. remembered how he had already been angry with his coachman, Ivan, had spoken coolly to his brother, and talked
talk about that

apiary, let us He led the

foolishly with Katavasof. " Can it be possible that my happiness was only a transi" tory feeling, that will pass away, and leave nothing behind? But at the same moment as he analyzed his state of mind, he felt with joy that his experience had left new and impor-

Practical life had only temporarily spread a cloudy film over his inward calm. Just as the bees, buzzing around him, threatened him, and robbed him of his physical calm, and compelled him to defend himself so did the cares which surrounded him, as he sat in his little telytya, disturb his spiritual calm. But the annoyance lasted only while he was among them and as his physical strength, notwithstanding the bees, was still unharmed so his spiritual strength,

tant results.

newly created, was also

in reality complete.

XV.
know, Kostia, whom Sergei Ivanuitch found on said Dolly, after she had given her children their cucumbers and honey. " Vrousky. He's going to Serbia." " Da ! and not alone either. He's taking out a squadron of cavalry at his own expense," added Katavasof. " That's like him," answered Levin. " But are you still sending off volunteers?" added he, looking at Sergei Ivanthe train?"
ovitch.

"

Do you

758

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

Sergei Ivanovitch was busy rescuing a live bee from the honey that had flowed out of the white honeycomb at the bottom of his cup. and he did not answer. " Da! I should think so " said Katavasof, biting into a cucumber. "If you had only seen them at the station this
!

' '

morning

For Heaven's sake, tell me, this is Sergei Ivanovitch, where all these volunteers are going, and whom are they going to fight with? " asked the old prince. " With the Turks," answered Serg6i Ivanovitch, smiling quietly, as he at last rescued the helpless bee on the point of
!

" Nu! what an idea

him on an aspen-leaf. has declared war on the Turks? Is it the " Countess Lidia Ivanovna and Madame Stahl? Xo one has declared war but the people sympathize with their oppressed brethren, and want to help them." " The prince was not speaking of help, but of Avar," said
his knife,

and

set

"But who
1 '

" The Levin, coming to the assistance of his father-in-law. means that private persons ought not to take part in prince a war without being authorized by the government." " Won't he sting?" Kostia, look out! there's a bee!
:
!

cried Dolly.

evidently provoking Why private persons have that right?" " Da! my theory is this war on the one hand is such a terrible, such an atrocious, thing, that no man, especially no Christian man, has the right to assume the responsibility of
:
;

" " Da! that isn't a bee that's a said Levin. wasp " nu-s! give us your theory," demanded Katavasof, Nu-$, Levin to a discussion. " shouldn't

beginning it but it belongs to government alone, when it becomes inevitable. On the other hand, in common sense, where there are state questions, and above all in matters concerning war, private citizens have no right to use their

own

wills."

Sergei Ivanovitch and Katavasof were both ready at the same instant with answers. "That's where you're mistaken, bdthishka," said the latter. "There may be cases when government doesn't carry out the will of its citizens, and then society declares
its

own

will."

But Sergei Ivanovitch did not approve of this repl}*. He frowned as Katavasof spoke, and said sternly, "You put the question all wrong. Here there is no dec-

ANNA
laration

KARtiNINA.

759

of war, but simply ^an expression of human, of Our brethren, men of the same blood, Christian sympathy. Nu! we do not look upon the same faith, are butchered. them only as men and as co-religionists, but purely as women, The feelings are stirred, and the whole children, old men. Russian people fly to help check these horrors. Suppose 3'ou were walking in the street, and saw a drunken man I think you would not stop to beating a woman or a child. ask whether war has been declared before you attacked the man, and protected the object of his fury."

"

No

but

would not

kill

him."

sight, I might yield to I cannot tell how it would be. the immediate feeling. But in the oppression of the Slavs, there is not, and cannot be, such a powerful motive." " Perhaps not for you, but other people think differently," said Sergei Ivanovitch angrily. "The people still keep the tradition of sympathy with brethren of the orthodox faith, who are groaning under the yoke of the infidel. The}' have heard of their terrible sufferings, and are aroused."

" Yes, you might even kill him." " I don't know. If I saw such a

"That maybe," answered Levin

only I don't see I don't feel it."
r'
it.

in

a conciliatory tone,

myself

am

one of the people, and

" I was can say the same," put in the old prince. I read the newspapers, and I learned about the Bulgarian atrocities but I never could understand why all Russia took such a sudden fancy for their Slavic brethren. I am sure I never felt the slightest love for them. I was I thought I must be either a monster, or greatly ashamed. that Carlsbad had a bad effect on me. But since I have

"I

living abroad

I don't feel stirred at all and I find that I am not the only one who is not so much interested in the Slav brethren as in Russia. Here is Konstantin." "Private opinions are of no consequence there is no when all Russia, when the meaning in private opinions whole people, signified what they wished," said Sergei Ivan-

come back,

ovitch.

know any

Excuse me. I don't see this. The people don't thing," said the prince. "But, papa, how about that Sunday in church?" said "Get Dolly, who had been listening to the conversation. me a towel, please," she said in an aside to the old bee-

"Da!

760
deeper,
smile.

ANNA
who was
looking at the children with a friendly

"Z)a/ What happens at church ? They tell the priest to read a prayer. He reads it. Nobody understands one word. They snore just as they do during the whole sermon. Then they tell them that the salvation of their souls is in question but how, they haven't the least idea. Nu! Then they pull out their kopeks, and give them." "The people cannot know their destiny. They have an instinctive feeling, and at times like these they show it," said Sergei Ivanovitch, looking at the old bee-keeper. The handsome, tall old man, with his black beard, wherein a few gray hairs were beginning to show, and with his thick, silvery hair, stood motionless, holding a cup of honey in his hand, looking at the gentlemen with a mild, placid air, evidently not understanding a word of the conversation, nor caring to understand. He nodded his head with deliberation as he heard Sergei Ivanovitch's words, and said, "That's certainly so." " Z)u, vot! Ask him about it," said Levin. " He doesn't Have you heard about the know. He doesn't think. " asked he of the old man. "You war, Mikhai'luitch? know what was read on Sunday at church, don't you? What do you think? Ought we to fight for the Christians ?'" " Why should we think? Our Emperor Aleksander Nikolaj'evitch will think for us, as in every thing else. He kno\vs what to do. Should you like some more bread?" asked
;

he, turning to

Darya Aleksaudrovna, and pointing

crust.

to Grisha,

" " What's the use of said Sergei Ivanuitch. asking him? have seen, and still see, hundreds and hundreds of men abandoning all they possess, giving their last penny, enlisting and trooping from every corner of Russia, all with the same object. Do you mean that that signifies nothing? " " It in my opinion," said Levin, beginning to signifies, " that out of get excited, eighty millions of men, there will always be found hundreds, and even thousands, who have lost their social position, are restless, and so throw themselves into the first adventure that comes along, whether it is to follow Pugatchef, or to go to Serbia." "I tell you they are not adventurers who devote them-

who was munching a

"

We

selves to this work, but they are the best representatives of

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

761

the nation," cried Sergei Ivanuitch excitedly, as though he were defending his last position. " There are the contribu" isn't that a test of popular feeling? tions "That word 'people' is so vague. Perhaps one in a thousand among the peasants understands, but the rest of the eighty millions do as Mikbailuitch here does. They not only don't show their will, but they haven't the slightest idea that they have any will to show. How, then, can we say " that this is the will of the people?
:

XVI.
SERGEI IVANOVITCH was skilled in dialectics, and he took up another side of the question. "Da/ if you want to get at the mind of the nation, of
have not the proper that wa}-. But there are other means of learning it besides arithmetic. It is felt in the air, it is felt in the heart, not to speak of those subterranean currents which" have shaken the mass of the people. Take society in a narrower sense. Take the intelligent classes, and see how on this point even the most hostile There is no longer a difference of opinparties combine. all the organs of society express the same thing. ions They have all become aware of an elemental force which fills the nation with its own motive-power." "Yes; the newspapers all say the same thing; that is true," said the old prince: "but then, so do all the frogs croak before a storm. That doesn't signify much." "Whether frogs or not, I don't edit newspapers, and I am talking of the unanI don't set up to defend them. imity of opinion among intelligent people," said Serge" i Ivanovitch, turning to his brother. Levin was about to reply, but the old prince took the
course
gifts,
it

will

be very hard work.

it

We

and cannot reckon

words from

his

mouth.
Here's

there's a reason for that unanimity. son-in-law, Stepan Arkadyevitch, as you know,

"Nu!

my
just

who has

been appointed member of some committee, commission, or I don't know what, with eight thousand rubles other, Now, Dolly, that's not a secret. salary, and nothing to do. Ask him if his office is useful: he will tell you that it is And he is an upright man but you could indispensable.
;

762
not

ANNA KAR&NINA.
make him
!

cease to believe in his full eight thousand

"Oh, yes he told me to tell Darya Aleksandrovna that he had got that place," said Sergei Ivanovitch. " The newspapers are unanimous. War will double their
circulation and, of course, they will support the Slavic question for you and the national instinct." " I don't like the papers much but you are unjust," said Sergei Ivanovitch. "I will only add one more suggestion," said the old " Alphonse Karr wrote a clever thing just before the prince.
;

salary."

You say this war is Franco-Prussian war, when he said, very good go to the front, then, and absolutely necessary be under the first fire, and lead the first onslaught.' "Good editors would be glad to do that," said Katavasof, smiling, and trying to imagine certain editorial friends of his in this chosen legion. "Yes; but when they ran away," said Dolly, "they'd bother the others." " Just as soon as they begin to run put a mitrailleuse behind them, or some Cossacks with whips," said the prince. "Da! that's a joke, but not a very good joke: excuse me, prince," said Sergei Ivanovitch. "I don't think it was a joke," said Levin " it was " But his brother interrupted him.
'
; :

'

"Every member of society is called upon to do his duty, and thoughtful men perform theirs by giving expression to public opinion and the unanimous and full expression of public opinion is creditable to the press, and at the same time a good symptom. Twenty years ago the world would have kept quiet to-day the voice of the Russian people is It heard, demanding, like one man, to avenge its brethren. is a great step taken, a proof of power." "The people are certainly ready enough for sacrifices where the salvation of their souls is concerned, but not for killing Turks," said Levin, involuntarily connecting this conversation with the thoughts of the morning. " What do you mean by soul? That, to a naturalist, you must remember, is a veiy vague term. What is the soul? "
;
:

demanded Katavasof, with a smile. lt Achl You know." " and " Upon my word, I haven't the least idea
;

the pro-

fessor broke into a burst of laughter.

ANNA

KARfiNINA.

763

"Christ said, 'I am come not to bring peace, but a " remarked Sergei Ivanovitch, quoting a passage sword,' from the Gospel, which had always troubled Levin. "That's just so." repeated the old bee-keeper, who had been standing near them, in response to a chance look directed to him.

Come, bdtiuahka, you're beaten, you're beaten, wholly " cried Katavasof gayly. beaten Levin reddened with vexation, not because he was beaten, but because he had been drawn into discussion again. "No: it is impossible for me to dispute with them," he thought: "their armor is impenetrable, and I am defence!

"

less."

He saw
sof,

that he could not defeat his brother and Katava-

was equally impossible to agree with them. He could not admit that it was right for a handful of men, his brother among them, to claim to, represent, with the newspapers, the will of the nation, especially when that will
and
it

called for vengeance and butchery, and when their whole case rested on the doubtful stories of a few hundreds of miserable fellows in search of adventures. In his opinion, there was no confirmation of these assertions. The people

and he felt that he was one of them, a representative of the great Russian people would never regard war as a If public opinion was infallible, boon, whatever its object. why were not the Revolution and the Commune as legitimate as the war for the assistance of the Slavs ? Levin would have liked to express these opinions but he imagined that the discussion was irritating his brother, and that it would end in nothing so he held his peace, and called the attention of his guests to the shower that was threatening, and advised a hasty return to the house.
;
;

XVII.

THE prince and Sergei Ivanovitch got ipto the telyfya, while the rest of the group hastened along on foot. But the black, threatening storm-cloud was coming up so fast, and the wind drove up the low, smoke-like masses so rapidly, that the rain was all but on them when they were still quite a distance from the house. The children ran on ahead, laughing and screaming.

764
7
,

ANNA

KARtiNINA.

to keep up with them. Doll} hindered by her dress, tried The gentlemen followed with long strides, clinging to their At last, just as they reached the porch, the great hats.

drops began to rattle on the iron spout. " demanded Levin Where is Kateriua Aleksanclrovna? of Agafya Mikhai'lovna, who was coming out of the door, loaded with shawls and umbrellas. " We supposed she was with you."

"And Mitya?" " Must be in the Kolok woods with his nurse." Levin seized the shawls, and started to run. In the few minutes that had elapsed, the storm had reached beyond the The sun, and it was as dark as though there was an eclipse. wind blew like a tornado, making the leaves fly, twisting the branches of the birches, bending the trees, plants, and flowers, and almost presenting a barrier to Levin's passage. The fields and the forest disappeared behind a curtain of rain, and all those who were caught outside by the storm ran
to shelter.

Bending his head, and fighting vigorously against the gale, which tugged at his shawls, Levin advanced as best he could. He thought he already saw white forms behind a well-known oak, when suddenly a glare of light seemed to burst from the ground before him, and the vault of the sky abov.e him When he opened his dazzled eyes, he to fall with a crash. looked through the thick curtain formed by the rain, which cut him off from the Kolok woods, and saw, to his horror, that the green top of a well-known oak had disappeared. "Can the lightning have struck it? " he had time to exclaim and instantly he heard the sound of the oak-tree falling with a crash, and carrying with it the neighboring trees. " My God my God keep them safe," he murmured, rigid with fear and though he instantly felt the absurdity of the prayer, since the harm would have been already done, he nevertheless said it over and over, for he knew that, absurd He as it was, he could not do any thing else to help them. hastened towarxls the spot where they generally went, but he did not find them. They were in another part of the woods under an old linden, and they saw him. Two figures dressed in dark clothes were crouching they usually wore white under the trees. It was Kitty and the nurse. The rain had stopped, but it was still lightening when Levin reached them. The nurse was diy, but Kitty was wet through. They were
;
! !

ANNA
though

KARfiNINA.

705

when " "JVw/ God be thanked that you're safe and sound! I don't know what I'm saying." They hastily picked up the wet things, the nurse took the baby, and Levin, ashamed of his vexation, gave his arm to
his wife,

standing just as they had been when the shower began, it was no longer Both were leaning over necessary. the baby-carriage, and protecting Mitya with their sunshades. "Alive? safe? God be praised! " he cried, as he ran to them with his shoes full of water. " Nu! how could 3-011 do such a foolish thing? I can't understand it," Levin began with vexation as he saw Kitty's glowing and wet face, under her shapeless hat, turned to him. " I assure you, it was not my fault. We were just going

and led her away, pressing her hand gently.

XVIII.
IN spite of his feeling of having been -deceived, as he discovered that his moral regeneration had not materially changed his nature for the better, Levin felt none the less, all the rest of the day, a sensation of jo}- which filled his He took but a small part in the conheart to overflowing. versation but the time passed gayly, and Katavasof made a
;

conquest of the ladies by the originality of his wit. He was drawn out by Sergei Ivanovitch, and amused them, and interested them greatly, by telling of his researches into the different characteristics and features of male and female
flies,

and of
at tea,

and

their habits. Sergei Ivanovitch was very gay he explained the future of the Eastern question so
; :

simply and well, that all could follow him. Kitty alone did not hear him she was occupied with Mitya. The day ended As the atmospleasantly without irritating discussions. phere had been cooled by the storm, they staid in the house. Kitty, who was obliged to give Mitya his bath, left with regret and a few minutes after, a message was brought to It made him anxious. Levin, that she wanted to see him. He rose at once, in spite of the interest he felt in his brother's
;

theory as to the influence of the emancipation of forty millions of Slavs upon the future of Russia. What could they want with him ? They never called him to go to the child except in a case of emergency. But his anxiety, us well as

766

ANNA

KAEfiNINA.

the curiosity that had been roused bj- his brother's ideas, disappeared as soon as he found himself alone for a moment, aud his secret happiness came back to him, clear and strong as in the morning, without his needing to awaken it by reThe feeling had become independent of the thought. flection. He walked along the terrace, and saw two stars glowing in

" as I looked at the Yes," said he to himself, heavens, in the delusion that this, which I thought there was a truth But there was the someI am gazing at, was a solid vault. something thing that remained half thought out in my mind, that I hid from myself. Now, what was it? There cannot be an answer." But as he entered the child's chamber, he remembered what it was that he hid from himself. It was this " If the chief of the existence of God lies in the
"
:

the sky.

proof

inward revelation of good and evil which He has given to each of us, why should this revelation be limited to the Christian Church? How about those millions of Buddhists " and Mohammedans, who are also seeking for the truth? It seemed to him that there must be an answer to this question, but he could not find and express it before entering the room. Kitty, with her sleeves rolled up, was bending over the bath-tubt where she was holding up the baby's head with one hand while she sponged him with the other. She turned towards her husband as she heard his steps. " Nu, vot! look, look! Agafya Mikhailovna is right: he

knows us." The fact was, that Mitya to-day for the indubitable proof that he knew his friends.

first

time gave

Nu! I'm very glad to see that you begin to love him," said Kitty, as she sat down in a comfortable seat, with the child at her breast. "I am very glad. It really alarmed me when you said you hadn't any feeling for him."

soon as Levin went to the bath-tub, the experiment They brought up a cook who had not seen the baby much. The baby frowned, and shook his head. Kitty came to him, and he smiled, and stretched out his hand to her, so that not only the mother and the nurse, but Levin himself, were enchanted. The}- took the baby from the water, wiped him, and, after he had expressed his disapprobation with a piercing scream, they gave him to his mother.
w;is successful.

As

"

ANNA KARNINA.
" No
that
!

767
I only said

did I say that I did not care for him?

illusions

my
I

"How
"

had gone."

so?"

wasn't disappointed in him, but in the feeling that he would arouse. I expected more. I expected as a surprise

some new and pleasant

pity,

feeling

and instead of

that,

it

was

disgust" She listened to him as she put on her rings, which she had taken off while bathing the baby. " And more of fear and I never pity than of satisfaction.

knew

still

And I was too. But I'm more afraid now that I see the danger we were in. I shall go and look at the oak to-morrow. How nice Kata-

until to-day, after the storm, Kitty smiled with radiant joy. " Were you very much afraid?

how

I loved

him."

vusof is! Da! the whole da}* has been so pleasant. You are so delightful with your brother when you want to be. Na ! go to them. It is always hot and close here after the
bath."

XIX.
LEVIN, on leaving the nursery, began to follow out the thought that had been obscure. Instead of going back to the parlor, where he heard the sound of voices, he leaned over the balustrade of the terrace, and looked at the sky. There was not a cloud in the south, but it was still lowering in the opposite quarter. From time to time there would be a glare of lightning, followed by the distant rumbling of the thunder. Levin looked at the stars and the Milky Way, and listened to the drops of rain falling

When the lightrhythmically from the leaves of the trees. ning flashed, the stars would disappear from his vision. Then they would re-appear, one by one, resuming their places as if a careful hand had re-adjusted them in the firmament.

"Nu! What

is it

that troubles

me?"

he asked himself,

feeling, as he did so, a response in his soul which as yet he was unable to define. " Yes, it is the laws of good and evil revealed in the world which are the proof, the evideat,
I recognize as at the

unimpeachable proof, of the existence of God. These laws very centre of my being and so I am bound by them, willingly or unwillingly, to those others who
;

768

ANNA
;

KARtiNINA.

this union of. souls sharing a Nu! but Hebrews, the Church. Buddhists, are the}* in the same relation?" he asked himself, recurring to the dilemma which had threatened him. u Can these millions be deprived of the greatest of blessings, of that which alone gives a meaning to life?" He paused. " The question which I am asking is the question of the relation of the various forms of human belief to It is the revelation of God to the universe, with Divinity. all its planets and starry systems, which I am presuming to fathom. And at the moment when knowledge, sure, though inaccessible to reason, is revealed to me, shall I still "persist

recognize them as well

and

common belief Mohammedans,

is

called

in

Do I know that the stars do not move," said he, noticing the change that had taken place iu the position of the brilliant planet which he had seen rising over the birches " but seeing the slars change place, and not being able to imagine the revolution of the earth, then I should be right in saying that they moved. Would not the astronomers have
;

"

dragging logic

in

"

made no

calculations, and gained no knowledge, if they had taken into consideration the vaiied and complicated motions of the earth? Have not their marvellous conclusions as to the distances, the weight, the motions, and revolutions of the celestial bodies all been based upon the apparent movements of the stars around a motionless earth, these very movements which I now witness, as millions of men for centuries have witnessed them, and which can alwaj's be verified? And just as the conclusions of the astronomers would have been inaccurate and false if they had not been based upon their observations of the heavens such as they appeared relatively to a single meridian and a single horizon, so all my conclusions as to the knowledge of good and evil would be lacking if I did not connect them with the revelation of these which Christianity has made, which my soul can always The relations of human belief to God must, for me, verify. remain unfathomable to search them out belongs not to
:

said Kitty's voice, suddenly. you gone in yet? " There's nothing that troubles you, is there?" asked she, looking wistfully up into her husband's face. By the light of a flash of lightning on the horizon, she saw that he was calm and happy, and she smiled. " She understands me," thought he. " She knows what

me." " Haven't

"

ANNA
I

KARlSNINA.
her, or not?

769
Yes, I
will tell

am

thinking.

Shall I

tell

her."

But just as he was about to speak, Kitty broke in. " Kostia," said she, " do go; there's a good fellow, and take a look at Sergei Ivanovitch's chamber, and see if it's " I'm so tired all right. I'll go," answered Levin, rising, and kissing "Certainly,
!

her.

"No; better be silent," thought he, as she turned back " this secret has no into the parlor importance save for me This new feeling alone, and my words could not explain it. has neither changed me nor blinded me nor made me happy, Just as neither surprise nor rapture took the as I thought.
:

The feeling place of paternal love, so it has been here. and it is faith, not stole into my soul through suffering I shall probably conI do not know what it means. faith, tinue to be vexed with Ivan the coachman, and get into use;

less discussions,

and express my thoughts blunderingly. I always be blaming my wife for what annoys me, and I shall alwa3's feel a certain barrier berepenting at once. tween the sanctuary of my inmost soul, and the souls of I shall continue to pray without others, even my wife's. being able to explain to myself why, but my inward life has conquered its liberty. It will be no longer at the mercy of circumstances and my whole life, every moment of my life, will be, not meaningless as before, but full of deep meaning, which I shall have power to impress on every action."
shall
;

GLOSSAEY.
Ach
(akh)

Oh, ah, ha,

alas.

Arshin
Artel

2.333 feet, .711 meter. Labor union.

Kailroarl porter.

Artelshchik

Baba (pi. babui) Babka

Barin Baruina Baruishna Bashluik Bashiuak Batiushka Batiushki

Peasant-woman;

literally,

woman.

Midwife, grandmother. Lord, master.

Lady, mistress.

Unmarried

lady.

A Caucasian
Little father.

hood.

Shoes, slippers.

Ye

Botvinya

Bozhe

mo'i

Burlak
Caviare

gods (little fathers). Vegetable soup and kvas. My God, good heavens. River-boatman, clown.

Roe
tchto

of sturgeon.
;

Da,

Da

Exclamation what?

literally,

yes,

yes,

Da, vot

Literally, yes, here.

Datcha Denshchik
Desyatin Domovo'i

Summer

villa.

Officer's servant.

2.7 acres, 1.092 hektars.

Household
stove.

spirit

dwelling behind the

Drozhky
Dusha, dushka, diishenka Dvornik
Dvorianstvo
. .

Carriage. Terms of endearment;

Janitor,

little soul.

choreman (one who tends

the dvor or courtyard).

Nobility.

Eka Ekonomka
Freilina

There! Housekeeper.

Maid

of honor.
771

772
Furazhka
Golubtchik
Infernalnai'a

GLOSSARY.
Forage-cap.
Darling.

Infernal-room (from Italian).

Ish-tui

Istopnik Izba

Look you. Stove-tender.

Peasant's hut. Hack-driver.
Coat.
Roll.

Izvoshchik

Kaftan Kalatch

Kak-zhe

How.
Gentleman
Usher.
of the bed-chamber.

Kammer-junker
Kapelldiener

Kasha
Katalshchik

Wheat gruel. One who rents

skater.

skates;

literally,

Kepi Kha, kha! Khozyaika

Soldier's cap.

Exclamation.
Mistress of a house, hostess.

Khozyam
Khozyaistvo
Kitel

Master, host.
Estate, farming.

See

p. 344, note.

Linen
$0.008.
. .

suit.

Kondrato

Conrad.
old name of the serf, male and female peasant. Sour, fermented drink.

Kopek
Krestianin, krestianka
.

The

Kvas
Lasotchka

Lavronty Lineika Malchik

Diminutive of Laska. Lawrence. Two-seated drozhky. Boy, lad.

Maman
Masha
Matimatik Matushki Matushka

Mamma

(French).

Diminutive Marya, Mary. Learned man. Exclamation literally, little mothers. Little mother.
;

Mazurka
Metayers

Muzhik
Muzhitchok
Natchalnik Nu, nu-s, nu-ka

Cotillon, the german. Small farmers. Peasant, diminutive of muzh, a man. Little old muzhik.

President, chief, head. Well.

Oh

(okh)

Papasha

Oh. Diminutive of papa.

GLOSSARY.
Pavina Platok
Diminutive of Pava.
.
,

773

Handkerchief, or kerchief, shawl.

Proprietor, land-owner. Marshal, leader of the nobility.
. . ,

Pomyeshchik
Predvoditel

Proshchai, proshcha'ite

Prikashchik

Pud
Reka
Rotraistr gvardi

Good-by. Superintendent. Forty pounds.

River, wide ditch. Captain of the guard.
50-. 80 (whether paper or silver). Tea-urn.

Ruble (100 kopeks)

Samovar Sazhen
Serozha Shafer

7 feet, 2.134 meters.

Diminutive of Sergei.

Groomsman.
Cap.

Shapka Shch
i

Shuba, shubka Shuler

Shliupik Skotnik
Starik Starosta

Cabbage soup. Fur garments.

One who

cheats at cards.

Mushroom.
Cow-herd. Old man, boss.
Elder.

Starshina

Elder, chief of a
Sir.

commune.

Sudar
Swiss, shveitsar; Ger. Schweitzer

Inside man.

Tanchurotchka
Tarantas Tabula rasa

Diminutive of Tania.
Travelling wagon.

Blank

tablet (Latin).

Tchin
Tchinovnik
Telyega Tiurka (pi. tiurki)

The

official rank established by Peter the Great.

order of

Official.

Cart, wagon. Bread-crumb soaked in

Flail.

fcpa^.

Topchatchek Troika
Tulup, tuluptchika Verst

....

Three-horse team. Sheep-skin vest or coat.

663 mile, 1.067 kilometer.

Vodka Vot
Zakuska
Xt-niski

Brandy. Here.

Lunch.

doktor

The communal

doctor.

Zemstvo

Territorial assembly.

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