“There’s no other way out of it,” muttered Tolkatchenko, “and if only Liputin confirms about Kirillov, then⁠ ⁠…

“I am against it; with all my soul and strength I protest against such a murderous decision,” said Virginsky, standing up.

“But?” asked Pyotr Stepanovitch.⁠ ⁠…

“ But what?”

“You said but ⁠ ⁠… and I am waiting.”

“I don’t think I did say but ⁠ ⁠… I only meant to say that if you decide to do it, then⁠ ⁠…”

“Then?”