“But nothing in the world ever has an end.”

“This will have an end. Then call me. I’ll come. Now, goodbye.”

“And what sort of end will it be?” smiled Nikolay Vsyevolodovitch.

“You’re not wounded, and⁠ ⁠… have not shed blood?” she asked, not answering his question.

“It was stupid. I didn’t kill anyone. Don’t be uneasy. However, you’ll hear all about it today from everyone. I’m not quite well.”

“I’m going. The announcement of the marriage won’t be today?” she added irresolutely.

“It won’t be today, and it won’t be tomorrow. I can’t say about the day after tomorrow. Perhaps we shall all be dead, and so much the better. Leave me alone, leave me alone, do.”

“You won’t ruin that other⁠ ⁠… mad girl?”