“I⁠—I don’t quite know how to answer your question, Aglaya Ivanovna. What is there to say to such a question? And⁠—and must I answer?”

“I think you are rather overwhelmed and out of breath. Have a little rest, and try to recover yourself. Take a glass of water, or⁠—but they’ll give you some tea directly.”

“I love you, Aglaya Ivanovna⁠—I love you very much. I love only you⁠—and⁠—please don’t jest about it, for I do love you very much.”

“Well, this matter is important. We are not children⁠—we must look into it thoroughly. Now then, kindly tell me⁠—what does your fortune consist of?”

“No⁠—Aglaya⁠—come, enough of this, you mustn’t behave like this,” said her father, in dismay.

“It’s disgraceful,” said Lizabetha Prokofievna in a loud whisper.

“She’s mad⁠—quite!” said Alexandra.