“I did not expect you, gentlemen,” began the prince. “I have been ill until today. A month ago,” he continued, addressing himself to Antip Burdovsky, “I put your business into Gavrila Ardalionovitch Ivolgin’s hands, as I told you then. I do not in the least object to having a personal interview … but you will agree with me that this is hardly the time … I propose that we go into another room, if you will not keep me long … As you see, I have friends here, and believe me …”
“Friends as many as you please, but allow me,” interrupted the harsh voice of Lebedeff’s nephew—“allow me to tell you that you might have treated us rather more politely, and not have kept us waiting at least two hours …”
“No doubt … and I … is that acting like a prince? And you … you may be a general! But I … I am not your valet! And I … I …” stammered Antip Burdovsky.