Life flowed on swiftly.

The days were diversified and full of color.
Each one brought with it something new, and the new ceased to alarm the mother.

Strangers came to the house in the evening more and more frequently, and they talked with Andrey in subdued voices with an engrossed air.

Late at night they went out into the darkness, their collars up, their hats thrust low over their faces, noiselessly, cautiously.

All seemed to feel a feverish excitement, which they kept under restraint, and had the air of wanting to sing and laugh if they only had the time.