He came across a little narrow path; and went along it.

It led him up to a long fence, and to a little gate; he tried, not knowing why, to push it open.

With a faint creak the gate opened, as though it had been waiting the touch of his hand.

Lavretsky went into the garden.

After a few paces along a walk of lime-trees he stopped short in amazement; he recognised the Kalitins' garden.
He moved at once into a black patch of shade thrown by a thick clump of hazels, and stood a long while without moving, shrugging his shoulders in astonishment.
"This cannot be for nothing," he thought.
All was hushed around.