My position was one of extreme difficulty, for if I went down to the quay he would most certainly follow me.
Having watched his movements for ten minutes or so I descended to the big _salle-a-manger_ and there ate my luncheon, chatting to the French waiter the while.

I sat purposely in an alcove, so as to be away from the other people lunching there, and in order that I might be able to talk with the waiter without being overheard.
Just as I had finished my meal, and he was handing me my bill, I bent towards him and asked-- "Do you want to earn twenty roubles ?" "Well, m'sieur," he answered, looking at me with some surprise.

"They would be acceptable.

I am a married man." "Well, I want to escape from this place without being observed.

There is a disagreeable little matter regarding a lady, and I fear a fracas with a man who is awaiting me outside in the Nevski." Then, seeing that he hesitated, I assured him that I had committed no crime, and that I should return for my baggage that evening.
"You could pass through the kitchen and out by the servants' entrance," he said, after a moment's reflection.