"At the same time, it would be a different matter if the neighbourhood were a GOOD one--if, for example, one had a friend with whom one could discuss manners and polite deportment, or engage in some branch of science, and so stimulate one's wits.

For that sort of thing gives one's intellect an airing.

It, it--" At a loss for further words, he ended by remarking that his feelings were apt to carry him away; after which he continued with a gesture: "What I mean is that, were that sort of thing possible, I, for one, could find the country and an isolated life possessed of great attractions.

But, as matters stand, such a thing is NOT possible.

All that I can manage to do is, occasionally, to read a little of A Son of the Fatherland." With these sentiments Chichikov expressed entire agreement: adding that nothing could be more delightful than to lead a solitary life in which there should be comprised only the sweet contemplation of nature and the intermittent perusal of a book.
"Nay, but even THAT were worth nothing had not one a friend with whom to share one's life," remarked Manilov.
"True, true," agreed Chichikov.