Nevertheless the mention of Government contracts exercised a powerful influence upon Nastasia Petrovna, and she hastened to say in a tone that was almost supplicatory: "Why should you be so angry with me?
Had I known that you were going to lose your temper in this way, I should never have discussed the matter." "No wonder that I lose my temper! An egg too many is no great matter, yet it may prove exceedingly annoying." "Well, well, I will let you have the souls for fifteen roubles each.
Also, with regard to those contracts, do not forget me if at any time you should find yourself in need of rye-meal or buckwheat or groats or dead meat." "No, I shall NEVER forget you, madam!" he said, wiping his forehead, where three separate streams of perspiration were trickling down his face.

Then he asked her whether in the town she had any acquaintance or agent whom she could empower to complete the transference of the serfs, and to carry out whatsoever else might be necessary.
"Certainly," replied Madame Korobotchka.

"The son of our archpriest, Father Cyril, himself is a lawyer." Upon that Chichikov begged her to accord the gentleman in question a power of attorney, while, to save extra trouble, he himself would then and there compose the requisite letter.
"It would be a fine thing if he were to buy up all my meal and stock for the Government," thought Madame to herself.

"I must encourage him a little.

There has been some dough standing ready since last night, so I will go and tell Fetinia to try a few pancakes.