Only a fool would stick to them, and continue to pay the tax." "Yes, but remember (and I say it wholly in a friendly way) that transactions of this kind are not generally allowed, and that any one would say that a man who engages in them must have some rather doubtful advantage in view." "Have it your own away," said Chichikov, with assumed indifference.

"As a matter of fact, I am not purchasing for profit, as you suppose, but to humour a certain whim of mine.

Two and a half roubles is the most that I can offer." "Bless your heart!" retorted the host.

"At least give me thirty roubles in assignats, and take the lot." "No, for I see that you are unwilling to sell.

I must say good-day to you." "Hold on, hold on!" exclaimed Sobakevitch, retaining his guest's hand, and at the same moment treading heavily upon his toes--so heavily, indeed, that Chichikov gasped and danced with the pain.
"I BEG your pardon!" said Sobakevitch hastily.