It's not in my power." He opened a blotter with an air of finality, found a sheet of paper, and began to write.
Olga turned at the sound of his pen, and watched him dumbly.

He had apparently dismissed her and her small affairs from his mind.

His hand travelled with swift decision over the paper.

He was evidently immersed in his own private concerns.

He wrote rapidly and without a pause.
Very suddenly, without turning, he spoke again.