"Of course, of course! That is why I advise you to learn. Fugh!
What a smell this gentleman has left behind him!" Paklin sniffed
the air. "The very ambrosia that the governor's wife longed for
in Gogol's 'Revisor'!"

"He discussed me with Prince G.," Nejdanov remarked dejectedly.
"I suppose he knows my whole history now."

"You need not suppose; you may be quite sure of it! But what does
it matter? I wouldn't mind betting that that was the very reason
for his wanting to engage you. You will be able to hold your own
with the best of them. You are an aristocrat yourself by blood,
and consequently an equal. However, I have stayed too long. I
must go back to the exploiter's, to my office. Goodbye."

Paklin went to the door, but stopped and turned back.

"I say, Aliosha," he began in a persuasive tone of voice, you
have only just refused me, and I know you will not be short of
money now; but, all the same, do allow me to sacrifice just a
little for the cause. I can't do anything else, so let me help
with my pocket! I have put ten roubles on the table. Will you
take them?"

Nejdanov remained motionless, and did not say anything. "Silence
means consent! Thanks!" Paklin exclaimed gaily and vanished.

Nejdanov was left alone. He continued gazing out into the narrow,
gloomy court, unpenetrated by the sun even in summer, and he felt
sad and gloomy at heart.