Razumov watched the immobility of the fleshy profile. But it lasted only
a moment, till the Prince had finished; and when the General turned to
the providential young man, his florid complexion, the blue, unbelieving
eyes and the bright white flash of an automatic smile had an air of
jovial, careless cruelty. He expressed no wonder at the extraordinary
story--no pleasure or excitement--no incredulity either. He betrayed no
sentiment whatever. Only with a politeness almost deferential suggested
that "the bird might have flown while Mr.--Mr. Razumov was running about
the streets."

Razumov advanced to the middle of the room and said, "The door is locked
and I have the key in my pocket."

His loathing for the man was intense. It had come upon him so unawares
that he felt he had not kept it out of his voice. The General looked up
at him thoughtfully, and Razumov grinned.

All this went over the head of Prince K--- seated in a deep armchair,
very tired and impatient.

"A student called Haldin," said the General thoughtfully.

Razumov ceased to grin.

"That is his name," he said unnecessarily loud. "Victor Victorovitch
Haldin--a student."

The General shifted his position a little.

"How is he dressed? Would you have the goodness to tell me?"