precise information regarding this Pougatcheff and his army. Meantime,
go and rest."

I went to my allotted quarters, where I found Saveliitch already
installed. I awaited impatiently the hour indicated, and the reader
may believe that I did not fail to be present at this council, which
was to influence my whole life. I found at the General's a custom-
house officer, the Director, as well as I can remember a little old
man, red-faced and fat, wearing a robe of black watered silk. He
questioned me about the fate of the Captain Mironoff, whom he called
his chum, and often interrupted me by sententious remarks, which, if
they did not prove him to be a man well versed in war, showed his
natural intelligence and shrewdness. During this time other guests
arrived. When all had taken their places, and to each had been
offered a cup of tea, the General carefully stated the questions to
be considered.

"Now, gentlemen," said he, "we must decide what action is to be taken
against the rebels. Shall we act offensively, or defensively? Each
of these ways has its advantages and disadvantages. Offensive war
presents more hope of a rapid extermination of the enemy, but defensive
war is safer and offers fewer dangers. Let us then take the vote in
legal order; that is, consult first the youngest in rank. Ensign,"
continued he, addressing me, "deign to give your opinion."

I rose, and in a few words depicted Pougatcheff and his army. I
affirmed that the usurper was not in a condition to resist disciplined
forces. My opinion was received by the civil service employes with
visible discontent. They saw nothing in it but the levity of a young
man. A murmur arose, and I heard distinctly the word "hare-brained"