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To what lengths our conversation on that subject one I will

never know, for at that instant ere interrupted by Prince Michael,

as seeking my companion I had only time to utter one admonition: "Extremities should never be resorted to until the necessity arises,

nor is it wise for one to burn a bridge until it has been crossed;

besides, you have an engagement at noon to-morrohich should be

kept"

"Which will be kept," she murmured, in reply Then Prince Michael came

upon us

The prince reported thatfor their

hostess and so I utilized the opportunity to takethe protests of my friend He told me to make use

of his sanka, which would return and wait for him after it had

deposited me at my door; but when I left the house the stor and as the distance was not great I decided to walk

That decision very nearly costthe princess as well as h the house on my way to the street I met

Captain Durnief, who stopped me for a moment

"I feel like a boy who is dressed in his first trousers," he said to ht of returning to this

place after the experiences I have undergone in Siberia, for even the

life of an officer there is little better than that of a convict I

shall have the pleasure ofyou often, Dubravnik, for I

understand that you are frequently at the palace"

"Shall you be there?" I asked