Page 154 of 1294

"To-morrow?" said Lizaveta slowly and thoughtfully, as though

unable to make up her mind.

"Upon my word, what a fright you are in of Alyona Ivanovna,"

gabbled the huckster's wife, a lively little woman. "I look at

you, you are like some little babe. And she is not your own

sister either--nothing but a step-sister and what a hand she

keeps over you!"

"But this time don't say a word to Alyona Ivanovna," her husband

interrupted; "that's my advice, but come round to us without

asking. It will be worth your while. Later on your sister herself

may have a notion."

"Am I to come?"

"About seven o'clock to-morrow. And they will be here. You will

be able to decide for yourself."

"And we'll have a cup of tea," added his wife.

"All right, I'll come," said Lizaveta, still pondering, and she

began slowly moving away.