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"Ah, Prince! In what sad circumstances we meet again! And how is

our dear invalid?" said she, as though unaware of the cold

offensive look fixed on her.

Prince Vasili stared at her and at Boris questioningly and

perplexed. Boris bowed politely. Prince Vasili without

acknowledging the bow turned to Anna Mikhaylovna, answering her

query by a movement of the head and lips indicating very little

hope for the patient.

"Is it possible?" exclaimed Anna Mikhaylovna. "Oh, how awful! It

is terrible to think.... This is my son," she added, indicating

Boris. "He wanted to thank you himself."

Boris bowed again politely.

"Believe me, Prince, a mother's heart will never forget what you

have done for us."