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Though Alexey Alexandrovitch was perfectly aware that he could

not exert any moral influence over his wife, that such an attempt

at reformation could lead to nothing but falsity; though in

passing through these difficult moments he had not once thought

of seeking guidance in religion, yet now, when his conclusion

corresponded, as it seemed to him, with the requirements of

religion, this religious sanction to his decision gave him

complete satisfaction, and to some extent restored his peace of

mind. He was pleased to think that, even in such an important

crisis in life, no one would be able to say that he had not acted

in accordance with the principles of that religion whose banner

he had always held aloft amid the general coolness and

indifference. As he pondered over subsequent developments, Alexey

Alexandrovitch did not see, indeed, why his relations with his

wife should not remain practically the same as before.