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On Pulcheria Alexandrovna's anxiously and timidly inquiring as to

"some suspicion of insanity," he replied with a composed and

candid smile that his words had been exaggerated; that certainly

the patient had some fixed idea, something approaching a

monomania--he, Zossimov, was now particularly studying this

interesting branch of medicine--but that it must be recollected

that until to-day the patient had been in delirium and... and

that no doubt the presence of his family would have a favourable

effect on his recovery and distract his mind, "if only all fresh

shocks can be avoided," he added significantly. Then he got up,

took leave with an impressive and affable bow, while blessings,

warm gratitude, and entreaties were showered upon him, and

Avdotya Romanovna spontaneously offered her hand to him. He went

out exceedingly pleased with his visit and still more so with

himself.