As they were going out of the drawing room to conclude the argument, Koznishev said, smiling: "So, then, for the Russification of our foreign populations there is but one method--to bring up as many children as one can.

My brother and I are terribly in fault, I see.

You married men, especially you, Stepan Arkadyevitch, are the real patriots: what number have you reached?" he said, smiling genially at their host and holding out a tiny wine glass to him.

Everyone laughed, and Stepan Arkadyevitch with particular good humor.

"Oh, yes, that's the best method!" he said, munching cheese and filling the wine-glass with a special sort of spirit.