Levin told him what he had heard from Katavasov was being said in Petersburg, and after talking a little about politics, he told him of his interview with Metrov, and the learned society's meeting.

To Lvov it was very interesting.

"That's what I envy you, that you are able to mix in these interesting scientific circles," he said.

And as he talked, he passed as usual into French, which was easier to him.

" It's true I haven't the time for it.