You know we're utterly unlike each other, different tastes and views and everything; but I know you're fond of me and understand me, and that's why I like you awfully.

But for God's sake, be quite straightforward with me.

" "I tell you what I think," said Stepan Arkadyevitch, smiling.

"But I'll say more: my wife is a wonderful woman..." Stepan Arkadyevitch sighed, remembering his position with his wife, and, after a moment's silence, resumed--"She has a gift of foreseeing things.

She sees right through people; but that's not all; she knows what will come to pass, especially in the way of marriages.