‘you must scold her, doctor. She’s drinking iced water all day long; is that good for her, pray, with her delicate chest?’

‘Why do you do that?’ asked Lushin.

‘Why, what effect could it have?’

‘What effect? You might get a chill and die.’

‘Truly? Do you mean it? Very well – so much the better.’

‘A fine idea!’ muttered the doctor. The old princess had gone out.

‘Yes, a fine idea,’ repeated Zina�da. ‘Is life such a festive affair? Just look about you� . Is it nice, eh? Or do you imagine I don’t understand it, and don’t feel it? It gives me pleasure –