At times she even
entered into arguments with the old man; he always regarded her
remarks contemptuously and sarcastically; but more tenderly and
attentively from time to time.
"If the deceased Ignat could read in the newspapers of the
indecent life his son is leading, he would have killed Foma!"
said Mayakin, striking the table with his fists. "How they have
written it up! It's a disgrace!"
"He deserves it," said Lubov.
"I don't say it was done at random! They've barked at him, as was
necessary. And who was it that got into such a fit of anger?"
"What difference does it make to you?" asked the girl.
"It's interesting to know. How cleverly the rascal described
Foma's behaviour. Evidently he must have been with him and
witnessed all the indecency himself."
"Oh, no, he wouldn't go with Foma on a spree!' said Lubov,
confidently, and blushed deeply at her father's searching look.
"So! You have fine acquaintances, Lubka! " said Mayakin with
humorous bitterness. "Well, who wrote it?"
"What do you wish to know it for, papa?"
"Come, tell me!"
She had no desire to tell, but the old man persisted, and his
voice was growing more and more dry and angry.
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