She began to feel the need of expressing herself before Smolin;
she wanted to assure him that she understood the meaning of his
words, that she was not an ordinary merchant-daughter, interested
in dresses and balls only. Smolin pleased her. This was the first
time she had seen a merchant who had lived abroad for a long
time, who reasoned so impressively, who bore himself so properly,
who was so well dressed, and who spoke to her father, the
cleverest man in town, with the condescending tone of an adult
towards a minor.
"After the wedding I'll persuade him to take me abroad," thought
Lubov, suddenly, and, confused at this thought she forgot what
she was about to say to her father. Blushing deeply, she was
silent for a few seconds, seized with fear lest Smolin might
interpret this silence in a way unflattering to her.
"On account of your conversation, you have forgotten to offer
some wine to our guest," she said at last, after a few seconds of
painful silence.
"That's your business. You are hostess," retorted the old man.
"0h, don't disturb yourself!" exclaimed Smolin, with animation.
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