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FÉDYA. Yes, I know his stu ... his strictness, his conservatism in these
matters. But what do they want? A divorce? I told them long ago that I
am quite willing; but the business of taking the blame on myself, and
all the lies connected with it, are very trying....[21]
[
21] Under the Russian law divorce was only obtainable if ocular
evidence of adultery was forthcoming, and a great deal of perjury was
usually involved in such cases.
PRINCE ABRÉZKOV. I quite understand you, and sympathise. But how can
it
be avoided? I think it might be arranged that way--but you are right. It
is dreadful, and I quite understand you.
FÉDYA [pressing the Prince's hand] Thank you, dear Prince! I always knew
you were a kind and honourable man. Tell me what to do. How am I to act?
Put yourself in my place. I am not trying to improve. I am a
good-for-nothing; but there are things I cannot do quietly. I cannot
quietly tell lies.
PRINCE ABRÉZKOV. I don't understand you! You, a capable, intelligent
man, so sensitive to what is good--how can you let yourself be so
carried away--so forget what you expect of yourself? How have you ruined
your life and come to this?
FÉDYA [forcing back tears of emotion] I have led this disorderly life
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