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the same, I cannot restrain a feeling of bitterness and coldness towards
you. I love you both in theory, especially Lisa, Lisette! But actually I
am more than cold towards you. I know I am wrong, but cannot change."
[
22] It is I who am the intruder.
LISA. How can he ...
KARÉNIN [continues reading] "But to business! This very feeling of
discord within me forces me to fulfil your desire not in the way you
wish. Lying, acting so disgusting a comedy, bribing the Consistorium,
and all those horrors, are intolerably repulsive to me. Vile as I may
be, I am vile in a different way, and cannot take part in those
abominations--simply cannot! The solution at which I have arrived is the
simplest: to be happy, you must marry. I am in the way; consequently I
must destroy myself...."
LISA [seizes Victor's hand] Victor!
KARÉNIN [reads] "... must destroy myself. And I will do it. When you get
this letter, I shall be no more.
"P.S. What a pity you sent me money to pay for the divorce proceedings!
It is unpleasant, and unlike you! But it can't be helped. I have so
often made mistakes, why shouldn't you make one? I return the money. My
way of escape is shorter, cheaper, and surer. All I ask is, don't be
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