"It's for Soloveitchik that we ought to be sorry," said Riasantzeff,
after a pause. The words contrasted strangely with his cheerful
countenance. Then all at once, they remembered that not one of them had
asked about Soloveitchik.
"Where did he hang himself? Do you know?"
"In the shed next to the dog's kennel. He let the dog loose, and then
hanged himself."
Sina and Yourii simultaneously seemed to hear a shrill voice exclaim:
"Lie down, Sultan!"
"Yes, and he left a note behind," continued Riasantzeff, unable to
conceal the merry twinkle in his eyes. "I made a copy of it. In a way,
it's really a human document." Taking out his pocket-book he read as
follows:
"Why should I live, since I do not know how I ought to live? Men such
as I cannot make their fellow-creatures happy."
He stopped suddenly, as if somewhat embarrassed. Dead silence ensued. A
sad spirit seemed to pass noiselessly through the room. Tears rose to
Sina's eyes, and Lialia's face grew red with emotion. Yourii smiled
mournfully as he turned towards the window.
"That's all," said Riasantzeff meditatively.
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