is specially important. Yes, and the artel . . . as the germ. . . . All that, one must take note of. One must go deeply into it. And the question, too, of the land to be apportioned to the peasants. . . .'
'And you, Stepan Nikolaitch, what is your view as to the number of acres suitable?' inquired Voroshilov, with reverential delicacy in his voice.
'Mmm. . . . and the commune?' articulated Gubaryov, deep in thought, and biting a tuft of his beard he stared at the table-leg. 'The commune! . . . Do you understand. That is a grand word! Then what is the significance of these conflagrations? these , . . these government measures against Sunday-schools, reading-rooms, journals? And the refusal of the peasants to sign the charters regulating their position in the future? And finally, what of what is happening in Poland? Don't you see that . . . mmm. . . . that we . . . we have to unite with the people . . . find out . . . find out their views ' Suddenly a heavy, almost a wrathful emotion seemed to take possession of Gubaryov ; he even grew black in the face and breathed heavily, but still did not raise his eyes, and continued to gnaw at his beard. 'Can't you see'
'Yevseyev is a wretch!' Madame Suhantchi-
32
