'I'm here . . .' But at that instant Marianna stealthily touched Paklin on the elbow. He looked round, and saw she was making signs to him.. . . 'Ah, yes!' he muttered. 'Yes . . . to be sure! Well, do you see, Alyosha,' he added aloud, 'I've come on important business, and must go on further at once.. . . Solomin will tell you all about it—and Marianna . . . Marianna Vikentyevna. They both fully approve of my plan—it's a matter that concerns us all: that is, no, no,' he interpolated hurriedly in response to a gesture and a glance from Marianna.. . . 'It's a matter concerning Markelov, our common friend Markelov; him alone. But now, good-bye! Every minute's precious—good-bye, friend.. . . We shall meet again. Vassily Fedotitch, will you come with me to give orders about the horses?'
'Certainly. Marianna, I'd meant to say to you, keep up your spirits! But there's no need. You're the real thing!'
'Oh, yes! oh, yes!' chimed in Paklin: 'you're a Roman woman of the time of Cato! Cato of Utica! But come along, Vassily Fedotitch, let us go!'
'You've plenty of time,' observed Solomin with a lazy smile. Nezhdanov moved a little aside to let them both pass.. . . But there was still the same uncomprehending look in his
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