He has given proof of that. During this expedition, if you
reckon his valuables, he has lost more than fifteen hundred rubles. But,
as he played discreetly before, that officer of yours seemed to have
some doubts about his honor."
"Well, that's because he . . . Nikita, haven't we any of that red Kavkas
wine [Footnote: Chikir] left?" I asked, very much enlivened by Guskof's
conversational talent. Nikita still kept muttering; but he brought us
the red wine, and again looked on angrily as Guskof drained his glass.
In Guskof's behavior was noticeable his old freedom from constraint. I
wished that he would go as soon as possible; it seemed as if his only
reason for not going was because he did not wish to go immediately after
receiving the money. I said nothing.
"How could you, who have means, and were under no necessity, simply de
gaiete de coeur, make up your mind to come and serve in the Caucasus?
That's what I don't understand," said he to me.
I endeavored to explain this act of renunciation, which seemed so
strange to him.
"I can imagine how disagreeable the society of those officers--men
without any comprehension of culture--must be for you. You could not
understand each other.
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