I can be of
service to you, should the need arise," and he extended his
visiting card to the land-owner with a bow, and, by the way,
handed a card each to his two neighbours as well.
The land-owner dived into a side pocket and also dragged out a
card.
"Joseph Ivanovich Vengjenovski," Simon Yakovlevich read out loud.
"Very, very pleased! And so, should you need me ..."
"Why not? It's possible ..." said the land-owner meditatively.
"Why, yes: perhaps, indeed, a favourable chance has brought us
together! Why, I'm just journeying to K----about the sale of a
certain forest country house. Suppose you do that, then,--drop in
to see me. I always stop at the Grand Hotel. Perhaps we may be
able to strike up a deal."
"Oh, I'm already almost sure, my dearest Joseph Ivanovich!"
exclaimed the rejoicing Horizon, and slightly, with the very tips
of his fingers, patted Vengjenovski's kneecap carefully. "You just
rest assured; if Horizon has undertaken anything, then you'll be
thanking him like your own father, no more, no less."
Half an hour later Simon Yakovlevich and the smooth-faced sub-
lieutenant were standing on the platform of the car and smoking.
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