It was clear that she saw nothing would be understood from her explanation; but aware that her talk was pleasant and her hands beautiful she went on explaining.

"More like little penknives," Veslovsky said playfully, never taking his eyes off her.

Anna gave a just perceptible smile, but made no answer.

" Isn't it true, Karl Fedoritch, that it's just like little scissors?" she said to the steward.

"_Oh, ja,_" answered the German.