Speranski smiled and, with an evident wish to prevent the conversation from taking an unpleasant course, told a story that had no connection with the previous conversation.

For a few moments all were silent.

Having sat some time at table, Speranski corked a bottle of wine and, remarking, "Nowadays good wine rides in a carriage and pair," passed it to the servant and got up.

All rose and continuing to talk loudly went into the drawing room.

Two letters brought by a courier were handed to Speranski and he took them to his study.