There is nothing strange in that, my dear sir!" After these words, the Mason, as if tired by his long discourse, again leaned his arms on the back of the sofa and closed his eyes.

Pierre looked at that aged, stern, motionless, almost lifeless face and moved his lips without uttering a sound.

He wished to say, "Yes, a vile, idle, vicious life!" but dared not break the silence.

The Mason cleared his throat huskily, as old men do, and called his servant.