At one time the count thought of giving her the Ryazan estate or of selling a forest, at another time of borrowing money on a note of hand.

A few days before the wedding Berg entered the count's study early one morning and, with a pleasant smile, respectfully asked his future father-in-law to let him know what Vera's dowry would be.

The count was so disconcerted by this long-foreseen inquiry that without consideration he gave the first reply that came into his head.

" I like your being businesslike about it....