Leo Tolstoy

“ Maslenikoff said in a frightened and somewhat stern voice, suddenly pricking his ears.
“There is a person in jail in whom I am very much interested;” at the word “jail” Maslenikoff’s face became even more stern, “and I would like to have the right of interview in the office instead of the common reception room, and oftener than on the appointed days. I was told that it depended on you.” ”

“ Besides, he also wished to see Bogodukhovskaia, who might be useful to Maslova.
Nekhludoff had known Maslenikoff since they together served in the army. Maslenikoff was the treasurer of the regiment. He was the most kind-hearted officer, and possessed executive ability. Nothing in society was of any interest to him, and he was entirely absorbed in the affairs of the regiment. Nekhludoff now found him an administrator in the civil government. He was married to a rich and energetic woman to whom was due his change of occupation. ”

“ You will see there are very many there, but they are content, and are faring well. It is necessary to know how to deal with them. Some unpleasantness occurred there a few days ago—­disobedience. Another man in my place would have treated it as a riot and made many people miserable, but we arranged it all pleasantly. ”