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"That would be a fine thing!" said she. "I never wanted anything

and I don't now."

She pushed the little dog off her lap and smoothed her dress.

"And this is gratitude-this is recognition for those who have

sacrificed everything for his sake!" she cried. "It's splendid!

Fine! I don't want anything, Prince."

"Yes, but you are not the only one. There are your sisters..."

replied Prince Vasili.

But the princess did not listen to him.

"Yes, I knew it long ago but had forgotten. I knew that I could

expect nothing but meanness, deceit, envy, intrigue, and

ingratitude-the blackest ingratitude-in this house..."

"Do you or do you not know where that will is?" insisted Prince

Vasili, his cheeks twitching more than ever.

"Yes, I was a fool! I still believed in people, loved them, and

sacrificed myself. But only the base, the vile succeed! I know

who has been intriguing!"