Just consider my own position now, Peter Nikolaevich..." Berg always spoke quietly, politely, and with great precision.

His conversation always related entirely to himself; he would remain calm and silent when the talk related to any topic that had no direct bearing on himself.

He could remain silent for hours without being at all put out of countenance himself or making others uncomfortable, but as soon as the conversation concerned himself he would begin to talk circumstantially and with evident satisfaction.

"Consider my position, Peter Nikolaevich.