One was very unpleasant, from a merchant who was buying a forest on his wife's property.

To sell this forest was absolutely essential; but at present, until he was reconciled with his wife, the subject could not be discussed.

The most unpleasant thing of all was that his pecuniary interests should in this way enter into the question of his reconciliation with his wife.

And the idea that he might be led on by his interests, that he might seek a reconciliation with his wife on account of the sale of the forest--that idea hurt him.

When he had finished his letters, Stepan Arkadyevitch moved the office-papers close to him, rapidly looked through two pieces of business, made a few notes with a big pencil, and pushing away the papers, turned to his coffee.