His Hour

"And see that there is fodder for the horses," he added. "And that

Stépan drives my troika with the blacks, and let the brown team be

ready, too, but neither of these to come round until the grays have

gone. And in the hut put food--cold food--and some brandy and

champagne."

The servant bowed in obedience and was preparing to leave the room.

"Oil the locks and put the key in my overcoat pocket," his master

called again. And then he lit another cigarette and drawing back the

heavy curtains looked out on the night.

It was inky black, the snow had not yet begun to fall.

All promised well.