Free eBooks at Planet eBook.com 1when he was with some Gipsy girls drunk in a tavern, cried
out aloud that he was unworthy of his betrothed, Katya, but
that his brother Ivan, he was the man who deserved her.
And Katerina Ivanovna will not in the end refuse such a
fascinating man as Ivan. She’s hesitating between the two
of them already. And how has that Ivan won you all, so that
you all worship him? He is laughing at you, and enjoying
himself at your expense.’
‘How do you know? How can you speak so confidently?’
Alyosha asked sharply, frowning.
‘Why do you ask, and are frightened at my answer? It
shows that you know I’m speaking the truth.’
‘You don’t like Ivan. Ivan wouldn’t be tempted by mon-
ey.’
‘Really? And the beauty of Katerina Ivanovna? It’s not
only the money, though a fortune of sixty thousand is an
attraction.’
‘Ivan is above that. He wouldn’t make up to anyone for
thousands. It is not money, it’s not comfort Ivan is seeking.
Perhaps it’s suffering he is seeking.’
‘What wild dream now? Oh, you — aristocrats!’
‘Ah, Misha, he has a stormy spirit. His mind is in bond-
age. He is haunted by a great, unsolved doubt. He is one of
those who don’t want millions, but an answer to their ques-
tions.’
‘That’s plagiarism, Alyosha. You’re quoting your elder’s
phrases. Ah, Ivan has set you a problem!’ cried Rakitin,
with undisguised malice. His face changed, and his lips
twitched. ‘And the problem’s a stupid one. It is no good