A low, prolonged
attack of fever followed, during which the presence of Helena was
indispensable to his comfort. She ventured to leave the room only
while he slept. He was like a child in her hands; and when she
commended his patience or his good resolutions, his face beamed
with joy and gratitude. He determined (in good faith, this
time) to enter a monastery and devote the rest of his life to pious
works.
But, even after his recovery, he was still too weak and dependent
on his children's attentions to carry out this resolution. He
banished from the castle all those of his poor relations who were
unable to drink vodki in moderation; he kept careful watch over his
serfs, and those who became intoxicated (unless they concealed the
fact in the stables and outhouses) were severely punished: all
excess disappeared, and a reign of peace and gentleness descended
upon Kinesma.
In another year another Alexis was born, and lived, and soon grew
strong enough to give his grandfather the greatest satisfaction he
had ever known in his life, by tugging at his gray locks, and
digging the small fingers into his tamed and merry eyes.
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