"Note IV. We learn at the moment of going to press, that the mother of our master is improving. "Note V. Our master has received invitations to exhibit his picture in all the European capitals." Under the excess of these monstrous lies, I return to my senses a little. Ostrynski, the editor of "The Kite," and at the same time an ex-suitor of Kazia's, must have gone mad, for this passes every measure. It is natural that I should exhibit the picture in Warsaw; but, I. I have not mentioned that matter to any one; II. the vice-president of the Society of Fine Arts has made no inquiry of me touching anything; III. I have given him no answer; IV. my mother died nine years ago; V. I have not received an invitation from any quarter to exhibit my picture. Worse than all, it comes to my mind in one moment that if the despatch is as truthful as the five notes, then farewell to everything. Ostrynski, who half a year since, in spite of the fact that her parents were for him, received a basket[16] from Kazia, wished perhaps purposely to make a fool of me; if that is the case "he will pay me with his head, or something else," as says the libretto of a certain opera. My colleagues pacify me, however, by saying that Ostrynski might fabricate the notes, but the despatch must be genuine. [16] Refusal. At the same time Stah Klosovich comes with a morning number of "The Courier." The despatch is in "The Courier." I recover breath. Now congratulations in detail begin. Old Sludetski, false to the core, but in manner sweet as syrup, shakes my hand and says,-- "Beloved God! I have always believed in the genius of my colleague, and I have always defended him [I know that he used to call me an ass]; but--Beloved God, perhaps my colleague does not wish that such a _fa-presto_ as I should call my colleague, colleague; in that event let my colleague forgive an old habit, Beloved God!" In my soul I wish him hanged; but I cannot answer, for at that moment Karminski draws me aside and tells me in an undertone, but so that all hear him,-- "Maybe my colleague needs money, if he does, let him say the word, and then--" Karminski is known among us for his professed willingness to oblige. Time after time he says to some of us, "If my colleague needs aid, let him say the word; and then--till we meet again!" In truth, he has money. I answer that if I do not find it elsewhere, I will apply to him. Meanwhile other men come, true as gold; and they squeeze me till my sides ache. At last Antek appears; I see that he is moved, but he conceals his emotion, and says roughly,-- "Though thou art becoming a Jew, as I see, I congratulate thee!"