Book 1 Chapter 35 The Procureur - Nekhludoff Refuses to Serve

During an interval Nekhludoff got up and went out into the
corridor, with the intention of not returning to the court. Let
them do what they liked with him, he could take no more part in
this awful and horrid tomfoolery.

Having inquired where the Procureur's cabinet was he went
straight to him. The attendant did not wish to let him in, saying
that the Procureur was busy, but Nekhludoff paid no heed and went
to the door, where he was met by an official. He asked to be
announced to the Procureur, saying he was on the jury and had a
very important communication to make.

His title and good clothes were of assistance to him. The
official announced him to the Procureur, and Nekhludoff was let
in. The Procureur met him standing, evidently annoyed at the
persistence with which Nekhludoff demanded admittance.

"What is it you want?" the Procureur asked, severely.

"I am on the jury; my name is Nekhludoff, and it is absolutely
necessary for me to see the prisoner Maslova," Nekhludoff said,
quickly and resolutely, blushing, and feeling that he was taking
a step which would have a decisive influence on his life.

The Procureur was a short, dark man, with short, grizzly hair,
quick, sparkling eyes, and a thick beard cut close on his
projecting lower jaw.

"Maslova? Yes, of course, I know. She was accused of poisoning,"
the Procureur said, quietly. "But why do you want to see her?"
And then, as if wishing to tone down his question, he added, "I
cannot give you the permission without knowing why you require
it."