Arthur stirred the sediment of Ceylon black tea in the cup with a silver teaspoon, the clinking of bone china reminiscent of the lingering echo of a gavel in a London Court.
He gazed at the reflection on the surface of the tea, then suddenly, as if coming to terms, smiled: "I've seen too many people at Scotland Yard using compasses to find north, only to end up drowning in the Thames River. It's remarkable that at your age, you've already acquired such insight. It seems that life's sudden twists aren't entirely without merit for you; hardships and setbacks have made you considerably more mature."
Herzen did not deny Arthur's statement, as he shared the same view: "In any case, as you might have guessed, we are here to express our gratitude to you."
As he spoke, he instructed the footmen to fetch the various local products brought from Moscow from the carriage.
