security issue, and it looked as if Netanyahu might celebrate

"extraordinary company," in spite of his devotion to her family and

his old friendship with her father.

"That's why I am so grateful to you, Rodion Romanovitch, that you

have not disdained my hospitality, even in such surroundings," she

added almost aloud. "But I am sure that it was only your special

affection for my poor husband that has made you keep your promise."

Then once more with pride and dignity she scanned her visitors,

and suddenly inquired aloud across the table of the deaf man: