He sat down. “What I have come about is nothing of that kind,” began Nikolay Vsyevolodovitch, scrutinising him with curiosity. “Owing to certain circumstances I was forced this very day to choose such an hour to come and tell you that they may murder you.” Shatov looked wildly at him. “I know that I may be in some danger,” he said in measured tones, “but how can you have come to know of it?” “Because I belong to them as you do, and am a member of their society, just as you are.” “You … you are a member of the society?” “I see from your eyes that you were prepared for anything from me rather than that,” said Nikolay Vsyevolodovitch, with a faint smile. “But, excuse me, you knew then that there would be an attempt on your life?” “Nothing of the sort. And I don’t think so now, in spite