At that moment Alyosha was just passing by him, as if hurrying somewhere, but not in the direction of the temple. Their eyes met. Alyosha quickly averted his eyes and lowered them to the ground, and already from the mere sight of the young man, Father Paisy guessed what a great change was taking place in him at that very moment.

- Or were you tempted? - Father Paisiy suddenly exclaimed, - can you really be with those of little faith! He added sadly.

Alyosha stopped and somehow looked vaguely at Father Paisius, but again quickly averted his eyes and again lowered them to the ground. He stood sideways and did not turn to face the questioner. Father Paisiy watched attentively.

- Where are you in a hurry? They are announcing the service, - he asked again, but Alyosha again did not give an answer.

- Are you leaving the skete? Why not asking for something, not being blessed?

Alyosha suddenly grinned crookedly, in a strange, very strange way he threw up his eyes at the questioning father, at the one to whom he had entrusted him, dying, his former leader, the former ruler of his heart and mind, his beloved elder, and suddenly, everything was still unanswered he waved his hand, as if not even caring about respect, and with quick steps went to the exit gates out of the skete.

- Come back for more! - Father Paisiy whispered, looking after him with sorrowful surprise.
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