Blackwell commented: "Hearing you say that, it seems like Moscow University is nothing but chimneys and barrels."
"Then you must be misunderstanding," Herzen replied: "At least the students aren't allowed to smoke or drink excessively. If the Academic Director catches us smoking, we're sure to be put in confinement."
"They don't let you smoke, so you don't smoke?"
Herzen recalled the absurd antics of the past, a smile playing at the corner of his eyes: "How could that be possible? If we're not allowed, we sneak a smoke. When not attending class, we find a secluded spot, with one of us on lookout, then take a fine cigar and blissfully pass it around. If unlucky enough to be discovered, the German professors mostly pretend not to see, passing by without a glance. But if a Russian professor catches you, it's miserable; you're sure to end up in the school's court."
