VIII + 

He was no fool, and Eugene mine, + 

To friendship making no pretence, + 

Admired his judgment, which was fine, + 

Pervaded with much common sense. + 

He usually was glad to see + 

The man and liked his company, + 

So, when he came next day to call, + 

Was not surprised thereby at all. + 

But, after mutual compliments, + 

Zaretski with a knowing grin, + 

Ere conversation could begin, + 

The epistle from the bard presents. + 

Onegin to the window went + 

And scanned in silence its content. + 