The old bell-ringer leaves a stub of candle standing on the landing ledge before he goes. I've decided not to count anymore which ridge it burns down to.

• Bell-ringer ProkhorSay you don't count, then why do you stand in the same spot every time?
  Rodion VershininStanding there is my duty. I only gave up the counting.
• Grand Duchess Isolda VsevolodovnaI'd like to hear, sometime, just what the First Captain of the Guard does at the bell tower.
  Rodion VershininThe stairs ice over, so I tread them first before any guest has to climb, Your Grace.