Page 172 of 3800

"Eh, eh, friend! Come here a bit," said she, assuming a soft high

tone of voice. "Come here, my friend..." and she ominously tucked

up her sleeves still higher. Pierre approached, looking at her in

a childlike way through his spectacles.

"Come nearer, come nearer, friend! I used to be the only one to

tell your father the truth when he was in favor, and in your case

it's my evident duty." She paused. All were silent, expectant of

what was to follow, for this was clearly only a prelude.

"A fine lad! My word! A fine lad!... His father lies on his

deathbed and he amuses himself setting a policeman astride a

bear! For shame, sir, for shame! It would be better if you went

to the war."

She turned away and gave her hand to the count, who could hardly

keep from laughing.

"Well, I suppose it is time we were at table?" said Marya

Dmitrievna.