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In the Emperor's suite all exchanged rapid looks that expressed

dissatisfaction and reproach. "Old though he may be, he should

not, he certainly should not, speak like that," their glances

seemed to say.

The Tsar looked intently and observantly into Kutuzov's eye

waiting to hear whether he would say anything more. But Kutuzov,

with respectfully bowed head, seemed also to be waiting. The

silence lasted for about a minute.

"However, if you command it, Your Majesty," said Kutuzov, lifting

his head and again assuming his former tone of a dull,

unreasoning, but submissive general.

He touched his horse and having called Miloradovich, the

commander of the column, gave him the order to advance.

The troops again began to move, and two battalions of the

Novgorod and one of the Apsheron regiment went forward past the

Emperor.