Page 155 sur 3800

A footman came in to summon Boris-the princess was going. Pierre,

in order to make Boris' better acquaintance, promised to come to

dinner, and warmly pressing his hand looked affectionately over

his spectacles into Boris' eyes. After he had gone Pierre

continued pacing up and down the room for a long time, no longer

piercing an imaginary foe with his imaginary sword, but smiling

at the remembrance of that pleasant, intelligent, and resolute

young man.

As often happens in early youth, especially to one who leads a

lonely life, he felt an unaccountable tenderness for this young

man and made up his mind that they would be friends.

Prince Vasili saw the princess off. She held a handkerchief to

her eyes and her face was tearful.