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The large group, in which were Prince Vasili and the generals,

had the benefit of the diplomat. Another group was at the tea

table. Pierre wished to join the former, but Anna Pavlovna-who

was in the excited condition of a commander on a battlefield to

whom thousands of new and brilliant ideas occur which there is

hardly time to put in action-seeing Pierre, touched his sleeve

with her finger, saying:

"Wait a bit, I have something in view for you this evening." (She

glanced at Helene and smiled at her.) "My dear Helene, be

charitable to my poor aunt who adores you. Go and keep her

company for ten minutes. And that it will not be too dull, here

is the dear count who will not refuse to accompany you."

The beauty went to the aunt, but Anna Pavlovna detained Pierre,

looking as if she had to give some final necessary instructions.