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"We here in Moscow are more occupied with dinner parties and

scandal than with politics," said he in his quiet ironical tone.

"I know nothing about it and have not thought about it. Moscow is

chiefly busy with gossip," he continued. "Just now they are

talking about you and your father."

Pierre smiled in his good-natured way as if afraid for his

companion's sake that the latter might say something he would

afterwards regret. But Boris spoke distinctly, clearly, and

dryly, looking straight into Pierre's eyes.

"Moscow has nothing else to do but gossip," Boris went on.

"Everybody is wondering to whom the count will leave his fortune,

though he may perhaps outlive us all, as I sincerely hope he

will..."

"Yes, it is all very horrid," interrupted Pierre, "very horrid."

Pierre was still afraid that this officer might inadvertently say

something disconcerting to himself.