Pagina 459 di 3800

Next day he woke late. Recalling his recent impressions, the

first thought that came into his mind was that today he had to be

presented to the Emperor Francis; he remembered the Minister of

War, the polite Austrian adjutant, Bilibin, and last night's

conversation. Having dressed for his attendance at court in full

parade uniform, which he had not worn for a long time, he went

into Bilibin's study fresh, animated, and handsome, with his hand

bandaged. In the study were four gentlemen of the diplomatic

corps. With Prince Hippolyte Kuragin, who was a secretary to the

embassy, Bolkonski was already acquainted. Bilibin introduced him

to the others.