Pagina 673 di 3800

Prince Bolkonski sat down in his usual place in the corner of the

sofa and, drawing up an armchair for Prince Vasili, pointed to it

and began questioning him about political affairs and news. He

seemed to listen attentively to what Prince Vasili said, but kept

glancing at Princess Mary.

"And so they are writing from Potsdam already?" he said,

repeating Prince Vasili's last words. Then rising, he suddenly

went up to his daughter.

"Is it for visitors you've got yourself up like that, eh?" said

he. "Fine, very fine! You have done up your hair in this new way

for the visitors, and before the visitors I tell you that in

future you are never to dare to change your way of dress without

my consent."

"It was my fault, mon pere," interceded the little princess, with

a blush.

"You must do as you please," said Prince Bolkonski, bowing to his

daughter-in-law, "but she need not make a fool of herself, she's

plain enough as it is."