Pagina 154 di 3800

"No, but I say," said Pierre, calming down, "you are a wonderful

fellow! What you have just said is good, very good. Of course you

don't know me. We have not met for such a long time... not since

we were children. You might think that I... I understand, quite

understand. I could not have done it myself, I should not have

had the courage, but it's splendid. I am very glad to have made

your acquaintance. It's queer," he added after a pause, "that you

should have suspected me!" He began to laugh. "Well, what of it!

I hope we'll get better acquainted," and he pressed Boris' hand.

"Do you know, I have not once been in to see the count. He has

not sent for me.... I am sorry for him as a man, but what can one

do?"

"And so you think Napoleon will manage to get an army across?"

asked Boris with a smile.

Pierre saw that Boris wished to change the subject, and being of

the same mind he began explaining the advantages and

disadvantages of the Boulogne expedition.