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"How about my son Boris, Prince?" said she, hurrying after him

into the anteroom. "I can't remain any longer in Petersburg. Tell

me what news I may take back to my poor boy."

Although Prince Vasili listened reluctantly and not very politely

to the elderly lady, even betraying some impatience, she gave him

an ingratiating and appealing smile, and took his hand that he

might not go away.

"What would it cost you to say a word to the Emperor, and then he

would be transferred to the Guards at once?" said she.

"Believe me, Princess, I am ready to do all I can," answered

Prince Vasili, "but it is difficult for me to ask the Emperor. I

should advise you to appeal to Rumyantsev through Prince

Golitsyn. That would be the best way."