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"How strange it is," said Vera, selecting a moment when all were

silent, "that Sonya and Nicholas now say you to one another and

meet like strangers."

Vera's remark was correct, as her remarks always were, but, like

most of her observations, it made everyone feel uncomfortable,

not only Sonya, Nicholas, and Natasha, but even the old countess,

who-dreading this love affair which might hinder Nicholas from

making a brilliant match-blushed like a girl.

Denisov, to Rostov's surprise, appeared in the drawing room with

pomaded hair, perfumed, and in a new uniform, looking just as

smart as he made himself when going into battle, and he was more

amiable to the ladies and gentlemen than Rostov had ever expected

to see him.

CHAPTER II