Страница 181 из 3800

"I am quite of your opinion," replied Nicholas, flaming up,

turning his plate round and moving his wineglasses about with as

much decision and desperation as though he were at that moment

facing some great danger. "I am convinced that we Russians must

die or conquer," he concluded, conscious-as were others-after the

words were uttered that his remarks were too enthusiastic and

emphatic for the occasion and were therefore awkward.

"What you said just now was splendid!" said his partner Julie.

Sonya trembled all over and blushed to her ears and behind them

and down to her neck and shoulders while Nicholas was speaking.

Pierre listened to the colonel's speech and nodded approvingly.

"That's fine," said he.

"The young man's a real hussar!" shouted the colonel, again

thumping the table.