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The coach with six horses was waiting at the porch. It was an

autumn night, so dark that the coachman could not see the

carriage pole. Servants with lanterns were bustling about in the

porch. The immense house was brilliant with lights shining

through its lofty windows. The domestic serfs were crowding in

the hall, waiting to bid good-by to the young prince. The members

of the household were all gathered in the reception hall: Michael

Ivanovich, Mademoiselle Bourienne, Princess Mary, and the little

princess. Prince Andrew had been called to his father's study as

the latter wished to say good-by to him alone. All were waiting

for them to come out.

When Prince Andrew entered the study the old man in his old-age

spectacles and white dressing gown, in which he received no one

but his son, sat at the table writing. He glanced round.

"Going?" And he went on writing.

"I've come to say good-by."

"Kiss me here," and he touched his cheek: "Thanks, thanks!"

"What do you thank me for?"