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Although all Vronsky's inner life was absorbed in his passion,

his external life unalterably and inevitably followed along the

old accustomed lines of his social and regimental ties and

interests. The interests of his regiment took an important place

in Vronsky's life, both because he was fond of the regiment, and

because the regiment was fond of him. They were not only fond of

Vronsky in his regiment, they respected him too, and were proud

of him; proud that this man, with his immense wealth, his

brilliant education and abilities, and the path open before him

to every kind of success, distinction, and ambition, had

disregarded all that, and of all the interests of life had the

interests of his regiment and his comrades nearest to his heart.

Vronsky was aware of his comrades' view of him, and in addition

to his liking for the life, he felt bound to keep up that

reputation.