" We are enjoying ourselves! Vasili Dmitrich is staying a day longer for my sake! Did you know?" "No, Papa is not back yet," said Sonya.

"Nicholas, have you come? Come here, dear!" called the old countess from the drawing room.

Nicholas went to her, kissed her hand, and sitting down silently at her table began to watch her hands arranging the cards.

From the dancing room, they still heard the laughter and merry voices trying to persuade Natasha to sing.