'I am happy when I can do good, but to remedy injustice is the greatest happiness,'" Rostov fancied the sovereign saying.

And passing people who looked after him with curiosity, he entered the porch of the Emperor's house.

A broad staircase led straight up from the entry, and to the right he saw a closed door.

Below, under the staircase, was a door leading to the lower floor.

"Whom do you want?" someone inquired.