The dinner, both the Lenten and the other fare, was splendid, yet he could not feel quite at ease till the end of the meal.

He winked at the butler, whispered directions to the footmen, and awaited each expected dish with some anxiety.

Everything was excellent.

With the second course, a gigantic sterlet (at sight of which Ilya Rostov blushed with self-conscious pleasure), the footmen began popping corks and filling the champagne glasses.

After the fish, which made a certain sensation, the count exchanged glances with the other committeemen.