Much depended on Rostov's winning or losing on that seven of hearts.

On the previous Sunday the old count had given his son two thousand rubles, and though he always disliked speaking of money difficulties had told Nicholas that this was all he could let him have till May, and asked him to be more economical this time.

Nicholas had replied that it would be more than enough for him and that he gave his word of honor not to take anything more till the spring.