"No, impossible!" said Prince Andrew, laughing and pressing Pierre's hand to show that there was no need to ask the question.

He wished to say something more, but at that moment Prince Vasili and his daughter got up to go and the two young men rose to let them pass.

"You must excuse me, dear Vicomte," said Prince Vasili to the Frenchman, holding him down by the sleeve in a friendly way to prevent his rising.