He folded it up without reading it and reread his father's letter, ending with the words: "Gallop off to Korchevo and carry out instructions!" "No, pardon me, I won't go now till the child is better," thought he, going to the door and looking into the nursery.

Princess Mary was still standing by the cot, gently rocking the baby.

"Ah yes, and what else did he say that's unpleasant?" thought Prince Andrew, recalling his father's letter.