The large group, in which were Prince Vasili and the generals, had the benefit of the diplomat.

Another group was at the tea table.

Pierre wished to join the former, but Anna Pavlovna--who was in the excited condition of a commander on a battlefield to whom thousands of new and brilliant ideas occur which there is hardly time to put in action--seeing Pierre, touched his sleeve with her finger, saying: "Wait a bit, I have something in view for you this evening.

" (She glanced at Helene and smiled at her.

) "My dear Helene, be charitable to my poor aunt who adores you.