Facing them sat Pierre, beside Prince Nesvitski.

Count Ilya Rostov with the other members of the committee sat facing Bagration and, as the very personification of Moscow hospitality, did the honors to the prince.

His efforts had not been in vain.

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.