Pierre saw that Prince Andréy was going to speak of Natásha, and his broad face expressed pity and sympathy. This expression irritated Prince Andréy, and in a determined, ringing, and unpleasant tone he continued:
“I have received a refusal from Countess Rostóva and have heard reports of your brother-in-law having sought her hand, or something of that kind. Is that true?”
“Both true and untrue,” Pierre began; but Prince Andréy interrupted him.
“Here are her letters and her portrait,” said he.
He took the packet from the table and handed it to Pierre.
“Give this to the countess … if you see her.”
“She is very ill,” said Pierre.
“Then she is here still?” said Prince Andréy. “And Prince Kurágin?” he added quickly.
“He left long ago. She has been at death’s door.”
“I much regret her illness,” said Prince Andréy; and he smiled like his father, coldly, maliciously, and unpleasantly.
“So Monsieur Kurágin has not honored Countess Rostóva with his hand?” said Prince Andréy, and he snorted several times.
“He could not marry, for he was married already,” said Pierre.
Prince Andréy laughed disagreeably, again reminding one of his father.
“And where is your brother-in-law now, if I may ask?” he said.
“He has gone to Peters … But I don’t know,” said Pierre.