“He is just the same as ever,” replied Anna Mikháylovna, “overflowing with amiability. His position has not turned his head at all. He said to me, ‘I am sorry I can do so little for you, dear Princess. I am at your command.’ Yes, he is a fine fellow and a very kind relation. But, Nathalie, you know my love for my son: I would do anything for his happiness! And my affairs are in such a bad way that my position is now a terrible one,” continued Anna Mikháylovna, sadly, dropping her voice. “My wretched lawsuit takes all I have and makes no progress. Would you believe it, I have literally not a penny and don’t know how to equip Borís.” She took out her handkerchief and began to cry. “I need five hundred rubles, and have only one twenty-five-ruble note. I am in such a state.⁠ ⁠… My only hope now is in Count Kiríl Vladímirovich Bezúkhov. If he will not assist his godson⁠—you know he is Bóris’s godfather⁠—and allow him something for his maintenance, all my trouble will have been thrown away.⁠ ⁠… I shall not be able to equip him.”

The countess’ eyes filled with tears and she pondered in silence.