This meant two stockings, which by a secret process known only to herself Anna Makárovna used to knit at the same time on the same needles, and which, when they were ready, she always triumphantly drew, one out of the other, in the children’s presence.

Soon after this the children came in to say good night. They kissed everyone, the tutors and governesses made their bows, and they went out. Only young Nikólenka and his tutor remained. Dessalles whispered to the boy to come downstairs.

“No, Monsieur Dessalles, I will ask my aunt to let me stay,” replied Nikólenka Bolkónski also in a whisper.

“ Ma tante , please let me stay,” said he, going up to his aunt.

His face expressed entreaty, agitation, and ecstasy. Countess Márya glanced at him and turned to Pierre.

“When you are here he can’t tear himself away,” she said.