Pierre reaching the house first went into Prince Andréy’s study like one quite at home, and from habit immediately lay down on the sofa, took from the shelf the first book that came to his hand (it was Caesar’s Commentaries), and resting on his elbow, began reading it in the middle.

“What have you done to Mlle. Schérer? She will be quite ill now,” said Prince Andréy, as he entered the study, rubbing his small white hands.

Pierre turned his whole body, making the sofa creak. He lifted his eager face to Prince Andréy, smiled, and waved his hand.

“That abbé is very interesting but he does not see the thing in the right light.⁠ ⁠… In my opinion perpetual peace is possible but⁠—I do not know how to express it⁠ ⁠… not by a balance of political power.⁠ ⁠…”

It was evident that Prince Andréy was not interested in such abstract conversation.