fingers of his right, listened to Rostóv as a general listens to the report of a subordinate, now looking aside and now gazing straight into Rostóv’s eyes with the same veiled look. Each time this happened Rostóv felt uncomfortable and cast down his eyes.
“I have heard of such cases and know that His Majesty is very severe in such affairs. I think it would be best not to bring it before the Emperor, but to apply to the commander of the corps. … But in general, I think …”
“So you don’t want to do anything? Well then, say so!” Rostóv almost shouted, not looking Borís in the face.
Borís smiled.
“On the contrary, I will do what I can. Only I thought …”
At that moment Zhilínski’s voice was heard calling Borís.
“Well then, go, go, go …” said Rostóv, and