" *[2] The distinguished Prince de Ligne wrote her eight-page letters.

Bilibin saved up his epigrams to produce them in Countess Bezukhova's presence.

To be received in the Countess Bezukhova's salon was regarded as a diploma of intellect.

Young men read books before attending Helene's evenings, to have something to say in her salon, and secretaries of the embassy, and even ambassadors, confided diplomatic secrets to her, so that in a way Helene was a power.