There was no one in the anteroom; empty bottles, cloaks, and overshoes were lying about; there was a smell of alcohol, and sounds of voices and shouting in the distance.

Cards and supper were over, but the visitors had not yet dispersed.

Pierre threw off his cloak and entered the first room, in which were the remains of supper.

A footman, thinking no one saw him, was drinking on the sly what was left in the glasses.