Dolokhov had come from the left flank where their regiment was stationed, with his captain.

"Now then, go on, go on!" incited the officer, bending forward and trying not to lose a word of the speech which was incomprehensible to him.

" More, please: more! What's he saying?" Dolokhov did not answer the captain; he had been drawn into a hot dispute with the French grenadier.

They were naturally talking about the campaign.