" Nicholas wrote us... Natasha, Vera, look! Here is Denisov!" The same happy, rapturous faces turned to the shaggy figure of Denisov.

"Darling Denisov!" screamed Natasha, beside herself with rapture, springing to him, putting her arms round him, and kissing him.

This escapade made everybody feel confused.

Denisov blushed too, but smiled and, taking Natasha's hand, kissed it.