BOOK 8, Chptr. 18, P&V pg. 587

Book 8, Chapter 18

In the aftermath of the failed elopement plot, Márya Dmítrievna is livid with Natásha, but hopes to keep the matter a secret from Count Rostóv.

Summary:

Earlier, Márya Dmítrievna had found Sónya weeping in the corridor and made her confess everything. After reading Anatole’s note, Márya locked Natásha in her room and gave orders the would-be abductors should be detained and brought to her. When she learns the men have managed to get away, Márya enters Natásha’s room and scolds her bitterly for what she has done. Natásha, who has been sobbing in her room and is quite distraught, remains defiant. She tells Márya that she has broken off her engagement with Andrew, and that in Natásha’s opinion Anatole is better than any of you! Despite her anger, the practical Márya thinks it would be better for everyone for the story to be kept quiet. When Count Rostóv returns from a real estate trip the next day, he is told nothing has happened while he was away. It’s obvious to the Count that something must have happened while he was gone, but the Count does not demand to know what happened.

quote from the chapter:

And Márya Dmítrievna touched her arm. Listen when I speak! You’ve disgraced yourself like the lowest of hussies. I’d treat you differently, but I’m sorry for your father, so I will conceal it.
Natásha did not change her position, but her whole body heaved with noiseless, convulsive sobs which choked her. Márya Dmítrievna glanced round at Sónya and seated herself on the sofa beside Natásha.
It’s lucky for him that he escaped me; but I’ll find him! she said in her rough voice. Do you hear what I am saying or not? she added.

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