Upper-class in Petersburg hardly notices Russia’s terrible situation. High society social life was continuing just as before. Anna’s soirées continue.. But Hélène had become seriously ill after her recent remarriage.
Category: Book 12, P&V pgs. 935-986
The first reports from the battle of Borodinó cause celebration in Petersburg, but later learning of Moscow’s fall plunges the city into dismay. The Emperor sends for a full report from Kutúzov. Hélène dies around this time.
A messenger from Kutúzov explains to the Emperor that there was no choice but to surrender Moscow, but that the army is burning to continue fighting. The Emperor says he will never make peace with Napoleon.
Nicholas enjoys a trip to the country to buy horses for the army. That evening he attends a dance at the home of the local military governor, where he amuses himself by ostentatiously flirting with a married woman.
When someone offers to arrange a marriage between Nicholas and Princess Mary, Nicholas is open to the idea despite his former promise to Sónya.
Plans for a projected match between Mary and Nicholas move forward. Both seem very pleased with the idea. Still, for some reason, Nicholas just cannot picture himself married to her.
Nicholas’ prays to be released from his commitment to Sónya, and suddenly his prayer is answered. Mary goes to find Prince Andrew.
An imagined vision induces the superstitious Sónya to yield to pressure from Countess Rostóv and release Nicholas from his promise to marry her.
After being arrested, Pierre is detained with other suspected Russian incendiaries for some days and questioned while the French soldiers guarding the prison await a decision from a French Marshal.
Pierre is examined by the French marshal. The marshal is called away on business. The prisoners are led away. Pierre fears the guards may be taking him and the other prisoners to be executed.