From Vyázma through the battle at Krásnoe, very rapid troop movement caused great attrition to both armies. The Russians were victorious at Krásnoe, although Kutúzov would have preferred they had not fought.
Kutúzov was one of those rare individuals able to discern the will of Providence and to unreservedly submit their personal will to it. Yet, Russian historians remember him as a blunderer, coward, courtier and procrastinator.
On the first day of what is called the battle of Krásnoe, Kutúzov observes the sorry state of their many French prisoners. He tells the Russian troops that the war’s end is near and that they should deal kindly with the French prisoners.
An infantry regiment halts in a village on the high road to set up camp for the night. It’s the night of the last day of Krásnoe battles. The men are in good spirits and work in teams to get ready their camp for the night.
The men of the Eight Company are gathered around a campfire. Those who were still in the army by this time were only the most fit of the troops. They talk about their experiences and joke as they sat around the fire.
A very ill French officer and his orderly, who have both been hiding in the forest, approach one of the Russian campfires. The Russians show kindness, giving them both food and finding for the unwell officer an indoor place to sleep.
The Emperor tells Kutúzov of his dissatisfaction at mistakes made at Krásnoe and the Berëzina, and his intention to pursue Napoleon beyond Russia. Kutúzov receives the Order of St. George of the First Class.
Control of the Russian army is shifted away from Kutúzov. His work to save Russia complete, Kutúzov dies.
Freed from prison, Pierre is sick for three months. It took him awhile to get used to being at liberty again, but the spiritual insights he had gained in prison, his new faith in an ever-living, ever-manifest God, remained with him.
Pierre’s time in prison had changed him in subtle but important ways. He was different. He cared more for other people now. People like to be around him much more than before. His judgement in money matters is much better.